The best desert campgrounds near Montrose, Colorado

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping adventures in the United States! If you're looking for a desert camping experience near Montrose, Colorado, we've got you covered. With over 540 options available, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you prefer a cozy tipi at Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven (245 reviews), a scenic spot at The Views at Gateway (243 reviews), or a classic campground like Bright Star Campground (211 reviews), we have something for everyone. Our campsites offer popular amenities such as pet-friendly areas, campfire pits, and clean toilets. And if you're into swimming, off-roading (OHV), or whitewater paddling, you'll find plenty of opportunities to indulge in your favorite activities. With an average price of $40 per night and options as low as $20, camping in the desert near Montrose, Colorado has never been more affordable. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

98% (393)

Top-rated campgrounds near Montrose

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping adventures in the United States! If you're looking for a desert camping experience near Montrose, Colorado, we've got you covered. With over 540 options available, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you prefer a cozy tipi at Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven (245 reviews), a scenic spot at The Views at Gateway (243 reviews), or a classic campground like Bright Star Campground (211 reviews), we have something for everyone. Our campsites offer popular amenities such as pet-friendly areas, campfire pits, and clean toilets. And if you're into swimming, off-roading (OHV), or whitewater paddling, you'll find plenty of opportunities to indulge in your favorite activities. With an average price of $40 per night and options as low as $20, camping in the desert near Montrose, Colorado has never been more affordable. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

98% (393)

Top-rated campgrounds near Montrose

1. Dark Sky Paradise

95%

(20)

41mi from Montrose · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Did you know the Milky Way has color? Come experience night skies like you have never seen them before! Look up when the next meteor shower is and reserve your spot. Most visitors love the serene atmosphere and want to get away from it all. You can explore 45 of our acres and access 45 acres of land locked BLM lands. A quick 5 min drive away is endless BLM and public lands. The land is around 10 miles from the town of Naturita which has a restaurant, atv rentals, a bar, a grocery store, thrift store, library, consignment store, dispensaries and gas stations. Naturita is an amazing place for Dark Sky viewing, hiking, camping, biking, and scenic drives. The outdoor recreation opportunities are endless. It is very close (driving) to the Dolores River. The land is surrounded by BLM and near the Uncompahge National Forest. The Dark Sky campsite is also close to the Unaweep/Tabegauche Scenic and Historic Byway. We are about 2 hours from Moab, UT! We go to Moab to get sushi. Come here to get away from it all! The land itself offers incredible mountain views. You park at the tree line with desert Sage brush views to the East, Pinion and Juniper trees with a private canyon and beautiful rock formations to the West. Just North is 45 acres of landlocked BLM public land walking distance from the campsite. Unit 70 for the hunters who know how legendary this area is. Our land has an obstacle course, private paintball/gel blaster/nerf field, seasonal lake, trails, canyon, elevation gains and drops. Pets are encouraged to join you.

2. CampV Colorado

97%

(45)

43mi from Montrose · 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.

3. Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

97%

(487)

28mi from Montrose · 7 sites · Lodging

Formerly known as the North Fork Tipi Haven, this 22 acres is now home to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven. This property offers spectacular views, a large grass field for activities and games, a short hike up Mandala Mountain (behind the solar panels), and relaxion by Love Gulch in the many hammocks. Two mile drive from Big B's and even closer to the nearest winery (Storm Cellar). Tipi camping offers an authentic camping experience, complete with possible bugs and other critters one would expect to find in nature.

4. 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

5. 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

6. Sunset Ridge

26mi from Montrose · 1 site · Tent, RV

Welcome to Sunset Ridge — your basecamp for adventure, sunsets, and Colorado mountain magic! Tucked away on the ruggedly beautiful Western Slope, our rustic mountain campsite offers panoramic sunset views, crackling campfires*, and easy access to the wild outdoors. Whether you're chasing adrenaline or soaking in the scenery, we've got you covered: 🛻 Four-wheel across scenic trails and roadways, 🥾 Hike to jaw-dropping overlooks on nearby popular trails, 🎣 Cast a line in peaceful fishing spots, 🎶 Enjoy live music, drinks and food under the stars at the local lodge. ...and that’s just the start. We’re a scenic drive from two classic Western Slope mountain towns—both offering hot springs, local eateries, charming shops, and even a nostalgic drive-in theater for the perfect nightcap. At Sunset Ridge, you can rise with the sun and the sound of birdsong, bugling elk, or grazing sheep, explore untamed Colorado by day, and unwind beside the fire* while the sky erupts in color followed by a nightlight of stars from above. Whether you're pitching a tent or pulling up in your rig, this is your place to unplug, unwind, and explore. *Availability is based on local fire restrictions, which are often in place during peak summer months.

