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Best Campgrounds near Nucla, CO

784 Reviews

The Nucla area in western Colorado provides a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed camping options across diverse terrain. Uravan Ballpark Campground offers free camping with picnic tables and toilet facilities, while High Country RV Park in nearby Naturita provides full hookups for RVs. Camp V stands out with multiple accommodation types including cabins, tents, RVs, and glamping options. For those seeking a more remote experience, Thunder Road Dispersed camping area offers free primitive sites suitable for both tents and RVs.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with some dispersed areas requiring high-clearance vehicles. The Ledges Rockhouse Campground and Ledges Cottonwood Campground remain open year-round, while Columbine Campground in the Uncompahgre Forest operates seasonally from June to September. Most campgrounds in the area permit pets and campfires, though fire restrictions may apply during dry periods. Cell service can be limited in more remote locations, particularly in the surrounding national forest areas. A visitor noted that Thunder Road Dispersed camping provides "free" sites with "pets-allowed" status, making it popular for those traveling with animals.

Campers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty surrounding Nucla's camping areas. The region's campgrounds provide access to outdoor recreation including hiking, fishing, and off-road vehicle trails. Bedrock Recreation Site receives high ratings for its boat-in access and picnic facilities. While some established campgrounds offer amenities like showers and electric hookups, many visitors prefer the more primitive options for their solitude and connection to nature. Several reviewers highlighted the value of free camping options in the area, with one noting that dispersed sites offer "awesome night views and sunset over the mountains." Most campgrounds maintain a good balance between accessibility and the feeling of being immersed in Colorado's western wilderness.

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Bedrock Recreation Site

Bedrock Recreation Site

29 min away

Buckeye Reservoir

Buckeye Reservoir

1 hr away

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Best Camping Sites Near Nucla, Colorado (171)

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Recent Camping Photos near Nucla, CO

336 Photos of 171 Nucla Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Nucla, CO

784 Reviews of 171 Nucla Campgrounds

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 22, 2025

    Dakota Terraces Campground — Ridgway State Park

    Fantastic State Park

    There are three places to stay in this park, the Dakota Loops, the Elk Ridge Terraces, and Pa Co Chu Puk down the road.

    The last of the three has zero climb, and likely most useful for very large RV’s.

    I stayed at Dakota last year and like it so much I came back this year. The closer you get to the water (find a map online) the more leveling you will likely need to do if in an RV. There are level camp sites.

    I drove up to Elk Ridge this trip. More trees up there. Pretty.

    All three campgrounds have showers. Elk appears to have a play set.

    Be aware if you reserve online, the camping fee does not include an entrance fee. If you’re staying a night or two, pay daily. After that, buy an annual pass.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Yellow Circle Crossing

    Great spot, big sites spread out with in ground fire pits

    Would stay again, wasn’t many others but enough to feel comfortable, quite away from the road, easy access and roomy.

  • A
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Nine Mile Hill

    Easy going, fun, free

    I brought my dog up there yesterday. We car camped overnight without any issues. Only saw a couple of cars, and one group camped 3/4 mile from me. I had a lovely time checking out the bouldering and climbing. While there we couldn't find a clean or easy route to the top of the hill, it made for an interesting charge over loose impediments and various cliff bands. If you go this route, I recommend hiking boots and a pretty good level of mountaineering ability as you could potentially slip or get in a tough cliff band.

    Only bummer is that there is no burn season right now (mid-August), so we just enjoyed the night sky.

  • Lilliana S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 14, 2025

    Last Dollar Road

    Lots of different places to camp

    Visited in June Found a very secluded spot way in the back of a small road off the main trail. Would recommend 4wd and high clearance for most of the trail. There’s a lot of spots off the main road and some more hidden spots in the trees if your vehicle can handle a rough ride. Very pretty views, and popular sunset viewing area.

  • J
    Aug. 10, 2025

    BASECAMP 550

    Pleasantly Surprised!

    We really enjoyed our stay at this Campground. We came along this location when all the campgrounds in Ouray were full, this one was only 7 minutes away in Ridgeway. It had every amenity you could need: full hookups, clean restrooms with toilets and showers that take quarters. They offer a laundry room as well as a clubhouse with free coffee and beverages. They also had a nice area for grilling and hanging out with your group. We would definitely stay here again!

