The best camping in Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area, CO

Name: Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area
Address: Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area

Discover the natural allure of Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area.

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area adventure.

Top-rated campsites near Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area

Riverside Vintage Campers

1. Riverside Vintage Campers

92%

(12)

27mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 2 sites

Just 20min from Gunnison, sit two Vintage 16ft Shasta Campers that have recently been renovated and updated. Inside the campers there are full size beds that convert into couches as well as a seating areas in the front for eating or reading. The campers have amenities like running water for hand washing, heat, and small fridges. Ohio City is a mecca for hiking, biking, ORV riding, and fishing making this the perfect jumping off point for all the recreation activities in the area.

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Toilets

Wifi

Oasis RV Resort

2. Oasis RV Resort

90%

(35)

28mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 53 sites · Tents, RVs

Nestled beside Colorado’s expansive Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest body of water in the state, our location offers unparalleled access to serene waters and breathtaking views. Our Gunnison Lakeside Oasis Vacation Cottages offer a range of sizes and sleeping capacities, with a two-night minimum stay requirement. Each cottage includes restroom facilities, including a shower. Options include two-bedroom cottages, 12×12 and 12×16 cottages with or without covered porches, and even a 1960 Retro Trailer. Enjoy your stay close to the beautiful Blue Mesa Reservoir! Discover the exceptional amenities at Oasis RV Resort and Cottages where modern comforts meet the tranquility of nature. Equiped with fiber optic internet, stay connected to the world while surrounded by the serene beauty of our natural surroundings.

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Toilets

Full hookups

New Sky Ranch : Eco-building + Art

3. New Sky Ranch : Eco-building + Art

100%

(57)

29mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

New Sky’s bones are those of an old settler’s homestead in the San Luis Valley that dates back to the early 1900’s. Nestled up against the Rio Grande National Forest, it is a high mountain desert oasis that holds the original dance hall of the county and a whole lot of history. New Sky Ranch is a wild, wild place. We are not only off grid, but also nestled in a large natural caldera (meaning a volcano that has collapsed on itself) and are right next to national forest. This means that we can experience all 4 seasons in a single day - having extreme winds and rain in one moment, and clear summer skies the next! We invite you to not only be prepared for this, but to lean into the experience as this unique high alpine environment can be one of the most inspiring and epic places on earth. We are currently fixing up what is already on the property for an eco-experiential retreat as well as a space for like minded artists to take refuge and create magic on the land. We currently have our workshop and studio space up and running as well as the first of several livable structures completed - an 100 year old rehabbed miners cabin using Hempcrete and other natural materials, complete with a communal outdoor kitchen. We also have begun hosting our first artist/maker residents who are using the shop space and land to bring their own creations to life. Over time, we have dreams of permaculture farming, eco building workshops, community collaboration, and the ability to host gatherings – however, we are committed to taking it all one step at a time and allowing only what is meant to be to unfold. For now it is simply our home, a maker space for art and experimental eco building, a gathering spot for friends and a quiet Hipcamp spot.

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Gunnison Glamping @ Blue Bear Ranch

4. Gunnison Glamping @ Blue Bear Ranch

100%

(14)

31mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 1 site

Take advantage of this private glamping tent on an acre between Gunnison and Almont, CO and forget trying to find a spot in nearby campgrounds or dispersed camp sites! The entrance is right off of highway 135, 8 miles north of Gunnison. Come down the driveway and take a right into the field. The tent is nestled against the cottonwoods far enough away from the main house for complete privacy. Relax on the property or use it as your adventure base camp. Less than a mile from Gunnison river access, National Forest access in hunting units 54 and 55. Not far from units 66 and 67. Almont is a 2 minute drive, Gunnison is about 10 minutes away and Crested Butte is about 20 minutes from the property. The queen size bed will be made (additional cots can be added with advance notice) and the kitchen has a two burner propane camp stove, tea pot, pots, pans, plates, bowls, cups, mugs, and utensils. It is stocked with drinking water, oil, S&P, coffee, tea, marshmallows and fresh eggs from our chickens will be provided daily. The tent is equipped with a wood burning stove and stocked with firewood. Additional firewood can be purchased. Kindling and fire starters are also available at no charge- let us do the hard work - you RELAX! Electricity is provided, so you can charge your phone or whatever else you need. Enjoy your private fire pit, chill in the rocking camping chairs, or walk across the field to the main house and enjoy the hot tub on the deck. You may spot our horse "Sassy" or some of our chickens roaming around. A porta potty is situated near (but not too near) the tent for your convenience. Towels and wash cloths are also provided.