7. Camp Stargazer

100%

(9)

19mi from Montrose · 1 site · Lodging

We started hosting our Glamping site in May of 2021 and have enjoyed sharing the experience with guests from Australia, Italy, Mexico City and all over the USA! We are centrally located between Grand Junction/Montrose and the Paiona/Hotchiss/Crawford area of the Western Slope. Our glamping site is 100% private, located on a secluded part of the 130 acre Stargazer Ranch in Delta Colorado. Just 7 miles from town yet has zero light pollution allowing for amazing epic views of the night sky. The site offers stunning views of the San Juan mountains to the South and the Grand Mesa to the North. Behind you and bordering the property is the Gunnison Gorge/Black Canyon with miles of trails for hiking, biking, ATV'ing, dirt biking and horseback riding .The Grand Mesa has over 300 lakes to explore and we are 30 minutes away from a variety of wineries. The glamping tent sleeps 2, and we offer an extra tent and a queen blow up bed for an additional fee. As well as fresh eggs and firewood. We are a Coleman sponsored site so everything you need awaits your arrival. 5 gallons of drinking water, 5-6 gallons of washing water, Flashlights, lanterns, fans, Bluetooth speaker, chairs, cooler , wagon, telescope, sun shower , propane grill, dishes for 6 and more!! Just bring ice for cooler, towels for shower and your food & beverages! We now offer Horseback rides from our location! Please inquire if interested.

8. Fire Mountain Farmstead

23mi from Montrose · 1 site · Lodging

Fire Mountain Farmstead has easy access to the area's many attractions. Right on Hwy 92, 7 minutes to downtown Hotchkiss and 20 min to Paonia. Drive 45 min to the Black Canyon's North Rim, or 45 min the other direction to the Grand Mesa. World class fishing right down the road! High desert views of the Gunnison Gorge and the Uncompahgre Plateau. We raise Dorper sheep, chickens, ducks, geese, and pigs. We also grow 90% of our own food and have a market garden for a popular Paonia Producer's Market. We sell meat, eggs, veggies, herbs, medicinal tinctures, hand-made soap, and more! All of these items are available for our guests to purchase, although some are only available seasonally. Inquire with your hosts for more information or to schedule a farm tour! Well-stocked kitchenette. 100 Mbps WiFi. Fire pit! Dog allowed. No cats. Smoking OK outside, 420 friendly!

9. Stay in Grace: Wine-Country Retreat

100%

(4)

33mi from Montrose · 1 site · Lodging

Staying in "Grace" is an experience not to be missed, if you are traveling to the Paonia, Colorado area this season. Immediately next door to the Stone Cottage winery and tasting room, Grace is a completely transformed 1998 Shasta Phoenix 5th wheel with world-class views, expansive night skies, and peaceful mountain vibes. Grace the Camper is a sanctuary. A unique and whimsical refuge, crafted with love, perfect for a romantic adventure getaway, a solo artist retreat, a girls trip for wine tasting and music - or just the chance to unplug and unwind from the crazy of the world. The Paonia - Hotchkiss - Crawford area (North Fork Valley) is an agricultural mecca with world-renowned natural sites, such as Needle Rock and the Black Canyon. You can’t go wrong with hot springs, rivers, farms, and hikes in every direction, great restaurants nearby, live music, and a premier winery tasting room mere feet from your doorstep. All while coming home to a cozy little hideaway just above the Stone Cottage vineyards, with inspiring views and lots of light. Walk next door to enjoy a glass of wine under the shade of their patio. Cook a nice meal to enjoy on your private deck. Go for a walk and take in the vastness of view from the Raggeds to the Elks to the Black Canyon and desert beyond. At night, you can hear the owls and the coyotes across the edges of a beautiful Milky Way. Grace has been lovingly renovated from top to bottom. Roof to floor, given new life that let's her spacious floorplan shine. She is a perfect size for a couple or even three friends or a family with one child to enjoy a high-class glamping-style adventure in a mountain paradise.

