Tent camping near Whitewater, Colorado ranges from primitive sites in high desert terrain to developed campgrounds with basic amenities. Located at approximately 4,600 feet elevation, the area experiences wide temperature swings, with summer daytime highs frequently reaching 95°F and overnight lows dropping into the 50s. Campers should pack appropriate gear for these temperature variations and bring ample water supplies, as most dispersed camping locations don't provide potable water.
What to do
Hiking access to canyons: Rattlesnake and Mee Canyons offer secluded hiking opportunities with minimal crowds. "My wife and I did the Rattlesnake Arches hike and camped nearby. There were three campsites we found on the way to Rattlesnake Arches," shares one camper at Rattlesnake and Mee Canyons.
Explore monument formations: Colorado National Monument sits just 15 miles from many camping areas. "Best part if this KOA is being close to Colorado National Monument!! One of our favorite places we've ever been!" notes a visitor at Grand Junction KOA.
Waterside recreation: Some camping areas offer riverside experiences. "There was a river hike, petroglyphs, a life saving cave on a hot day, and a wonderful abandoned ranch to explore," mentions a camper at Steamboat Rock Campground.
What campers like
Sunset views: Many sites offer remarkable sunset viewing opportunities. "The sunset golden hour views are incredible from the sites closest to the edge of the knoll on which it sits," reports a camper at Jouflas Campground.
Stargazing conditions: Clear desert skies provide excellent night viewing. "It's easy to find and the sky is beautiful at night. I woke up to this amazing view," writes a tent camper staying at Jouflas Campground.
Riverside tent sites: Some areas feature water proximity. "Pretty spot with stream water right behind the sites. You have to drive over a stream when you come in but it was easily crossed when we visited," notes a reviewer at Big Dominguez Campground.
Clean facilities: When present, vault toilets are typically well-maintained. "The outhouses are very clean. Campsites are very well maintained with easy access," reports a visitor at Knowles Overlook Campground.
What you should know
Water requirements: Pack in all water needed for your stay. "Bring plenty of water," warns a Rattlesnake and Mee Canyons visitor.
Road conditions matter: Many sites require appropriate vehicles. "Driving for a few miles along a fairly compact but slightly washed out dirt road will drop you off right at a vista above the CO river. 2WD is probably fine but low clearance vehicles will likely struggle on the occasional deep rut," advises a Knowles Overlook camper.
Pack for temperature swings: Daily temperature variations exceed 40 degrees in summer months. "Bring your own shade because there is none and it gets hot here (102F in April)," cautions a Jouflas Campground reviewer.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. "The restrooms were clean and the site had a light over the picnic table which was really nice for setting up in the dark. The highway noise could be a little loud at times, but generally it wasn't too bad to get a good night sleep," explains a tent camper at Grand Junction KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Tent camping amenities: Look for sites with specific tent-friendly features. "Each site has a concrete picnic table, steel and concrete fire pit with lift off grate and a sandbox style tent pad. Sites are well marked," notes a Jouflas Campground visitor.
Playground access: Some developed campgrounds offer family-friendly recreation. "I appreciated having a couple dog runs available plus a playground the kids really enjoyed," shares a camper at Grand Junction KOA.
Entertainment options: Consider campgrounds with activities. "As with most KOA's, this one also rents the pedal carts and has a game room area, outdoor movie theater with nightly movies, mini-golf, and a playground," reports another Grand Junction KOA visitor.
Spacing considerations: Look for sites that offer adequate room. "Sites are mostly level gravel. Some have small grassy areas and patios with brick pavers and a fire pit," explains a reviewer about the RV sites at Grand Junction KOA.
Tips for RVers
Access restrictions: Many tent camping areas near Whitewater have limited RV access. "Carson Lake was closed for a couple years to reconstruct the dam. Open again and there is a large parking area with a new vault toilet. However... These spots are not for RVs or Trailers, most are for tent campers," notes a visitor at Carson Lake Recreation Area.
Rough roads: Prepare for potentially challenging access. "The road was very windy and gravel/dirt. It wasn't too bad until the turn off to the campground. That road was almost all dirt. Wash out in some places. Single width for most of it," cautions a Big Dominguez Campground reviewer.
Hookup availability: Most tent camping areas lack RV amenities. "About a mile off I-70 this place is great for people that don't need all the amenities that a proper campground offers... But there is no running water or electricity so be prepared if you are in need of both!" explains a Jouflas Campground visitor.
