RV camping near Mesa Lakes, Colorado offers access to several facilities with varying amenities and proximity to the Grand Mesa's natural attractions. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 6,000-8,000 feet, with temperatures ranging from 40°F at night to 80°F during summer days. Water conservation becomes essential during late summer when some facilities implement usage restrictions.
What to do
Hiking near Colorado River access: Palisade Basecamp RV Resort provides convenient river access for those looking to combine water activities with hiking. "There is a trail that goes around the park too. Up until recently the Colorado River has been too low to fish but I imagine fishing is about to get better now that it's really flowing," notes a visitor to the park.
Wine tasting excursions: With numerous vineyards surrounding Palisade, RV campers can explore local wineries. "Vineyards all around, a local brewery, tent sites on the Colorado river. The winery next door (colterris) is awesome. Small family owned great atmosphere," shares a Palisade Basecamp guest.
Mountain biking from camp: Riverbend RV Park offers direct trail connections. "Beautiful location next to the Fort Umcompahgre River with easy access to trails for biking. The sites and grounds are well maintained and large," explains a Riverbend RV Park & Cabins reviewer.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Several parks feature sites alongside water. "The campground is situated below the road keeping road noise low. The entrance is at a busy location on the highway and steep so take care while entering. We had a nice site within eyeshot of the river," notes a visitor to Four Seasons River Inn & RV Park.
Clean, spacious bathhouses: Newer facilities receive consistent praise for their maintenance. "The bathhouse is heated and in pristine condition. On property their is a very lovely peach orchard, a dog run, and river access which would be ideal for the summer months," mentions a Palisade Basecamp guest.
Amenities for extended stays: Canyon View offers features conducive to longer visits. "The grounds are nicely landscaped with bushes and trees. There is a pool, dog runs, laundry, play area, and pickleball courts. There is some traffic noise but not too bad - it is a city location after all," explains a Canyon View RV Resort visitor.
What you should know
Cell service variability: Connectivity changes with elevation and location. "The WiFi was fair with speeds of around 0.5 MB/s. AT&T coverage was good, with 2-4 Bars of LTE service and speeds up to about 6 MB/s," reports a Canyon View guest.
Traffic noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some parks. "It is close to I-70 and the road noise is quite noticeable if you're outside," notes a Canyon View camper, while another adds, "You could hear some interstate noise but not enough to keep you awake."
Sloped tent sites: Some parks have uneven terrain for tent camping. "Stellar amenities, electricity at every pad, great showers, easy and very close river access. Really great spot but prepare to roll. All of the tent pads seem to be at a pretty wicked slope, including ours," warns a Palisade visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly facilities: Many parks accommodate pets but have specific rules. "The dog run areas is just weeds and a culvert that doesn't drain, so beware if you have water/mud loving dogs," cautions a visitor at Canyon View, while another notes, "It's very pet friendly and even have small pet runs in some sites which we got. Nice dog park too."
Playground availability: Some parks offer dedicated children's areas. "There is a playground for kids and a splash pad that was working," mentions a Junction West Grand Junction guest.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Natural settings provide educational experiences. "The river and pond are were very nice to sit by and observe nature. The Canada geese families were fun to watch," shares a Riverbend visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: Parks vary in their ability to accommodate larger rigs. "River riverside spots, which are delightful. Lots of trees, and dense but not too dense packing," notes a Palisade visitor, while a Four Seasons camper mentions, "Pretty campground with grass at the sites, a river a short walk away (there's a good portion of the campground with riverside sites, but limited for larger rigs)."
Hookup reliability: Electric service varies between locations. "Nice size sights. Gravel lots. Do hear a bit of traffic noise from highway when close to front gate. River sights look nicer," shares a Shady Creek RV Park guest.
Leveling needs: Terrain affects parking ease at several sites. "Sites at River Bend are gravel and level. Great patio and table," reports a visitor, while others recommend bringing extra leveling blocks for sites near Palisade.
