The best lakeside camping near Dove Creek

·

For lake camping near Dove Creek, Hipcamp lists over 370 options, with average sites running $55 a night and some as low as $35. Expect campsites with toilets, showers, and campfires allowed—nothing fancy, just the essentials sorted. You’ll spot wildlife along the water’s edge and trek out on hiking or horseback trails that crisscross the mesas. Top picks include Camping in the Mesas (125 reviews), Canyon Trails Ranch (55 reviews), and CampV Colorado (33 reviews). You’ll camp under big Colorado skies, lakes just steps from your tent, and wake up to quiet you can’t buy anywhere else.

98% (222) 46 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Dove Creek

Camping in the Mesas

1. Camping in the Mesas

94%
(234)
29mi from Dove Creek · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This land was inhabited by the Ancient Anasazi and Pueblo people. The Anasazi Heritage Museum and archeological ruins are two miles away. There are ruins and sites on this land that have yet to be excavated. Many different ancient people came through this land, left and sites were inhabited by other people. One group of people would come and build upon the sites of another group, and taking part of their culture with them. 
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$33
 / night
Canyon Trails Ranch

2. Canyon Trails Ranch

100%
(104)
30mi from Dove Creek · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The homestead was built in 1911 and was one of the original postal pickups in the area.  The ranch is located between Mesa Verde National Park, Hovenweep National Monument and backs up to Canyon of the Ancients National Monument. Our family has lived in McElmo Canyon for over 40 years and the campground has hosted camping and outdoor educational groups since 1965. We are a family run ranch with an operating hay farm, horseback riding business, and carriage shop.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
CampV Colorado

3. CampV Colorado

97%
(45)
36mi from Dove Creek · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Inspired Shelter for the Spirited Wanderer CampV was established in 1942 by the Vanadium Corporation to house the engineers who worked in the uranium mines outside of Naturita, Colorado. In 2020, this historic gem was restored by StudioVille Crew to welcome wanderers to a remote and scenic corner of SW Colorado. Discover your Wild without the crowds. Beautiful with a tiny bit of dirt under the fingernails and 120 acres to explore, travelers can sleep well in one of the newly reimagined historic cabins, glamping tents, Jupes, airstreams or river front camping. Through our arts non-profit WEarts, explorers can experience our curated art and support art and creative programming in a rural community. When you’re ready for a mission, check out Planet V, our annual arts and music gathering over Memorial Day and prepare to lift off.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$35
 / night
San Juan National Forest

4. San Juan National Forest

97%
(41)
696 sites · Rico, Colorado
Hike through the rugged wilderness or take a scenic drive in this expansive national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Manti-La Sal National Forest

5. Manti-La Sal National Forest

100%
(16)
328 sites · Ferron, Utah
Trivia time! Which part of Utah contains the densest black bear and largest elk population? The Manti-La Sal National Forest, of course! How about this one: where does most of the coal mined in Utah come from? Well, 85% of it is mined right here in the Manti-La Sal. This special forest is full of natural surprises, like lofty mountaintops, lush meadows, cavernous sandstone canyons, plus plenty of water. If it sounds like there’s a ton of diversity here, that’s because there truly is! All of this diversity means that there’s a lot to do out here. Near Moab, the forest is home to the La Sal Mountains with their tall peaks and narrow canyons. To the north, on the Wasatch Plateau, you’ll be yearning for your next road trip along the Huntington and Eccles Canyons National Scenic Byways (also called the Energy Loop). And when it comes time to hit the hay at night? You guessed it—there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Nikita Ranchita Sanctuary

