Best Tent Camping near Loma, CO
Tent campgrounds near Loma, Colorado include both free primitive sites and established grounds with varied amenities. Knowles Overlook Campground offers tent camping with impressive Colorado River vistas and maintained facilities. Jouflas Campground provides tent sites about a mile off Interstate 70, while more remote options like Rattlesnake and Mee Canyons offer primitive tent camping in high desert terrain with canyon views.
Most tent camping areas require adequate preparation for desert conditions. Sites at Knowles Overlook feature groomed, level tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings, though recent changes have introduced reservation fees. Jouflas Campground provides tent pads, picnic tables, and fire pits with vault toilets nearby but no running water. A recent review noted, "bring your own shade because there is none and it gets hot here (102F in April)." Many sites lack water sources, requiring campers to pack in sufficient supplies. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing more remote tent camping areas, as roads can be rutted and sandy.
Tent campers in the Loma area experience striking desert landscapes and expansive views. The primitive tent sites near Rattlesnake and Mee Canyons provide proximity to hiking trails and remarkable vistas. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "There were three campsites we found on the way to Rattlesnake Arches. The double track sites are primitive and get you close to the cliffs for amazing views." Knowles Overlook sites provide excellent views of the Colorado River from elevated positions. Most tent camping areas maintain good separation between sites, offering privacy even during busier periods. Cell service varies by location, with some areas providing good connectivity while others remain more isolated. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with strong winds common due to the exposed terrain in many camping areas.
