Best Camping in and near Mancos State Park

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From summer kayaking to winter ice fishing, this lakeside getaway has activities for all seasons.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Mancos State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Mancos State Park

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West

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Mancos State Park

Yurts

2 sites In Mancos State Park

Main

22 sites · RVs, Tents In Mancos State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Mancos State Park

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MSB Legacy Retreat

4 sites · RVs9 acres · Mancos, CO

We have 9 acres with plenty of elbow room. Located 5 minutes from Mancos, right off CO 184, there is one site in the trees with full hookups and 2 sites on top perfect for group camping. Sites on top have a beautiful view of Mesa Verde to the west and the La Plata mountains to the east. Both sites have water and electricity and sewer dump nearby. The area is full of history, from Mesa Verde National Park to Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. 3 ski areas within an hour, whitewater rafting, hiking, biking, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, stargazing or just enjoying the sunsets. With Mancos only 5 minutes away, there are dining options, brewery, parks, library, and shopping all with a small, hometown feel. Come enjoy all the 4 Corners area has to offer!

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Story Tree Ranch 4 animal lovers!

2 sites · RVs15 acres · Mancos, CO

Beautiful view of the La Plata mountains. 20 minute drive to Mesa Verde national park 30 minutes to Durango only 4 miles to downtown Mancos, where you can enjoy Art galleries, Mancos, Brewing Company for yummy locally sourced food, and Fenceline Cidery next to a babbling creek Tales and Tails a plenty. Story Tree Guest Ranch has llamas, horses, goats, ducks, chickens and a donkey and a very friendly pig named Charlotte

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Bright Star Campground

32 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Cortez, CO

We have COMPLIMENTARY Wifi, Drinking Water, Ice, Hot Showers, Bathrooms, Shade, and an equipped Camper's Kitchen for our guests to enjoy from April 15 - Oct 15! There are TIPIS, CAMPING CABINS, TENT and BOONDOCK SITES. WE ALSO HAVE A NAVAJO HOGAN (wood yurt) OPEN-YEAR ROUND. All of our sites are not listed here. We can also accommodate groups and small events but not public events. We have a private covered group site as well. Bright Star Campground: Once used as a church camp, it is now a Campground for all to enjoy! We are a perfectly located vacation campground on 40 acres with amenities and wide-open spaces. Amenities include hot showers, an equipped community kitchen, a pavilion with hammocks, tables, ping pong, etc. Enjoy complimentary coffee, eggs, filtered drinking water and more. Bright Star Campground is located in the Great Sage Plain in the shadow of Mesa Verde National Park with panoramic mountain/mesa views of the Four Corners region, all only 5 miles southeast of Cortez. We are in an arid desert climate. Water is scarce, stored in cisterns for use in camp. Because of this we ask that you be conservative with water use in camp. We are a cannabis-friendly destination but ask that Cannabis use stay at your campsite, cabin or tipi. There are many things to do/see nearby: Mesa Verde National Park, Canyons of the Ancients, Hovenweep National Monument and Phil's World Mountain Biking. Raft down the Dolores river, maybe rent a SUP or kayak and chill on a quiet reservoir. There are museums and cultural centers in the area as well. Durango is 45 min, Telluride is 1.5 hrs away, and Moab is about 2.5 hours away-including Arches and Canyonlands National parks. The best/nearest airport is in Durango. Cortez has Denver Air (Key Lime Air) with connections to Denver and Phoenix. The nearest large international airport is in Salt Lake City or Albuquerque.

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Camping in the Mesas

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 acres · Dolores, CO

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.

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RV sites

3 sites · RVs9 acres · Dolores, CO

Learn more about this land: View of mts off of paved highway access. Within minutes to national forest, lakes and rivers. Enjoy fishing, biking, hunting, ohv riding also hiking and climbing within minutes of sites.

