Jumbo Campground
4.50122 reviews251 US Hwy 65, Mesa, CO 81643, USA
Jumbo Campground
$26.00 - $72.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$36.00
Premium Site Fee$72.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $26 for Tent Only Non-electric sites to $72 for Standard Electric Double sites. Peak season rates apply from June 27, 2025, through September 13, 2025.
About this campground
Perched at an impressive 9,800 feet between the pristine waters of Jumbo and Sunset Lakes, Jumbo Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic high-altitude escape. This mountain sanctuary invites you to cast a line into crystal-clear waters, paddle across mirror-like surfaces at dawn, or explore endless trails by foot or mountain bike through Colorado's stunning backcountry.
Jumbo Campground accommodates tent camping, RV camping, and primitive camping with options for group sites.
Historical SignificanceYour journey to Jumbo Campground follows the historic Grand Mesa National Scenic Byway, a spectacular 63-mile corridor that weaves through centuries of Colorado heritage. Just down the mountain, the charming town of Cedaredge preserves the spirit of the Old West at Pioneer Town, where authentic frontier buildings and artifacts tell the stories of the hardy settlers who first called these mountains home.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days bring gentle mountain breezes and warm sunshine, though early season visitors should pack insect repellent for the annual mosquito emergence. As autumn paints the landscape in brilliant golds and crimsons, the air turns refreshingly crisp and the bothersome insects vanish, creating ideal conditions for outdoor exploration. Winter transforms this highland retreat into a snow-laden wonderland, where adventurous souls can experience the raw beauty of the Rockies amid challenging but rewarding weather conditions.
ElevationAt 9,800 feet above sea level atop the majestic Grand Mesa, Jumbo Campground offers a refreshing refuge from summer heat. Here, where the air is thin and pure, temperatures remain pleasantly cool even on the warmest days, while panoramic vistas stretch endlessly across Colorado's dramatic landscape, rewarding visitors with views that seem to touch the sky itself.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering spruce sentinels and shimmering aspen groves create a living cathedral around your campsite, their branches home to chattering squirrels and melodious mountain birds. Morning mists often reveal grazing deer at the forest edge, while lucky observers might glimpse majestic elk moving silently through the trees. The twin jewels of Jumbo and Sunset Lakes reflect the ever-changing mountain sky, creating picture-perfect moments that capture the essence of Colorado's wild beauty.
Geological RegionColorado's legendary Grand Mesa serves as nature's throne for Jumbo Campground, where the northern slope showcases the geological wonders of this ancient volcanic plateau. This remarkable landscape nurtures a tapestry of alpine lakes, each cradled in basins carved by time itself, while dense forests of spruce and aspen provide sanctuary for the Mesa's abundant wildlife, from black bears to mountain bluebirds, creating an ecosystem as diverse as it is beautiful.
Campsite details
AccessibilityA few single campsites are accessible. "You do not have to have a handicapped space to accommodate [mobility issues]." (User Review: TAMMY B, 2021).
Sites SizeSpacious campsites reported by multiple users. "The camp sites are just wonderful. Wide, private, just wonderful." (User Review: HARLAN T, 2020).
Sites PrivacyMostly private sites surrounded by trees. "Site #7: Very private site totally surrounded by trees." (User Review: VICKI G, 2023).
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #7 offers privacy and shade; Site #24 is ideal for scenic views and trail access. Sites with electric hookup are recommended for convenience.
Best CampsitesSite #7 is highlighted for its privacy and tree coverage. Site #24 has scenic views with access to trails.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at noon.
Check-out
Check-out is at noon.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Standard Single Family sites allow one camping unit per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into numbered sites some of which are private and surrounded by trees. Sites are divided for single and double-family use.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground opens on June 16, 2025, and closes on September 30, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, including its website and mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites are available from June 16 to June 26, 2025, and from September 14 to September 30, 2025. These sites can only be booked in person.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before arrival incur a $10 fee plus forfeited reservation costs. Late cancellations include forfeit of the first night's fee and additional penalties. Changes to reservations cost $10 if dates differ entirely.
