The Grand Mesa National Forest area near Molina sits at elevations between 4,500-10,500 feet, creating diverse camping zones with varied temperatures throughout the season. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach 75-85°F at higher elevations while dropping to 45-55°F overnight. Many campgrounds remain accessible from late May through October, with several offering dog-friendly options despite seasonal fire restrictions during drier periods.
What to do
Fishing at Island Lake: Island Lake Campground provides excellent trout fishing opportunities for campers. "The fishing at Island Lake is always great (we use a troll boat) and it's there are plenty of great trails and trees for shade," notes Krystle T., who has visited multiple times. The lake is accessible via a short trail from the campground.
Hiking between lakes: Cobbett Lake Campground offers several interconnected trails. "There are great hiking trails from lake to lake in the area. Visitor center is on the opposite shore from the CG but was closed due to Corona virus," reports Keith S. Many of these trails are designated hiking-only, providing a quieter experience away from ATV traffic.
Wildlife viewing: Jumbo Campground provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. "We saw bald eagles, caught tons of rainbow trout, and even had a medium size bear come through a couple of times, who was never threatening, but looked like it was traveling along a set path to the next trout breakfast," says Eric S. Morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing chances.
Paddleboarding and kayaking: Multiple reservoirs in the area allow non-motorized watercraft. "Sunset lake is walking distance to the campground and was a great spot for my paddle board," notes Spencer B. about his stay at Jumbo Campground. Several campgrounds have day-use areas with lake access within walking distance.
What campers like
Access to water: Island Acres Section provides unique swimming options. "There is a nice swim beach that allows only swimming. It has natural cool and warm pockets. The sand gets super hot in the heat of the day," explains Melissa K. The natural temperature variation creates an interesting swimming experience during summer months.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds throughout the area maintain well-kept amenities. "The bathhouse is heated and in pristine condition," reports Erica G. about Palisade Basecamp. Similarly, Pioneer Campground visitors note, "Bathroom was clean and did not smell at all, water from the spigot was clean and cool."
Stargazing opportunities: Pyramid Rock Camp offers excellent night sky viewing. "After dark they went away!" notes Ashlyn H. about the gnats, adding that this allowed for "great stargazing." The dispersed camping locations typically provide less light pollution than established campgrounds.
Shade availability: Most campgrounds in the area feature tree cover for comfort during hot days. "Most sites have a parking pad and a picnic pad above or below the parking and shade," explains Lisa N. about Island Lake Campground. The aspen and pine mix provides dappled light rather than dense shade in many locations.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires careful driving. "If you have an America the Beautiful card, be sure to mention it. I paid a steep discount with the card," advises Erik J. about Island Lake Campground, also noting, "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."
Bug preparation: Vega State Park and other locations require insect protection. "Bug spray is necessary as mosquitos are pretty rampant in June-July," warns Wren A. Several reviews mention mosquitos as a significant consideration during summer months.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely across the region. "There is no cell service. The vault toilets seemed clean but smelled bad most of the time," reports Lisa N. about Island Lake Campground. Some dispersed sites offer better coverage than established campgrounds.
Free dispersed options: For those seeking no-cost camping, several areas provide established dispersed sites. "There's a certain ancient tranquility that settles over you when you step into nature's embrace," writes Danny R. about Near De Buque Dispersed camping. These sites lack facilities but offer more privacy.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several state park campgrounds include play areas for children. "The fishing lakes, swimming lake and playground are all fun aspects my family enjoys," shares Tarrin M. about James M. Robb Colorado River State Park. Most family-friendly sites cluster near the park's developed areas.
Tent platform benefits: Pioneer Campground offers raised platforms that keep families comfortable. "The tent platforms were raised which was helpful," notes Wren A. These elevated spots help prevent moisture issues during summer thunderstorms.
Cabin options: For families wanting more comfort, cabin rentals provide a middle ground. "The cabins are HA and have nice sidewalk paths from the parking lot. Inside a mini fridge, coffee maker, and a microwave are provided," explains Megan about Vega State Park cabins, adding that "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 great a trip with extended family or friends.)"
Swimming areas: Multiple dog-friendly campgrounds near Molina feature designated swimming spots. "We love this state park for fun little getaways. The fishing lakes, swimming lake and playground are all fun aspects my family enjoys," shares Tarrin M. Most swimming areas lack lifeguards, requiring parental supervision.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Palisade Basecamp RV Resort provides well-maintained sites but requires preparation. "The site was pretty level but we did use some levelling blocks to even things out. Great spot to base for exploring the Mesa, fishing, hiking or offroading," advises Erik J. Many RV sites throughout the area have similar minor leveling needs.
Loop selection: When staying at busier campgrounds, loop choice matters. "Very nicely groomed campground level site. 2 fishing ponds plus the river a swimming hole also. Nice views of the book cliffs. How ever we were so close to the interstate the noise was horrible. If I was to come back here I definitely would not stay in loop D maybe 100 yards from interstate on other side of fence/tree line," recommends Shannon C. about James M. Robb Colorado River State Park.
Electricity options: Grand Mesa campgrounds offer varied hookup availability. "We had full hookups (water, sewer, power). The area had nice views with the Colorado River running along the side of the campground," notes Troy L. Some campgrounds offer electric-only sites at lower rates than full hookups.
Water access planning: During peak summer months, access to water becomes important for RVers with pets. "Fishing swimming and plenty of walking. While the campground doesn't have a store on site there is a gas station less than a mile away," notes Schyler S., also mentioning, "They have no hookups, electric only and full hookups. Great service with Tmobile."
