Highline Lake State Park
00 review1800 11.8 Road, Loma, Colorado, 81524, United States
Highline Lake State Park
$21.00 - $38.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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 fees range from $21 to $38 depending on site type and amenities. An additional daily park pass or annual state park pass is required.
About this campground
Escape to Highline Lake State Park, where 36 thoughtfully designed campsites await beneath cooling shade trees and lush grass. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling in with your RV, you'll find a well-maintained haven that transforms with the seasons. As one enchanted visitor shared, 'Camping in the off-season here is glorious' – a testament to this park's year-round appeal and the peaceful solitude found when crowds thin and nature takes center stage.
Highline Lake State Park caters to a variety of camping preferences, including RV and tent camping, with some sites offering walk-in access for tents only. There are no options for cabin lodging or glamping.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of Colorado's high desert climate, where each season paints the landscape with its own palette. Winter brings crystalline mornings with frost-kissed grass and occasional snow dustings, while summer blazes with golden sunshine and temperatures that climb past 90°F, making those reservoir waters irresistibly inviting. Spring and fall emerge as the sweet spots for camping, offering crisp mornings, comfortable afternoons, and spectacular sunsets that set the desert aglow.
ElevationElevation details not provided.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover an unexpected oasis where shimmering reservoirs meet the rugged beauty of Colorado's high desert. This remarkable landscape surprises visitors with its contrasts – verdant wetlands teeming with birdlife, shaded groves offering respite from the sun, and sweeping desert vistas that stretch to distant mesas. Campers consistently marvel at this 'beautiful park' and 'nice oasis in Colorado summer,' where desert views merge with water's edge to create a unique camping experience.
Geological RegionNestled in western Colorado's Grand Valley, this captivating park showcases the region's distinctive high desert ecosystem. Here, ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape where man-made reservoirs complement natural wetlands, creating a rare water sanctuary amid the arid terrain. The surrounding desert tapestry reveals layers of time in its weathered formations, while the valley's unique position creates a microclimate that supports both desert and riparian environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA-accessible features are available, including paths that are mostly ADA compliant. A user noted: 'The paths (which were very well maintained) are mostly ADA compliant.'
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious and well-shaded with plenty of grass.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer varied levels of privacy. Some users appreciated the shade and seclusion, especially in tent sites, while others mentioned visibility and a lack of personal space.
Total Campsites36 campsites
Recommended Campsites'Make sure you get a pull-in site,' one user advises. Avoid pullout sites for tents due to noise and proximity to roads.
Best CampsitesThe three walk-in sites for tents offer privacy and are set back from the road. Reviews suggest these may be the best options for tent campers.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Consecutive reservation nights must comply with Colorado State Park guidelines.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Reviews suggest individual sites may accommodate around 6 people, though some reports mention overuse.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground is organized into loops, offering convenience and accessibility.
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round camping availability with peak season from March to October.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through ReserveAmerica and Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve likely limited during peak periods; recommended reservations for weekends noted.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy includes no-show fee and reservation contact attempts; specific penalties not fully listed.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Highline Lake State Park provides a diverse array of recreational activities. Popular options include birdwatching, hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and boating. Visitors also enjoy wildlife viewing, water skiing, and paddleboarding. Cultural or educational programs are not mentioned.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available and well-maintained, with options for all skill levels. One reviewer wrote, 'Fabulous trails to hike with your dog.' Another noted, 'The bike and hiking trails are well maintained.'Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, with species like largemouth bass and trout commonly mentioned. One user said, 'Good fishing spot, largemouth bass and trout.'Swimming
The swim beach is a popular area but has received mixed reviews. Some users appreciated the beach area, stating, 'Nice swim beach, covered gazebos, restrooms, playground.' Others expressed concerns about overcrowding and paddleboard usage.Biking
Biking trails around the lake are a highlight for many visitors. One user commented, 'Nice bike paths around the lake.' Another said, 'Great for mountain bicycling.'Boating
The park is a hub for water sports, including boating, paddleboarding, and kayaking. A user mentioned, 'Great for kayaks, paddle boards, and mountain bicycling.'Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching is a key feature, with visitors spotting bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, and owls. One reviewer noted, 'It’s a bird watcher paradise.'Beach activities
Beach-related activities such as swimming and sunbathing are popular, though the area can become crowded.Winter Activities
Ice fishing is mentioned as a winter activity within the park.Water Sports
Opportunities for non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are abundant.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Regulations for campfire impacts are part of Leave No Trace principles.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards include predatory birds like hawks and eagles. Pet owners should exercise caution. Noise from nearby dog kennels and farms may affect tent campers.
Active alertsNo current alerts or advisories noted.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 14.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Ranger station contact available at 970-858-7208. Closest hospital is in Grand Junction (~18 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch to October identified as the busy season.
Trash and recyclingDumpsters are available, but some reviewers noted that trash management could be improved. For example, one user said, 'The dumpster near our site was overflowing with trash.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated near two lakes suitable for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Common complaintsNoise from nearby dog kennels and farm guard dogs cited as issues. Swim beach crowding and campsite overuse also noted.
HostHosts described as 'friendly,' 'helpful,' and 'great.' Reports of specific aid provided during challenges, such as dealing with ants.
Campground Map
1800 11.8 Road, Loma, Colorado, 81524, United States
Driving directionsI-70 to exit 15 (Loma/S Hwy 139). Go north approximately 6 miles to Q Road, turn left. Go approximately 1.2 miles to 11 8/10 Road, turn right. Go 1 mile to park entrance.
Access to the campground is straightforward, involving paved roads. No significant challenges or seasonal closures are noted in the description.Nearby places
Grand Junction (~18 miles), Fruita (~10 miles), and Mack (~5 miles). Travel times are approximately 15-30 minutes depending on the city.
Nearby supplies
Visitor center has a park store with essentials such as forgotten items and souvenirs. Closest full grocery and fuel services are in Fruita (~10 miles).
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Highline Lake State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Highline Lake State Park receives generally positive reviews, with visitors praising its range of activities, cleanliness, and friendly staff. Negative feedback often focuses on overcrowding, noise, and issues with the swim beach.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the well-maintained facilities, friendly and helpful staff, and a wide array of activities like birdwatching, fishing, and hiking. One reviewer summarized, 'Beautiful park...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include overcrowding during peak seasons, noise from nearby farms or other campers, and issues with the swim beach. One reviewer noted, 'Too crowded, and too noisy. Kids yelling at...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend camping in the off-season for a quieter experience and emphasize the importance of reserving a spot in advance, especially during busy months.
Seasonal Insights
Campers enjoy the park year-round but note that it becomes especially crowded during summer weekends. Fall and winter visits are described as quieter and more peaceful.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Camping in the off-season here is glorious. I have been the only one on site for days.'
2. 'Great camping, hot showers, clean bathrooms.'
3. 'My Service Dog was welcomed on the beach.'
4. 'The...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #15 received a specific mention for its proximity to a noisy farm, which some campers found disruptive. Other sites were noted for their spaciousness and shade.
Accessibility Features
Paths are mostly ADA compliant, and specific features for accessibility, like fishing access points, are available.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in most areas except the swim beach. One user noted, 'Dogs are allowed in most areas of the park with the exception of the beach area.'
Last updated August 10, 2025