Saddlehorn Campground
4.50150 reviews1750 Rim Rock Drive
Saddlehorn Campground
$22.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly camping fee is $22. Access and Senior Pass holders receive a 50% discount. Reservation fees include $8 online or app, $9 contact center, $3 in-person.
About this campground
Perched high above the Grand Valley, Saddlehorn Campground serves as your gateway to the otherworldly landscapes of Colorado National Monument. This remarkable 79-site campground, thoughtfully arranged across three distinct loops, places you amid towering sandstone spires and ancient geological wonders. As the Monument's only campground, Saddlehorn offers an exclusive basecamp where each morning begins with sunrise painting the red rocks in brilliant hues, and evenings end with stars emerging above the dramatic canyon walls.
Saddlehorn Campground accommodates a wide range of camping styles. It features first-come, first-served and reservable sites, with options suitable for tents, RVs, and small trailers. Group camping reservations are also available via direct contact.
Historical SignificanceColorado National Monument stands as a testament to the power of preservation, protecting these extraordinary western landscapes for over a century. The area has long captivated geologists who read Earth's history in its exposed rock layers spanning millions of years. Today, the Monument has earned legendary status among cyclists who challenge themselves on the scenic Rim Rock Drive, while the campground serves as a gathering place for adventurers drawn to this timeless landscape where ancient geology meets modern exploration.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the high desert's dramatic personality, where sun-drenched summer days give way to crystalline nights perfect for stargazing. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms dotting the red rock landscape, while autumn transforms the scene with golden cottonwoods in the valleys below. Winter brings a stark beauty to the canyons, though snow may dust the higher elevations. Savvy travelers time their visits for the sweet spots of spring and fall, when comfortable temperatures make exploring the Monument's trails and viewpoints pure pleasure.
ElevationFrom your elevated perch high above the valley floor, the world spreads out in a magnificent panorama. The campground's strategic position rewards visitors with commanding views that stretch across the patchwork of farms and orchards below to distant mountain ranges. This bird's-eye perspective transforms sunrise and sunset into theatrical events, as light and shadow play across the landscape, revealing why John Otto fought so passionately to preserve this remarkable high-desert sanctuary.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape sculpted by time itself, where massive red sandstone monuments rise like ancient sentinels from a sea of pinyon and juniper. Your campsite becomes a front-row seat to nature's grandest sculpture garden, with sweeping vistas encompassing the fertile Grand Valley stretching northwest and the Monument's maze of canyons and monoliths unfolding to the southeast. Each twist of sunlight reveals new details in the rock faces, from delicate cross-bedding patterns to soaring cliff walls that glow ember-red at golden hour.
Geological RegionCamp within a geological masterpiece where 200-million-year-old sandstone formations create a natural amphitheater of red rock wonders. The campground nestles among groves of aromatic pinyon pine and twisted juniper, perfectly positioned between two worlds: the lush Grand Valley spreading below and the ancient desert plateau rising above. Here, erosion has carved a fantastical landscape of fins, spires, and balanced rocks, while your campsite offers intimate encounters with the high desert ecosystem that thrives in this dramatic terrain of stone and sky.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible campsites, parking, picnic tables, and walkways, reflecting the effort to cater to campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size. Some are suitable for small trailers or tents, while others accommodate larger RVs, but vehicles longer than 40 feet cannot be accommodated.
Sites PrivacySite privacy is mixed. Some sites on outer loops are more isolated, offering privacy and scenic views, while others are closely spaced, leading to limited privacy.
Total Campsites79 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites on the outer Loop B (e.g., 36, 42, 43) offer privacy and views; better for tents or small trailers.
Best CampsitesHighly rated campsites for views and privacy include Sites 42 and 43 in Loop B.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:00 AM (Mountain Time) for first-come, first-serve sites.
Check-out
Checkout time is unspecified.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The number of guests allowed per site is not specified.
Groups
Group sites must be booked directly through the park. Sites are designed to accommodate larger parties, but exact capacity information is not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout79 sites divided across Loops A, B, and C; Loops C is first-come-first-serve.
Open and Closed SeasonLoop A is open year-round. Loop B operates year-round. Loop C operates early May to mid/late October.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityLoop C is first-come-first-serve during its operating season; Loop A is first-come-first-serve from mid-October to late-March.
