Best Camping in and near Highline Lake State Park

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A Grand Valley hot spot and desert oasis with two lakes and miles of trails.

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Stay at a public campground in Highline Lake State Park

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Bookcliff

27 sites · RVs, Tents In Highline Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Highline Lake State Park

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Bear Family Ranch RV and Camping

10 sites · RVs, Tents150 acres · Mack, CO

Bear Family Ranch gives you a feeling of remoteness, west of Grand Junction and less than 2 miles from I-70. 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 the Book Cliffs. When the sun sets on the Colorado Monument the monument comes to life. 3 RV and 7 dry walk-in camp sites. Originally farmed, by a bigger farm, "Hudson's Farm', then pigs in the 80's and 90's, the farm fell in disrepair and was purchased in 2021 by April and Brian. The Bear Family Ranch sits in a desert like valley with, trees in and around the property, there is a pond fed by an irrigation stream, the pond is not stocked at this time, there is a creek nearby, and a river 1 mile and on the property. Farm animals we have, most are in pins, but you are welcome to explore. Go for a walk around the pond, explore the property, hike a mile to the Mack Wash (which is a small river) and you get there by crossing 1st creek, and winding through the small hills, down into the old flood area, and down to the river. Along the upper small canyon there are naturally formed mini rapids. You can mountain bike around the property. This is a bird watchers paradise. It's quiet with birds flying and chirping. This is a very private and secluded location with lots of space! ARRIVAL: When you arrive, we will assist you to your spot, there are 3 back-in RV spots, on a gravel and road base pad, with 30A/50A, water, and limited sewer hook-up (see below). There are 7 dry camping spots, short walk to site from where you park. Roughly 400 feet. You will park on the gravel pad and enjoy the short walk into the camp sites. (See dry camping below) 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. Near the camp sites we have provided an outhouse with 'camping' toilets. Thank you! from all the family ranch hands at The Bear Family Ranch, and we are here to help. Someone is always here at the Ranch, and if you experience a problem, we can try our best to figure it out and 'get'Rr-dun!' The goats, Tom Brady and Darelene along with baby goats, Haas and Cinnamin, are very happy to see you, but you can't go inside with them, without a Ranch hand. We have ducks, Turkeys and chickens. Farm eggs, ice, and firewood are available for purchase as availability allows. Chickens have a say in the eggs, LOL Eggs $2 per dozen. Ice: $1 (one gallon zip lock bag, weighs just under 3 pounds per bag, and firewood. There is a small store in the Salon, between the main house and the RV parking. The Salon is available with an appointment made at the Bear Hair Salon with April. There are limited use of the washer and dryer, and what is being washed, if you need to wash bulky or excessively dirty laundry, we recommend the laundry machines in Fruita. Sewer goes into a leach field and can only handle so much water, thanks for your understanding and flexibility. The Bear Family Ranch crew are up early and usually busy in the field, or around the ranch, as there is always something to do.! Bear Family Ranch has cows are here Feb/May and Sept/Oct all dependent on weather and availability of grass in the fields. We are 30 minutes west of Grand Junction. A family water park 15 minutes away. 1/2 a mile from the Annual 3rd week of June Country Jam, 2 miles from Colorado river, World Class Mountain Biking in Loma, Kokopelli trail, Horse Thief Canyon, 18 Road into the Fruita Desert, and Mtn Bike lunch loops in Grand Junction. 10 min from the Colorado Monument. 1 hour to the Grand Mesa, 1 hour and 15 min from Moab. IMPORTANT INFORMATION: DRY CAMP SITES are a SHORT WALK. Roughly 400 feet. We have a pull wagon, if necessary one of our family ranch hands can use a quad with a trailer. This is because of periotic and seasonal wet rainy times causing incredible muddy conditions all over the Grand Valley we must have vehicles stay off of areas not graveled. For this reason, we currently do not have a park and camp sites. (**IF DRY CONDITIONS EXIST, and our necessary watering of grass it may be possible around the camp sites, we can allow you to park closer, but there is absolutely no parking at the dry camp sites. (This does not apply to the RV sites as they are on road base and gravel). DIRECTIONS: If needed we can provide specific directions to the property, upon contact through Hip-Camp, for peace of mind and due to some map apps don't give direct location. LIMIITED SEWER (If you need to dump grey or black from your 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, EXIT 19 off of I-70, 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. CHECK-IN is between 1 pm-8 pm, any sooner or later please notify the Host through Hip-Camp, for possible arrangements to change the check-in time. Check out is 11 am. We must check you in, to familiarize you and your guests to the location where you will stay and the many nuances with a ranch/farm, we need to know what vehicles are here, and know about any guests that may be visiting. 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. We just need to know. We are also keeping you safe here.