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Sleeping Under the Mesa Verde

2 sites · RVs, Tents500 acres · Cortez, CO

We are conveniently located under the Mesa Verdes and next door to the world renowned Phills World Bike Trails. The Views include, Ute Mountain, Telluride, Lizard Head Pass and many more. You are 10 miles south of Boggy Draw Trail system and 10 miles from the Mesa Verde Park entrance. You can also just hang out and hike the 430 Acre property with pre-approved permission. It is an active ranch so there is usually always livestock roaming. Pets are acceptable, it's a ranch animal are always welcome. We have the one site now that is a leveled concrete pad with water and power. If you are visiting Cortez, CO and looking to camp or have an RV or camper in the back of the pick-up, we can find a place to let you enjoy the stay here. Directions. South on CR 27 off of HWY 160 till you get to CR H, Make a Left and its one mile on the right side of the Road.

Booked 1 time

E-Z Access Camping

2 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Mancos, CO

Welcome to Turning Beyond Ranch, your gateway to off-grid tranquility and unparalleled stargazing experiences. Nestled in the scenic Cherry Creek Valley, our ranch offers a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As you arrive, you'll be greeted by the soothing sounds of a live stream meandering through the property year-round. While fishing may not be the primary activity, the crystal-clear waters are perfect for wading and immersing yourself in the beauty of nature. Situated behind the lush garden area and alongside the county road, our campsite offers convenient access while still preserving a sense of seclusion. While you may occasionally hear the gentle hum of passing traffic from other residents, rest assured that you're in the heart of a safe and welcoming rural farm community. Just a short distance from the main highway, our ranch provides easy access to nearby attractions and amenities. Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the LaPlata Mountains and explore the myriad outdoor adventures awaiting you in the surrounding area. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a chance to reconnect with nature, or simply a place to gaze in awe at the star-filled sky, Turning Beyond Ranch promises an unforgettable experience like no other. Come join us and discover the magic of off-grid living in the heart of Colorado's stunning landscape.

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Tranquility @ The Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents600 acres · Hesperus, CO

5th generation, 600 Acre working farm, with two miles of the La Plata River running through it and spectacular views of the La Plata Mountains and Sleeping Ute Mountain. You will find a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife; Southwest Sage, Cactus, Ponderosa, Pinion, and Pine trees, Mule Deer, Turkey, Fox, Rabbits, Bald Eagles, and Red Tail Hawks to name a few. Learn more about this land: 600 Acre working farm, with two miles of the La Plata River running through it and spectacular views of the La Plata Mountains and Sleeping Ute Mountain. You will find a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife (Southwest Sage, Cactus, Ponderosa, Pinion, and Pine trees, Mule Deer, Turkey, Fox, Rabbits, Bald Eagles, and Red Tail Hawks to name a few) . Guests are encouraged to explore this beautiful piece of the southwest. The Farm is located just 12 miles from La Plata Canyon, 15 miles from Durango, 15 miles from Lake Nighthorse, and 35 miles from Mesa Verde National Park. There is one large campground that can hold up to 5 RV's and 1 secluded tent small camper site to choose from. Guest are welcome to purchase vegetables and fresh farm eggs.

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M and V's Mountain Paradise

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Dolores, CO

We have 1 1/2 acres, with one acre fenced in for dogs, Full RV hookups (30/50, water and sewer) We are 14 miles from the entrance to Mesa Verde National Park. Close State and County Parks too numerous to count! Hike, Bike, Run, Ski, Raft, Etc...We have it all. Amenites: VIEWS, clean air, a zillion stars, and Serenity! Durango 36 miles Telluride 48 Silverton 48.

