Mancos State Park
00 reviewBox 1047, Dolores, Colorado, 81323, United States
Mancos State Park
$22.00 - $31.00 / 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
Camping reservation fees range between $22 for standard camping and $31 per day including a $9/day entrance fee. The fee paid through Reserve America does not include the daily use fee, which some users found confusing.
About this campground
Nestled within a towering Ponderosa pine forest, Mancos State Park welcomes adventurers with 32 thoughtfully placed campsites and 2 cozy yurts that serve as your gateway to Colorado's most iconic landscapes. Here, where the scent of pine mingles with mountain air, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned between the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park and the geographic marvel of Four Corners. The park's shimmering reservoir reflects the surrounding peaks while beckoning anglers, boaters, and hikers to explore its shores and the winding trails that disappear into the forest beyond.
Mancos State Park accommodates a range of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV sites, walk-in sites, and yurt rentals. The park is open year-round and offers winter camping opportunities.
Weather and SeasonsMountain breezes sweep through the pines each day, picking up strength from mid-morning through evening, creating nature's own symphony in the treetops. Winter transforms this high-country haven into a snow-dusted wonderland, where hardy campers can experience the profound silence of a forest blanketed in white. The changing seasons paint the landscape in ever-shifting palettes, from spring's fresh greens to autumn's golden aspens, while summer days bring warm sunshine filtered through the pine canopy.
ElevationPerched high in the mountainous terrain of Southwest Colorado, the park occupies that sweet spot where the air is crisp and clear, yet still comfortable for most visitors. This elevated sanctuary offers the perfect balance of mountain atmosphere without the extreme altitudes that can challenge some travelers.
Natural Features and SceneryThe majestic San Juan mountain range cradles this Southwest Colorado gem, where ancient Ponderosa pines stand as sentinels over your camping experience. Jackson Reservoir sparkles at the heart of the park, its waters dancing between seasonal highs and lows, creating an ever-changing waterscape that reveals hidden coves and beaches as nature's rhythms dictate. This stunning convergence of forest, water, and mountain creates a photographer's paradise and a naturalist's dream along the scenic San Juan Skyway.
Geological RegionSet against the dramatic backdrop of the San Juan mountain range, this corner of Southwest Colorado tells a story millions of years in the making. The campground rests within a mature Ponderosa pine ecosystem that has evolved alongside the ancient geology of the region. Jackson Lake, carved by time and geological forces, serves as the centerpiece of this remarkable landscape where the San Juan Skyway winds through some of Colorado's most breathtaking terrain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityLimited specific details on accessibility are provided. However, basic and easy trails are mentioned, and the campgrounds are described as well-maintained.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally described as large, with some small campgrounds around the reservoir. West side sites are noted for their bear boxes and seclusion while east side sites include potable water and dumpsters.
Sites PrivacyThere is a good level of privacy at most campsites, with sites spaced out enough to feel isolated to some extent. Some campsites are located closer to the shoreline, providing scenic but less private settings.
Total Campsites32 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid campsite 25 due to proximity to an outhouse. West-side campsites offer seclusion and quieter experiences.
Best CampsitesWest-side campsites are noted for their seclusion and bear-proof lockers. Sites by the lake are described as premium but may lack water during certain seasons.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Visitors may not camp or park a motor vehicle, trailer, or camper in a state park for more than 14 days in any 28-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of guests per site is not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has two main sections (east and west sides). Campsites are described as level with good privacy and separation.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with some sites maintained and available during winter.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at www.cpwshop.com.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve camping may be available outside reservation dates. Contact the park for details.
Cancellation PolicyReservations made with one or more days outside the 6-month reservation window are frozen to changes for 14 days from the reservation date. Cancellation deadlines are not explicitly stated.
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
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The park offers a wide range of activities to campers, including fishing, hiking, non-motorized boating, bird and wildlife watching, and winter activities like snowshoeing. Nearby attractions such as the Four Corners region and Mesa Verde National Park add to the recreational opportunities.
