Tent camping near Towaoc, Colorado offers primitive camping opportunities on public lands at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 7,500 feet. The area experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations, with summer daytime highs often exceeding 90°F while dropping below 50°F at night. Desert terrain dominates the landscape with pinyon-juniper woodland creating natural windbreaks at many dispersed camping locations.
What to do
Trail exploration at Canyons of the Ancients: Campers can access numerous archaeological sites and hiking trails directly from Canyons of the Ancients, Sand Canyon. One visitor mentions "When coming from the north, turn left at the sign for canyons of the ancient national monument" and notes that nearby "there are trails for horses and such."
Fishing opportunities: The Dolores River provides accessible fishing spots just minutes from campsites at Roche Gulch. A camper reports "only a 4-minute hike to the Delores River for fishing" and another observed "Fish were JUMPING so get your fly rods ready!"
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution allows for exceptional night sky viewing, especially from elevated sites. According to a camper at Cannonball Mesa, the area offers a "Beautiful night sky and peace" in what they describe as a "very remote area."
What campers like
Seclusion at higher elevations: The further you drive on Forest Road 316, the more private the camping becomes. A camper notes, "Towards the top the landscape changes from piñon pine to an aspen grove so you really get a few different options to fit what you're looking for."
Riverside camping: Bay City Campground offers waterfront tent sites with mountain views. A visitor describes "Gorgeous Mtn views and a river" and mentions there are "3 (maybe 4) spots and it's beautiful!"
Panoramic vistas: Many tent sites provide exceptional overlooks. At Canyons of the Ancients, a camper recommends "Plenty of camp spots right on the edge with an incredible view. Up there with one of the coolest spots I've ever stayed at."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many roads accessing the best tent camping near Towaoc remain closed during winter and early spring. A camper at Forest Road 316 reported in March that the "Road is currently closed. Assuming through March like most others in the area."
Vehicle requirements: High-clearance vehicles are necessary for accessing more remote sites. At Cherry Creek Gravel Lot, a camper warns "Getting up there was not possible in my Travato... the uneven path up" was too challenging. Another camper at Canyons of the Ancients advises "high clearance/4x4 was definitely an advantage once we left the main access road."
Wind exposure: Tent campers should prepare for significant wind, particularly at exposed sites. One camper recommends to "tuck back into the bushes with your tent for some protection" as it was "VERY windy" during their stay.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For families with young children, stick to established campgrounds with shorter walks from parking. At Bay City Campground, a visitor mentioned the campground is "about a half mile from the end of the pavement" and noted a fire ring was available.
Avoid challenging access roads: Cherry Creek Gravel Lot provides family-friendly camping when higher elevation sites aren't accessible. A camper notes it's "Fine, especially when nothing else is available and you need a place to stop for a night."
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about respecting wildlife and understanding animal signs in the area. At Roche Gulch, families can combine camping with educational opportunities as one camper mentioned the spot is "far enough off the highway and light traffic that would couldn't hear cars that much" making it suitable for nature observation.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp accommodates various RV sizes. A camper explains, "This road can accommodate all kinds of camping. We didn't have to drive very far to find a good spot. Where we camped could fit all size rigs."
Easy access options: For RVers concerned about road conditions, staying near the beginning of access roads is recommended. One camper at Roche Gulch noted "You pull in and there are 3 spots right in front of you that are very easy access," though they caution "If you go down and to the left the road is pretty bad you may need 4x4."
Generator etiquette: Be mindful of noise when camping near tent sites. A tent camper at Cherry Creek mentioned "one night an inconsiderate person parked his company truck and camper as close to me as was possible with wide open space all over and ran his generator."
