Mesa Lakes, Colorado sits at an elevation above 10,700 feet on the Grand Mesa, creating cool summer temperatures that rarely exceed 75°F even in July and August. The volcanic plateau features multiple small lakes surrounded by spruce and aspen forests. Primitive camping near Mesa Lakes, Colorado typically requires advance planning for summer weekends when spots fill quickly.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Twin Lake Dispersed Area offers excellent fishing access with minimal crowds. "Very still, remote and quiet. Only other people were a few people fishing during the day," notes Pamela D., who camped at Twin Lake Dispersed Area - Grand Valley Rd.
Paddling on small lakes: Bring non-motorized watercraft to explore the calm waters. "Make sure to bring your paddle board or fishing pole. Super quiet spot," recommends Fabein D. about Twin Lake. The area's multiple reservoirs provide options for kayakers and paddleboarders seeking backcountry water access.
Mushroom hunting: Grand Mesa forests support diverse fungi during wet periods. "We spent two weeks near vela resevoir. No fish but lots of mushrooms. The first trees are inoxicating," reports Diane S. about her stay at Grand Mesa FS 105 Dispersed Camping.
What campers like
Seclusion from crowds: Many dispersed sites offer significant privacy despite their proximity to one another. "Beautiful, private, quiet. Took 100(Lands end rd) to 108 and turned right (north) 1/4 mile turned left on reservoir maintenance rd. One FS campsite there overlooking 'reservoir 1'. Peaceful and gorgeous!" explains Alisa H. about her experience at Grand Mesa Colorado FSR 100.
Established fire rings: Most designated dispersed sites come with rock fire rings for safe campfires when permitted. "All sites had areas for parking and fire rings," confirms Kat T. about Twin Lake Dispersed Area, providing campers with ready-made cooking and gathering spots.
Wildlife encounters: Free-range cattle frequently visit campsites throughout the Mesa. "One bull approached and stood there bellowing at the camper before finally moving along, and another morning we looked outside to see several cows munching on the remains of our campfire," describes Linda H. at Grand Mesa FS 105 Dispersed Camping, noting that "apparently they like to eat ashes and charcoal for the minerals because it happened twice!"
What you should know
Vehicle recommendations: Road conditions deteriorate quickly after rain or snow. "Driving off the forest road and onto the small road getting up to the campsite, 4WD isn't required but highly recommended, it is a very rough road. High clearance is necessary," warns Kat T. about Twin Lake access.
Insect activity: Bugs can be prevalent during summer months, particularly at dusk. "A little buggy in the summer, but otherwise perfect," mentions Fabein D. about the Twin Lake area.
Altitude considerations: Lands End Camp sits at over 10,000 feet, requiring proper acclimatization. "Easy drive up for any vehicle. I clocked about 10 options before parking on a grassy flat area about half way up," notes Emily C. about the road conditions but cautions that the elevation requires preparation.
Tips for camping with families
Lake proximity: Cotton Wood Lakes #1-4 offers multiple water access points ideal for children. "This was a great spot, it was hidden but there were a ton of people, they recently redid the back roads to get here and it was extremely busy. It is really pretty and close to Grand Junction. Lots of lakes though and great fishing!" reports Aaliyah B.
Weather preparation: Afternoon thunderstorms are common during summer months. "We loved being surrounded by tall trees on one side and having a long distance view across the meadow on the other side, watching storm clouds approaching every day," shares Linda H. about camping on Grand Mesa.
Site selection strategy: Arrive early to secure spots with best features. "Don't pick the first campground you see, keep driving and exploring two track roads to find the perfect spot," advises Ashley S. about dispersed camping options.
Tips from RVers
Turning radius requirements: Many primitive sites lack developed turnarounds for larger rigs. "We towed a 35 FT 5th wheel heading west on 105 until we discovered the perfect campsite by turning south at the intersection with 108. The road was very rough but doable by moving along very slowly. Our site was hidden by trees off a short dirt drive which wasn't too bad. There was plenty of space for us to turn around," explains Linda H. about Pyramid Rock Camp.
Low clearance limitations: Some access roads require careful navigation with trailers. "I'm in a class B van with low clearance and had no issues getting in & out," confirms Alisa H. about reaching her site on Grand Mesa, suggesting that careful route planning makes many areas accessible.
Leveling challenges: Bring additional leveling blocks for uneven terrain. "The site I was in needed AWD at minimum, sedans will get banged up. Spot was decent but awful leveling. Plenty of rocks to level 4x4 with RTT but still slept angled," notes Shak K. about a camping experience.
