Glamping close to Loma, Colorado offers options for travelers seeking comfort amid the region's diverse terrain. Located at approximately 4,500 feet elevation, Loma experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing. Many camping areas in this region provide access to the Colorado River with seasonal fluctuations affecting water levels and fishing conditions.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Highline Lake State Park provides convenient access to the trails in Fruita and surrounding areas. "We pulled in after Crested Butte - mountain bikes in Loma area which was great. Headed to MOAB. Green, nice lake with a breeze," noted Jennifer D.
Water activities during seasonal closures: The lake at Highline has specific seasonal regulations for wildlife protection. "During high usage times, it gets smelly on the beach from boat exhaust. But people love to be there, it gets super crowded during the peak times of the summer," explains Melissa K., who also notes that "the lake closes to boating (October 1) for bird migration."
Wine tasting: Palisade Basecamp RV Resort offers direct access to local wineries. "The winery next door (colterris) is awesome. Small family owned great atmosphere. A truly amazing stop on our way east," shares Matt O., highlighting the vineyard setting.
Geocaching adventures: Campgrounds in the area offer geocaching opportunities for families. "We also did not plan for a campfire as there have been fire bans all over the state for most of the summer... they have 13 geocaches in the park, while we didn't have time to go find them, they are there and we were able to look them up."
What campers like
Free shower facilities: Shower amenities at Ward Lake Campground receive positive mentions. "The restrooms were immaculate! Some of the cleanest pit toilets we've seen. No odor and very clean. The whole campground was really clean in fact," reports Melissa K.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campsites provide chances to observe local animals. "Stay outside your camper here and listen to the doves, ravens, owls, and watch the hawks. There are hundreds of domestic sheep and goats adjacent to the campground. When the coyotes start howling the guard dogs reply," notes Bill B.
Seasonal temperature variations: The Grand Mesa area offers cooler temperatures in summer. "Grand mesa is the largest mesa in the world. For over 150 years cattle have roamed here," states Diane S. about the unique landscape. Another camper mentioned, "We go in the fall and spring, summer is too hot. Easy to get to mountain biking."
Lake access for fishing: Cottonwood Lake Campground provides water-based recreation. "Wow! A lush forest surrounding beautiful Cottonwood lakes 1 & 4 great fishing access good for kayak/small boats," says Nancy, describing the fishing opportunities available.
What you should know
Weather preparedness essential: Weather patterns can change rapidly at higher elevations. "It's been a while, but we cannot wait to go back - we only got to camp one night so hoping for several this time! Just gorgeous area!!" shares Lise F., while another camper warns: "Be prepared to put a cover on your tent as intermittent thunderstorms come up out of nowhere."
Tent pad challenges: Some sites have uneven ground. "Really great spot but prepare to roll. All of the tent pads seem to be at a pretty wicked slope, including ours," cautions Jacob D. at Palisade Basecamp.
Limited cell service: Communication options may be restricted in the area. "There is no cell service unless you go down route 65 a little more to the beautiful views of the valley," notes Peter H. about the connectivity situation in the region.
Advance arrival recommended: Popular sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "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. Also, bug spray! Overall a great trip!" advises Tiffany H.
Tips for camping with families
Children's activities: Mud Springs Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "Mud springs is a small campground tucked away on top of a national monument. To enter the monument, there is a fee, but if you are going to mud springs you can tell them that and not pay the park entrance fee," explains Melissa K.
Playground access: Certain campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "Great campsite: clean, grassy with big trees, flush toilets. Great Lake access with a playground," says Marnie W., highlighting family amenities.
Bug management: Insect protection is necessary, especially in newer camping areas. "This campground is very well kept. Beautiful views. Be aware that site 101 and up is a brand new built campground and has no trees... Also swarms/clouds of bugs at night," warns Daniel H.
Alternative activities during storms: Weather contingency plans help with family camping. "In two days we had 4 hours to get out and fish and walk around the area. The side by side and four wheelers were not deterred by the rain storms zipping up and down the roads," shares Nancy about adapting to weather conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Choose appropriate campground sections based on vehicle size. "This CG has two sections. The upper part is old school FS, narrow roads, small sites, lots of trees...not a good place for larger TVs or RVs. Best for tenters, Vans, small Class Cs. The lower section is much better for larger RVs and TT," advises Greg L.
Extended stay amenities: Some sites provide electric hookups at individual campsites. "And the best part: Colterris winery is right next door to walk to," shares Erica G. about the convenient location of Homestead Places and its amenities.
Seasonal site conditions: Check campground status before traveling during shoulder seasons. "Clean. Super nice people on the phone and in person. Did I mention everything was clean, in good working order and ready for our arrival. The campground is beautiful, with the Colorado River on one side and peach orchards surrounding the rest," reports Rob S.
