Jouflas Campground
4.4135 reviewsBureau of Land Management, Grand Junction Field Office, 2815 H Road, Grand Junction, CO, 81506, USA
Jouflas Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
Camping fee is $20 per night plus a one-time reservation fee ($8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in-person). Discounts available for senior pass holders ($10 per night).
About this campground
Escape to the raw beauty of Jouflas Campground, where eight intimate campsites await in the heart of Rabbit Valley Motorized Area. This hidden gem within McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area offers adventurers a true back-to-basics experience. Each site comes equipped with its own picnic table and fire grate, perfect for evening gatherings under the vast desert sky. While you'll find non-flush toilet facilities for convenience, this is wilderness camping at its finest—bring your own water and be prepared to pack out everything you bring in, leaving only footprints in this pristine landscape.
Jouflas Campground is best suited for tent and small vehicle camping. The sites are primitive, with minimal facilities and access limited to smaller vehicles.
Weather and SeasonsTime your visit wisely to make the most of this desert sanctuary. Spring transforms the valley with comfortable temperatures and crystal-clear skies, while fall brings its own magic with golden light and perfect camping weather. Summer adventurers should come prepared for intense desert heat that can turn your tent into a sauna by midday. Winter visitors will discover a different kind of beauty, though recent rains can transform access roads into challenging muddy passages—adding an extra element of adventure to your journey.
ElevationElevation information not specifically provided.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the dramatic desert landscape where endless horizons meet big sky country. Jouflas Campground serves as your front-row seat to nature's daily spectacle—witness breathtaking sunrises paint the valley in shades of gold and crimson, while evenings treat you to spectacular sunsets that melt into star-studded nights. With minimal light pollution, the Milky Way stretches overhead in all its glory, making this a stargazer's paradise. The sparse desert flora means unobstructed views but little natural shade, creating an authentic high desert experience where the landscape's raw beauty takes center stage.
Geological RegionSituated within the remarkable Rabbit Valley Motorized Area of McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area, Jouflas Campground places you in the heart of Colorado's high desert country. This unique geological wonderland showcases the powerful forces that shaped the American Southwest, with its distinctive desert terrain offering some of the darkest night skies in the region. The area's remote location and minimal development create exceptional conditions for astronomy enthusiasts and anyone seeking to reconnect with the natural world under a canopy of stars.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features a loop road that may not be suitable for low-clearance vehicles, especially during muddy conditions. Sites are designed for tent camping and small vehicles, with no accommodations specifically for individuals with disabilities mentioned.
Sites SizeSites are described as small and tight, more suitable for tent camping and van/truck campers. The access road is narrow and post-cabled, limiting space for larger vehicles.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at the campsites is limited. One user described the sites as offering "zero privacy as all sites are in a small circle."
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites towards the back for better views and added privacy. Avoid low-clearance vehicles in wet weather.
Best CampsitesA couple of sites at the back offer amazing views of the surrounding area, according to user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
7days
Groups
No specific group camping accommodations are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in a small circular loop, offering limited privacy. Access road is narrow and not suitable for vehicles longer than 30 feet.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is accessible year-round. Busy seasons include spring and fall, while summers are noted as being extremely hot.
Reservation PlatformsReservations required; can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not allowed; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyLate cancellation incurs a $10 fee and forfeiture of first night's fee. No refunds for cancellations on arrival day.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Jouflas Campground offers an array of outdoor and motorized recreation opportunities. Activities include hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
There are several trails in the vicinity suitable for hiking. User reviews mention "marked trails" nearby and the availability of "many bike trails all around."Biking
The area features trails for biking, including options for mountain biking. One user noted, "We did some mountain biking the next morning," during their stay.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible, as the area is within a conservation area. No specific species or viewing spots were mentioned.Winter Activities
Snow may be present in winter, as one user noted snowy conditions on roads in January. No specific winter activities are highlighted.Water Sports
The campground does not support water sports, as there is no mention of water access or activities like kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsRoads can be muddy during wet seasons and are rough with potholes. The area lacks water and utilities, so visitors must bring their own supplies.
Weather forecast
89
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Closest emergency services are in Grand Junction, CO, approximately 27 miles away. Includes hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpring and fall seasons due to favorable weather conditions.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available. Campers must pack out all garbage, as emphasized in both official descriptions and user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresNo water features directly nearby. Dry camping environment.
Common complaintsNo water or trash facilities; lack of shade and privacy; noisy due to proximity to I-70 traffic.
Campground Map
Bureau of Land Management, Grand Junction Field Office, 2815 H Road, Grand Junction, CO, 81506, USA
Driving directionsFrom Grand Junction take I-70 west to exit #2. Go left at the stop sign and over the interstate to the entrance to the National Conservation Area. Stay right at the first two intersections.
Road access is somewhat rough, with the gravel road leading to the campground containing potholes and uneven terrain. Users have noted that smaller or low-clearance cars might struggle with dips in the road during wetter seasons.Nearby places
Grand Junction (approximately 27 miles, 30 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries, camping gear, and fuel, are likely available in Grand Junction, CO.
Camper Reviews
4.4
35 reviews
Jouflas Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews paint a mixed picture of Jouflas Campground. While many appreciate the scenic views, the peaceful atmosphere, and the free or low-cost camping, there are complaints about the lack of privacy, absence of water, and rugged access roads.
Review Summaries
Based on 35 reviews
What Campers Love
"The sunrise was glorious!" "Easy to find and great for a one-night stop." "Great little free spot close to the highway." Scenic views, stargazing, and clean facilities are commonly praised.
Based on 35 reviewsCommon Concerns
"No shade in the daytime." "Zero privacy as all sites are in a small circle." "No water, no trash dumpsters, and no RV dump."
Based on 35 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Pack your own water and toilet paper. Avoid visiting with large vehicles, as access can be challenging. Arrive early if visiting on weekends, as it tends to get crowded. Scout the road if conditions...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground sees the most use in spring and fall when temperatures are moderate. Summer can be very hot, and winter conditions may make access more difficult or muddy. One user mentioned that it...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This was by far one of my favorite places to stay on our cross-country road trip." "Great views, nice free camping for RV or tent." "If you have any lights on at night, the bugs will drive you mad....
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some sites offer better views, particularly those on the west and south sides. Sites are generally clustered together and lack privacy.
Based on 35 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews have specifically addressed accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The road and campground layout may pose challenges for those with mobility issues.
Based on 35 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific user reviews about pet policies or pet-friendly features have been noted.
Based on 35 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025