Dispersed camping options near Mancos, Colorado provide free alternatives to established campgrounds. Situated at approximately 7,000 feet elevation, the area experiences significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, even in summer months. Campers should prepare for overnight lows that can drop below 50°F even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s.
What to do
Horseback riding access: Near Ancient Cedars Mesa Verde RV Park, travelers can experience guided trail rides. "Next door is a horseriding stables ($40 an hour, $25 for a half hour); the horses come up to the fence and love to be petted," notes one camper who appreciated the proximity to Mesa Verde National Park.
Fishing opportunities: Rainbow trout and yellow perch are plentiful at Mancos State Park Campground. "Mancos State Park has no-wake boating and is well-known for fishing, especially rainbow trout, a few brownies and yellow perch," reports a visitor who noted the park's 33 campsites are positioned on both sides of the small lake.
Stargazing sessions: The rural setting creates excellent conditions for night sky viewing. "There is a 10 pm lights-out policy to cut down on light pollution and see the stars," explains a visitor at Ancient Cedars, where dark skies reveal constellations typically obscured by urban light pollution.
What campers like
Off-season accessibility: While many campgrounds close during winter months, some remain open. "We had laid out several options for our stop in the Durango, CO area but in early April all were closed. We saw there sign—it said OPEN," shared a grateful visitor to Echo Basin Cabin and RV Resort.
Cell service quality: Working remotely is possible at several locations. "I have AT&T and had good coverage here," reported one camper at Madden Peak Road, noting that most sites along the first mile or two of the road provide reliable connectivity.
Walkable town access: Mancos offers services within walking distance of some camping areas. "Great location in small town. Can walk to town with good restaurants," explains a camper at Riverwood RV Resort, highlighting the practical advantage of being able to access services without driving.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Wildlife management impacts camping availability. "Closed from November to May 31st," noted one visitor attempting to access Madden Peak Road during spring, when many dispersed sites restrict access for elk habitat protection.
Weather challenges: Sudden storms can create difficult conditions. "It ended up raining overnight. We're from Minnesota so I had no idea the mud was going to be so horrible. My shoes were caked. The tent ended up super muddy," warned a camper at Chutes and Ladders Dispersed, describing how clay-heavy soil becomes extremely slick when wet.
Road conditions: Access to dispersed sites varies considerably. "Road is fair, all spots are marked. Some are too steep for a camper, but perfect for truck or van camping," advises a visitor to Chutes and Ladders, where the 15 designated sites fill quickly, especially on weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation opportunities: Campgrounds with amenities help keep children entertained. "The park has a playground with a miniature golf course ($3 per person). There's a recreation room with a pool table, TV, and games. It's a great place for the kids to hang out in," shares a visitor to Ancient Cedars Mesa Verde RV Park.
Pet-friendly facilities: Dogs have space to exercise at some locations. "This place has everything: a massive field for dogs to play off-leash (they must be on in the park), a great restaurant, laundry, propane, a swimming pool," details a visitor to Echo Basin Cabin and RV Resort, who appreciated the comprehensive amenities.
Educational experiences: Cultural heritage sites provide learning opportunities. "Highly recommend the far view site and farming terrace hikes. Also the hike down and back from step house was awesome!" suggests a visitor to Morefield Campground, where ranger-led programs introduce children to ancestral Puebloan history.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Campground layout matters for comfort and privacy. "Definitely stay on the west side of the lake if these sites are available. The sites are far more spread out and quieter than on the other side of the lake," advises an RVer at Mancos State Park Campground.
Hookup considerations: Full-service sites may require advance planning. "Some of the sites were a little tricky to get in for big campers. We were in site 171 and have a 33 ft 5th wheel," reports a camper at Morefield Campground, where RV sites with full hookups tend to fill first.
Terrain challenges: Evaluate site conditions carefully. "Deep drain ditches between service road and sites. All sites are extremely uneven. Also the road and sites have sharp crushed shale stone," cautions an RVer with a 35-foot fifth wheel who found Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land) unsuitable for larger rigs despite its proximity to the park entrance.
