James M. Robb Colorado River State Park's Island Acres Section sits at 4,500 feet elevation, providing a strategic basecamp for exploring Palisade's vineyards and peach orchards. The camping season here extends year-round with summer temperatures frequently reaching above 90°F during July and August. Winter nights can drop below freezing, though daytime temperatures typically remain mild enough for comfortable camping.
What to do
Mountain biking nearby: At Nine Mile Hill, campers appreciate the proximity to Grand Junction's trail systems. "We enjoyed this spot! Easy to get to and only about 30 minutes or so away from Grand Junction. We were able to get our T@G trailer to a good spot, but the road to the different camping areas can be a bit rocky," notes one visitor.
Fishing opportunities: The Colorado River runs alongside several campgrounds in the area. "The campground was in great shape and was well maintained. The area had nice views with the Colorado River running along the side of the campground," reports a camper at Island Acres Section.
Hiking at Colorado National Monument: Just a short drive from Palisade camping areas, this natural landmark offers impressive canyon views. "Worth staying a night or two to explore the monument. Great rim hikes. The campground is nice and well maintained with nice facilities," notes a camper at Saddlehorn Campground.
What campers like
River access: Many campers appreciate sites with direct Colorado River access. A camper at Palisade Basecamp shares, "The resort may not be busy in the fall, but that just adds to the appeal of staying this season. The bathhouse is heated and in pristine condition. On property there is a very lovely peach orchard, a dog run, and river access which would be ideal for the summer months."
Stargazing opportunities: The dark skies above the desert landscape create excellent conditions for astronomy enthusiasts. "Stayed here on a layover while passing through. Campground is well laid out with great staff, clean bathrooms, and great prices. We'll be back!" notes a visitor to Canyon View RV Resort.
Swimming options: Several local campgrounds offer swimming areas during summer months. At Island Acres Section, a camper explains: "We love this state park for fun little getaways. The fishing lakes, swimming lake and playground are all fun aspects my family enjoys."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Fire bans are common in this arid region, especially during summer months. At Saddlehorn Campground, a camper mentions: "Saddlehorn cost $20 for a campsite, but make sure and leave your open flame and smores at home fires are prohibited."
Highway and railroad noise: Several campgrounds are situated near Interstate 70 and active rail lines. "Very nicely groomed campground level site. 2 fishing ponds plus the river a swimming hole also. Nice views of the book cliffs. However we were so close to the interstate the noise was horrible," reports a camper at Island Acres Section.
Limited shade: The desert climate means many sites lack adequate shade coverage. "Hot in afternoon and evening, very little shade," notes a Saddlehorn Campground visitor, while another adds that it's "very hot at night in mid-July, but the campground was nice."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming lakes for kids: At Fruita Section Camping, families enjoy water recreation options. "This place has some of the nicest RV sites we have come across in a state park or any other park for that matter. Did I mention there is a walking distance beach!"
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Grand Junction KOA, a camper notes: "Typical KOA. As expected. Close sites. Level ground. Nothing super memorable but I appreciated having a couple dog runs available plus a playground the kids really enjoyed."
Educational ranger programs: State parks in the area often provide educational activities. A camper at Fruita Section explains: "The rangers and their programs have been wonderful each time we've stayed."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for size compatibility: For larger rigs, pre-select sites carefully. At Grand Junction KOA, an RVer advises: "RV sites have water, sewer, and 20/30/50 amp electric hookups. Sites are mostly level gravel. Some have small grassy areas and patios with brick pavers and a fire pit."
Hookup options: Most established campgrounds offer various hookup combinations. At Grand Junction Desert Road Recreation Area BLM, a camper notes: "We pulled up here with about an hour till sunset, which was really pretty. We saw lots of dirt bikers heading back to their trailers. It looks like an awesome place for that sort of thing."
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain, especially at dispersed sites. "We drove a high clearance 4x4 and the spot I was in needed AWD at minimum, sedans will get banged up," warns a camper at Nine Mile Hill, adding "plenty of rocks to level 4x4 with RTT but still slept angled."