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Zuma Bike Ranch

8 sites · Tents40 acres · Cortez, CO

Zuma Bike Ranch invites you to ride.relax.repeat in the high desert of Southwest Colorado. Surround yourself with views of Mesa Verde National Park, Sleeping Ute and the San Juan mountains straight from your tent or camper van. Our goal is to encourage community among campers and bikers and connection with the land and its rich history. Zuma Bike Ranch resides on native lands of Puebloan and Ute peoples. At Zuma Bike Ranch, you will find purpose-built trails and mountain bike skills areas. We provide professional mountain bike instruction and guided rides for individuals and groups. You have immediate access to over 50 miles of world class singletrack at Phil’s World trail network. More mountain bike trails can be found nearby at the Aquaduct trail system in Mancos, Boggy Draw in Dolores and Sand Canyon at Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. In less than an hour you can be riding high alpine terrain with access to the Colorado Trail. We’re 45 minutes from Durango and 120 minutes from Moab, UT. We keep things simple at Zuma Bike Ranch. This is to minimize impact on the land and our environment. Each camp site can accommodate two vehicles and two tents. We have a nice sun shower, potable water source, and porta potty on site. There are no lights but there are plenty of stars! Please pack out what you pack in. Visit our website for questions or to book a group or private lesson.

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Dry RV site w/ Views of Mesa Verde

1 site · RV7 acres · Mancos, CO

Learn more about this land: **You MUST have your own self contained RV with a restroom!! Sorry, NO TENTS! Please include a description of your RV setup in your booking request!** Nestled on seven acres of former ranch land, and enjoy a relatively level RV site (pull in or back in) with views of Mesa Verde, the La Plata Mountains, and the shade of mature juniper trees. Feel far from everything while only a few miles from town. Enjoy the starry skies, the company of wandering mule deer, and the sound of coyotes conversing with one another. At 7,000' above sea level, in the high desert of SW Colorado, we get over 250 sunny days a year, big beautiful snows in winter (and sometimes as late as June), and monsoon rains in late summer. Spring can be cool and windy, but you'll experience the reawakening of the plants, the lowing of mother cows and their calves on nearby ranches, and maybe even a blooming prickly pear or two! In the heart of the Mancos River Valley, you'll find yourself at the perfect basecamp for all that the area has to offer! It's just 15 minutes to the entrance gate at Mesa Verde National Park, designated in April of 2021 as the 100th Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association. Take a scenic two mile drive to historic Downtown Mancos, to find art, dining, and fun. Historic Mancos, known for its thriving creative district, is the home of the The Raven House Gallery, The Artisans of Mancos Co-op, The Painted Turtle Gallery, Bombdiggity, and Kilgore American Indian Art. Downtown Mancos is also home to dining options from local food trucks to fine dining. Fenceline Cidery and their delightful riverside cider garden host a variety of local food trucks on a rotating basis as well as their own Fencepost food truck. Family friendly eats are always on the menu at the Columbine Bar & Grill. Deco Dessert, offers something for your sweet tooth with homemade ice cream, artisan chocolates, and cakes. Just across Hwy 160, you can enjoy craft beer, delicious locally sourced food, and a variety of fun events, including live local music, weekly trivia with our local librarian, and karaoke twice a month on the expansive patio at Mancos Brewing Company. The long anticipated, Boathouse on Grand will open in Summer 2023 with fine dining fare. We even have a little bit of nightlife at the newly opened El Rio Cantina, featuring creative tequila cocktails. Other downtown offerings include locally roasted coffee at Fahrenheit Coffee Roasters, and an incredible variety of baked goods and delightful breakfast and lunch options at the renowned Absolute Bakery and Cafe. Grab take out and sit at a picnic table by the Mancos River or in the park across the street or enjoy their dining area featuring local art. Be sure to also check out local artists' work in the art vending machines at Fahrenheit Coffee Roasters and Fenceline Cider! Beyond downtown, you'll find easy access to Mancos State Park, mountain biking at Phil's World, Chutes and Ladders, Aqueduct, and the Boggy Draw trail systems, paddling at Summit Lake, paddling and boating at McPhee Reservoir, the 88 mile Canyon of the Ancients Scenic Drive, and miles of hiking and off-roading trails in the San Juan National Forest. Or head just 40 minutes into Durango for a ride on the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a run on the rapids of the Animas River, or a powder day at Purgatory (resort an hour from the site). If you want to venture further afield, Telluride, Moab, Monument Valley, and Arches and Canyonlands National Parks are all within 2.5 hours. Or take a drive along the San Juan Skyway scenic byway to see the best of Colorado's Western Slope including Silverton and Ouray. Your hosts are avid outdoor enthusiasts who can give you the details (and loan you some maps and guidebooks) on all of the great things that await you at our little slice of southwest Colorado!

