James M Robb-Colorado River State Park-Island Acres Section

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PO Box 700, Clifton, Colorado, 81520, United States
James M Robb-Colorado River State Park-Island Acres Section
$22.00 - $38.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$35.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Campsite fees range from $22 per night for tent sites to $38 per night for full hookups. Additional vehicle fees apply ($9 per vehicle per night).
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About this campground

Nestled within the dramatic walls of Debeque Canyon near Palisade, Colorado, the Island Acres section of James M. Robb Colorado River State Park beckons adventurers with its stunning riverside setting. Whether you're pitching a tent under starlit skies, settling into an electric hookup site, or enjoying the convenience of full hookups, this riverside oasis caters to every camping style. After a day of exploration, refresh yourself in pristine restrooms and hot showers, take a dip in the inviting swimming pond, or cast a line in the tranquil fishing lakes that dot the landscape.
The Island Acres Section provides various camping options, including tent camping, RV sites with full hookups, and walk-in sites. Several loops cater to different needs, and the park allows for last-minute reservations online via ReserveAmerica.
Historical SignificanceYour basecamp at Island Acres places you at the crossroads of Colorado's rich agricultural heritage and natural wonders. Just moments away lies the charming town of Palisade, where generations of farmers have cultivated world-renowned peaches and grapes in sun-drenched orchards and vineyards. The majestic Grand Mesa looms on the horizon, while the sculpted spires of Colorado National Monument stand as ancient sentinels nearby, inviting you to explore millions of years of geological history.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Colorado's dynamic climate in this canyon paradise. Summer days bring warmth that climbs to a comfortable 90°F, perfect for swimming and riverside relaxation. As autumn paints the canyon in golden hues, mild temperatures create ideal conditions for hiking and wildlife watching. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland with snow-dusted canyon walls, while spring awakens the desert flora with gentle warmth. Savvy campers often choose the temperate shoulder seasons of spring and fall for the ultimate outdoor experience.
ElevationCarved by the relentless flow of the Colorado River over millennia, this canyon sanctuary offers a unique camping experience where towering rock walls create an intimate, protected environment that feels worlds away from everyday life.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering canyon walls embrace this riverside haven, creating a natural amphitheater where the Colorado River serves as both backdrop and playground. Keep your camera ready for magical wildlife encounters – wild horses thunder across distant mesas while bighorn sheep navigate impossible cliff faces with balletic grace. Each bend in the river reveals new vistas where ancient rock formations tell stories written in stone, and golden eagles soar overhead against a canvas of endless blue sky.
Geological RegionDebeque Canyon stands as a testament to the raw power of water and time, where the Colorado River has carved its way through layers of ancient rock to create this spectacular gorge. The steep canyon walls that surround the campground showcase millions of years of Earth's history in their colorful striations. This dramatic setting provides front-row seats to nature's grand theater, where wild horses roam free across the mesas and bighorn sheep demonstrate their remarkable climbing abilities on the vertical cliff faces that define this remarkable landscape.

Campsite details

AccessibilityThe park has features like flat, paved sites and accessible trails, making it suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeSites include both small and large options, accommodating tents and big rigs up to 45 feet.
Sites PrivacySome sites offer decent privacy with adequate spacing between them, but others are clustered closely.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent campers should avoid sites close to the highway or restroom areas due to noise and lighting. Full hookup sites provide more privacy and amenities.
Best CampsitesSites near the Colorado River are quieter and offer better views. Full hookup sites include amenities like covered picnic tables and fire pits.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights during peak season.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per site.
Groups
No information about group camping sites was provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSeveral loops with varying proximity to the Colorado River and I-70. Sites are generally spacious and well-maintained.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, although some amenities like showers and laundry are only available spring through fall.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at cpw.state.co.us and through the Aspira Call Center at 1-800-244-5613.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is offered for tent camping sites and other categories; however, reservations are highly recommended during peak seasons and local festivals.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made 28 days or more prior to arrival will forfeit 25% of one night's fee; cancellations 8-27 days prior forfeit 50%; less than 7 days prior forfeit 100%. Changes incur fees ranging from 10%-20% depending on the timing.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, swimming in a dedicated swimming hole with a sandy beach, and bird watching. The area is scenic, with views of the Colorado River and canyon walls. It’s also close to regional attractions like wineries and the Grand Mesa.
Hiking
There is an easy walking trail along the Colorado River and some short gravel trails within the park. However, the trails are not extensive, with one user mentioning that the longest trail is just a couple of miles.
Fishing
Fishing is allowed in three ponds, two of which are stocked. Free fishing poles are available for use. Some reviews noted limited catches, particularly in smaller ponds.
Swimming
A designated swimming hole with a sandy beach is available, providing a great spot for families to enjoy.
Biking
Biking is possible within the campground and along nearby trails, but no dedicated biking paths are specified.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as Big Horn Sheep and wild horses can sometimes be seen from the campground. Opportunities for bird watching are also mentioned.
Beach activities
The sandy beach at the swimming hole is ideal for relaxation and children’s activities.
Winter Activities
While no specific winter activities are detailed, the park remains accessible year-round, and its canyon location provides wind breaks.
Water Sports
Water sports such as tubing and kayaking are mentioned as activities nearby, but not directly offered at the campground.

Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires are allowed within designated fire pits and grills.
  • Quiet hours are enforced at night, though the exact time range is not specified.

Hazards

General hazardsProximity to I-70 and train tracks may result in noise disturbances. Seasonal wind in the canyon can be strong, and wildlife may pose hazards.

Weather forecast

88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 28%

Very dry conditions, stay hydrated

Wind: 10.2 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Mainly clear
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Weather Summaries

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Emergency Services

Emergency services are available in Palisade, approximately 5 miles west, and Grand Junction, approximately 15 miles northwest.

Good to know

Peak season datesSpring through fall, with higher fees during summer months.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins are available within the campground, though no specific details on pickup schedules were mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Colorado River with fishing ponds and a swimming hole featuring a sandy beach.
Common complaintsComplaints include highway and train noise, brightly lit restroom areas disrupting nighttime ambiance, and additional fees for vehicles.
HostCamp hosts are present, though some reviews have noted unprofessional behavior.

Campground Map

PO Box 700, Clifton, Colorado, 81520, United States
Driving directionsExit 47 off I-70, five miles east of Palisade.
Direct access from Exit 47 on I-70 provides easy entry, although the proximity to the highway may result in noise disturbances. Seasonal closures are not mentioned.
Nearby places
Palisade (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Clifton (6 miles, approximately 12 minutes), Grand Junction (15 miles, approximately 18 minutes)
Nearby supplies
A gas station is available at the I-70 Exit 47. Nearby towns like Palisade and Clifton offer groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.

Camper Reviews

0.0
0 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
James M Robb-Colorado River State Park-Island Acres Section has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has mixed reviews, with many praising its scenic views, clean facilities, and range of amenities, but others expressing dissatisfaction with noise from the nearby highway and train tracks, as well as issues with staff attitude. The swimming hole and fishing ponds are highly appreciated, but some visitors complained about bright lights and restricted access to the river.
Review Summaries

What Campers Love

Positive reviews highlight the stunning views, clean bathrooms and showers, spacious sites, and convenient amenities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and laundry facilities. Families appreciate the...
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Common Concerns

Complaints include noise from I-70 and train tracks, restricted river access, and the additional entry fee on top of camping fees. Some users mentioned rude camp hosts and bright lights disrupting...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend choosing sites further away from the highway and restrooms to avoid noise and light. Bringing earplugs is suggested to mitigate highway and train noise.

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews often mention high temperatures but appreciate the swimming hole. Winter reviews highlight the lack of crowds but caution about cold conditions. Spring and fall seem to offer the best...
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Camper Quotes

- 'This camping spot is awesome, close to the highway so the noise is kind of annoying, but other than that the staff is friendly, the showers ARE clean and well-maintained, and the view is awesome.'...
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Site-Specific Reviews

Loop D sites are specifically noted for high noise levels due to proximity to the highway. Sites closer to the Colorado River are quieter and more scenic. Big rigs report fitting well into...
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Accessibility Features

Accessibility reviews are generally positive, with mentions of clean, level paved sites and accessible trails.

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but some reviews mention the lack of fenced areas for pets. A few negative experiences were noted with camp hosts regarding pets.

Last updated August 10, 2025

Campgrounds
James M Robb-Colorado River State Park-Island Acres Section