Cabins and glamping options near Molina, Colorado range from rustic to luxurious across the Grand Mesa's 10,000-foot elevation landscape. The region experiences dramatic temperature shifts, with summer days reaching 85°F while dropping to 45°F at night. Winter access becomes limited as snow accumulates at higher elevations, restricting travel to many glamping destinations from November through April.
What to do
Fishing at Ward Lake: The clear waters at Ward Lake Campground offer excellent fishing opportunities just a short walk from campsites. "Just gorgeous area! A very nice camp ground for tent campers, very few people, beautiful scenes and within a very short distance of good hiking. Campground staff was helpful and we had a beautiful site right by the lake which is open to fishing and swimming," notes Peter H.
Geocaching adventures: Many parks in the region feature geocaching opportunities for a tech-enhanced outdoor treasure hunt. "They have 13 geocaches in the park, while we didn't have time to go find them, they are able to look them up. We will save that for another time," mentions one visitor about Highline Lake State Park.
Mountain biking: The trail systems throughout the area provide challenges for cyclists of all abilities. "This is a great spot to camp if you want to ride the course for the 18hrs of Fruita mountain bike race," reports one camper about Bookcliff Campground. Trails range from beginner-friendly routes to technical climbs with significant elevation changes.
Wildlife viewing: The diverse habitats support abundant wildlife observation opportunities. "Stay outside your camper here and listen to the doves, ravens, owls, and watch the hawks. There are hundreds of domestic sheep and goats adjacent to the campground. When the coyotes start howling the guard dogs reply," describes Bill B.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Campsites adjacent to rivers and lakes are consistently rated highest. At Cottonwood Lake Campground, "The campsites here are well spread out and right on the water. We found we had privacy and still had great hiking spots near by," shares Hannah R.
Clean facilities: Shower and bathroom maintenance receives frequent positive mentions. At Rifle Gap State Park, "The showers and toilets were clean. 10/10 recommend and will be coming back!" reports Michal J.
Orchard settings: Unique camping environments distinguish some properties. "You can tent camp amidst the apple trees (literally in the rows nestled under the trees), park your rig in a grassy field with picnic tables and fire pits, or even stay in a cabin," describes one visitor at Big B's Delicious Orchards.
Weather diversity: The mountain climate creates interesting conditions for campers. "This is one place that fits the saying that if you don't like the weather, wait twenty minutes, it'll change. The wind comes from all directions through the day and the wind blowing off the lake adds a little more bite to the wind chill," explains Mike S.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most popular cabin sites fill quickly during summer months. "Be sure to arrive early. I arrived right at 1 to make sure I could get a spot the Friday of Father's Day weekend. By 5:30, all the spots were full and were full earlier the following night," advises Jordan L. about camping at North Rim Campground.
Bug preparation: Mosquitoes can be problematic in certain areas. "The mosquitoes were many. We are tent campers and found it impossible to be outside the tent without a lot of serious bug spray on. We tried the herbal bug spray but it was useless," warns Martha about Elk Creek Campground.
Weather preparedness: Temperature fluctuations require appropriate gear. "Be prepared to put a cover on your tent as intermittent thunderstorms come up out of nowhere. There is no cell service unless you go down route 65 a little more to the beautiful views of the valley," notes Peter H.
Site selection: Some campgrounds have significant differences between sections. "This CG has two sections. The upper part is old school FS, narrow roads, small sites, lots of trees...not a good place for larger RVs or TTs. Best for tenters, Vans, small Class Cs. The lower section is much better for larger RVs and TT," explains Greg L.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Palisade Basecamp offers features specifically for families. "On property there is a very lovely peach orchard, a dog run, and river access which would be ideal for the summer months. The camp sites are close together but have good trees and even plugs! The cabins are comfortable, with heating, mini fridges and microwaves," explains Erica G.
Consider site spacing: Family groups should evaluate proximity to neighbors. "The five cabins in this area are close together and you can view your neighbors but this was not a problem for us. It would make for a great trip with extended family or friends," notes one visitor about Pioneer Campground.
Check bathroom facilities: Family-friendly restrooms vary significantly between locations. "Bathrooms were very near by, just across the road. The restrooms were immaculate! Some of the cleanest pit toilets we've seen. No odor and very clean. The whole campground was really clean in fact," reported one camper.
Plan for temperature changes: Evening temperatures drop significantly even in summer. "We woke up freezing and left early. Bring everything you need because it's a long drive to re-up on supplies," advises Briana about unexpected cold nights.
Tips from RVers
Road accessibility: Some access roads present challenges for larger vehicles. "May need a car that has AWD if you're going up the hill to more dispersed spots as we had difficult in our smaller car," notes Hannah R. about Cottonwood Lake Campground.
Site leveling: Pad quality varies widely between properties. "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," reports Jacob D. about Elk Creek Campground.
Hook-up details: Not all sites offer full services. "The lower cg area has less shade but closer to Ward lake. Vault toilets, trash and water spigots. $20/$10 senior. Run by a contract host. No cell signal and all sites are FCFS. Lower sites in sun are best for SL-RV," explains Greg L.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location. "There is no cell service anywhere in the park or campground, so plan ahead," cautions Jordan L.
