The best camping near Fruita with horseback riding

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Located on the edge of the Colorado Plateau near the Utah-Colorado border, Fruita has made a name for itself as one of America’s top mountain biking destinations. It’s a less crowded alternative to neighboring Moab and offers much in terms of hiking, camping, and sightseeing. Fruita sits at the western entrance of Colorado National Monument and only 90 minutes from Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Arches, and Canyonlands national parks. Campers will find plenty of options around Fruita from amenity-packed RV parks and scenic national park sites to primitive sites with easy access to popular mountain bike trails.

97% (966)

Top-rated campgrounds near Fruita

1. Stephens Ranch

96%
(47)
14mi from Fruita · 1 site · Lodging
Jake Stephens Performance Horses is a working horse ranch. It's located in Glade Park, Colorado, which you have to travel through the Colorado National Monument and a Red Rock Tunnel to get to. The 70-acre ranch is located in the middle of the funnest and most beautiful places on the planet. Activities include horseback riding through the mountains, canoeing on one of the reservoirs, mountain biking one of the numerous trails, hiking to see some of the most awesome wildlife anywhere, or just camping in one of the cabins or tent camping on the side of a beautiful Red Rock canyon. There's not a cooler place to stay. Learn more about this land:Come stay in one of our two Colorado cozy cabins. They both have wood burning stoves, cable TV and microwaves, and are very unique. The larger cabin now has a  finished bathroom complete with a very unique all rock shower,  and kitchen,  We offer a sunset horseback ride in the mountains or a private horse riding lesson in our arena or round pen, or you can go on a mountain bike ride on Red Rock to Rattlesnake Arches (which is the largest collection of arches in the world, besides the Utah delicate arches), above the ranch on a beautiful aspen-covered alpine trail by the reservoirs, or go on a hike anywhere! Or just sleep in! In a very private cabin or a tent on the lower property that you can pitch by a beautiful 100 ft Red Rock canyon and seasonal waterfall!  
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$72
 / night

2. The Views at Gateway

96%
(419)
40mi from Fruita · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located on the Dolores river, this property is perfect for hikers, fishing, rafting, or just camping! There is a natural spring just a few miles from the location with drinking water as well. When you stay here you are located right on the river with nothing but places to hike, climb and have fun and there are several options for you to choose from. There is a cabin, an onsite RV, a canvas tent, and BYO tent or RV camping on the land - you can pick whatever suits you best! No matter what, you can fall asleep to the sound of the river after a great night of star gazing! Nearby outdoor points of interest include the Dolores River on property, Hanging Flume which is approx. 20 miles from site, Gateway Canyons Resort Auto museum 7 miles from site, Arches National Park 2 hour drive from site, Colorado national monument 1 hour drive. The Grand Mesa 2 hour drive, Telluride ski resort 2 hour drive! You can find hiking, biking, swimming, paddle board, kayaks, rafting, fishing, tubing, bird watching, star gazing rock climbing, bouldering, all right from the property. All sites are accessible without 4wheel drive. I love where I live and think everyone should be able to experience the peaceful quiet beautiful environment that it is!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

3. Bear Family Ranch RV and Camping

95%
(44)
9.1mi from Fruita · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
PLEASE CHECK IN BEFORE 9 PM. We are less than 2 miles from I-70, We are just outside of the really small town of Mack, Colorado. We are 2 miles from the Colorado River, Horse Thief Canyon, and many other outdoor activities. Here you will find world class mountain biking. Bear Family Ranch is a secluded and hidden ranch, you cannot see the ranch from the roadway. You will see incredible views of the Colorado National Monument, Grand Mesa, and Mount Garfield. When the sun sets, shinning its sun rays on the Colorado Monument the shading of the monument brings the monument to life. There are 3 full hook-up RV sites and 8 dry WALK-IN 8'X8' raised pad camping sites (the walk is roughly 200 feet). Walk around the seasonal pond, explore the property, hike a mile to the Mack Wash. You can mountain bike around the property. It's quiet with birds flying and chirping. This is a very private and secluded location with lots of space! Bring your own camping toilet or use our outhouse with a camping toilet inside. Because it's a working ranch, we prefer to familiarize you and your guests to the ranch and show you the route to the site as we have exposed irrigation, irrigation ditches, and a pond. We prefer not to fish you out of the pond. LOL LIMIITED SEWER (If you need to dump grey or black from your RV tank, please help us keep our leach field from being saturated, If you need to dump grey or black water from your RV, we recommend the really nice rest area in Fruita. The Colorado Welcome Center Rest Area is off of I-70 at EXIT 19, which has a FREE dump station. We are on a leach field, no paper products including toilet paper into the sewer, please and thank you. We must check you in, to familiarize you and your guests to the Ranch. Ater check-in you are our guests; you may come and go as you need. We respect your privacy, but if you need anything please contact us or go to the main house. Being a family ranch, we are always working and vigilant of our animals and the security of the Bear Family Ranch.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$20
 / night

6. Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

94%
(701)
17mi from Fruita · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
We moved here in 1997 The home has had major remodels done on it. The lake is an old gravel pit to make road base for local road construction. The buoys in the lake are scuba projects from the local college CMU, and hold lots of fish. Other nesting platforms are for our local Geese and they hatch out in April-June. We airbnb 2 rooms in our home as a shared facility and have airbnbs in Northern Ca and Baja. Our home is off limits for campers as we need to respect the space for our other airbnb guests. But in an emergence please call, cell service works fine. port-a potty is gone for the winter November-April. port-a potty is clean and works great, May- Oct. If you are here in the winter you may use the trees or Mavericks gas station in 1.5 miles away. The first two pets are included at no additional cost. For any additional pets beyond the first two, there is a fee of $10 per pet, per night. Please make sure to add the Pet fee extra accordingly.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

8. Fruita By The Lake

97%
(83)
1.6mi from Fruita · 5 sites · RVs
The property is a mix of living quarters and a business with a beautiful 2-acre lake accessible in the summer. Hipcampers will be camping on a 10-acre property mixed-used and will have their own little piece of land and privacy to enjoy. They will find endless activities surrounding our property while enjoying their stay. There are miles of mountain and road bike trails easily accessed from the campsite. Rafting, golf, swimming, fishing, hiking, off-roading, dirt bike/ATV trails, Colorado National Monument, and the list goes on and on within a short distance. The campsites are just 2 minutes from downtown Fruita, offering easy access to good restaurants, great coffee shops a drink. You will find a grocery store, pharmacy, and gas station in the same area. To consider: Our place is great but not for everyone. We have three convenient sites, all with electricity and water and one with sewage. They all have great views and are very close to the town of Fruita. Every hipcampers can enjoy the beach and the pond between mid-May and October when its full. Swimming not recommended! The property is used by THE GONDOLA SHOP, which restores ski gondolas. Monday to Friday, you might hear some light noise and see employees walking around. For that reason and the potential hazard WE DO NOT ALLOW CHILDREN on our property. We ask that all vehicles drive no faster than 10 miles per hour for the same reason. We will consider a group of campers or mix camper/tents roof tents as long as you have your own bathroom to share. Please email us with any requests you might have. We are open to discussing any inquiries. Between May and October, when our lake is full and usable, our place is great for gatherings and a big BBQ. Camp #1 / 30amps + 110V (NO WATER). We have a spot on the property for you to fill in your water tank, but there is no water directly at the site. This site is on an old concrete pad and will need some leveling. This site is close to the tenant's house. You might see some chickens running around, but your camper will face the opposite way, and you will get your privacy. We accept campers class B and C ONLY, max 27 feet for this camp. NO TRAVEL TRAILERS. It would be best to park nose 1st to access the electric post and back up to get out. This site has lots
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$25
 / night