Camper favorites near Montrose

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Sunset Ridge

26mi from Montrose · 1 site · Tent, RV

Welcome to Sunset Ridge — your basecamp for adventure, sunsets, and Colorado mountain magic! Tucked away on the ruggedly beautiful Western Slope, our rustic mountain campsite offers panoramic sunset views, crackling campfires*, and easy access to the wild outdoors. Whether you're chasing adrenaline or soaking in the scenery, we've got you covered: 🛻 Four-wheel across scenic trails and roadways, 🥾 Hike to jaw-dropping overlooks on nearby popular trails, 🎣 Cast a line in peaceful fishing spots, 🎶 Enjoy live music, drinks and food under the stars at the local lodge. ...and that’s just the start. We’re a scenic drive from two classic Western Slope mountain towns—both offering hot springs, local eateries, charming shops, and even a nostalgic drive-in theater for the perfect nightcap. At Sunset Ridge, you can rise with the sun and the sound of birdsong, bugling elk, or grazing sheep, explore untamed Colorado by day, and unwind beside the fire* while the sky erupts in color followed by a nightlight of stars from above. Whether you're pitching a tent or pulling up in your rig, this is your place to unplug, unwind, and explore. *Availability is based on local fire restrictions, which are often in place during peak summer months.

Camp Stargazer

100%

(9)

19mi from Montrose · 1 site · Lodging

We started hosting our Glamping site in May of 2021 and have enjoyed sharing the experience with guests from Australia, Italy, Mexico City and all over the USA! We are centrally located between Grand Junction/Montrose and the Paiona/Hotchiss/Crawford area of the Western Slope. Our glamping site is 100% private, located on a secluded part of the 130 acre Stargazer Ranch in Delta Colorado. Just 7 miles from town yet has zero light pollution allowing for amazing epic views of the night sky. The site offers stunning views of the San Juan mountains to the South and the Grand Mesa to the North. Behind you and bordering the property is the Gunnison Gorge/Black Canyon with miles of trails for hiking, biking, ATV'ing, dirt biking and horseback riding .The Grand Mesa has over 300 lakes to explore and we are 30 minutes away from a variety of wineries. The glamping tent sleeps 2, and we offer an extra tent and a queen blow up bed for an additional fee. As well as fresh eggs and firewood. We are a Coleman sponsored site so everything you need awaits your arrival. 5 gallons of drinking water, 5-6 gallons of washing water, Flashlights, lanterns, fans, Bluetooth speaker, chairs, cooler , wagon, telescope, sun shower , propane grill, dishes for 6 and more!! Just bring ice for cooler, towels for shower and your food & beverages! We now offer Horseback rides from our location! Please inquire if interested.

Fire Mountain Farmstead

23mi from Montrose · 1 site · Lodging

Fire Mountain Farmstead has easy access to the area's many attractions. Right on Hwy 92, 7 minutes to downtown Hotchkiss and 20 min to Paonia. Drive 45 min to the Black Canyon's North Rim, or 45 min the other direction to the Grand Mesa. World class fishing right down the road! High desert views of the Gunnison Gorge and the Uncompahgre Plateau. We raise Dorper sheep, chickens, ducks, geese, and pigs. We also grow 90% of our own food and have a market garden for a popular Paonia Producer's Market. We sell meat, eggs, veggies, herbs, medicinal tinctures, hand-made soap, and more! All of these items are available for our guests to purchase, although some are only available seasonally. Inquire with your hosts for more information or to schedule a farm tour! Well-stocked kitchenette. 100 Mbps WiFi. Fire pit! Dog allowed. No cats. Smoking OK outside, 420 friendly!