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Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

7 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Clifton, CO

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 here in the winter you may use the trees or Mavericks gas station in 1.5 miles away.

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Fruita By The Lake

5 sites · RVs10 acres · Fruita, CO

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 2 minutes from downtown Fruita for those who would enjoy good restaurants, great coffee shops, or 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 lake between mid-May and October when its full. 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 YOU ARE FULLY RESPONSIBLE OF YOUR CHILDREN IF YOU HAVE SOME 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 of shade in the summer. This site has no fire pit and no picnic table. Camp #2 / 50amps + water + sewage. WINTERIZED. YOU ONLY NEED A HEATED WATER HOSE. This site is on compact gravel and will need some leveling. This site is very close to the main shop and the owner's apartment. You will see and maybe hear some action on weekdays. We accept vans, small campers, and motorhomes class A, B, and C. It's a pull-through site and easy to park. This site could accommodate two or three campers (extra $). This site is in the sun with no shade. This site has no fire pit and no picnic table. Camp #3 / 50amps + water. WINTERIZED. YOU ONLY NEED A HEATED WATER HOSE. This site is long and wide on compact gravel and might need some leveling. On this site, your camper/van will be facing the lake. You can drink your coffee with the birds singing. We accept vans, small campers, and motorhomes class A, B, and C. It's a back-in site with plenty of space to do it. This site could accommodate two or three campers (extra $). This site has a fire pit, a picnic table, and a private dock. Camp #4 (Coming soon). Very basic but on property. You want to be on private land but do not need power or water hook up. This is it.

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Desert camping views and wildlife

5 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Fruita, CO

Learn more about this land:Located on a working ranch with a variety of camping locations nearby crops and seasonal livestock. Views of the bookclifs,Colorado National Monument. Close to hiking,biking,river and atv activity’s Hipcamps Aerial photo very outdated place is much improved Please note to Check-in after 10 am but before 8 pm

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A Great Story

11 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Clifton, CO

5.5 acres with views of Mt. Garfield and the Grand Mesa. Quiet and secluded feeling but close to wineries and restaurants! Our open field provides flat ground to camp or park. Surrounding areas have livestock that add to this farm feel. We as property owners live on the property and are here to help or provide directions or recommendations for tourist attractions.

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Fruita’s Camp - Station 5

5 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Fruita, CO

This is 4 arce hidden gem in the heart of fabulous Fruita. We 1 spot with full power and water hookup. 2 RV pull in spots with access to water, and RV dump station, endless tent camping. Our property is 2 mins from downtown Fruita, ie. Camillas Cafe, Hot Tomato, Copper Club, and just as close is the river trail that feeds the kokopellis trails in Loma, and we are at the corner of 18 Road and Ottley ave. Also little salt wash park is at the back of the property, it has disc golf and walking trails.

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Beautiful Views Tipi

3 sites · Lodging35 acres · Redlands, CO

Learn more about this land:This property borders the Colorado National Monument. There are beautiful views in every direction, wildlife, and fresh air. This property will give you the opportunity to push yourself on some world-class mountain biking/hiking trails and the solitude to recharge and relax. You are going to love it! This listing is for the large tent that I have set up, you just need to bring your sleeping bag.

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Monument RV Resort

91 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Fruita, CO

Welcome to Monument RV Park Monument RV Resort offers a variety of accommodations to fit every lifestyle, from 85-foot pull-thrus for your big rig to tent sites and comfortable cabins. We have easy on and off access to I-70, yet we are located far enough away that you won’t hear freeway noise. Not only are we the closest full-service RV Park to Colorado National Monument, we are right across the street from James R. Robb State Park which has access to the Colorado River, a swim beach and fishing lake. When you stay with us, you can leave your car behind and walk to 16 different eating establishments ranging from all the fast food restaurants, Starbucks, an Asian restaurants and a steakhouse. The Dinosaur Journey Museum, a favorite with families, is across the street from the Park. Monument RV Resort offers a variety of accommodations to fit every lifestyle, from 85-foot pull-thrus for your big rig to tent sites and comfortable cabins. We have easy on and off access to I-70, yet we are located far enough away that you won’t hear freeway noise. The west entrance to the Colorado National Monument is just 2 miles from our Park and is a beautiful, scenic 23-mile drive. Bring along a picnic, stay for sunset and watch the buttes and spires glow. If you come during the winter season, the Monument is spectacular under a dusting of snow. The Monument and McInnis Canyons (1 mile from our Park) provide miles of hiking trails, world-class mountain biking and rock climbing. The Kokopelli Trail System is 5 miles from our Park. An excellent, paved bike trail is accessible from our Park and goes 30 miles east along the Colorado River. The Desert north of Fruita offers off road biking and ATV trails. For maps and more information call or stop by the Office. Downtown Fruita and Grand Junction are a short drive from the Park with shopping, farmers markets, festivals, museums , restaurants and so much more. Adobe Creek National Golf Course offers 27 holes on three separate nine hole courses.