11. 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

13. Upper mountain desert teepee

100%
(4)
13mi from Fruita · 2 sites · Lodging
Come Play in the dirt! Learn more about this teepee : This rustic earth teepee sits in the beautiful upper mountain desert of Fruita/Loma Colorado.  There is plenty of space with abundant views and beautiful  sunsets. You can leave your teepee on your mountain bike and bike directly to the premier 18 road mountain biking trails. If ATV'ing or hiking is your thing, bring your quads, side-by-sides and hiking boots. There is a large fire pit and a grill, in your space, for your enjoyment.  Teepee flooring is done in rock with a chimenea in the center of the teepee,  There is a raised bed with a full mattress, linens and pillows are provided.  There is a table with 2 chairs and built in seating. There is an additional wash teepee beside this teepee that has a shower (cold water only) and a sink. You will not be sharing the wash teepee with another party, There is also an outhouse that may be shared with other parties. This site can accommodate up to  10 more people by bringing 2-3 additional campers and/or 2 additional tents.  There is a $15.00 charge for each additional person over 2.  Come solo or bring your friends for this one-of-a-kind experience. Learn more about this property: This propery is for the outdoors enthusiast. Hosts have spent years preparing Legacy 360 for your enjoyment. We are excited to share with you our off-grid living experience as well as the beauty that the upper mountain desert has to offer. There are many opportunities on this property; rent a teepee, tiny house, campers or tent space. E-mail hosts to arrange large groups or for pricing on special events. The property is situated 1-2 miles from the premier 18 road mountain biking trails of Fruita, CO. Biking, ATV'ing and hiking are abundant. We are 14 miles from downtown Fruita.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night

Located on the edge of the Colorado Plateau near the Utah-Colorado border, Fruita has made a name for itself as one of America’s top mountain biking destinations. It’s a less crowded alternative to neighboring Moab and offers much in terms of hiking, camping, and sightseeing. Fruita sits at the western entrance of Colorado National Monument and only 90 minutes from Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Arches, and Canyonlands national parks. Campers will find plenty of options around Fruita from amenity-packed RV parks and scenic national park sites to primitive sites with easy access to popular mountain bike trails.

97% (966)

Top-rated campgrounds near Fruita

1. Stephens Ranch

96%
(47)
14mi from Fruita · 1 site · Lodging
Jake Stephens Performance Horses is a working horse ranch. It's located in Glade Park, Colorado, which you have to travel through the Colorado National Monument and a Red Rock Tunnel to get to. The 70-acre ranch is located in the middle of the funnest and most beautiful places on the planet. Activities include horseback riding through the mountains, canoeing on one of the reservoirs, mountain biking one of the numerous trails, hiking to see some of the most awesome wildlife anywhere, or just camping in one of the cabins or tent camping on the side of a beautiful Red Rock canyon. There's not a cooler place to stay. Learn more about this land:Come stay in one of our two Colorado cozy cabins. They both have wood burning stoves, cable TV and microwaves, and are very unique. The larger cabin now has a  finished bathroom complete with a very unique all rock shower,  and kitchen,  We offer a sunset horseback ride in the mountains or a private horse riding lesson in our arena or round pen, or you can go on a mountain bike ride on Red Rock to Rattlesnake Arches (which is the largest collection of arches in the world, besides the Utah delicate arches), above the ranch on a beautiful aspen-covered alpine trail by the reservoirs, or go on a hike anywhere! Or just sleep in! In a very private cabin or a tent on the lower property that you can pitch by a beautiful 100 ft Red Rock canyon and seasonal waterfall!  
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$72
 / night

2. The Views at Gateway

96%
(419)
40mi from Fruita · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located on the Dolores river, this property is perfect for hikers, fishing, rafting, or just camping! There is a natural spring just a few miles from the location with drinking water as well. When you stay here you are located right on the river with nothing but places to hike, climb and have fun and there are several options for you to choose from. There is a cabin, an onsite RV, a canvas tent, and BYO tent or RV camping on the land - you can pick whatever suits you best! No matter what, you can fall asleep to the sound of the river after a great night of star gazing! Nearby outdoor points of interest include the Dolores River on property, Hanging Flume which is approx. 20 miles from site, Gateway Canyons Resort Auto museum 7 miles from site, Arches National Park 2 hour drive from site, Colorado national monument 1 hour drive. The Grand Mesa 2 hour drive, Telluride ski resort 2 hour drive! You can find hiking, biking, swimming, paddle board, kayaks, rafting, fishing, tubing, bird watching, star gazing rock climbing, bouldering, all right from the property. All sites are accessible without 4wheel drive. I love where I live and think everyone should be able to experience the peaceful quiet beautiful environment that it is!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

