Dispersed camping sites and established campgrounds dot the landscape surrounding Parachute, Colorado, a high desert region where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F during July and August. The terrain varies significantly between camping locations, with elevations ranging from approximately 5,000 feet near the Colorado River to over 8,000 feet in the surrounding mountains. Road conditions to campsites near Parachute often deteriorate after rainfall, particularly on unpaved BLM access roads.
What to do
Explore caves and waterfalls: At Rifle Falls State Park Campground, visitors can discover small caves behind the triple waterfall formation. "This cam ground was awesome complete with a waterfall on site... Be sure to explore the caves by the waterfall the kiddos loved it," notes Hilary B. The falls area features several hiking trails under one mile in length.
Fish in reservoirs: Several camping areas offer fishing opportunities within a 30-minute drive of Parachute. "The park is situated right on the reservoir. Lots of spots to park a kayak near your camp sites," says Sam W. about Rifle Gap State Park. Anglers should note that Colorado fishing licenses are regularly checked by rangers in these areas.
Stargazing after sunset: The remote locations provide excellent night sky viewing conditions once the bugs subside. "After dark they went away!" shares Ashlyn H. about the gnats at Pyramid Rock Camp, adding that once the sun goes down, the stargazing conditions are excellent with minimal light pollution.
What campers like
Proximity to Colorado River: Campers appreciate easy river access at several locations near Parachute. At Palisade Basecamp RV Resort, "tent sites on the Colorado river" provide direct water access. Matt O. notes the campground is surrounded by "vineyards all around, a local brewery" and other attractions.
Spacious dispersed sites: Free camping locations offer room to spread out. Near De Beque, Tim M. reports there are "plenty of dispersed sites along this road" with "beautiful scenery" and roads that most vehicles can handle. These sites typically lack facilities but provide more privacy than established campgrounds.
Cool evening temperatures: Despite hot days, the area's high desert climate brings relief after sunset. At Saddlehorn Campground in Colorado National Monument, Michael H. appreciates that "the weather is warm at night" making it comfortable for sleeping without excessive heat or cold.
What you should know
Road conditions vary by season: Many dispersed sites require careful driving, especially after precipitation. Greg from Pyramid Rock Camp warns, "Do not go past the gravel road if it's rained or going to rain... Was kind of fun honestly but would not recommend for 99% of vehicles after/during any rain."
Bug activity peaks before sunset: Gnats and mosquitoes are common in many camping areas. Eliza S. reports Pyramid Rock "would have been 5 stars if there weren't so many nats! Bring some good bug repellent and it would be perfect." Multiple reviewers note that bugs typically disappear after dark.
Shade is limited: Tree cover is sparse at most camping areas near Parachute. Jolin A. describes Rifle Gap State Park as "clean, spacious, and well mantained... Not a lot of shade but a few." Consider bringing shade structures during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
Fire restrictions common: Check current fire regulations before camping. At Saddlehorn Campground, CJ C. notes, "make sure and leave your open flame and smores at home fires are prohibited." Fire bans are frequently implemented during summer and fall months throughout this region.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas for cooling off: Several campgrounds offer swimming options to beat the summer heat. Sarah Y. describes Island Acres Section Camping as having "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."
Campgrounds with playgrounds: Families benefit from developed recreation areas at certain campgrounds. Tarrin M. notes that Island Acres Section provides "fishing lakes, swimming lake and playground are all fun aspects my family enjoys." These facilities help keep children entertained between outdoor adventures.
Bathhouses with showers: After dusty days exploring, shower facilities become essential for families. Michal J. reports that at Rifle Gap State Park, "The showers and toilets were clean. 10/10 recommend and will be coming back!" Not all campgrounds offer shower facilities, so check availability when planning.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV campers can find full-service sites at specific locations. The Love's RV Hookup-Parachute CO 826 provides electric, water, and sewer connections directly in Parachute. While compact with only five sites, it offers convenience for travelers needing to service their tanks, as Julie S. discovered: "This was my first time emptying my gray water tank and filling my water tank. The manager Thomas couldn't have been more helpful!"
Level concrete pads: Many established campgrounds feature improved parking surfaces. Randy P. appreciates Island Acres Section's "very flat concrete site with picnic table and canopy, fire ring, and gravel sitting area. 30 amp electric and water worked great." Level sites eliminate the need for additional stabilization equipment.
Cell service varies: Mobile connectivity differs significantly between camping locations. Jennifer B. found reliable service at one dispersed site: "We also had 1 bar of 5G using t-mobile" while camping at Pyramid Rock. RVers working remotely should verify service availability before selecting a campsite near Parachute.
