RV camping near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests spans several climate zones from high alpine forests above 10,000 feet to desert landscapes below 6,000 feet. The region features dramatic terrain changes across these national forests covering over 3 million acres. Camping options range from rustic tent sites to riverfront RV spots with seasonal availability typically running April through October due to winter snow closures.
What to do
Riverside activities: Riverbend RV Park & Cabins offers excellent access to water recreation. "The river and pond are were very nice to sit by and observe nature. The Canada geese families were fun to watch," notes one visitor at Riverbend RV Park & Cabins.
Mountain hiking: Trails around Ouray provide hiking options for all skill levels. "The park is on the Ouray rim trail which was a nice hike," mentions a camper at 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park, which has direct trail access from the campground.
Fishing opportunities: Sites with river access provide fishing spots for anglers. "Gorgeous spot with miles of intermittent fishing access along the highway downstream. Hefty browns and wary rainbows abound," reports a visitor about Four Seasons River Inn & RV Park.
What campers like
Easy town access: Many parks provide convenient routes to nearby towns. "Our site is next to the river so we've got the sounds of the river and Mountain Views on all sides. Can't beat it. Plus the office staff is friendly and welcoming," says a camper at 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean amenities receive consistent praise. "The bathrooms are huge and clean. Everything is gravel so if that ain't your thing, look elsewhere," notes a visitor about 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park.
Internet connectivity: Some parks offer reliable connections. "The Wifi was five stars which is rare in most RV parks. Super fast speeds," reports a camper at Riverbend RV Park & Cabins, noting this as an uncommon feature for rural camping.
What you should know
Site spacing varies: Some parks have tight sites while others offer more room. "Not a bad RV Park, Kinda plane and sites are very close. But for a hot night in Montrose it provided a reasonably priced spot with 30amp to plug in for some AC coolness," reports a visitor about Cedar Creek RV Park.
Weather considerations: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "Cold and snowy when we arrived. Our campsite backed up to the river. Can walk to town," notes a camper at Black Canyon RV Park & Campground about early season camping conditions.
Highway noise: Some parks experience traffic sound. "The RV park is so noisy. So much come and go through the park which is gravel so it's noisy, also close to the hwy which is non stop," warns a visitor about Ouray Riverside Resort.
Terrain challenges: Uneven sites can create setup difficulties. "The campsite bathrooms were left with no toilet paper for days, and the flimsy garbage can was rarely emptied, leading to nightly animal intrusions. Unlevel ground covered with thick tree roots, making tent setup difficult and uncomfortable," reports a camper about Cedar Creek RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks offer dedicated play areas. "Park is clean and front desk people are friendly and helpful. All spots are on gravel, but there is a large pet yard as well as a grassy area with a large play structure for the kids," mentions a visitor at Cedar Creek RV Park.
Walking trail options: Look for parks with built-in recreation. "We loved the trail into town - an easy walk to the hot springs pool or to grab something to eat," reports a camper about Ouray Riverside Resort.
Campground culture: Parks have different social atmospheres. "This is not the park for families with children or groups with friends who may want to sit around the fire and laugh out loud. Also, not for those who may need flexibility in their travel plans," warns a visitor about Riverbend RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites away from high-traffic areas for better experiences. "We heard a bit of traffic noise from highway when close to front gate. River sights look nicer," notes a camper at Riverbend RV Park & Cabins.
Utility connections: Not all hookups are created equal. "Wifi and T-Mobile service are good. Park is clean and front desk people are friendly and helpful. Has onsite propane refill services. They pick up your tanks and bring them back, no muss, no fuss," reports an RVer at Cedar Creek RV Park.
Big rig considerations: Some parks better accommodate larger vehicles. "Very passable KOA. This was a very convenient jumping off point to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison. The neighborhood is a bit sketchy, and the permanent crowd at this KOA feels a little rough," explains a visitor about KOA Montrose RV Resort.