Toilets

Hot Tub

Potable water

Close to Adventure Camping

5. Close to Adventure Camping

97%

(16)

34mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 2 sites

Welcome to Close to Adventure Camping – Your Gateway to Adventure in the Heart of the National Forest! Nestled on 10 beautiful acres and surrounded by breathtaking national forest, our campground offers the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, we provide a comfortable and convenient place to stay while you explore the great outdoors. We offer two well-equipped RV sites: • Aspen Alley – A spacious site over 60 feet long, featuring 30 & 50-amp electrical hookups, filtered water, and a septic connection. • Pinecone Lane – A cozy 50-foot-long site with 50-amp electrical service, filtered water, and a septic hookup. Guests also have access to a picnic table, perfect for outdoor meals and relaxation. Surrounded by endless miles of national forest, our campground is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Enjoy world-class hiking, ATV riding, off-roading, hammocking, and more—all just steps from your campsite. With fresh mountain air, stunning scenery, and boundless opportunities for exploration, this is the ultimate outdoor getaway. If you're looking for a convenient yet unforgettable escape into nature, we’ve got the perfect spot for you. Book your stay today and start your next adventure!

Pets

Full hookups

Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base

6. Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base

95%

(71)

35mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 5 sites

Nestled in the heart of the San Luis Valley at the entrance to Penitente Canyon and Special Recreation Management Area and 50 minutes to Great Sand Dunes National Park, San Luis Valley Great Outdoors welcomes all guests to come and enjoy their cabins at Tin Can Camp. Tin Can Camp is located within 200 acres of Colorado State Trust Land at roughly 8,000 feet above sea level. The landscape is arid high desert with scattered groves of piñon and juniper trees. The camp serves as a convenient home base for launching adventures across the San Luis Valley to various local Hot Springs, archeological sites, and other small town local attractions. For the more adventurous guests, there is recreation right from Tin Can Camp with The Valleys largest trail system and climbing area less than a mile away and access to the vast expanse of the Rio Grande National Forest. The cabins are "micro homes" outfitted with modern conveniences. Each cabin has solar power, a propane heater, a compact kitchen with a sink, water jugs, and pump, two full size loft beds, a small table with chairs, and a covered porch. Guests should know there is no water available on the property. You will need to bring water for all your needs. This includes cooking, washing, drinking, and for putting out fires. Guest should plan 2 gallons of water per person per day. A public well/pumphouse is at the intersection of County Road 38A and Road 40G (37.836363, -106.271551) Tin Can Camp is adjacent to the future Sangre de Cristo Dark Sky Reserve, and the property has spectacular views of the Milky Way Galaxy. Each cabin has a fire ring for guests to relax and enjoy the dark nighttime sky. Wood collecting on the property is not permitted, so guests must bring their own firewood. As mentioned, the property is located at the entrance to Penitente Canyon. Penitente Canyon is a Nationally-renowned climbing destination with more than 400 climbing routes. Penitente Canyon also has 30+ miles of non-motorized trails for mountain biking, hiking, and equestrian activities and guest have direct trail access from camp! Guests can ride mountain bikes directly from the property. There are numerous recreation, sightseeing, historical and cultural, and agricultural tourism opportunities in the nearby Rio Grande National Forest, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, and Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area. Gas, ice, water, and some groceries can be found nearby at the La Garita Trading Post, which has operated since 1913. The La Garita Trading Post is in a historic log cabin and serves the best local-beef burgers in the San Luis Valley.