Hiking
Hiking trails, including one that circles the lake, vary in difficulty and are described as easily navigable. The total hike around the lake is approximately 3 miles, making it accessible for most fitness levels.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight at Mancos, with stockie rainbow trout being the primary catch. Some reviewers noted excellent fishing, with one mentioning '4-day limits on trout' being easy to achieve.Biking
The park provides trails suitable for mountain biking, and gravel bikes can also navigate the terrain. Some trails include hills, requiring moderate skill levels.Boating
Boating is restricted to non-motorized options such as kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes. A boat ramp is available on-site.Wildlife viewing
Opportunities for observing a wide range of wildlife, including deer, eagles, and 223 bird species throughout the year, are abundant. Bird watching is particularly popular.Winter Activities
Winter camping is available, and several reviewers described the experience as magical. Activities include snowshoeing, and at least one igloo was noted in the park during winter.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are popular at the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire bans may be enacted seasonally, as indicated by user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bear activity; bear-proof lockers are available at west-side sites. Seasonal fire bans and narrow roads also pose challenges.
Active alertsSeasonal fire bans may be in effect as indicated in user reviews.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.2 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
Emergency services such as ranger stations are available at the park, and contact numbers include 9708822213 for the direct line and 9705337065 for the ranger station.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available at vault toilets and dumpsters are located on the east side. Reviewers noted issues with trash along the shoreline during their visits.
Proximity to water featuresJackson Reservoir is the focal point for fishing and non-motorized boating, although it may be drained during certain seasons.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include confusion over fees, trash along the shoreline, and noise from neighboring properties.
HostHosts are available, with some users praising their helpfulness, e.g., 'Camp host Yves was very helpful.'
Campground Map
Box 1047, Dolores, Colorado, 81323, United States
Driving directionsFrom Durango take Hwy 160 west 27 miles to the town of Mancos. Go north on Hwy 184 1/2 miles and turn east onto County Rd 42 (Forest Service Rd 561). Go 5 miles and take Rd N to the park entrance.
Road access includes paved highways leading to Mancos before transitioning to gravel roads. Seasonal accessibility issues are not explicitly mentioned, but dirt roads around the dam can be dusty due to vehicle traffic. User reviews describe the campground circle as narrow with trees on either side, posing challenges for larger rigs.Nearby places
Mancos (approximately 5 miles), Durango (27 miles), Cortez (null, not explicitly mentioned but in the region)
Nearby supplies
The town of Mancos provides supplies and amenities, approximately 5 miles away. User reviews mention Mancos having great places to visit.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Mancos State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Mancos State Park has received mixed reviews, with common praise for its clean facilities, beautiful scenery, and diverse recreational activities. Some negative comments include issues with trash, reservation challenges, and additional fees.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Reviewers often noted the park's cleanliness, beautiful mountain views, abundant recreational options, and friendly staff. The yurts and stargazing opportunities also received specific praise.
Common Concerns
Complaints include additional entrance fees beyond the reservation cost, limited availability of showers and flush toilets, and trash along the shoreline. Some reviewers found the reservation system...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive with a reservation, and be aware of additional entrance fees. Opt for west-side campsites for seclusion and bear boxes. Bring extra trash bags to help keep the area clean.
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the lake's activities, while winter reviews focus on snowshoeing and the 'magical' experience of winter yurt camping. Spring can be challenging due to snow cover on campsites.
Camper Quotes
"Fishing was excellent on both trips, and the hiking trail around the lake is nice." - A Smith. "Winter yurt camping is a magical experience." - Abe Young. "West side campsites are secluded and offer...
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Site-Specific Reviews
West side sites are described as secluded with bear boxes, while east side sites include potable water and more amenities. Campsite 25 is noted as undesirable due to proximity to an outhouse.
Accessibility Features
Limited details on accessibility, but the park has basic trails and well-maintained grounds.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, but leash rules are strictly enforced. Most reviewers had positive experiences bringing their dogs.
Last updated August 10, 2025