Cancellation PolicyIndividual site reservations can be canceled before the date of arrival with a $10 fee. Late cancellations (after midnight on the day before scheduled arrival) incur the first night's fee. Reservation fees are non-refundable.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and educational programs. Visitors can explore trails, capture breathtaking views, and participate in ranger-led events.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are accessible from the campground, ranging from short walks like Otto's Trail to longer treks. Reviews praise the spectacular views and variety of difficulty levels.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Biking
Cycling is popular, especially along Rim Rock Drive. User reviews note its challenging climbs and scenic routes.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with chances to spot Desert Bighorn sheep, golden eagles, and collared lizards, as noted in both official sources and reviews.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led programs and educational activities are available, providing insights into the area's geology and ecology. Some user reviews specifically highlight these programs as engaging.Winter Activities
Winter recreation such as cross-country skiing is available when conditions permit.Water Sports
Water sports are not mentioned in relation to this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Charcoal-only grills allowed. No wood fires permitted.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM daily.
Hazards
General hazardsNo wood fires due to desert conditions. Campsites may have uneven terrain or poor drainage.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include police, fire, and medical facilities in Fruita and Grand Junction.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 - October 13, 2025 (Peak Season). Non-Peak Season runs October 14 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling services are available at designated locations throughout the campground.
Proximity to water featuresFew water features nearby; primarily desert landscape.
Common complaintsComplaints include unlevel sites, noise from RV generators, and proximity to bathrooms causing disturbance.
HostCampground hosts are consistently praised as helpful and friendly. Hosts have assisted with site changes and shared local information.
Campground Map
1750 Rim Rock Drive
Driving directionsWestbound on Highway I-70 towards Grand Junction, Exit 31 (Horizon Drive): Follow signs through Grand Junction to the east entrance. The visitor center and campground are 19 miles from the east entrance. Eastbound on Highway I-70 take Exit 19 (Fruita): Turn south on Highway 340 to the west entrance, which is approximately three miles from Fruita. The visitor center and campground are four miles up from the west entrance.
Road access includes paved roads, but involves Rim Rock Drive with tunnels. Tunnel clearance ranges from 10'6" near the edge of the curb to a maximum of 16' above the centerline of the road. Vehicles must stay within their lane or use a pilot vehicle. Vehicles longer than 40 feet cannot be accommodated.Nearby places
Grand Junction (19 miles, approximately 25-minute drive), Fruita (4 miles, approximately 10-minute drive), Palisade (distance null, travel time null).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies such as groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Fruita, 4 miles away, and Grand Junction, 19 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
150 reviews
Saddlehorn Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight both the positive aspects of the campground, such as its scenic views and cleanliness, and negative aspects like unlevel sites and generator noise. Many reviewers commend the camp host's helpfulness.
Review Summaries
Based on 150 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews frequently praise the stunning views, clean bathrooms, and helpful camp hosts. Sites in loops B and C are noted for their privacy and proximity to cliffside vistas.
Based on 150 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include unlevel campsites, noise from RV generators and flush toilets, lack of tent pads, and occasional overcrowding. Some reviewers also mention issues with proximity to noisy groups or...
Based on 150 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include selecting sites on outer loop B for privacy and views, bringing earplugs to mitigate noise, anchoring tents due to wind, and using propane campfires as wood fires are prohibited.
Based on 150 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often note high temperatures and limited shade, while shoulder seasons are recommended for cooler weather and fewer crowds. Winter camping is limited to Loop B.
Based on 150 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The bathroom facilities are super clean and modern." "Site 43 was extremely private and felt like you were alone on a canyon surrounded by trees and beautiful rocks." "No wood fires allowed. Just...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific issues include unlevel ground at sites 27-B and 50-B, poor tent placement options at 36-B, and proximity to noisy bathrooms at 12-A. Positive mentions include site 43-B's privacy and...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are praised for being well-integrated, with some reviewers noting easy parking and walkways.
Based on 150 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed on leash. Reviews indicate a generally pet-friendly environment but caution against leaving pets unattended due to the desert setting.
Based on 150 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025