Dispersed camping locations near Mesa, Colorado extend beyond equestrian sites into diverse terrain at elevations ranging from 5,000-10,000 feet. Access roads vary seasonally with many requiring high-clearance vehicles during spring and fall. Mesa's surrounding public lands feature multiple campgrounds within 30 miles of town, offering different levels of seclusion and natural features.
What to do
Stargazing at higher elevations: Lands End Camp sits at approximately 10,500 feet elevation on the edge of Grand Mesa. "Only 2 spots out here at lands end that are actually on the edge of the mesa. No tree cover out on the edge of the mesa. Alt is around 10.5k so won't get super hot. Glow of the city lights from below at night is pretty. During the daytime in clear weather, you have 100+ mile views," notes Donnie B.
ATV trails and mushroom hunting: The dispersed sites at Grand Mesa FS 105 provide access to multiple vehicle trails. "We spent two weeks near vela resevoir. No fish but lots of mushrooms. The first trees are inoxicating. We are disappointed in the virtual take over by atvs. There are only 4 hiking trails dedicated for hiking," shares Diane S.
Stream access camping: Many campers appreciate the water features at Big Dominguez Campground. "Pretty spot with stream water right behind the sites. You have to drive over a stream when you come in but it was easily crossed when we visited. We enjoyed the trail near by and we were the only ones here while camping over night," explains Alex T.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Pyramid Rock Camp offers genuine seclusion with well-spaced sites. "This site is well trafficked but cozy with great views. There were people traveling down the dirt road in the late evening in vehicles and sport vehicles but they were quiet. I think this might be a local hangout area but the site I stayed at was clean and mostly quiet," reports Seanna M.
Accessible high-country camping: Dispersed sites along county roads provide relatively accessible backcountry experiences. "Apple map directions are spot on. Lots of room - I chose to go up a rutted road a ways, for privacy. There was one camper at the flat bottom. Check weather for rain chance if you don't have 4x4," advises Doug at Pyramid Rock Camp.
Natural water features: Stream access enhances several camping areas around Mesa. At Big Dominguez Campground, reviewers consistently mention the proximity to water: "Great spot! As in the description, very quiet, and accessibility can be tricky when weather comes into play," notes TJ C.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically with weather: Four Mile Road Dispersed requires careful planning. "The road up to the campsites is pretty well maintained but you do gain a good amount of elevation. The scenery is beautiful with lot of wild flowers and tall, towering trees. It rained before we got there and there was some moisture on the tent the morning after," explains Jeni N.
Insect activity can be intense: Many Mesa-area campgrounds report significant bug activity during warmer months. "This place was beautiful! It really felt like the wild west. The road was well kept and any vehicle could make it. There were so many amazing spots. We also had 1 bar of 5G using t-mobile. It would have been 5 stars if there weren't so many nats! bring some good bug repellent and it would be perfect," warns Eliza S. at Pyramid Rock Camp.
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites near Mesa have no facilities. "Stayed for one night. Arrived on foot trail via a Little Dominguez Canyon going to Big Dominguez Canyon. Half of Campground is on one side of the river need four-wheel-drive to cross the river," reports Evan S.
Tips for camping with families
Playground and activities: Kebler Corner offers structured activities for children. "They have everything you could think of-ninja lines, playset, zip line, hammocks, jenga, frisbee golf, etc. There were tons of kids that had a huge time. Mine loved it! There is a trail to hike up to a beautiful meadow," shares Tarrah.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening wildlife sightings enhance family camping experiences. "We spent two nights near vela resevoir. No fish but lots of mushrooms. The first trees are inoxicating," notes one reviewer at Grand Mesa FS 105.
Site selection for shade: Summer temperatures can be extreme at lower elevations. "It's definitely HOT right now in July without a ton of tree coverage but once the sun started to set it was fine. There was only one other camper here besides us. Road is fairly easy to get back to the sites. We only saw like 5 sites but there may have been more somewhere? Views were wonderful and stars were popping at night," shares Leah B. at Pyramid Rock Camp.
Tips from RVers
Water crossings require caution: RVs approaching equine-friendly areas around Mesa should verify road conditions. "You have to drive over a stream when you come in but it was easily crossed when we visited," notes Alex T. about Big Dominguez Campground.
Level sites are limited: Finding appropriate parking requires advance planning. "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.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies dramatically across Mesa's horse campgrounds. "Dirt road, a bit bumpy, but we easily pulled our 21ft Micro Minnie and it was doable for almost any vehicle. We didn't go to far up into the sites so I can't speak to further in. Rolled in at midnight and was still simple to find in the dark," shares Jennifer B.