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Cooking equipment

Arrowhead Getaway

7. Arrowhead Getaway

90%

(21)

35mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 1 site · Tent, RV

Come to a private camping space with great scenery and access to lakes. This space provides access to water, a tent, fire pit/grill with an additional tent pad and rv pad. There is also an additional shower and bathroom tent on the premise. Arrowhead lodge has live entertainment throughout the summer as well as dining and additional housing if needed.

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Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins

8. Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins

96%

(89)

35mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: At the head waters of the Rio Grande River, Mineral County is 96% National Forest with 4.5M acres of National Forest lands surrounding us.  You can see the largest wilderness area in the United States from your camp site, at 9,000 ft. We are an outdoor enthusiast's playground. Wolf Creek ski area 'The Most Snow In Colorado'. Creede Repertory Theater rivals Off Broadway. We offer cabins, RV sites and Campsites at Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins. Please call our office or visit our website. RV Sites are NOT booked through hipcamp, they run $50-$60 nightly and can only be reserved through the Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins website.  We are 32728 hwy 149 Creede. 11 miles towards Lake City on hwy 149. Pull all through the Cabins and either turn left up the little hill camping anywhere, but keep the fire pit open for everyone. Or drive through the green gate past cabin #7 and camp in the pasture. Bathhouse is in the middle of the cabins. (No Bathhouse or water after September 15th.) Fire pit and picnic table are on the hill.  You can have dogs off leash anywhere away from the cabins and RV sites, just be careful as we have horses, we don't want the pup's getting kicked.  Let me know if you need anything. NO BATHHOUSE BETWEEN SEPT 15-JUNE 1 PRICE $30 BATHHOUSE AVAILABLE JUNE 1 - SEPTEMBER 14 Price $35 Dale, Anne, and Susan.

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Toilets

Full hookups

Darbywoods RV Mountain Lot

9. Darbywoods RV Mountain Lot

98%

(32)

36mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 1 site · Tent, RV

This is a one acre lot for just one RV located at 9500ft in the Colorado mountains located halfway between Montrose and Gunnison off Hwy 50. The lot is six miles up the Alpine Plateau road. This area is surrounded by BLM land and National Forest. The lot is located with full hook ups and wifi in a neighborhood with cabins and rv lots. Please ask about deep discounts for long term rentals.

Pets

Potable water

Full hookups

Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

10. Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

100%

(167)

36mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 17 sites

Nestled in a small valley in the San Isabel National Forest along the south fork of the Arkansas River, Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground is at 8,620 feet above sea level – literally in the Heart of the Rockies. We offer free Wi-Fi access, clean laundry and shower facilities, and a camp store with last-minute supplies, snacks & souvenirs. Most of our large tent campsites are right on the south fork of the Arkansas river offering a peaceful & relaxing setting.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Chinook Cabins & RV Park

11. Chinook Cabins & RV Park

100%

(61)

37mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Our RV Park in South Fork CO has space for 18 R.V.’s. Each site has full hookups with the majority being 50amp service and are oversized so that they can handle any big rig! There is a shower house and laundry facility available for our guests (seasonal). There is more than ample parking and each site is easy to access. Our sites are back off the highway for a more relaxing atmosphere and the view is amazing. We have a community fire pit of which we can roast hot dogs, marshmallows for s’mores and tell all the stories you would like. “What goes on at the Fire Pit stays at the Fire Pit.” Come and join us! We have a lot of fun! South Fork Colorado has all the family fun and challenging terrain you could ever look for. 1000’s of miles of trails to hike and bike. Snowmobile/ATV/UTV and Motorcycle riding multi-use Rio Grande National Forest Service trails and roads. We welcome you with plenty of parking area on site for your trailers to park. The Rio Grande River offers world class fly fishing. There are plenty of lakes and creeks to enjoy also. Wolf Creek Ski Area is just up the road from South Fork, Colorado for all your winter fun downhill skiing and snowboarding. Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing are fun low cost family activities with plenty of terrain to enjoy. Great Sand Dunes National Park is open all year long and is a day trip from South Fork. Enjoy the Sand Dunes National Park, learn how they were formed, hike a dune and try sand boarding. Zapata Falls is a short hike near the Sand Dunes. South Fork Colorado has several other waterfalls nearby to visit, Treasure Falls and South & North Clear Creek falls. You will want to come back year after year to explore all we have to offer.