Stay in Grace: Wine-Country Retreat

100%

(4)

33mi from Montrose · 1 site · Lodging

Staying in "Grace" is an experience not to be missed, if you are traveling to the Paonia, Colorado area this season. Immediately next door to the Stone Cottage winery and tasting room, Grace is a completely transformed 1998 Shasta Phoenix 5th wheel with world-class views, expansive night skies, and peaceful mountain vibes. Grace the Camper is a sanctuary. A unique and whimsical refuge, crafted with love, perfect for a romantic adventure getaway, a solo artist retreat, a girls trip for wine tasting and music - or just the chance to unplug and unwind from the crazy of the world. The Paonia - Hotchkiss - Crawford area (North Fork Valley) is an agricultural mecca with world-renowned natural sites, such as Needle Rock and the Black Canyon. You can’t go wrong with hot springs, rivers, farms, and hikes in every direction, great restaurants nearby, live music, and a premier winery tasting room mere feet from your doorstep. All while coming home to a cozy little hideaway just above the Stone Cottage vineyards, with inspiring views and lots of light. Walk next door to enjoy a glass of wine under the shade of their patio. Cook a nice meal to enjoy on your private deck. Go for a walk and take in the vastness of view from the Raggeds to the Elks to the Black Canyon and desert beyond. At night, you can hear the owls and the coyotes across the edges of a beautiful Milky Way. Grace has been lovingly renovated from top to bottom. Roof to floor, given new life that let's her spacious floorplan shine. She is a perfect size for a couple or even three friends or a family with one child to enjoy a high-class glamping-style adventure in a mountain paradise.

Public campgrounds near Montrose

Silesca Cabin

17mi from Montrose · 1 site · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Big Cimarron Campground

22mi from Montrose · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Beaver Lake Campground

23mi from Montrose · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

100%

(1)

Silver Jack Campground

24mi from Montrose · 61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Jackson Guard Station

25mi from Montrose · 1 site · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Campsite #9 - 100 yards off road, behind #10, very private and quiet. Loved this spot.

88%

(4)

Amphitheatre Campground

33mi from Montrose · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

EarthRoamers descending Last Dollar Road towards Telluride, CO

Sunshine Campground - Norwood

40mi from Montrose · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

100%

(11)

Alta Lakes Campground

40mi from Montrose · 16 sites · in Uncompahgre National Forest

100%

(2)

Woods Lake Campground - Norwood

42mi from Montrose · 46 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Lone Cone Cabin

43mi from Montrose · 1 site · in Uncompahgre National Forest

67%

(3)

Matterhorn Campground

43mi from Montrose · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Matterhorn Cabin

43mi from Montrose · 1 site · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

JJ

October 2025

12 ft campervan

1 night at CampV Colorado

Awesome spot beneath the golden cottonwoods! Loved checking out the installations and spaces.

D

D.l.

October 2025

4 nights at Stay in Grace: Wine-Country Retreat

Grace is a sweet glamping option. The view from the breakfast table was lovely, the decor appealing and it was clean. It had everything we needed to make meals and wash dishes. The bed was comfortable. The furnace, electric stove and small heater for the bedroom made cool nights comfortable. Paonia is beautiful! The drive to Crested Butte from here is amazing!!! Karina was very communicative with clear instructions before our trip and was quick to respond to our requests. If you've never used a composting toilet before, it's an adjustment but it's a good option for glamping. The shower had hot water and enough pressure. I would stay here again.

T

Tamzen

September 2025

With pets

1 night at Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

If you need recharging, a reset, peace, quiet, Magik, grounding and to be in nature, feel the basics of living minimally with mother Earth, the trees, the mountains, this is a must. Second time here in the same year The Hawk TiPi comfortably fits 4 adults and 4 dogs. Pure Bliss. Cannot believe I have to wait until next year to come back. 🙏🪶🙏

K

Kelli

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Camp Stargazer

Camp Stargazer is an absolute gem! Sean and Vickie have built an incredible campsite. It is very comfortable, has everything you need, and looking up at the stars is jaw-droppingly beautiful. Hands down the coolest bathroom experience of my life.. you'll see when you're there!

J

Jane

September 2025

With kids

3 nights at Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

This is one of our favorite places to glamp. It’s nice to not have to pack dishes, cookware, etc. There’s a great setup to cook. Sway in the hammocks after breakfast. The beds inside the teepees are so comfy. The host is incredibly kind.

D

Dorothy

September 2025

Tent

1 night at CampV Colorado

I found this camp at the last minute, while pulled over on the side of the road. It was awesome! The owner came and showed me around and advised me on working the hot shower. There.was a pond, total privacy, with everything I needed. It was lovely and I would definitely recommend staying at CampV!

S

Simon

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

Absolutely great experience, great host with one of the cutest little towns to go in and have dinner as well.

