Towaoc sits at an elevation of 5,860 feet at the base of the Sleeping Ute Mountain in southwest Colorado, where summer temperatures reach the high 80s and winter brings occasional snowfall. Most RV parks near Towaoc offer short-term stays for travelers visiting Mesa Verde National Park, though camping availability becomes limited from November through March when many facilities close for winter.
What to do
Fishing ponds: Dolores River RV Resort features catch-and-release fishing ponds on the property for guests seeking relaxation without leaving the grounds. "This campground was great - right next to the river and ponds. We didn't think the ponds were stocked with fish and nobody caught a fish on the ponds while we were there but who cares...gorgeous anyways," notes one visitor at Dolores River RV Resort.
Mesa Verde exploration: With several RV parks located less than 10 miles from the entrance, Mesa Verde National Park remains the primary attraction. "Located less than 1 mile from Mesa Verde National Park entrance, this campground has wonderful owners who understand the meaning of hospitality! The sites are maintained daily and there are nice little touches throughout the campground," writes a camper at Mesa Verde RV Resort.
Hiking trails: Some campgrounds offer on-site walking paths with panoramic views. "The walking trail offers a great peek over the surrounding hill. I could honestly stay forever!" shares a camper at The Views RV Park, which includes trails with scenic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds receive high marks for bathroom and shower cleanliness. "Clean, clean, clean. Sites are nicely spaced and everything is immaculate. Gravel, level. Likely the cleanest bath house I've ever stayed in. Showers (unlimited, included) with individual locked door and cushy bath mat," reports a guest at Sundance RV Park.
Mountain views: Several parks offer scenic vistas of surrounding mountains and mesas. "The Mountain View's can't be beat. Nice staff and quiet and peaceful," notes a visitor at Circle C RV Park, though they caution about seasonal conditions: "Mud season you will get it all over you and your animals tho. Even at the site. Thick sticky mud so be prepared lol."
Community amenities: Some parks provide gathering spaces for socializing. "They have wonderful community areas, bathroom, laundry and fire pit. The walking trail offers a great peek over the surrounding hill," explains a camper at The Views RV Park & Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds close during winter months. The Views RV Park operates from April 15 to October 31, while Stoner RV Resort runs from May 1 to December 1, offering longer seasonal availability than most parks in the region.
Variable site spacing: Site dimensions and privacy vary considerably between parks. "The park itself is a simple layout; the typical racecourse layout. An oval with sites on both sides as you drive around. The pull through lots are in the middle, of course, and that's where we stayed," explains a visitor about layout considerations at one local RV park.
Tribal alcohol regulations: The reservation area maintains strict alcohol policies. "We had reservations here for 3 days with 2 rv,s and 5 people. We were never told it was a dry casino but we knew it from doing some homework. No one ever told us it was against tribal law to possess alcohol even in our RV," cautions a visitor at Sleeping Ute RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Several parks offer dedicated play areas. "Large grassy area in the center for kids to play, pavilion with live music plus group fire pits to sit around in the large swing seating. Two small dog parks with seating and shade," describes a visitor at Stoner RV Resort.
Consider proximity to attractions: Campgrounds near Mesa Verde provide convenient access for family outings. "Would stay inside the national park if available- this was a great RV resort with a playground, pool, pond, dog walk area," mentions a family who stayed at Mesa Verde RV Resort.
Check for recreational waters: Some parks feature water access for summer cooling. "Spent 5 nights with my family in mid July. It was great for the kids and adults. They had an ice cream social the first night. The Dolores river runs along the back of the property. Fishing was good. Floating the river with the family was a big hit," shares a parent who visited Dolores River RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Many RV parks in the area require leveling equipment. "The campsite was pretty standard. Gravel spaces (needed leveling) with some older trees that provided shade, a full hookup and picnic table," notes a camper at Sundance RV Park.
Dynamic pricing considerations: Some parks implement variable pricing systems. "Our only complaint was with the parent company, Rjourney. We called to get rates while 10 minutes east of town on a Friday afternoon, & was quoted ~$30 per night. The invoice showed a $15 lock-in fee to hold a specific site, increasing the rate to $45 + tax," reports a visitor at Cortez RV Resort by Rjourney.
Site selection strategies: When making reservations, consider location within the park. "When walking around, I notice the majority of the spaces are so close together, your picnic table is right next to your neighbor's sewer hookup. YUCK! I would come here again, but I would continue to be picky about my site!" advises an RVer about selecting optimal sites.
