West Dolores Campground
4.7071 reviewsCO Hwy 145 (FS Road 535), Dolores, CO 81323, USA
West Dolores Campground
$32.00 - $43.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$32.00
Hookup Site Fee$43.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard electric campsites are priced at $43 per night, while standard nonelectric sites are $32 per night during peak season. Fees do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled along the crystal-clear waters of the West Dolores River, this enchanting campground beckons adventurers to southwestern Colorado's San Juan National Forest. Here, the gentle murmur of flowing water mingles with the whisper of wind through towering pines, creating the perfect backdrop for your mountain escape. Whether you're casting a line into the river's cool depths, exploring winding forest trails on foot or bike, or simply savoring the tranquility of alpine mornings, West Dolores Campground offers an authentic Colorado wilderness experience far from the crowds.
The West Dolores Campground accommodates various camping styles, including sites for tents and RVs. A few sites offer electric hookups.
Historical SignificanceYou're camping in the heart of America's ancient Southwest, where every canyon and mesa tells stories spanning millennia. Just beyond your tent lies a landscape that has captivated humans for thousands of years. The legendary cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park, the vast archaeological treasures of Canyon of the Ancients, and the mysterious towers of Hovenweep National Monument all wait within reach, offering glimpses into the sophisticated civilizations that once called these mountains and mesas home.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain refuge into a sun-drenched paradise, where clear blue skies stretch endlessly above and warm, dry days invite endless outdoor adventures. As autumn arrives, the forest erupts in golden splendor before winter's quiet embrace brings a blanket of pristine snow. While winter camping rewards the hardy with solitude and stark beauty, be prepared for freezing temperatures and snow-covered landscapes that transform the campground into a crystalline wonderland.
ElevationPerched at 7,800 feet where the air is crisp and pure, West Dolores Campground offers a refreshing escape from summer's heat. At this elevation, you'll wake to cool mountain mornings perfect for that first cup of campfire coffee, while afternoons remain pleasantly warm without the intensity found at lower elevations. The thin mountain air reveals stunning vistas that seem to stretch forever, and on clear nights, the stars shine with an intensity that takes your breath away.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of towering spruce, stately ponderosa pines, and majestic Douglas firs creates a natural sanctuary around each campsite. The West Dolores River, born in the remote and wild Lizard Head Wilderness high above, tumbles past the campground in a symphony of rushing water over ancient stones. Shafts of sunlight filter through the dense canopy, creating an ever-changing tapestry of light and shadow across the forest floor, while the river provides both a scenic centerpiece and a natural playground for anglers and wildlife watchers alike.
Geological RegionDeep within the San Juan National Forest of southwestern Colorado, near the mystical Four Corners where four states meet, this campground occupies a special place in the American West. The surrounding landscape tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where ancient seas gave way to soaring peaks and deep river valleys. Sheltered beneath a protective canopy of spruce, ponderosa pine, and Douglas fir, the campground hugs the banks of the West Dolores River, offering visitors a chance to experience one of Colorado's most spectacular and diverse forest ecosystems.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides basic facilities but does not explicitly mention features for disability access. Reviewers haven't provided detailed insights into accessibility.
Sites SizeSites vary in size but are described as compact. Cyrenne noted, "Compact sites."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited at this campground. Jeane Jeans mentioned, "Most of the spaces are not very private, you can usually see your neighbors next to you and also across from you."
Total Campsites233251 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites close to the river provide better views and tranquility. Reviews recommend sites with shade or proximity to the river.
Best CampsitesUser reviews note sites like 01, 04E, 03E, 15, and 08 as being particularly scenic, clean, and close to the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit: 14 consecutive nights during a visit. Additionally, visitors may stay up to 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated in authoritative sources or reviews.