6. Nikita Ranchita Sanctuary

100%
(4)
35mi from Dove Creek · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Eagles and Mustangs! At Nikita Ranchita Sanctuary, you can experience Healing with Horses through one on one sessions, and witness Eagles Nesting (in the spring) along with hundreds of other bird species year round. Come join us at the Ranch, for Dry Tent Glamping in the shade of the pinion forest, RV parking, or tent camping with views of Mesa Verde and Ute Mountain and the La Plata mountains. Shared chill zones may be available near the cottonwoods overlooking the lush wetlands where you can see deer grazing and hear coyotes at night. Epic fishing on and gorgeous sunsets 5 minutes walking distance to the lake. This budding ranch is off grid, with a historical corral and 3 horses. It's nestled between two state wildlife areas, Totten Lake and Simon Draw, perfect for birders, horse lovers, or those visiting dwellings in the 4 corners area. Centrally located 5 min from Cortez for supplies, 15 min from Dolores and Mancos for Brewpubs and coffee shops and 45 min from Durango. Mecca for 4 corners ancestral dwellings... 10 min to the entrance of Mesa Verde 15 min to Sand Canyon trailhead 30 min to Sand canyon Pueblo, 1 hr to Canyons of the Ancients NM, Hovenweep NM, Escalante Pueblo, and Sandstone canyon 1.5 to Ute Mtn Tribal park 2 hrs to Canyon De Chelly 2 hrs to Natural Bridges 3 hrs to Chaco Canyon, NP Mountain and Desert Recreation 5 min from Phil’s world mountain biking trail, 30 min to LaPlata canyon, for hiking and fishing 1 hr to Rico mountain town 1.5 hrs to Indian creek for epic crack climbing 2 hours to Ridgway or Telluride mountain towns 2 hrs to National parks the Needles (Canyon lands), and Natural bridges Cortez is known for its rich history and culture, and is considered the cultural center of Mesa Verde Country. It was laid out in 1886 on the site of a Navajo Indian seasonal camp called Tseyetoh. It's located near the Four Corners where Colorado, Utah, Arizona and New Mexico meet. *Note* We have no water or Electric! *Pit toilet is available across the street at the lake (5 min walk).
Pets
Picnic table
from 
$25
 / night
Echo Basin Resort

7. Echo Basin Resort

44mi from Dove Creek · 43 sites
Echo Basin Resort stands out as a year-round destination for RV enthusiasts and cabin renters, offering a unique blend of summer relaxation and winter adventure. Nestled conveniently between the historic town of Durango, the breathtaking Mesa Verde National Park, and the popular Purgatory Ski Area, our resort is surrounded by the stunning San Juan Mountains, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. Our resort features a variety of accommodations, including rustic A-frame studio cabins with lofts that comfortably sleep four guests. Each cabin is equipped with essential amenities such as linens, a toaster, microwave, coffee maker, and a small refrigerator. For larger groups, our deluxe two-story cabins can accommodate up to eight people and come with a full kitchen complete with utensils. In addition to our cozy cabins, we offer a 65-space full hookup RV park, ensuring that all guests have access to the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors. Our banquet facilities, complemented by a seasonal full bar and grill, make Echo Basin Resort the perfect venue for weddings, family reunions, or any special event. With our exceptional pricing and flexible options, every detail of your stay will be meticulously taken care of, allowing you to focus on creating unforgettable memories in this gorgeous and unique mountain retreat.
Moab Field Office

8. Moab Field Office

93%
(166)
572 sites · Moab, Utah
There’s a pretty solid chance that you’ve heard about Moab, one of Utah’s most happening recreation spots. This gorgeous place gets packed, so do your homework beforehand so you know where to go! The Moab Field Office, administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), takes up 1.8 million acres of gorgeous canyon-riddled lands. Spend your days hunting for natural arches and bridges, exploring mesas, and contemplating how the heck rocks can look so crazy. BLM lands are also fantastic base camps for forays into nearby Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. There are 26 campgrounds, and you can usually find something even on the busiest of weekends (but, if you can swing it, it’s always best to arrive early). River recreation on the Colorado and Green Rivers is another major draw. However you spend your time in Moab, you’ll fall in love with the impressive red rock formations, the deep canyons, and surprising amount of plant life.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Uncompahgre National Forest

9. Uncompahgre National Forest

85%
(23)
228 sites · Ophir, Colorado
Head to wild western Colorado to truly get away from it all.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Monticello Field Office

10. Monticello Field Office

100%
(3)
85 sites · Monticello, Utah
So, the Bureau of Land Management has these things called “Field Offices,” where they keeps tabs on public lands through these on-site offices. Now that we’ve covered that, let’s talk about all of the fun you and your crew can have out here! The BLM asserts that this area has some of the “most spectacular landscapes in the United States,” and we’re totally inclined to agree. You’ll find Monticello tucked away into the southeast corner of Utah near the Abajo Mountains (BLM land surrounds the mountains). Archeology buffs will have endless fun exploring the remnants of Ancestral Puebloan life, including cliff dwellings and petroglyphs. Thanks to these awesome and unique landscapes, you can spend your time hiking, camping, rock climbing, and more…all to your heart’s content. Heck, can we come with you?!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

For lake camping near Dove Creek, Hipcamp lists over 370 options, with average sites running $55 a night and some as low as $35. Expect campsites with toilets, showers, and campfires allowed—nothing fancy, just the essentials sorted. You’ll spot wildlife along the water’s edge and trek out on hiking or horseback trails that crisscross the mesas. Top picks include Camping in the Mesas (125 reviews), Canyon Trails Ranch (55 reviews), and CampV Colorado (33 reviews). You’ll camp under big Colorado skies, lakes just steps from your tent, and wake up to quiet you can’t buy anywhere else.