3. Bear Family Ranch RV and Camping

95%
(44)
9.1mi from Fruita · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
PLEASE CHECK IN BEFORE 9 PM. We are less than 2 miles from I-70, We are just outside of the really small town of Mack, Colorado. We are 2 miles from the Colorado River, Horse Thief Canyon, and many other outdoor activities. Here you will find world class mountain biking. Bear Family Ranch is a secluded and hidden ranch, you cannot see the ranch from the roadway. You will see incredible views of the Colorado National Monument, Grand Mesa, and Mount Garfield. When the sun sets, shinning its sun rays on the Colorado Monument the shading of the monument brings the monument to life. There are 3 full hook-up RV sites and 8 dry WALK-IN 8'X8' raised pad camping sites (the walk is roughly 200 feet). Walk around the seasonal pond, explore the property, hike a mile to the Mack Wash. You can mountain bike around the property. It's quiet with birds flying and chirping. This is a very private and secluded location with lots of space! Bring your own camping toilet or use our outhouse with a camping toilet inside. Because it's a working ranch, we prefer to familiarize you and your guests to the ranch and show you the route to the site as we have exposed irrigation, irrigation ditches, and a pond. We prefer not to fish you out of the pond. LOL LIMIITED SEWER (If you need to dump grey or black from your RV tank, please help us keep our leach field from being saturated, If you need to dump grey or black water from your RV, we recommend the really nice rest area in Fruita. The Colorado Welcome Center Rest Area is off of I-70 at EXIT 19, which has a FREE dump station. We are on a leach field, no paper products including toilet paper into the sewer, please and thank you. We must check you in, to familiarize you and your guests to the Ranch. Ater check-in you are our guests; you may come and go as you need. We respect your privacy, but if you need anything please contact us or go to the main house. Being a family ranch, we are always working and vigilant of our animals and the security of the Bear Family Ranch.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$20
 / night

6. Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

94%
(701)
17mi from Fruita · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
We moved here in 1997 The home has had major remodels done on it. The lake is an old gravel pit to make road base for local road construction. The buoys in the lake are scuba projects from the local college CMU, and hold lots of fish. Other nesting platforms are for our local Geese and they hatch out in April-June. We airbnb 2 rooms in our home as a shared facility and have airbnbs in Northern Ca and Baja. Our home is off limits for campers as we need to respect the space for our other airbnb guests. But in an emergence please call, cell service works fine. port-a potty is gone for the winter November-April. port-a potty is clean and works great, May- Oct. If you are here in the winter you may use the trees or Mavericks gas station in 1.5 miles away. The first two pets are included at no additional cost. For any additional pets beyond the first two, there is a fee of $10 per pet, per night. Please make sure to add the Pet fee extra accordingly.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

8. Fruita By The Lake

97%
(83)
1.6mi from Fruita · 5 sites · RVs
The property is a mix of living quarters and a business with a beautiful 2-acre lake accessible in the summer. Hipcampers will be camping on a 10-acre property mixed-used and will have their own little piece of land and privacy to enjoy. They will find endless activities surrounding our property while enjoying their stay. There are miles of mountain and road bike trails easily accessed from the campsite. Rafting, golf, swimming, fishing, hiking, off-roading, dirt bike/ATV trails, Colorado National Monument, and the list goes on and on within a short distance. The campsites are just 2 minutes from downtown Fruita, offering easy access to good restaurants, great coffee shops a drink. You will find a grocery store, pharmacy, and gas station in the same area. To consider: Our place is great but not for everyone. We have three convenient sites, all with electricity and water and one with sewage. They all have great views and are very close to the town of Fruita. Every hipcampers can enjoy the beach and the pond between mid-May and October when its full. Swimming not recommended! The property is used by THE GONDOLA SHOP, which restores ski gondolas. Monday to Friday, you might hear some light noise and see employees walking around. For that reason and the potential hazard WE DO NOT ALLOW CHILDREN on our property. We ask that all vehicles drive no faster than 10 miles per hour for the same reason. We will consider a group of campers or mix camper/tents roof tents as long as you have your own bathroom to share. Please email us with any requests you might have. We are open to discussing any inquiries. Between May and October, when our lake is full and usable, our place is great for gatherings and a big BBQ. Camp #1 / 30amps + 110V (NO WATER). We have a spot on the property for you to fill in your water tank, but there is no water directly at the site. This site is on an old concrete pad and will need some leveling. This site is close to the tenant's house. You might see some chickens running around, but your camper will face the opposite way, and you will get your privacy. We accept campers class B and C ONLY, max 27 feet for this camp. NO TRAVEL TRAILERS. It would be best to park nose 1st to access the electric post and back up to get out. This site has lots
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$25
 / night