C

Callie

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

Absolutely beautiful. Stacy was so nice. Everything was perfect- will definitely be back!

T

Tamzen

August 2025

With pets

1 night at Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

One night wasn't enough.. What a sanctuary. Clean, green, so so peaceful, relaxing. I booked a second night in the deer 🦌 Tipi. Loved the solar bag showers, loved loved the views, and the private mini hike. Love that we could take our dogs because lots of places do not. Our dogs were in heaven. Highly highly recommend this sanctuary.

K

Kathleen

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

This was a fun spot for me and my kids to stay for the night. The host was very welcoming and the space was clean.

D

David

August 2025

With kids

2 nights at Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

Our stay at old moon acres was awesome! We all had a blast and especially our kids. Stacy was very accommodating to our needs and helping us out from the very beginning. She is very nice and takes good care of her guests. It was a nice get away from the city. It is very kid friendly and a nice place to take the family. The place is very clean and it was a nice experience sleeping in a Tipi. Has a nice view of the mountains, a nice little spot to cook with everything provided and a nice fire pit to have a camp fire at night. Also not too far away are some fishing spots and a small town Crawford for whatever you might need. I would definitely recommend this place it was a nice stay 10/10 for us.

P

Patti

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Camp Stargazer

Had a great time! Vickie and Sean are awesome and welcoming. They think of everything and are quick to respond and answer questions. Thanks for the hospitality!

S

Spencer

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

The property was perfect! My husband and sons had one Tipi, and my friend and her son had another and they were spacious and cute! The mattresses were comfy and the kids had so much fun! The porta-potties were clean, and the shower was perfect. Would much rather this bathroom set up than any facility at a camp ground. The little kitchen area by the creek was accommodating and relaxing, and the creek was a blast for the kids to get muddy and play in, without the concern of drowning. There was plenty of area in the pretty grass for the kids and puppies to run! Can’t wait to go back!

J

Jaclyn

July 2025

With kids

2 nights at Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

We loved tipi camping here! We were the only ones this particular trip. It was easy to find and Stacy was very responsive and helpful. She even checked in with us to make sure we were all set The views are beautiful. Close to activities in Paonia or Crawford.

C

Colin

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

The Tipi Haven is a little slice of heaven in the North Fork! My son and I spent a really magical night in Raven in the secret little field just a mile from Big B’s. Cooking area in the shaded grove was a nice touch and it was amazing to have a fan in the tipi, especially during the Paonia summer. Hosts came and checked on us in the morning and the little creek and knotty climbing trees were a wonder. We’ll stay here again soon!

a

arielle

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

What a special place! My husband and I had a great time and everything we needed was right at our fingertips. We will definitely be back!

L

Liza

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

Super easy! Bed was comfortable and the tipi was clean. Yes, there were some bugs but it’s a tipi. Don’t forget your sheets and you’ll have a wonderful stay.

J

Jessica

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

Everything was nice and clean, which I have come to release expectation around, when camping. I took my daughter and her three friends for her birthday and we played and sang and ate and it was great. The original listing said there was a lake, but the owners were really wonderful in explaining that the previous owners perhaps thought they were supposed to list what was near by, rather than what was on the property. They offered to bring out the irrigation cannon for the girls to play in the water and they absolutely loved it! Hot cranky teens are no fun, so I was extra grateful for this. The portapotty's were super clean and didn't smell like chemicals, someone helped us find fire wood and it was peaceful and lovely through and through. I would recommend this to anyone , especially if you're tired of the desert and want to lay in the hammocks among the trees by a little creek.

J

Jacob

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

First off Stacy did a great job at communicating back with any questions I had! We stayed around July 4th and had a great time! Plenty of space away from the other campers but good community feeling as well. The tipis had a cool ambiance and were a fun way to experience a new part of CO.

B

Barbara

July 2025

With kids

2 nights at Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

We loved the Tipi we stayed at! It was large enough for the five of us. I will say though, the porta potties seemed like it was forever away because we were the last Tipi. The Tipi’s were somewhat spaced out and you have to park a good ways away from the Tipi’s. Personally, I would have loved to be able to park next the Tipi I was staying in. So, make sure not to show up after dark or you will be packing things in the dark like we did. There is no light to help either. It kind of ruined the experience for us.