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North Fruita Desert Lower Campground and Event Area

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

North Fruita Desert Lower Campground and Event Area is located near Fruita, Colorado. The terrain consists of open desert landscapes with sparse vegetation. Temperatures range from 30°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Nearby attractions include the Colorado National Monument and the Kokopelli Trail, offering opportunities for hiking and biking.

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Location

North Fruita Desert Lower Campground and Event Area is located in Colorado

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

39.309386215177156 N
108.70359340655564 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 9/25/25

Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 9/25/25

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites
  • Big Rig Friendly

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Reviews

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2.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Reviewed May. 18, 2024

Packed in Like Sardines

The lower loop sites, especially Loop E event area, are packed in very close together. You won’t get much rest if your neighbors stay put late by the campfire.

Campground was packed on a weekend in mid-May. Next time, I’ll come back mid-week at a cooler time of year and book one of the upper loop sites (much nicer and more spaced out).

SiteE2
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of North Fruita Desert Lower Campground and Event Area by Andrew P., May 18, 2024
  • Review photo of North Fruita Desert Lower Campground and Event Area by Andrew P., May 18, 2024
Reviewed Apr. 10, 2023

The era of 18 road has come and gone

This area has exploded in popularity over the past 5-6 years. Trails are great, but I would ride and pass through. It's no longer worth camping out here with the noise of disrespectful campers who tore up the area which led to it moving from dispersed to campground. If you plan on going at all during the warm months it will be an absolute zoo. Literally... Our RV neighbor had a pig in their campground.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of North Fruita Desert Lower Campground and Event Area by Shayli L., April 10, 2023
  • Review photo of North Fruita Desert Lower Campground and Event Area by Shayli L., April 10, 2023
Reviewed May. 6, 2022

Nice new campground for MTB crowd

New developed fee campgrounds in an area that was all free dispersed. Loops E, F, G, and H have total of about 75 sites, all gravel pads, tent squares, tables and fire rings. Several vault toilets. No water or trash dumpsters. Cell is moderate depending on carrier. $20/$10 senior. All sites are reservation only on Recreation.gov site.

NOTE that there are still many free dispersed spots on lowered end of road into the developed CG; however, those "free" sites will likely be incorporated into the CG as it expands down to the main paved road.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of North Fruita Desert Lower Campground and Event Area by Greg L., May 6, 2022
  • Review photo of North Fruita Desert Lower Campground and Event Area by Greg L., May 6, 2022
  • Review photo of North Fruita Desert Lower Campground and Event Area by Greg L., May 6, 2022
  • (20) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at the North Fruita Desert Campground?

North Fruita Desert Campground offers basic amenities including gravel parking pads, designated tent squares, picnic tables, and fire rings at each site. Several vault toilets are located throughout the campground loops. The campground does not provide water or trash dumpsters, so campers should pack in all necessary water and pack out all trash. Cell service is available with moderate coverage that varies by carrier. The developed campground includes approximately 75 sites spread across loops E, F, G, and H.

Where is North Fruita Desert Campground located relative to 18 Road in Fruita, Colorado?

North Fruita Desert Campground is situated directly along 18 Road in Fruita, Colorado. The campground consists of multiple loops (E, F, G, and H) with the lower campground and event area being closest to the main 18 Road access point. This location provides convenient access to the popular mountain biking trail system in the area, making it a sought-after destination for outdoor enthusiasts visiting the Fruita region.

How can I find a map of North Fruita Desert Campground and its surroundings?

Maps of North Fruita Desert Campground can be obtained from the local BLM field office in Grand Junction or at the self-service kiosk near the campground entrance. The campground features multiple loops (E, F, G, and H), with Loop E being the designated event area. For trail maps of the surrounding mountain biking network, check with local bike shops in Fruita or the BLM visitor center. Online resources through the BLM website also provide downloadable maps of the campground layout and the extensive trail system in the North Fruita Desert area.

Do I need reservations for camping at North Fruita Desert Campground?

Reservations are highly recommended at North Fruita Desert Campground, especially during peak seasons and weekends when the campground fills quickly. The area has grown significantly in popularity over recent years, particularly for mountain biking enthusiasts. For a better experience with more solitude, consider visiting mid-week or during cooler months when demand is lower. All sites are reservable through the official reservation system.

Is the North Fruita Desert Campground on BLM land and what regulations apply?

Yes, North Fruita Desert Campground is located on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. The area was converted from dispersed camping to a developed fee campground due to increasing popularity and use. Standard camping fees apply: $20 per night with a discounted rate of $10 for seniors with appropriate passes. BLM regulations require campers to stay in designated sites, properly dispose of waste, respect quiet hours, and follow fire safety protocols. The transition to a managed campground came after increased use began impacting the natural environment.