11. 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

13. Upper mountain desert teepee

100%
(4)
13mi from Fruita · 2 sites · Lodging
Come Play in the dirt! Learn more about this teepee : This rustic earth teepee sits in the beautiful upper mountain desert of Fruita/Loma Colorado.  There is plenty of space with abundant views and beautiful  sunsets. You can leave your teepee on your mountain bike and bike directly to the premier 18 road mountain biking trails. If ATV'ing or hiking is your thing, bring your quads, side-by-sides and hiking boots. There is a large fire pit and a grill, in your space, for your enjoyment.  Teepee flooring is done in rock with a chimenea in the center of the teepee,  There is a raised bed with a full mattress, linens and pillows are provided.  There is a table with 2 chairs and built in seating. There is an additional wash teepee beside this teepee that has a shower (cold water only) and a sink. You will not be sharing the wash teepee with another party, There is also an outhouse that may be shared with other parties. This site can accommodate up to  10 more people by bringing 2-3 additional campers and/or 2 additional tents.  There is a $15.00 charge for each additional person over 2.  Come solo or bring your friends for this one-of-a-kind experience. Learn more about this property: This propery is for the outdoors enthusiast. Hosts have spent years preparing Legacy 360 for your enjoyment. We are excited to share with you our off-grid living experience as well as the beauty that the upper mountain desert has to offer. There are many opportunities on this property; rent a teepee, tiny house, campers or tent space. E-mail hosts to arrange large groups or for pricing on special events. The property is situated 1-2 miles from the premier 18 road mountain biking trails of Fruita, CO. Biking, ATV'ing and hiking are abundant. We are 14 miles from downtown Fruita.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Fruita with horseback riding guide

Where to go

North Fruita Desert

The North Fruita Desert is where you’ll find Fruita’s most famous mountain biking trails. The North Fruita Desert area hugs the Book Cliffs just north of town and offers over 250 miles of designated trails including the world-class “18 Road'' trail system. The North Fruita Desert Campground offers convenient access to the trails and dispersed camping is allowed in designated sites just outside the mountain bike trail system. 

Colorado National Monument

Sitting on a high plateau, just minutes from Fruita, Colorado National Monument is a striking red rock landscape of sheer cliffs, towering sandstone formations, and dizzying canyons. The park’s top attraction is the 23-mile Rim Rock Drive, which hugs the edge of a cliff and provides access to several trailheads and scenic viewpoints. The Saddlehorn Campground is the only designated campground in the park and sites can be reserved up to six months in advance.  

Grand Mesa National Forest 

Situated high above the Colorado River’s Grand Valley, about 40 miles east of Grand Junction, Grand Mesa National Forest offers a cooler temperature escape in summer. This unique flat-topped mountain is filled with hundreds of gorgeous alpine lakes and over 200 miles of trails to explore. Campers will find several lakeside campgrounds and tons of opportunities for dispersed and backcountry camping. 

When to go

The best seasons for mountain biking and camping in Fruita are spring and fall. Fruita gets a bit too hot in summer to thoroughly enjoy the trails. It’s not uncommon to see triple-digit temperatures in summer. Fall is a particularly nice time to visit Fruita. That’s when peaches, pears, and other delicious fruits are harvested in orchards around Fruita. Winter can also be a pleasant time to visit Fruita as long as you come prepared for chilly nights. Fruita gets very little snow in winter.   

Know before you go

  1. Fruita has grocery stores, bike shops, breweries, and restaurants. Nearby Grand Junction offers a wider variety of services. 
  2. Multi-day mountain bike rentals are available at several bike shops in Fruita. 
  3. Some dispersed camping areas near Fruita require a portable toilet and fire pan for overnight stays.  
  4. Fruita’s home of the Mike the Headless Chicken Festival. If you happen to visit in late May, don’t miss this yearly celebration that honors a chicken that supposedly survived without a head for nearly two years.