RV campgrounds near Olathe, Colorado range from full-service resorts to more basic facilities, with most operating seasonally due to harsh winter conditions. The region sits at elevations between 5,000-8,000 feet, creating distinct camping seasons with summer highs frequently exceeding 90°F and winter lows often below freezing. Morning temperatures can be 30-40 degrees cooler than afternoon peaks, even during peak summer months.
What to do
River access for fishing: Four Seasons River Inn & RV Park offers direct access to the river for fishing enthusiasts. "Great place! Super clean and plenty of space in between trailers. Great access to the river fir fishing!" notes Sherry R., while another camper mentions the "premium location right on the Arkansas River... with miles of intermittent fishing access along the highway downstream. Hefty browns and wary rainbows abound."
Hiking at Black Canyon: Black Canyon RV Park & Campground provides a strategic base for exploring the national park. "Close to Montrose and Black Canyons of the Gunnison National Park, easy access to these and highly recommend checking them out if you stay here!" says one reviewer. The park sits at elevation with dramatic temperature shifts between day and night.
Mountain biking trails: The area offers extensive trail networks accessible from several campgrounds. "We visited the Palisades and hiked in Colorado National Monument. We also road our mountain bikes all around," shares Carol J. about staying at Canyon View RV Resort. Many trails connect directly to campgrounds or are within a short drive.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Riverbend RV Park & Cabins earns praise for its waterfront sites. "Such a peaceful campground during shoulder season. The river and pond are were very nice to sit by and observe nature. The Canada geese families were fun to watch," says Mary F. The park sits adjacent to the Uncompahgre River with dedicated riverside spots.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and showers. At Canyon View RV Resort, one camper notes, "Bathhouse facilities like a grand hotel," while another mentions, "The bathrooms are modern and clean. The grounds are nicely landscaped with bushes and trees."
Easy town access: Several RV parks provide convenient access to local communities. "Four seasons was easily accessible, clean, and service was very friendly. The park allows you to enjoy camping while being close to the small town amenities of Salida," shares Richard E. Similarly, 4J+1+1 RV Park receives praise as campers note it's "within walking distance to everything in Ouray. Once settled in we didn't use the truck to travel anywhere for three days."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most RV campgrounds in the Olathe region operate on limited schedules. Riverbend RV Park & Cabins explicitly notes a season of "Apr 15 - Oct 15," while others may close during winter months without formal notification. Always call ahead during shoulder seasons.
Variable site spacing: Reviews frequently mention site proximity differences between parks. "The sites and grounds are well maintained and large," notes a Riverbend visitor, while at Ouray Riverside Resort, one camper mentions "Sites are close together but the views are beautiful."
Highway noise: Traffic sound affects several campgrounds. "It is close to I-70 and the road noise is quite noticeable if you're outside," notes a Canyon View visitor. Another camper explains, "Located beneath cliffs, the CG is in the shadows early which was nice in cooling our trailer from temps near 90."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Cedar Creek RV Park offers recreational spaces for children. The park has "a large grassy area with a large play structure for the kids," according to a visitor. Multiple reviewers note the mix of full-time residents and short-term campers creates different activity zones.
Pet accommodations: Many campgrounds provide designated pet areas. "They have spots in the back and side separated for long term. Good water pressure and WIFI," notes Mark P. about Canyon View RV Resort. Another visitor mentions, "It's very pet friendly and even have small pet runs in some sites which we got. Nice dog park too."
Weather preparation: Summer temperature swings require planning. "The mountains are beautiful. Night sky was jaw dropping," shares Roxanna L., but other campers note rapid temperature changes require layered clothing and proper sleeping gear, especially with children.
Tips from RVers
Large rig access: 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park accommodates bigger motorhomes with full services. "Has full hook up available. Cold and snowy when we arrived. Our campsite backed up to the river. Can walk to town," notes Linda B. Another camper mentions, "Very pleasant experience. Has full hook up available... The facilities are very clean and well maintained."
Utility considerations: Water availability varies significantly between parks. "Only water spigot in C loop and sign notes no RV fill-up," mentions one camper about a national park campground. For private parks, most offer full hookups but with varying reliability: "Could not park our tow vehicle at our site, but got a spot nearby across the road," notes Melody C.
Reservation timing: For summer stays, book well in advance, especially for holiday weekends. "Thankfully we were able to get a site here on short notice over Fourth of July weekend," notes Keith S., highlighting the rarity of last-minute availability during peak times.
