Mancos, Colorado sits at an elevation of 7,000 feet in the southwestern corner of the state, where high desert climate means warm days and cool nights even in summer. The area receives less rainfall than other parts of Colorado, creating ideal conditions for camping throughout the extended season from April through October. Winter camping options remain available for properly equipped visitors, with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing after dark.
What to do
Hiking nearby Mesa Verde trails: The trails around Target Tree Campground provide access to spectacular Colorado mountain scenery. "Decent easy hiking. Breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Starry nights when I stay awake long enough," notes one camper who appreciated the natural surroundings without venturing far from camp.
Boating and fishing at Mancos Reservoir: Mancos State Park Campground offers direct lake access for anglers and water enthusiasts. The reservoir is known for "rainbow trout, a few brownies and yellow perch" according to a regular visitor. Non-motorized and no-wake boating creates a peaceful atmosphere for paddlers.
Cross-country skiing: Winter visitors can access excellent Nordic terrain directly from Mancos State Park. "During the winter, it is a great place to use as a base for cross country skiing," reports a winter camper who found the park's proximity to Chicken Creek cross country ski area particularly convenient.
What campers like
Clean, accessible facilities: Cortez Mesa Verde KOA maintains well-kept restrooms and communal areas. "Bathrooms & showers are in the same building as the office, so it could be a walk. But the whole KOA isn't so big that it's unreasonable," reports one tent camper who appreciated the thoughtful layout.
Private glamping accommodations: Luxury camping close to Mancos, Colorado includes premium tent sites at Bright Star Campground where glamping teepees provide a unique overnight option. "They even have Teepees and cabins to stay in, a really unique opportunity for a nice experience," shares a visitor who appreciated the alternative to traditional tent camping.
Convenient hot showers: Morefield Campground at Mesa Verde National Park offers complimentary bathing facilities. "Free and unlimited hot water. Just not enough hooks," notes one visitor who found the shower amenities particularly valuable during their spring visit when temperatures dropped below freezing overnight.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Mancos area campgrounds typically operate from mid-April through October, with reduced services in shoulder seasons. Mesa Verde National Park's campground closes entirely in winter months.
Reservation requirements: Peak season visits from June through August require advance planning. "We reserved 6 nights here. Host B is in his 2nd yr here and is a peach of a guy. All campsites are carefully raked and put in good shape," reports a visitor to Lightner Creek Campground.
Site selection factors: Campsites at most facilities offer varying levels of shade, privacy and amenities. "Try to ask for a spot on the outer edge, much nicer," advises an October visitor to Mesa Verde RV Resort, noting the significant difference in experience based on site location.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for hot afternoons: Several campgrounds provide swimming options for cooling off. "A beautiful location with level sites. Full hookups. On-site amenities include a playground, mini-golf course, and nearby horseback riding," notes one family staying at Mesa Verde RV Resort.
Playground availability: Kids need space to play after long drives. "Playground area as well. Laundry is super clean and reasonably priced," shares a repeat visitor to United Campground who appreciated the designated recreation spaces.
Activities beyond camping: The Durango & Silverton train provides entertainment directly from camp. "The greatest thing about this campground though is that the Durango steam train goes right through the campground. To see the historic train right from your camper or tent window is pretty great," reports an enthusiastic visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Sites at many area campgrounds require adjustment. "Sloped towards lake. At least this site and 26 would be difficult to find level spot for tent and requires lots of rocks or blocks to level rv," warns a visitor about specific spaces at Mancos State Park.
Road conditions: Access to some glamping spots near Mancos, Colorado requires navigating unpaved roads. "Heads up to motorcyclists - you DO need to drive on gravel/rocks for a bit," cautions a Bright Star camper who still rated the experience highly despite the access challenges.
Hookup availability: The Dolores River RV Resort accommodates large rigs with premium utilities. "We were at site 13 with our 30' Grand Design bumper pull trailer. Plenty of room. Our site backs up to a fishing pond (catch and release)," reports a satisfied RVer who found the spacing and amenities well-suited to their needs.