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Toilets

Full hookups

Creekside Chalets

12. Creekside Chalets

97%

(119)

38mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to Creekside Chalets Escape from the stresses of everyday life with a rejuvenating mountain vacation. Here you can revel in the beauty of the mountains, relax to the sounds of the river, and experience an unforgettable trip. Our cozy and charming cabins & campsites offer stunning views, wonderful amenities, and an unbeatable location. Nestled among picturesque peaks, there is no shortage of lovely sights when you stay in our campsites & cabins. Every season is equally lovely. From snow-capped peaks in the winter to bright gold aspen leaves in the fall, you’ll never be left wanting when it comes to picture-perfect surroundings. We are just minutes from Monarch Mountain, which boasts 800 ski-able acres and an annual average snowfall of over 350 inches. Just a short drive east of our cabins is Salida, Colorado known as the ‘Gem of the Rockies’. This small but vibrant town offers a number of restaurants and shops as well as festivals and events throughout the year. Creekside Chalets has added 3 Creekside Camping spots all with access to the North Fork of the South Arkansas creek that flows through the property. The sites are located in an aspen grove along the creek with a picnic table provided and room to park one vehicle up to 20 feet long and space for a tent. 30 amp power is provided to each site, a porta-potty within 250 feet and water from a camp spigot. The campsites are pet friendly, $30 per pet per stay, max 2 pets.

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Lone Tree Yurt at Poncha Pass

13. Lone Tree Yurt at Poncha Pass

98%

(20)

40mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 1 site

Settled in the remote headwaters of the Sangre De Cristo Mountains, you'll find Yurts At Poncha Pass as a perfect stepping off spot for endless mountain adventures and dark sky star gazing. Along with close access to the Ark river, mountain biking, and the sand dunes, you'll find fun little towns to visit like Salida, Poncha Springs and Buena Vista. With plenty of hiking right from the yurt north towards the Sangre De Cristo range, this space offers a genuine ability to disconnect and be in nature. The Lone Tree yurt is a 30ft diameter yurt with sleeping accommodation for 4 and is pet-friendly. (1 queen, 2 single beds) Equipped with water jug, a coffee maker and fridge as well as a composting toilet gives you the simplicity of mountain living with clean sheets. Note that no cooking stove, sink or utensils are provided. A common area does host a propane fire table, a wood fire sauna and cold plunge. This area allows one to enjoy the outdoors simply while also meeting other traveling guests.

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Wifi

Mountain Goat Lodge Glamping

14. Mountain Goat Lodge Glamping

98%

(68)

43mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 5 sites

The Mountain Goat Lodge is set within 20 acres of rolling pastures at the foot of the famous Sawatch Mountain Range. Our resident goats roam the meadows, providing us with the milk, cheese, and yogurt for our tasty homecooked breakfasts and our cheese-making classes. We are located in central Colorado in pristine wilderness, yet just 6 miles from the historic town of Salida. In addition to the tipis, we are a full service Bed and Breakfast lodge. We have campers and a vintage trailer available to rent. The tipis have a full-sized bathhouse for use by our tipi guests. Guests need to provide their own toiletries and towels. We have added a queen sized bed and mattress to each of the tipis.. Campers still should bring their own bedding (sleeping bags, pillows) or if need be, can rent bedding from us.