98% (222) 46 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Dove Creek

Camping in the Mesas

1. Camping in the Mesas

94%
(234)
29mi from Dove Creek · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This land was inhabited by the Ancient Anasazi and Pueblo people. The Anasazi Heritage Museum and archeological ruins are two miles away. There are ruins and sites on this land that have yet to be excavated. Many different ancient people came through this land, left and sites were inhabited by other people. One group of people would come and build upon the sites of another group, and taking part of their culture with them. 
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$33
 / night
Canyon Trails Ranch

2. Canyon Trails Ranch

100%
(104)
30mi from Dove Creek · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The homestead was built in 1911 and was one of the original postal pickups in the area.  The ranch is located between Mesa Verde National Park, Hovenweep National Monument and backs up to Canyon of the Ancients National Monument. Our family has lived in McElmo Canyon for over 40 years and the campground has hosted camping and outdoor educational groups since 1965. We are a family run ranch with an operating hay farm, horseback riding business, and carriage shop.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
CampV Colorado

3. CampV Colorado

97%
(45)
36mi from Dove Creek · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Inspired Shelter for the Spirited Wanderer CampV was established in 1942 by the Vanadium Corporation to house the engineers who worked in the uranium mines outside of Naturita, Colorado. In 2020, this historic gem was restored by StudioVille Crew to welcome wanderers to a remote and scenic corner of SW Colorado. Discover your Wild without the crowds. Beautiful with a tiny bit of dirt under the fingernails and 120 acres to explore, travelers can sleep well in one of the newly reimagined historic cabins, glamping tents, Jupes, airstreams or river front camping. Through our arts non-profit WEarts, explorers can experience our curated art and support art and creative programming in a rural community. When you’re ready for a mission, check out Planet V, our annual arts and music gathering over Memorial Day and prepare to lift off.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$35
 / night
San Juan National Forest

4. San Juan National Forest

97%
(41)
696 sites · Rico, Colorado
Hike through the rugged wilderness or take a scenic drive in this expansive national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Manti-La Sal National Forest

5. Manti-La Sal National Forest

100%
(16)
328 sites · Ferron, Utah
Trivia time! Which part of Utah contains the densest black bear and largest elk population? The Manti-La Sal National Forest, of course! How about this one: where does most of the coal mined in Utah come from? Well, 85% of it is mined right here in the Manti-La Sal. This special forest is full of natural surprises, like lofty mountaintops, lush meadows, cavernous sandstone canyons, plus plenty of water. If it sounds like there’s a ton of diversity here, that’s because there truly is! All of this diversity means that there’s a lot to do out here. Near Moab, the forest is home to the La Sal Mountains with their tall peaks and narrow canyons. To the north, on the Wasatch Plateau, you’ll be yearning for your next road trip along the Huntington and Eccles Canyons National Scenic Byways (also called the Energy Loop). And when it comes time to hit the hay at night? You guessed it—there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Nikita Ranchita Sanctuary

