Mesa Lakes sits at approximately 10,000 feet elevation on western Colorado's Grand Mesa, the world's largest flat-topped mountain. This high-altitude destination features numerous lakes across the alpine terrain with temperatures dropping significantly at night even during summer months. Forest Service roads provide access to both established campgrounds and dispersed camping areas, typically open from mid-June through September depending on snowmelt conditions.
What to do
Fishing multiple lakes: Island Lake and nearby waters offer excellent rainbow trout fishing with accessible shorelines. "The fishing at Island Lake is always great (we use a troll boat) and there are plenty of great trails and trees for shade," notes one Island Lake Campground visitor. Sunset Lake near Jumbo Campground provides another fishing option with paddle sport potential.
Explore hiking trails: The Grand Mesa features numerous interconnected trails of varying difficulty levels. "There are great hiking trails from lake to lake in the area," reports a Cobbett Lake camper. Lost Lake offers a secluded destination with "a nice place for quiet nature reflection" according to a visitor.
Visit local wineries: The Palisade area at the base of Grand Mesa features multiple vineyards worth exploring. "The winery next door (colterris) is awesome. Small family owned great atmosphere. A truly amazing stop on our way east," mentions a visitor to Palisade Basecamp RV Resort.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Jumbo Campground offers well-spaced sites surrounded by mature forest. "The campsites are large and feel private. During our visit the camp hosts were very nice and helpful," reports a Jumbo Campground visitor. Sites feature fire rings and picnic tables with plenty of shade.
Lake access: Direct water access ranks high on camper satisfaction. "Island Lake Campground is not on the lake, but a short trail across the road leads you to the trail around the lake. The day use parking area is also very close and your hanger for the campground gives you free parking," explains a recent visitor.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain good standards for bathrooms and common areas. "The bathhouse is heated and in pristine condition. On property there is a very lovely peach orchard, a dog run, and river access which would be ideal for the summer months," notes a fall visitor to Palisade Basecamp.
What you should know
Weather changes rapidly: Being at high elevation means conditions can shift quickly. "Cold nights though!" warns one camper at Jumbo Campground. Summer thunderstorms frequently develop in afternoons, while early season camping might encounter lingering snow.
Seasonal limitations: Most Mesa Lakes area campgrounds operate on a restricted season. "Arrived on Friday, 5/23 and we were the first campers of the season! The camp host arrived on 5/19 and there was still 6 inches of snow," explains a visitor to Jumbo Campground in late May.
Free dispersed options: For those seeking more remote camping without facilities, Forest Service roads provide alternatives. "We spent two weeks near Vela reservoir. No fish but lots of mushrooms. The first trees are inoxicating," shares a visitor to Grand Mesa FS 105 Dispersed Camping, though they noted increasing ATV traffic in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming opportunities: Several locations offer water recreation beyond fishing. "We love this state park for fun little getaways. The fishing lakes, swimming lake and playground are all fun aspects my family enjoys," reports a visitor to James M. Robb Colorado River State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Mesa provides habitat for various animals. "Excellent wildlife viewing and challenging trails," notes one camper. Morning and evening offer the best viewing times for deer and small mammals around campgrounds.
Consider lower elevation options during colder periods: For families with young children, shoulder season camping might be more comfortable at lower elevations. "This is a beautiful small hosted Forest Service campground just off Colorado Hwy 65 (Grand Mesa National Scenic and Historic Byway) in the Grand Mesa National Forest," explains an RV camper about Jumbo Campground, which sits at a slightly lower elevation than some Mesa Lakes options.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Some Mesa Lakes area roads present challenges for larger vehicles. "Be sure to take the longer road along the south side of the lake from the eastern most turn off of HWY 65 to get to the campground. The norther western route is narrow, steep and very challenging for even the smallest RV," advises a visitor to Island Lake Campground.
Hook-up availability varies: While some campgrounds offer electrical, full-hookup options are limited. "A few electric sites are available, no sewer or water hookups, no groceries or gas nearby - town of Mesa approx 15 mi north," notes a Jumbo Campground visitor.
Pet-friendly considerations: Most Mesa Lakes area campgrounds welcome pets with standard leash requirements. "Winter Camping: Stopped here for the night before skiing at PowderHorn. Campground was easy to find, clean and quiet... There is a fenced in dog run area that my pup enjoyed," shares a Grand Mesa Colorado FSR 100 visitor, highlighting year-round pet-friendly camping options.
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