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Salida RV Resort

15. Salida RV Resort

100%

(16)

47mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 75 sites

Salida RV Resort is a brand new luxury RV park in Colorado with over 1,600 feet of Arkansas riverfrontage and is surrounded by the beautiful Collegiate Peak mountains. Book your spacious RV Site and be just 2.5 miles to shops and dining in Salida’s lovely and hip historic downtown district. With year-round full hookup RV Sites, Salida has four seasons of outdoor adventure awaiting you! Perfect for year-round guests, we offer access to all of the wonderful river activities, including our private river access ramp for non-motorized rafts and floats. Visitors can explore wonderful mountain biking and hiking trails for all skill levels in the nearby Sawatch Range, or participate in the town of Salida’s many great summer festivities! In the winter, Monarch Ski Resort is just 23 miles away. Don’t forget to take a dip in one of the local hot springs while you’re here any time of year! Salida’s mild year-round climate caused by the “banana belt” is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets!

Pets

Full hookups

Four Seasons RV Park

16. Four Seasons RV Park

91%

(38)

47mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 19 sites

We are excited to be your beautiful basecamp for countless outdoor activities or a peaceful pad to simply unwind and relax next to our rambling river. Four Seasons is located just a mile outside the vibrant Mountain Town of Salida, and inside the historic Area of Cleora. The settlement started as a stagecoach stop on the Barlow Sanderson Stagecoach line. Explore natural landmarks, hiking trails and a range of activities for the whole family.

Pets

Full hookups

Mountain Bird Alpine Desert

17. Mountain Bird Alpine Desert

99%

(194)

50mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Our land is out away from all the noise and lights. You can see the milky way and the stars at night are amazing. then to have the view of the Sangre de Christo mountain range is amazing to enjoy. The surrounding valley has lots to offer from the quant little towns and coffee shops to the home style meals at the restaurants. and all the hot springs are amazing. Your site is overlooking the Sangre de Christo mountain range. The land is Alpine desert with sagebrush and ground cactus and incredible star gazing. There are 2 great hiking trails within a couple miles. There are 3 hot springs within 30 minutes. The Great sand dunes national park is within 1hr. The San Luis valley offers, hiking, mountain biking, ATV trail, Horse back riding, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, rafting, refuges for wildlife watching. New for 2024, The flushable toilet and shower are now operational. The shower house is located in the center of the loop with sites 1,2,3 on the south side of the building. It has an on demand water heater, there is also a a flushable toilet located in the same space. An important note about the toilet, Do Not flush anything other than toilet paper please. DO NOT flush feminine hygiene products, napkins or hand wipes or anything other than toilet paper. These type of things plug and burn up the pump while pumping out the tank. This will cause the toilet to be unusable. ATTENTION: THE SHOWER HOUSE AND TOILET WILL BE SHUTTING DOWN AND GETTING WINTERIZED OCTOBER 1ST UNTIL MAY 1ST. No fireworks are permitted at any time.

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Tomichi Creek Trading Post

18. Tomichi Creek Trading Post

100%

(2)

22mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 24 sites · RVs, Lodging

Make the Most of Your Next Outdoor Adventure Whether you're looking for an action-packed week of outdoor adventures, or a relaxing weekend away where you can breathe clear mountain air and observe beautiful wildlife, Tomichi Creek Trading Post is the place you want to be. We are located in one of the most scenic areas of Colorado and the year-round list of things to do is limitless. If you're new to the area, we'll be happy to answer your questions and offer our recommendations for activities during your stay. Our property is ride-in, ride-out to hundreds of miles of off-road trails, so you can unload at your site, and get out into the wild right away. And when you're at your site, you'll have just about everything you need close at hand. Gas and fuel, a well stocked store with gifts and souvenirs, a restaurant and bar, and even an EV charging station. We'll take great care of you!