  • shannon C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2025

    90 Rd Dispersed

    Mountain View over Montrose valley

    Easy access off of 90 . Gravel road with easy switch backs our 30 ft TT and truck had no issues navigating the road once there decently level sites for dispersed camping . Awesome night view and sunset over the mountains. Our site was a little close to the road so we did her some road noise but not enough to bother us. dog loved chasing the lizards around the camp site . Sage brush and little cactus so be careful when walking around . Off road access for 4wheel/dirtbikes . Days are hot

  • Bill R.
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Matterhorn — Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre And Gunnison National Forest

    Close to Telluride, nice showers

    Great location! Showers a big plus. Sites vary from private to not so much, shaded to sunny and small to larger. Water was on! Road dirt and a bit potholy. Flush toilets at the shower location, one vault toilet otherwise.

  • Emilie K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Last Dollar Road

    Great Views if your vehicle can make it!

    We made the mistake of coming from the east end of Last Dollar Road with a stock F150 and a backpack camper. We made to the campsites but only because my husband is an expert! Highly recommend coming from Telluride side if your vehicle not high clearance with GOOD tires and 4x4.

    Anyways, the campsite is amazing! Awesome views with a few fire pits. Get here early to snag a good spot. Only downfall is that it is busy with dirt bikes from sun up until sun down, but most are respectful!

  • Emilie K.
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park

    Great campground!

    We stayed here on our way to Telluride and it was a great for recharging! Lots of space between campsites. Only knocked it down a star because we were only here for 24 hours and had several groups of kids walk directly through our campsite.

Guide to Nucla

Camping near Nucla, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning views and outdoor adventures. Whether you're into dispersed camping or prefer established campgrounds, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails around the area. Campers have enjoyed the scenic drives and hikes, with one reviewer mentioning, "Amazing scenic drive with camp spots that have great vistas! Dispersed camping at its best!" at Last Dollar Road.
  • Fishing: If you’re into fishing, the nearby lakes and rivers provide great opportunities. One camper at The Potholes Recreation Site noted, "This campground is a diamond in the rough, spacious sites, covered tables, bathrooms and great views of a roaring river."
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. A visitor at Gateway Recreation Area shared, "The beauty of being there alone is worth it," highlighting the peacefulness and wildlife encounters.

What campers like

  • Stunning Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking scenery. One reviewer at Caddis Flats said, "Absolutely stunning views. Nothing in the campground is labeled, so it’s kind of pick your own spot."
  • Quiet and Seclusion: Many appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. A camper at Black Canyon Dispersed Camping mentioned, "Camp sites are neatly nestled into the trees to provide a decent level of privacy."
  • Free Camping: The option for free camping is a big plus. A visitor at Uravan Ballpark Campground noted, "This is a nice campground, easy spot to stay while doing the Rimrocker trail."

What you should know

  • Road Conditions: Some roads can be rough. A camper at Last Dollar Road warned, "Do not go if you have a 2WD or a low sitting vehicle. We learned the hard way."
  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds lack basic facilities. A visitor at Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area mentioned, "There is a decently clean out-house style bathroom, but it is still just a toilet over a hole in the ground."
  • Weather Changes: Be prepared for sudden weather changes. A reviewer at Gateway Recreation Area noted, "The mid-day heat and windstorms are intense, but the beauty of being there alone is worth it."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Spots: Look for campgrounds with amenities. A camper at Uravan Ballpark Campground mentioned, "Large cottonwood trees line the bank of the river and provide lots of shade."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear. One family at Caddis Flats enjoyed the river access, saying, "This site was tucked in by the water. No amenities but perfect to put a tent for the night and be close to the river."
  • Pack Essentials: Make sure to bring enough food and water. A visitor at The Potholes Recreation Site advised, "Bring tons of water as there is no water access."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Vehicle Clearance: Some roads require high clearance. A reviewer at Gateway Recreation Area said, "I took my 2wd hatchback all the way up the canyon."
  • Look for Dump Stations: Ensure you know where to dump waste. A camper at Uravan Ballpark Campground appreciated the sanitary dump available.
  • Stay Connected: Some areas have limited cell service. A visitor at Black Canyon Dispersed Camping noted, "There was little to no cell service in the area."

Camping near Nucla, Colorado, offers a unique experience with beautiful landscapes and a chance to connect with nature. Just be prepared for the conditions and enjoy the adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Nucla, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, Nucla, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 171 campgrounds and RV parks near Nucla, CO and 60 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Nucla, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Nucla, CO is Uravan Ballpark Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 7 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Nucla, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 60 free dispersed camping spots near Nucla, CO.

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