West Dolores Campground
The campground is currently closed for the season but opens May 8, 2026. The campground operates May through September with a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served sites available.
Hydrologic Outlook issued October 28 at 2:42PM MDT by NWS Grand Junction CO
ESFGJT Low pressure begins to dig southward from the PACNW on Friday, tapping into a fetch of Pacific moisture that will evolve into an atmospheric river streaming into the Desert Southwest this weekend. Showers and thunderstorms develop on Friday and Saturday across the region. Lighter rainfall totals Friday and Saturday will reflect, initially lower, moisture. However, a few thunderstorms could produce impactful downpours on saturated soils left over from last weekend's historic rainfall. Deeper moisture develops Saturday night and early Sunday. This is expected to produce heavier and more widespread rainfall across southeast UT and southwest CO Sunday and Monday, mostly below 10000 feet. While rivers are forecast to remain below action stage, a growing concern lies in the potential for runoff around saturated hillsides in the region. This could produce rock, mud, and debris flows onto roadways, as well as flash flood prone burn scars, washes, slot canyons, and arroyos. