Deerlodge Park Campground
4.4612 reviewsP. O. Box 128, Jensen, UT 84035
Deerlodge Park Campground
$12.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
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
This campground uses Scan & Pay for payments. All campsites are first-come, first-served, and payment can be made using the Recreation.gov mobile app or by cash, check, or credit card using self-pay envelopes on-site.
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Recreation.gov
Provider435-781-7700dino_information@nps.gov
About this campground
Nestled beneath a canopy of towering cottonwood trees, Deerlodge Park Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience along the mighty Yampa River. This tranquil, primitive tent-only sanctuary serves as the gateway for thrilling whitewater expeditions, where rafters gather before embarking on their journey through one of the last free-flowing rivers in the Colorado River system. The rustling leaves overhead and the gentle murmur of the river create a natural symphony that lulls campers into the peaceful rhythms of canyon country.
Deerlodge Park Campground is a primitive camping facility catering primarily to tent campers. It is not suitable for RVs due to the lack of hookups.
Historical SignificanceStep back through millennia at this crossroads of ancient cultures and frontier history, where the echoes of the past whisper through the canyon walls. Within the boundaries of Dinosaur National Monument, mysterious Fremont petroglyphs etched into stone tell stories of peoples who called these canyons home over a thousand years ago. Weathered homestead cabins stand as silent sentinels to the hardy pioneers who attempted to tame this rugged landscape, their dreams and struggles now part of the monument's rich tapestry of human history.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of seasons in this high desert wonderland, where winter's crisp embrace brings temperatures that can plunge to a bracing 0°F, while summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched paradise with mercury climbing to a toasty 100°F. Spring arrives with spectacular drama as snowmelt from distant mountains swells the Yampa River to its peak flow, creating the thunderous rapids that draw whitewater enthusiasts from around the globe. These seasonal floods, typically occurring in late spring, showcase nature's raw power and rejuvenate the riparian ecosystem.
ElevationSituated in the embrace of the high desert canyon country, where the unique elevation creates a distinctive ecosystem supporting both riverside cottonwoods and drought-resistant sage.
Natural Features and ScenerySpread across a serene meadow beneath a living cathedral of ancient cottonwoods, the campground offers front-row seats to nature's grand theater. The majestic Yampa River flows past like a liquid highway, its waters reflecting the changing moods of the sky while carving ever deeper into the ancient rock. This verdant oasis contrasts beautifully with the surrounding high desert landscape, creating a microclimate where wildlife congregates and wildflowers paint the understory in seasonal splashes of color.
Geological RegionImmerse yourself in the geological wonderland of Dinosaur National Monument, where eons of Earth's history lie exposed in spectacular canyon walls. The campground rests in a rare flat expanse carved by the patient work of the Yampa River, sheltered by magnificent cottonwoods whose roots tap into the life-giving waters below. This unique riparian corridor cuts through layers of ancient rock, creating a green ribbon of life through the rugged canyon country that has captivated geologists and nature lovers for generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned. Campsites are walk-in, which may limit accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeStandard tent sites with enough space for a single tent setup.
Sites PrivacySites are relatively open, located under large cottonwood trees, offering shade but limited privacy due to the flat and open layout of the campground.
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesIdeal for visitors seeking scenic views and rafting opportunities; sites are shaded and provide proximity to the river.
Best CampsitesNo specific site highlighted as the best.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific check-in time provided.
Check-out
No specific check-out time provided.
Stay Limit
No stay limit provided explicitly in authoritative sources.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No explicit guest limits provided for individual campsites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutShady walk-in sites suitable for tents.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; winter access may be difficult due to snow.
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov app (Scan & Pay)
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served; visitors must arrive physically to secure a site.
Cancellation PolicyNo refunds, changes, or cancellations allowed with Scan & Pay payments.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Deerlodge Park Campground provides access to a variety of recreational activities, with a focus on the natural features and history of Dinosaur National Monument. Popular activities include hiking along trails by the Yampa River, wildlife viewing, and participating in river rafting trips, which often launch from the park.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available along the Yampa River. Trails provide scenic views, though some of the monument's popular trails are not dog-friendly.Boating
The campground is at the head of Yampa Canyon, making it a major rafting launch point. The Yampa River offers multi-day rafting trips, including famous rapids like Teepee, Big Joe, and Warm Springs. Private trips require a permit.Wildlife viewing
The campground setting along the Yampa River with its large cottonwood trees provides ample opportunities for birdwatching and spotting other wildlife.Cultural and Educational Programs
Visitors can explore Fremont petroglyphs, homestead cabins, and other cultural sites within Dinosaur National Monument. Educational programs may be available at visitor centers.Winter Activities
Winter access to the campground can be difficult due to snow, and no specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Rafting is a major activity with trips starting at Deerlodge Park and going downstream to Echo Park.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be in provided fire pits. Firewood collection is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are No explicit quiet hours provided in authoritative sources.
Hazards
General hazardsFlooding during late spring runoff; mosquitoes are described as 'relentless' by users.
Active alertsFlooding occurs when Yampa River exceeds 18,000 cfs; check NOAA and USGS for water levels before visiting.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Closest emergency services are in Craig, Colorado, 59 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesLate spring runoff affects accessibility due to flooding.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, though details on recycling are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly along the Yampa River.
Common complaintsMosquito issues, unmaintained sites, and loud groups during rafting season.
HostUser reviews praise campground hosts as 'phenomenal, kind, and very involved.'
Campground Map
P. O. Box 128, Jensen, UT 84035
Driving directionsTo reach Deerlodge Park Campground, drive west from Craig, Colorado 59 miles (95 km) or east of Dinosaur, Colorado 51 miles (95 km) on Highway 40. At the Dinosaur National Monument sign turn north on to Deerlodge Road (or labeled Dinosaur Park Service Rd on some maps) and drive 17 miles.
The access road is labeled as Dinosaur Park Service Rd on some maps. It involves a 17-mile drive on a road that may be challenging during winter or spring runoff due to snow and flooding.Nearby places
Craig, Colorado (59 miles)
Dinosaur, Colorado (51 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Craig, Colorado, 59 miles away, or Dinosaur, Colorado, 51 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
12 reviews
Deerlodge Park Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the picturesque and peaceful nature of the campground, though some complaints about maintenance and bugs were also noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the 'picturesque setting' under tall cottonwood trees, the clean vault toilets, and the quiet atmosphere. The campground's proximity to the Yampa River and scenic views are highly...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Mosquitoes are a major issue, according to multiple reviews. Some campers found the campground poorly maintained, with overgrown sites and limited amenities.
Based on 12 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray to combat mosquitoes, and carry your own firewood as collecting wood on-site is prohibited. Download the Recreation.gov app before arriving as cellular service is unreliable.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often highlight the busy rafting season, with increased noise levels due to rafting groups. Winter visits are rare due to snow making access difficult.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Deerlodge Park Campground is within Dinosaur National Monument, Moffat County Colorado.' - Stormy Concoby. 'If it wasn't for the five star hosts, this campground would get 1 star.' - Michael...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers were noted as best or worst; however, the general consensus is that the sites are peaceful but can lack privacy.
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility are available, though the campground's walk-in nature may pose challenges.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but they must be leashed. Some reviewers noted that popular trails within the monument are not pet-friendly.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025