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

The Gold Links Ranch

19. The Gold Links Ranch

75%

(8)

26mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Our 220 acre historical ranch has been in the family for over 100 years. The property was once a gold mine stop for the Denver South Park and Pacific Railroad and we are still able to enjoy the train depot and telegraph house from the early 1900’s when the train was running through the Quartz Creek Valley. We are also blessed with some of the oldest, largest Pine Trees in the Valley thanks to them being on protected railroad property when logging was prevalent. Come enjoy over 2 miles of private prime fly fishing on the Gunnison headwaters of Gold and Quartz Creek as well as 3 different well stocked lakes. Take a stroll, run or bike along the private 2 mile walking loop along Quartz Creek. Keep an eye out for the resident Geese, Blue Heron, ducks and other birds who reside here on the islands. If hiking is your thing-enjoy the Willow Creek Hike that cuts through the property, among other scenic trails in the area. Choose from 4 different lake & creek-side campsites and come relax on our private slice of heaven!

Pets

Mesa Campground

20. Mesa Campground

89%

(14)

26mi from Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area · 10 sites · RVs, Lodging

Mesa Campground is located in a beautiful setting that boasts a multitude of activities including world class fishing, hiking, mountain biking, 4-wheeling, rafting/kayaking/paddle boarding, Colorado’s largest reservoir, Black Canyon National Park, amazing restaurants and specialty shops, wildflower festivals, rodeos and more! We offer both pull-thru and back in sites, 30 or 50 amp, patio sites, and we can accommodate any size rig. We also have van sites with full hook up for a special price. Our tent sites are grassy and provide shade. We have two beautifully kept modern cabins that you will find cozy and perfect for a get-away.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Ali

4 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Creekside Chalets

Beautiful site that has a lot of shade. And private creek entrance. It’s part of a cabin resort so it’s busy

Rachel

1 week ago

Tent

2 nights at Creekside Chalets

I loved car camping at the Mt. Chipeta site. The running stream was the perfect background for rest and relaxation. I even put up my hammock! 😍 I would definitely recommend this camping site and I plan to be a repeat customer.

Alyssa

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Creekside Chalets

Great spot! Well maintained. Owners are very nice as well. Would highly recommend!

Brooke

1 week ago

Tent

1 night at Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Nice people, nice place! Enjoyed the site right next to the river.

1 week ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Good time next to the river, then only bad thing is that we couldn't make fires during the day because of the fire restrictions, but besides that it was good

Ittai

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

We had a great time at Monarch Spur. The facilities are great, the atmosphere is both chill and fun, and the campsites are extremely comfortable and spacious! Highly recommended

Samantha

1 week ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

This campground was an absolute dream! We had a group of 16, 4 tents, 4 kids and it was such a fun time!

Travis

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Amazing campground!!!!! Tent site 6 was incredible!! Definitely would recommend stay at any of their campsites. It’s absolutely beautiful.

CATHRINE

2 weeks ago

1 night at Mountain Goat Lodge Glamping

Love sleeping the the tipi and waking up to the sounds of the animals starting their day. Check in/out is super easy (we came in late from a concert and it was no problem to find the farm or the tipi). The bed was comfy (we brought all our bedding) and the bathroom was clean with hot water. It's our second stay and we hope to stay again.

Carlos

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base

Truly spectacular. Peaceful and beautifully set up. I will definitely come back and recommend it to everyone.

Kansas

2 weeks ago

20 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Creekside Chalets

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I recently stayed at Creekside Chalet & Cabins and had a wonderful experience. The property is beautifully situated with easy access to the river, mountain views, and outdoor activities in the Salida area. The grounds were well maintained, peaceful, and offered the perfect balance of nature and comfort. The campground felt safe, quiet, and relaxing. The sites were clean, utilities worked as expected, and it was easy to settle in and enjoy the surroundings. One of the highlights was simply sitting outside and enjoying the sound of the creek while taking in the scenery. The location is also excellent, close enough to Salida for restaurants and shopping but far enough away to feel like a true mountain getaway. If you're looking for a clean, scenic, and relaxing place to camp or stay in the area, I would definitely recommend Creekside Chalet & Cabins. I would happily stay here again.