6. Nikita Ranchita Sanctuary

100%
(4)
35mi from Dove Creek · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Eagles and Mustangs! At Nikita Ranchita Sanctuary, you can experience Healing with Horses through one on one sessions, and witness Eagles Nesting (in the spring) along with hundreds of other bird species year round. Come join us at the Ranch, for Dry Tent Glamping in the shade of the pinion forest, RV parking, or tent camping with views of Mesa Verde and Ute Mountain and the La Plata mountains. Shared chill zones may be available near the cottonwoods overlooking the lush wetlands where you can see deer grazing and hear coyotes at night. Epic fishing on and gorgeous sunsets 5 minutes walking distance to the lake. This budding ranch is off grid, with a historical corral and 3 horses. It's nestled between two state wildlife areas, Totten Lake and Simon Draw, perfect for birders, horse lovers, or those visiting dwellings in the 4 corners area. Centrally located 5 min from Cortez for supplies, 15 min from Dolores and Mancos for Brewpubs and coffee shops and 45 min from Durango. Mecca for 4 corners ancestral dwellings... 10 min to the entrance of Mesa Verde 15 min to Sand Canyon trailhead 30 min to Sand canyon Pueblo, 1 hr to Canyons of the Ancients NM, Hovenweep NM, Escalante Pueblo, and Sandstone canyon 1.5 to Ute Mtn Tribal park 2 hrs to Canyon De Chelly 2 hrs to Natural Bridges 3 hrs to Chaco Canyon, NP Mountain and Desert Recreation 5 min from Phil’s world mountain biking trail, 30 min to LaPlata canyon, for hiking and fishing 1 hr to Rico mountain town 1.5 hrs to Indian creek for epic crack climbing 2 hours to Ridgway or Telluride mountain towns 2 hrs to National parks the Needles (Canyon lands), and Natural bridges Cortez is known for its rich history and culture, and is considered the cultural center of Mesa Verde Country. It was laid out in 1886 on the site of a Navajo Indian seasonal camp called Tseyetoh. It's located near the Four Corners where Colorado, Utah, Arizona and New Mexico meet. *Note* We have no water or Electric! *Pit toilet is available across the street at the lake (5 min walk).
Pets
Picnic table
from 
$25
 / night
Echo Basin Resort

7. Echo Basin Resort

44mi from Dove Creek · 43 sites
Echo Basin Resort stands out as a year-round destination for RV enthusiasts and cabin renters, offering a unique blend of summer relaxation and winter adventure. Nestled conveniently between the historic town of Durango, the breathtaking Mesa Verde National Park, and the popular Purgatory Ski Area, our resort is surrounded by the stunning San Juan Mountains, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. Our resort features a variety of accommodations, including rustic A-frame studio cabins with lofts that comfortably sleep four guests. Each cabin is equipped with essential amenities such as linens, a toaster, microwave, coffee maker, and a small refrigerator. For larger groups, our deluxe two-story cabins can accommodate up to eight people and come with a full kitchen complete with utensils. In addition to our cozy cabins, we offer a 65-space full hookup RV park, ensuring that all guests have access to the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors. Our banquet facilities, complemented by a seasonal full bar and grill, make Echo Basin Resort the perfect venue for weddings, family reunions, or any special event. With our exceptional pricing and flexible options, every detail of your stay will be meticulously taken care of, allowing you to focus on creating unforgettable memories in this gorgeous and unique mountain retreat.
Moab Field Office

8. Moab Field Office

93%
(166)
572 sites · Moab, Utah
There’s a pretty solid chance that you’ve heard about Moab, one of Utah’s most happening recreation spots. This gorgeous place gets packed, so do your homework beforehand so you know where to go! The Moab Field Office, administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), takes up 1.8 million acres of gorgeous canyon-riddled lands. Spend your days hunting for natural arches and bridges, exploring mesas, and contemplating how the heck rocks can look so crazy. BLM lands are also fantastic base camps for forays into nearby Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. There are 26 campgrounds, and you can usually find something even on the busiest of weekends (but, if you can swing it, it’s always best to arrive early). River recreation on the Colorado and Green Rivers is another major draw. However you spend your time in Moab, you’ll fall in love with the impressive red rock formations, the deep canyons, and surprising amount of plant life.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Uncompahgre National Forest

9. Uncompahgre National Forest

85%
(23)
228 sites · Ophir, Colorado
Head to wild western Colorado to truly get away from it all.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Monticello Field Office

10. Monticello Field Office

100%
(3)
85 sites · Monticello, Utah
So, the Bureau of Land Management has these things called “Field Offices,” where they keeps tabs on public lands through these on-site offices. Now that we’ve covered that, let’s talk about all of the fun you and your crew can have out here! The BLM asserts that this area has some of the “most spectacular landscapes in the United States,” and we’re totally inclined to agree. You’ll find Monticello tucked away into the southeast corner of Utah near the Abajo Mountains (BLM land surrounds the mountains). Archeology buffs will have endless fun exploring the remnants of Ancestral Puebloan life, including cliff dwellings and petroglyphs. Thanks to these awesome and unique landscapes, you can spend your time hiking, camping, rock climbing, and more…all to your heart’s content. Heck, can we come with you?!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field