The region surrounding Shiprock, New Mexico sits at approximately 5,200 feet elevation in the high desert of the Four Corners area. Summer temperatures typically range from 85-95°F during the day, dropping into the 50s at night, while winter brings freezing overnight temperatures that limit camping seasons at many sites. Most glamping accommodations near Shiprock operate seasonally from April through October due to these temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Hiking trails with archaeological features: Morefield Campground offers direct access to the Point Lookout Trail. "Highly recommend the far view site and farming terrace hikes. Also the hike down and back from step house was awesome!" notes camper Elena C.
Fishing opportunities: Visit the stocked reservoir at Mancos State Park for rainbow trout, brown trout and yellow perch. "Mancos State Park has no-wake boating and is well-known for fishing, especially rainbow trout, a few brownies and yellow perch," reports Robert G. The park also offers cross-country skiing trails during winter months.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds in the area provide opportunities to see local wildlife. "Deer came out around 6 pm. Bear area, none seen," reports Michael at Mancos State Park. The open terrain and varied habitats attract diverse desert and mountain species.
What campers like
Bathroom amenities: Target Tree Campground maintains exceptionally clean facilities despite being more rustic. "Sparkling clean bathrooms. Road noise but it's not so bad at night. Great camp host. Firewood and water," writes Lauren. Many glamping sites provide access to flush toilets rather than vault toilets.
Comfortable sleeping accommodations: Cortez, Mesa Verde KOA offers various glamping options. "We had a cabin and RV site. After a long hot day at Mesa Verde we were pleasantly surprised to have AC and a TV in the cabin," shares Rae M. The temperature control is particularly valuable given the region's significant day-to-night fluctuations.
Community gathering spaces: Several glamping sites feature shared amenities that enhance the experience. "They have a cool playground area for the kids with a fire pit to hang around," notes Natalie F. about Dolores River RV Resort. These communal spaces allow for socializing with fellow travelers from diverse backgrounds.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping facilities near Shiprock operate from mid-April through October. "We left a night early bc we're not prepared for below freezing," reported Sar about their May stay at Morefield Campground. Even spring and fall nights can bring temperatures below freezing.
Variable cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between glamping locations. "Great Verizon service at 37 download / 15 upload. AT&T was a little weaker averaging around 8-10 download," reports Christopher H. about his stay at Cortez Mesa Verde KOA.
Site selection importance: Bright Star Campground offers both exposed and more sheltered sites. "It was a great stay, the landscape is gorgeous and the camp hosts have a very good vibe and maintain that on the property," mentions Alyssia D. Getting sites further from highways reduces road noise at several locations.
Tips for camping with families
Kitchen facilities: Some glamping sites provide communal kitchens. "The kitchen was super handy so we didn't have to tap into our water tank for dishes," notes Elizabeth C. about Bright Star Campground. These facilities reduce the amount of cooking gear families need to pack.
Playground access: Multiple glamping locations feature play areas for children. "This KOA is the Best in the West... This campground has an updated playground, heated (seasonal) swimming pool, a 1-mile walking trail, dog park, and even tepees in addition to cabins for overnight camping," writes Kari T.
Educational opportunities: Mesa Verde RV Resort positions families perfectly for exploring Mesa Verde National Park. "Located 1/2 mile east of the National Park entrance. Sites are roomy, property very clean and staff friendly," notes John H. Many sites offer junior ranger programs during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Pay attention to site slope when booking. "At least this site and 26 would be difficult to find level spot for tent and requires lots of rocks or blocks to level RV," cautions Michael about Mancos State Park sites.
Big rig considerations: Some campgrounds accommodate larger RVs better than others. "We stayed in a full hook up site. Some of the sites were a little tricky to get in for big campers. We were in site 171 and have a 33 ft 5th wheel," advises Sarah L. about her stay at Morefield Campground.
Water quality varies: "Good water hauled in from Durango and available at numerous spigots throughout camp," notes Ed K. about Target Tree Campground, while others report "very bleachy water" from certain spigots.
