Tent camping around Molina, Colorado provides access to a diverse landscape of mesas, canyons, and high-altitude forests with elevations ranging from 5,000 to over 10,000 feet. Morning temperatures often drop 30-40 degrees below daytime highs even in summer months, making proper insulation essential for overnight stays. Primitive camping sites along forest roads typically receive afternoon rain showers that clear quickly, with drier conditions prevailing from late August through October.
What to do
Paddle on reservoir waters: Carson Lake Recreation Area recently reopened after dam reconstruction with new amenities for campers. However, note that "no floatation devices are allowed on the lake as it is a water supply for towns below," according to Greg L.
Off-road trail exploration: Harvey Gap BLM Dispersed offers access to multiple off-road trails directly from the camping area. Matthew R. notes, "This is a great little parking area across the street from Harvey Gap State Park. There are two off-road trails coming off the parking area and you can see the water and people paddle boarding at the beach from the Sites."
Canyon hiking: Primitive camping near Rattlesnake and Mee Canyons provides access to remarkable arch formations. Sam V. reports, "My wife and I did the Rattlesnake Arches hike and camped nearby. There were three campsites we found on the way to Rattlesnake Arches... The two double track sites are primitive and get you close to the cliffs for amazing views of the far buttes across the Fruita/Grand Junction valleys."
What campers like
Proximity to National Parks: Black Canyon dispersed sites offer easy access to Black Canyon National Park. Kevin S. shares, "Easy to find BLM land with decent roads and lots of spots. I stayed here 3 days and never saw or heard another person. It's only 5 miles from the North Rim of Black Canyon National Park."
Established fire rings at dispersed sites: Campsites along forest roads near Molina feature pre-existing fire rings. Jaz C. reported about Black Canyon camping, "We arrived at night and there was plenty of spots. We camped in the car just for the night but plenty of flat land for tents and we saw a fire pit."
Riparian environments: Many tent sites near Molina provide access to streams and water features. At Big Dominguez Campground, Alex T. describes, "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."
What you should know
High clearance vehicles recommended: Many camping roads require appropriate vehicles. Harvey Gap BLM reviewer Ashley P. warns, "Really pretty spot if you have 4x4 or something that can handle hills and off roading. I tore the back of my rv on a tiny hill entering the area."
Water management is essential: Most dispersed camping near Molina lacks water sources. Sam V. advises when tent camping at Rattlesnake and Mee Canyons to "Bring plenty of water" and "Bring a 'luggable loo' or equivalent, burying human waste is difficult because of SUPER rocky soil."
Weather monitoring: Sudden weather changes can affect road conditions and camping comfort. At Gunnison River Overlook, Kaylinn H. notes, "There wasn't much shade but we set up a tarp and it was fine. Bring lots of water and sunscreen but worth it!"
Tips for camping with families
Use established campgrounds with amenities: For family tent camping near Molina, sites with facilities offer convenience. Jenny G. reports on Grand Junction KOA: "We stayed here in the tent camping spots for two nights. The restrooms were clean and the site had a light over the picnic table which was really nice for setting up in the dark."
Consider wind protection: High-elevation tent camping requires preparation for constant wind. Sam V. advises bringing "an awning or something for shade" when camping in the exposed areas near Rattlesnake Arches.
Plan for temperature fluctuations: Pack layers and appropriate sleeping gear for dramatic temperature swings. One camper at Steamboat Rock Campground noted the "wonderful abandoned ranch to explore" but mentioned how "the high elevation of many backcountry tent sites means cool nights even in summer."
Tips from RVers
Scout ahead for difficult roads: Many campsites around Molina have challenging access points. Roger at Harvey Gap BLM shares, "I was up on the next to the highest spot and wasn't bothered by any of this activity. The higher spot was too intimidating for me to pull my camper up to but later found there is another road up to it that's not as steep."
Bring leveling equipment: Uneven terrain is common at dispersed sites. Roger continues, "Bring lots of leveling blocks. I used all of mine to get my camper fairly level."
Consider noise levels: Highway proximity can affect camp quality. At Grand Junction KOA, Jason F. notes the campground is "exactly what you'd expect for an RV park right off of a state highway: small campsites, close quarters with your neighbors, and a county fairgrounds right next door with loud music and horses whinnying most of the night."
