The best camping in James M. Robb - Colorado River State Park, CO

Stretching for 35 miles along the Colorado River, this park offers five park units (Fruita, Connected Lakes, Colorado River Wildlife Area, Corn Lake, and Island Acres), each offering different river and lake-based recreation opportunities that include swimming, boating, rafting, tubing, fishing, hunting, hiking, biking, picnicking, and wildlife spotting. Aside from the river, small lakes can be found at various park units, along with paved and hard-packed trails and plenty of wildlife. Two campgrounds, at either end of the park, offer 137 campsites suitable for RVs, trailers, and tents, with fire rings, picnic tables, and stand-up grills.

• Best for lake access: The Island Acres Campground features 80 campsites and access to a swim lake and beach, plus two stocked fishing lakes.
• Best for access to town: The Fruita Campground offers 57 sites within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and the Dinosaur Journey Museum.
• Best for groups: One group camping area at Fruita has space for 36 people, six campers, or 12 tents.

1. All campsites require a reservation. Make a reservation as soon as you know your dates during peak season, up to six months in advance.
2. If your plans are flexible, visit the year-round park during the week, during non-holiday periods, or in winter.
3. Plan to arrive first thing in the morning to make a reservation for any potential unreserved sites.

The park is at its busiest in summer, when high temperatures make water activities particularly enjoyable. Campgrounds are open year-round, but showers and laundry facilities, along with full hookup sites at Fruita, are only available from early spring through fall. The Island Acres swim beach is open from May through September. 

• Boat ramps are available at Fruita, Connected Lakes, and Corn Lake. Boats are not permitted in the Wildlife Area lakes. Life jackets are required for every person, including those on paddleboards.
• The Island Acres swim beach does not have lifeguards.
• Fishing licenses are required for anyone over 16.
• Hunting is permitted in season from designated hunting blinds, with appropriate licenses and reservations.
• Accessible facilities include campsites, parking areas, and restrooms at both Fruita and Island Acres, and parking, restrooms, fishing piers, and concrete trails at Corn Lake and Connected Lakes.
• Some campers have noted that odor can be an issue at Fruita during hot temperatures and southeast winds. The Island Acres Campground is located near the interstate and train tracks.
• Fires are only permitted in provided fire rings and grills. Do not bring firewood from outside the state.