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GECKO GULCH--MOUNTAIN BIKE HEAVEN

1 site · RV, Tent35 acres · Fruita, CO

Learn more about this land:CAMP ON 35 ACRES OF PRIVATE MOUNTAIN BIKE HEAVEN! Gecko Gulch is a single, private campsite near the popular North Fruita Desert 18 Road mountain bike area and the famous Kokopelli Trail. And if that’s not enough, after a day of shredding single track, you can return to your campsite and have 35 acres of desert hills all to yourself to continue the ride! When you’ve had enough of the bike, you can relax in your 8’x12’ cabin with two comfy chairs and room to hang a hammock or stretch out two of your sleeping bags if you don’t want to pitch a tent. A covered porch is the perfect place to watch the sunset and enjoy a well-earned beer. There’s a picnic table with a shade sail. The open-air shower stall lets you hang a solar bag to rinse off the dust while you admire an unending desert view. Then start a campfire and roast some marshmallows while you wait for the stars to come out.Gecko Gulch’s 35 acres are surrounded by public BLM land on two sides so the desert really is your playground. This is a dry campsite with no electricity or water, but there is a portable toilet and trash can. There’s enough flat area to set up a couple of tents. A small amount of firewood is provided. Gecko Gulch is not suitable for mega-large RVs. The cabin has no heat/air conditioning, but two screened windows open to catch a breeze and mosquito netting is on the door.If you’re tired of camping in a crowded, noisy campground with neighbors on all sides, if you want privacy and incredible views, then Gecko Gulch is waiting!

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The Views at Gateway

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2000 acres · Gateway, CO

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!

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Double M Ranch

1 site · RV4 acres · Grand Junction, CO

Double M Ranch is non working 4 acres with spectacular views of Mt Garfield and the Bookcliffs. Mountain Biking, hiking, rafting, paddleboarding, OHV riding and wineries just minutes away. Wake up to beautiful sunrises each morning and also enjoy the evenings alpenglow. 30 amp electric. Water hookup. Wildflowers and prairie grass will be growing soon.

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Near Fruita Bike Trails

1 site · RV10 acres · Fruita, CO

New Hipcamp property. Learn more about this land:Fruita, Colorado is approximately 10 min from location. Also nearby are the 18 Rd. mountain bike trail system, and Highline State Park. Site is quiet and very little light pollution at night. Notes: Horses on property. Please don’t approach horses. Family dog (friendly chocolate lab) on property as well.

The best camping near Highline Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

With two separate lakes, the park is a mecca for water activities. Enjoy motor boating, water skiing, jet skiing, paddling, swimming, and fishing on Highline Lake, or opt for a quieter experience on the smaller, non-motorized Mack Mesa Lake. Surrounding the lakes are several hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, as well as easy access to world-class mountain biking. In winter, enjoy hunting, ice fishing, ice skating, and cross-country skiing. The park is also an important bird area.

Notable campgrounds

Best for amenities: Bookcliff Campground offers sites with grills, fire rings, and picnic tables, plus a year-round camper services building.
Best for tent campers: Three walk-in campsites (#10, 11, and 12) are available for tents only.
Best for groups: The Group Camping Area offers space for up to 100 tent campers.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Those planning to spend the night should make plans early, as only 36 basic campsites are available for RVs and tent campers.
During peak season, make a reservation as soon as you know your dates. All campsites require a reservation, which can be made up to six months in advance up until the same day.
If you’re traveling light, go for one of the walk-in, tent-only campsites.
If your plans are flexible, try to visit the year-round park during the week, during non-holiday periods, or in winter.

When to go

The park is busiest in summer. Highline Lake is open to boating between March 1 and September 30, weather permitting, while the swim beach is open from the second weekend of May through September. Visit in fall for trout fishing, and winter for birdwatching and ice fishing on Mack Mesa Lake. Small-game hunting is permitted in designated areas between the Tuesday following Labor Day and the Friday before Memorial Day, only Monday through Friday.

Know before you go

Mack Mesa Lake is only open to electric or hand-powered boats, paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks. All boats, including paddleboards and kayaks, must have life jackets. Loaners are available from the visitor center.
Pets are not allowed at the swim beach—a designated pet swimming area can be found near the east boat ramp.
Hunters may only hunt waterfowl from the blinds, and may only use shotguns for small game hunting. All hunters must register at the west entrance and have appropriate licenses.

Accessible facilities include the day-use area restrooms, camper services building, group picnic area, wildlife overlook, the Mack Mesa Lake fishing pier, and campsite #25.
Ice and firewood are available for purchase at the campground.