Mcphee Recreation Complex
Open for the 2026 season. The campground operates from May through September with full services including potable water, trash pickup, and flush toilets. Some sites are first-come, first-served while 50 sites accept reservations through Recreation.gov. Check-in is 2:00 PM, check-out is 12:00 PM. Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hydrologic Outlook issued October 9 at 10:53AM MDT by NWS Grand Junction CO
ESFGJT A strong low pressure system off the Pacific Coast will begin to draw in tropical moisture associated with Topical Storm Rachel this weekend. This strong southerly fetch will draw anomalously high moisture content across the Desert Southwest and into eastern Utah and western Colorado. The chance for widespread precipitation increases Saturday evening into Sunday. Total precipitation forecasts range from 1 to 3 inches across high terrain, with highest amounts favoring the Uintas, Tavaputs and the Southwest San Juan mountains. Embedded thunderstorms are also possible Sunday afternoon, increasing the threat for flash flooding across vulnerable terrain. While confidence in location and rainfall rates remain low at this time, the potential for rapidly rising rivers, streams, normally dry arroyos and slot canyons are possible Sunday through Monday. Please follow the evolving forecast, especially if your plans including recreating or commuting across eastern Utah and western Colorado Sunday onward. Also, keep in mind weather potential above your location and upstream, particularly for those who reside below sensitive terrain like recent burn scars.
Wheeled Vehicles in Wilderness
This order describes the prohibition of wheeled vehicles in all National Forest Wilderness Areas of the Rocky Mountain Region and any exceptions thereof.
Weed Free Forage Products
The purpose of this Order is to prevent the introduction or spread of noxious weeds.
About
McPhee Recreation Complex is located on the south shore of McPhee Reservoir near Dolores in southwestern Colorado. Situated at 7,400 feet elevation on a pinyon-juniper mesa overlooking the San Juan National Forest's largest reservoir, the campground offers both developed camping and easy access to water recreation. The reservoir spans 50 miles of shoreline, making it a prime destination for boating, water skiing, and fishing. The complex features 71 campsites across two paved loops: Pinon and Juniper. Of these, 50 sites are reservable through Recreation.gov, with 24 sites offering 30-amp electric hookups. A dozen walk-in tent-only sites near scenic overlooks provide quieter camping with panoramic reservoir views. The adjacent group area accommodates larger parties with 4 reservable group sites. Amenities include flush toilets at 9 locations, potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings at each site. Nearby attractions include the Anasazi Heritage Center in Dolores, Mesa Verde National Park (one hour south), Canyon of the Ancients, and Hovenweep National Monument. The half-mile Can Do Trail climbs to an overlook with views of the reservoir and peaks surrounding Mesa Verde.
Directions
From Dolores, take Highway 145 for 2 miles, turn right onto Highway 184. Travel 4 miles on Highway 184, turn right at the McPhee Recreation Complex entrance. Proceed on Road 271 to the campground.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | Yes |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $26 - $110 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 50ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 50ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | Yes |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (970) 882-7296 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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