Kelly

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Very open space but the least habited in the entire park. Not as private as some creekside areas. Slight incline but better than 13 & 14. Very clean, no critter visits and almost no bugs. Very friendly staff in the store. Common showers were super clean. Convenient to porta pot and playground. Cleanest ports pot ever used, even by Sunday morning!

Juli

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

This spot is a hidden gem for fishing. Super clean. The river is close and the deer made a daily appearance. Quite and serene.

Ellie

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Mountain Goat Lodge Glamping

Had the best time at mountain goat lodge! The tipi was nice and had a comfy bed and power outlet. Was great to be able to use the hot tub at night. All the animals roaming around were definitely the highlight!

Rachelle

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Absolutely loved this spot. Great ablutions and activities for the kids. We will definitely be back!

Tess

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

We loved camping here. The entire site is beautiful, well maintained and great amenities. Restrooms well cleaned and stocked. The staff were all very kind and accommodating. The little store/office on site had all you could need. The actual camping site was perfect for our group, clean, not too close to other sites and a good size. So nice to have a site so close to the river. Will definitely be back!

Amy

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Great campsite with lots of amenities and free coffee in the morning! Staff were lovely to deal with. Would definitely camp here again

Jamie

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Site 5 was secluded and no one stayed at site 4. It is situated right next to a porta potty and the river. The grassy area made it easy to camp with kids.

Sarah Baucum

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Although close to the road, T6 was peaceful due to the lovely sounds of the water nearby. We had a fun camping trip and will definitely come back!

Kelly

3 weeks ago

29 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Four Seasons RV Park

Great spot for RV camping! We had a riverfront space and it didn’t feel cramped at all! The campground was well kept and the owners were very welcoming! Highly recommend and would come again!

Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area camping guide

Overview

About

For those adventurous campers seeking an immersive experience in nature's finest settings, camping near Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area should be at the top of your list. Nestled within Colorado's vibrant Rio Grande National Forest, this locale offers more than just a night under the stars.

Dome Lakes, split into two moderate bodies of water, is a thriving habitat for a variety of aquatic wildlife. Rainbow trout and brook trout populate the lakes in abundance, much to the delight of fervent anglers. But that's not all, it's also an enticing venue for birdwatchers. Sightings of Green-winged and Cinnamon Teal, Gadwall, Lesser Scaup, and Ring-necked Duck are common, especially during the breeding season. Migrating phalaropes and potential other shorebirds also add to the lakes' vibrant ecological scene.

The allure doesn't end there. A Dome Lakes camping trip is your pass to an array of land-based activities too. Hiking trails crisscross the region, inviting exploration and a chance to encounter the local fauna, including coyotes often seen hunting in the vicinity. Remember though, this is a State Wildlife Area, so anyone aged 16 and above is required to have a valid hunting, fishing license, or a SWA pass.

Whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting to explore the great outdoors, Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area offers an enriching wilderness retreat. The blend of fishing, birdwatching, hiking, and camping in the midst of nature makes it an idyllic destination for any camping expedition. So, ready your gear and set your sights on a Dome Lakes camping trip; nature is calling!

When to go

The ideal time to visit Dome Lakes State Wildlife Area is during the spring and fall, when mild temperatures create perfect conditions for wildlife spotting and outdoor activities. Summer brings warmth and an abundance of life, but also a surge of visitors. Winters can be harsh, with snow and cold potentially limiting access and activities.

Know before you go

Check the latest park updates for any closures or restrictions before planning your visit.
Ensure you have the necessary permits for fishing or hunting, as regulations are strictly enforced.
Prepare for varying weather conditions by dressing in layers and bringing waterproof gear.
Accessibility information can be obtained by contacting the park's office prior to your trip.
Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the park's natural beauty for future visitors.