Accomodation available
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Jumbo Campground offers a variety of activities including hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The nearby lakes provide opportunities for canoeing and trout fishing.
Hiking
Multiple trails including the West Bench Trail No. 501 are accessible for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. "Hike to Lost Lake one day then up and back on Craig Crest trail another day, wonderful views." (User Review: Phil F, 2022).Fishing
Fishing opportunities include brown, brook, and rainbow trout in Jumbo and Sunset Lakes. "The lakes behind the campground had fish literally jumping out of the water and were easy to catch!" (User Review: MARCIA R, 2023).Swimming
Swimming is possible in nearby lakes. "Sunny days on the lake." (User Review: art maker, 2021).Biking
Trails within and around the campground are suited for mountain biking. "Great trails for biking or hiking." (User Review: Merrideth Sieckert, 2022).Boating
Non-motorized watercraft are permitted on Jumbo and Sunset Lakes, making them ideal for canoeing and paddleboarding.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer and elk are commonly observed. "A variety of wildlife, including deer and elk, frequents the area." (Authoritative Content).Winter Activities
No specific winter activities reported.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports including kayaking and paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire permitted only within designated rings. Firewood should be sourced locally.
- Quiet hours begin at 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are abundant; bring repellent. Vault toilets can emit strong odors, and chipmunks may attempt to steal food.
Active alertsAlerts for mosquitoes and occasional toilet issues have been raised. These may impact comfort.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
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 include Grand Mesa Visitor Center, which is nearby, and hospitals or police in Cedaredge, CO.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 27, 2025, to September 13, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided. "Trash and restroom areas look clean but smelly." (User Review: KATHY S, 2020).
Proximity to water featuresSituated between Jumbo and Sunset Lakes, with additional lakes within walking distance for fishing and canoeing.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include mosquito problems and foul odors from vault toilets. Hosts reportedly enforce quiet hours inconsistently.
HostHosts Kim and Ken are praised for their friendly and helpful attitudes. Guests have appreciated their dedication to maintaining cleanliness.
Campground Map
251 US Hwy 65, Mesa, CO 81643, USA
Driving directionsFrom Mesa, Colo., travel south on State Route 65 for about 13 miles to the campground sign. Turn right into the campground.
The campground is accessed via State Route 65, which is a paved and well-maintained road, suitable for most vehicles. Watch for the campground sign to turn right.Nearby places
Cedaredge: 26 miles away, approximately 40 minutes drive.
Nearby supplies
Supplies including groceries, camping gear, and fuel are available in Cedaredge, 26 miles away. Additional amenities may be found at the Mesa Lakes Lodge near the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
122 reviews
Jumbo Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the camp's scenic beauty, spacious sites, and friendly hosts but note significant issues with mosquitoes and vault toilet odors.
Review Summaries
Based on 122 reviews
What Campers Love
Beautiful scenery, abundant fishing, well-maintained facilities, and helpful camp hosts.
Based on 122 reviewsCommon Concerns
Severe mosquito problems, foul-smelling vault toilets, and inconsistent rule enforcement.
Based on 122 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellent and mesh tents for dining areas. Reserve sites with electricity in advance as they fill up quickly. Avoid summer months due to mosquito swarms.
Based on 122 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Mosquito complaints are heavily concentrated in summer months. Fall receives positive reviews for cooler weather and changing leaves. Winter usability is not covered.
Based on 122 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Probably my favorite campground of all time! Such beautiful scenery everywhere you look." (User Review: Ethan Unverferth, 2022). "The outhouses smell terrible...seriously I think it’s a health...
Based on 122 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #7 is noted for its privacy. "Very private site totally surrounded by trees." (User Review: VICKI G, 2023). Campsite #24 is noted for convenient features. "Such a beautiful view, forest and...
Based on 122 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Hosts are reported as accommodating to mobility issues. "You do not have to have a handicapped space to accommodate them." (User Review: TAMMY B, 2021).
Based on 122 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No explicit pet-related issues mentioned. Pets are allowed.
Based on 122 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025