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Animas River Valley red cliffs

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Durango, CO

Pitch your tent or park in the upper pasture and enjoy the view of the Animas Valley. Just 8 miles north of Durango off of the million dollar highway. Across the road from Honeyville and across the river from fun at the Bar D Ranch or James Ranch Harvest Grille. Durango Mountain Resort is just up the road. Horses and cattle grazing in the pasture below and the apple trees and the honey bees are in full production this year. No other view like it of the Mission Ridge red cliffs with the silhouettes and glow at sunset. At night you may hear the Animas River below or some animal sounds. Name the constellations among the amazing view of the stars! Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or park in the "sloped" pasture and enjoy the view of the Animas Valley. Just 8 miles north of Durango off of the million dollar highway. Across the highway from Honeyville and across the river from fun at the Bar D Ranch or James Ranch Harvest Grille. Durango Mountain Resort is just up the road. Horses and cattle grazing in the pasture below and the apple trees and the honey bees are in full production. Mission Ridge red cliffs with the mysterious silhouettes and glow at sunset. At night you may hear the Animas River below or some animal sounds. Name the constellations among the amazing view of the stars! Please provide what you will be driving and camping in, along with guesstimate of your arrival time for a quick booking response. Safe travels.

The best camping near Mancos State Park guide

Overview

About

Framed by lush pine forests and the distant peaks of the San Juan Mountains, Mancos State Park provides an idyllic setting for lakeside campers. The 225-acre Jackson Gulch Reservoir takes center stage—set sail across the lake, fish for yellow perch and rainbow trout from the banks, or paddle the shores in a kayak or canoe. Trails lead through the forests and hills, providing options for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, while winter visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. Year-round camping and heated yurts are offered on both the north and south shore.

Notable campgrounds

Best for year-round camping: The Main Campground has 22 sites for RVs and tents with easy access to the picnic area, boat launch, and trails.
Best for tent campers: The West Campground offers nine shady tent campsites located at the trailhead.
Best for adventurous glamping: The park’s two yurts sleep up to six on comfy bunks and futons, and are heated for those frosty winter nights.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve one of the park’s 32 campsites or two yurts via the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website. All sites must be booked in advance, but same-day reservations are possible (depending on availability).
Campsite reservations open six months in advance.
Campsites can book up as fast, especially on holiday weekends and during peak season (June through August). Book a minimum of three months in advance for these times.

When to go

Mancos State Park’s main campground and yurts are open year-round with a range of seasonal activities. Boating is possible from spring through fall—the boat ramp closes from mid-October until March (or until the last frost). Expect snow and freezing temperatures in winter, while summers have average highs between 79-84°F. Whenever you visit, come prepared—Colorado weather can be unpredictable.

Know before you go

Mancos State Park is located 33 miles west of Durango, or about a 40-minute drive away along the San Juan Skyway. The park also makes a good base for exploring the Mesa Verde National Park, 14 miles south.
Facilities include restrooms, canoe and kayak rentals, fire pits, a boat ramp, and a dump station. Firewood is available to buy from the ranger station in summer.
Fire bans are possible at Mancos State Park during dry periods, and the boat ramp may be closed when the reservoir is low.
You can bring your own boats and watercraft, but there is a no-wake policy on the lake.
There is one wheelchair-accessible campsite at the Main Campground.