Glamping near Lazear, Colorado places campers at an elevation of approximately 5,000 feet within the North Fork Valley, known for its orchards and vineyards. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 90°F during the day with frequent afternoon thunderstorms throughout July and August. The region serves as a gateway to both the Grand Mesa and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, with driving times averaging 30-45 minutes to major attractions.
What to do
Explore Black Canyon: Visit the North Rim section of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, about 40 minutes from Lazear. "Lots of spots, but very spread out and quiet. There are toilets in the center, water available, and a short hike to the rangers," reports North Rim Campground visitor Hamen L.
Hiking from camp: Several campgrounds offer trail access directly from sites. "There is also the trail to exclamation point and the top of Green mountain that begins at the ranger station just down the road if you are into hiking or trail running," notes Jon H. about the North Rim Campground.
Fishing opportunities: The Grand Mesa lakes provide trout fishing from June through October. At Ward Lake Campground, campers report good fishing success. "Our site said that it was a shore line site, but the lake was down something like 40 feet and was supposed to drop another 20 feet. The shoreline was a bit muddy and the rocks made navigating the area difficult for us. Other people went down and fished though and did appear to be catching fish," reports Melissa K.
What campers like
Private sites at high elevation: Ward Lake Campground sits at approximately 10,000 feet elevation. "A very nice camp ground for tent campers, very few people, beautiful scenes and within a very short distance of good hiking. Campground staff was helpful and we had a beautiful site right by the lake which is open to fishing and swimming," shares Peter H.
Orchard setting: The region offers unique glamping opportunities among working orchards. At The Campground at Big B's Delicious Orchards, campers can stay directly in the production areas. "You can tent camp amidst the apple trees (literally in the rows nestled under the trees), park your rig in a grassy field with picnic tables and fire pits, or even stay in a cabin," shares Laura S.
Food and drink options: Some glamping sites near Lazear provide on-site dining. "Big B's has a full restaurant (the chili cheese fries were amazing), lots of cider varieties on tap and to go. Live music some nights," notes Laura S.
What you should know
Weather patterns: The Grand Mesa area experiences rapid weather changes with afternoon thunderstorms common in summer. "Be prepared to put a cover on your tent as intermittent thunderstorms come up out of no where," warns Ward Lake Campground visitor Peter H.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require driving on unpaved roads. "The North Rim campground was pretty and quiet... The campground is down a long dirt road, it was well maintained but be prepared to be in a remote location," explains Jordan L. about accessing Black Canyon campgrounds.
Reservation requirements: Many sites fill quickly, especially on weekends from June-September. At Cottonwood Lake Campground, "I cannot stress this enough, get there early if going on a weekend! We arrived at 2:30 and got one of the last spots," advises Tiffany H.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location. "There is (limited) WiFi at the ranger station but zero service anywhere in the park or campground, so plan ahead," notes Jordan L. about Black Canyon of the Gunnison.
Tips for camping with families
Interactive activities: Some glamping sites provide child-friendly features. Laura S. notes about Big B's: "Big B's has a full restaurant, lots of cider varieties on tap and to go. Live music some nights."
Playground access: Riverbend RV Park & Cabins in nearby Montrose offers water features for families. "The river and pond are were very nice to sit by and observe nature. The Canada geese families were fun to watch," notes Mary F.
Kid-friendly trails: State parks in the region provide easier hiking options. "There are nice paths down to the lake and around but the lake level is still low," reports Todd R. about Ridgway State Park, adding "This is high desert so it does get hot during the day and cold at night."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer wildlife observation opportunities. Mary F. notes at Riverbend RV Park: "Such a peaceful campground during shoulder season. The river and pond are were very nice to sit by and observe nature. The Canada geese families were fun to watch."
Tips from RVers
Water and electrical hookups: Cedar Creek RV Park provides full hookup options. "Nice park. Wifi and T-Mobile service are good. 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," reports Cedar Creek RV Park visitor Kathy J.
Site size considerations: RV sites vary significantly in size throughout the region. "Lots of space between campsites. Only knocked it down a star because we were only here for 24 hours and had several groups of kids walk directly through our campsite," notes Emilie K. about Ridgway State Park.
Ground conditions: Many RV sites have gravel pads rather than concrete. "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. Has onsite propane refill services," explains Kathy J. about Cedar Creek RV Park.