Groups
Group camping details are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has compact sites arranged near the river, offering tent and RV options. Some sites have electric hookups.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 02 - September 27 (reservable from June 25 onward). First-come, first-served availability: June 21 - June 25.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, both online and through their mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability from June 21 through June 25. User reviews mention hosts accommodating walk-up visitors for site selection.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before reservation start date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations result in forfeiture of the first night's use fee including taxes. No-shows are charged $20 and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes, and applicable add-ons.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The West Dolores Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Fishing in the West Dolores River is a highlight, with opportunities to catch brown, rainbow, cutthroat, and brook trout. Hiking and biking are also popular; visitors can access Forest Roads 532 and 535 for biking and Forest Service Trail 624, located three miles south, for hiking. Wildlife viewing is supported by the lush forest setting, which includes spruce, ponderosa pine, and Douglas fir trees.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include trails such as Forest Service Trail 624, located three miles south of the campground. Additionally, the broader region offers access to trails like the Lower Stoner Mesa Trail, noted by Michael S: "Good hiking nearby on Lower Stoner Mesa Trail for those who hike."Fishing
The West Dolores River offers fishing for brown, rainbow, cutthroat, and brook trout. However, Sharon B cautions, "It is advertised as a good place to fish, yet there is no bank available on which to stand! Definitely cannot fly fish."Biking
Biking is permitted on Forest Roads 532 and 535, providing scenic rides through the forested area.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a likely activity, considering the shaded forest setting with abundant flora and fauna. Lisa Korbel describes the campground as having "chipmunks run everywhere," adding to the natural appeal.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rings are provided at campsites, but policies on firewood collection or use are not detailed.
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal hazards include fast-flowing river conditions during spring melt, as noted by user reviews, and potential wildlife encounters.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
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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 are not explicitly listed but likely available in Dolores, CO, which is approximately 21 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 02 to September 27 (reservable peak season).
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but recycling facilities are not mentioned in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated directly along the West Dolores River, providing opportunities for fishing, relaxation, and scenic views.
Common complaintsSome reviews express dissatisfaction with the lack of water hookups for electric sites and challenges with campsite bookings.
HostUser reviews consistently praise hosts for being friendly, helpful, and maintaining cleanliness. Hosts like Larry and Grace have been explicitly mentioned.
Campground Map
CO Hwy 145 (FS Road 535), Dolores, CO 81323, USA
Driving directionsFrom Dolores, travel 21 miles north on Highway 145 and Forest Road 535 to the campground entrance, 1 mile from Mavreeso Campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads along Highway 145 and Forest Road 535. Seasonal weather conditions may affect road accessibility.Nearby places
Dolores (21 miles, approximately 30 minutes), Mesa Verde National Park (1.5 hours away), Durango, Ouray, Telluride (distances not explicitly stated but noted in user reviews).
Nearby supplies
Supplies, groceries, and fuel are likely available in Dolores, CO, approximately 21 miles away. User reviews mention taking a 30-minute drive to the nearest town.
Camper Reviews
4.7
71 reviews
West Dolores Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives high praise for its cleanliness, natural beauty, and friendly camp hosts. Many reviewers highlight its peaceful atmosphere and the proximity to the West Dolores River. However, some users have noted challenges with cell service and limited privacy between campsites.
Review Summaries
Based on 71 reviews
What Campers Love
Commonly praised aspects include the cleanliness of the facilities ("Cleanest, nicest campground I've ever seen," David L), the accommodating and friendly camp hosts ("Hosts were kind," Lisa Korbel),...
Based on 71 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include limited privacy between campsites (Jeane Jeans: "You can usually see your neighbors next to you and also across from you") and lack of amenities like showers (Kristy Albert: "No...
Based on 71 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Reviewers recommend bringing mosquito repellent and highlighting the importance of reserving campsites in advance to secure preferred spots. The area's proximity to hiking trails and fishing spots is...
Based on 71 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is highlighted as the best time to visit due to the pleasant weather, lush greenery, and availability of hiking trails. Winter camping experiences are less common but noted to be enjoyable as...
Based on 71 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Beautiful campground. Quiet & the cleanest pit toilets ever." - Lisa Korbel; "Hosts rake each site in between stays. You could eat off the ground!" - David L; "Very nice little campground. A bit out...
Based on 71 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 03E: "Clean restrooms," Kris C; Campsite 12A: "Very quiet & peaceful," M R; Campsite 04E: "Nice quiet campsite not real close to others," Richard S.
Based on 71 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025