Gates Of Lodore Campground
4.507 reviewsnull
Gates Of Lodore Campground
$12.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
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 are $14 per night during peak season when water is available, and $12 per night during low-use season when water is not available. Senior and Access Pass holders qualify for a 50% discount.
About this campground
Where the mighty Green River meets the dramatic entrance to Lodore Canyon, Gates of Lodore Campground serves as your gateway to one of the West's most spectacular river adventures. This remote outpost has become a legendary staging ground for river rafters preparing to navigate the thundering rapids ahead. With 19 well-appointed sites nestled in this rugged landscape, each equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, you'll find the perfect blend of wilderness solitude and essential amenities. While RVs are welcome alongside tent campers, the campground maintains its wild character without hookups, offering vault toilets and seasonal running water for those seeking an authentic outdoor experience.
The Gates of Lodore Campground caters to campers looking for a primitive and natural experience. It accommodates both tent and RV camping, but there are no hookups or modern facilities available.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living museum where ancient voices still speak through stone. The Gates of Lodore region stands as one of the American West's most storied landscapes, where mysterious Fremont petroglyphs etched into canyon walls tell tales of civilizations past. Weathered homestead cabins dot the area, silent testimonies to the hardy pioneers who attempted to tame this unforgiving terrain. Every trail and overlook reveals layers of human history intertwined with the natural world, making each visit a journey through time.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal shifts of the high desert, where winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland with temperatures plunging between 0°F and 30°F in January. As summer arrives, the mercury climbs dramatically, reaching anywhere from 50°F to 100°F in July, painting the canyon walls in shifting light and shadow. Winter adventurers should note that snow can render higher elevations impassable, while summer visitors are treated to nature's own light show as afternoon thunderstorms roll through, occasionally bringing flash floods that remind us of the raw power that carved these ancient canyons.
ElevationNestled at the convergence of river and canyon, the campground sits at the threshold where the high desert meets the dramatic vertical world of Lodore Canyon's towering walls.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be humbled by nature's architecture as you camp at the very doorstep of geological grandeur. Just south of your tent or RV, witness the Green River's dramatic transformation as it plunges into the narrow confines of Lodore Canyon, where sheer walls rise like ancient sentinels on either side. This is where the patient work of water meets stubborn stone, creating a photographer's paradise of light, shadow, and sculpted rock. The contrast between the gentle riverside setting of the campground and the violent beauty of the canyon entrance creates an unforgettable backdrop for your outdoor adventure.
Geological RegionYou'll be camping at one of the West's most dramatic geological transitions, where the Green River has carved its masterpiece through eons of patient erosion. The Gates of Lodore marks the spectacular point where the river abandons its meandering ways and commits to a direct assault through the Uinta Mountains, creating the steep-walled Lodore Canyon. This geological wonderland showcases millions of years of Earth's history in its exposed rock layers, offering visitors a front-row seat to the ongoing battle between water and stone that continues to shape this remarkable landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne campsite is designated as wheelchair accessible. Other campsites may be accessible with assistance. Vault toilets are also wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeSites are spacious and can accommodate both tents and RVs. Specific dimensions were not provided.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as "remote" and "spacious," offering a sense of isolation and tranquility, though specific privacy levels between sites are not detailed.
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites with shade are preferable during summer months. The area can be quiet except near the boat ramp.
Best CampsitesOne site designated as wheelchair accessible. Other campsites with spacious layouts and proximity to the Green River.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours
Check-out
Open 24 hours
Stay Limit
14 consecutive days
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site is limited to 8 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are spacious, level, and consist of compacted gravel or dirt.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, although winter access may be difficult due to snow and road conditions.
Reservation PlatformsScan & Pay system only, first come first served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Walk-up availability is subject to demand.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not accepted for sites. All sites are first come, first served. Scan & Pay system does not allow refunds, changes, cancellations, or other fee adjustments.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Gates of Lodore Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, particularly suited for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. The area is popular for hiking, with trails accessible directly from the campground. "The trail to see the Gates is fairly easy, with a bit of vertical at the beginning, otherwise quite flat," according to a user review. The nearby Green River provides opportunities for swimming and river rafting. Wildlife viewing and stargazing are notable experiences at this remote location.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, including a short trail that provides scenic views of the Green River as it enters Lodore Canyon. According to a user, the trail has some vertical inclines and is otherwise flat. Pets are not allowed on the trails.Swimming
Swimming is available in the Green River. One reviewer mentioned it as a good spot for swimming.Boating
The campground is a popular starting point for river rafting trips on the Green River. Boaters frequently gather at the nearby boat ramp before launching into Lodore Canyon.Wildlife viewing
The remote and natural setting of the campground makes it ideal for observing wildlife. Specific animals were not mentioned.Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground is located within Dinosaur National Monument, which features educational sites such as the Quarry Exhibit Hall, cultural sites with petroglyphs, and homestead cabins. These are accessible by a drive from the campground.Winter Activities
Access to the campground in winter can be difficult due to snow and road conditions. No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
The primary water sport activity is river rafting, which is highly popular and often requires advance permits.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must be built inside the provided fire grates. Seasonal restrictions may apply. Use local firewood only.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsWinter snow can make access difficult; summer thunderstorms can cause flooding. Steep inclines on hiking trails.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.4 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
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Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season corresponds to the period when water is available (dates not explicitly stated).
Trash and recyclingThe campground does not offer trash or recycling facilities. Campers are required to pack out all trash, food waste, and strained particles from wastewater.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the Green River; swimming is available.
Common complaintsLimited shade and dog-friendly trails, busy boat ramp during rafting seasons, and seasonal water availability.
HostRangers are seasonally available to answer questions.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Maybell, Colorado, follow US Highway 40 west for approximately 0.4 mile (.6 km) west. Turn right onto CO 318. Follow 318 west or 46.2 miles (74 km). Turn left onto Moffat County Road 34N. Follow 34N for 1.7 miles (2.7 km). Turn right onto Moffat County Road 34. Follow 34 for 4.5 miles (7.2 km) until you arrive at the ranger station and campground.
Access in winter may be difficult due to snow and road conditions. Roads are gravel and compacted dirt near the campground.Nearby places
Maybell, CO - approximately 52 miles (83.6 km)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.5
7 reviews
Gates Of Lodore Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's breathtaking natural beauty, spacious sites, and proximity to the Green River. The remote location is both a draw and a challenge, offering stargazing and wildlife viewing but requiring preparation for off-grid conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently mention the campground's scenic beauty, spacious sites, and the unique experience of being close to the Green River. Stargazing and the quiet, serene atmosphere are also...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users expressed concerns about the lack of modern amenities, including showers and cell phone reception. The remote location and challenging road access in winter were also noted.
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing plenty of water and sunscreen, especially for hiking. They also emphasize the need to plan ahead due to the lack of cell service and modern amenities.
Based on 7 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season due to the availability of running water. In winter, access may be difficult due to snow and road conditions, making it less suitable for camping.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
"An amazing place to camp with some pristine views...look up, stars, stars, and stars like you’ve never seen!" "Absolutely breathtaking campground with spacious sites and good amenities very close to...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site reviews were provided.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are limited but include a designated wheelchair-accessible site and accessible vault toilets. Some campsites may be accessible with assistance.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at campsites and within 100 feet of roads and parking lots. However, they are not permitted on trails, the river, or in the backcountry. Reviewers noted the restrictions for pet...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025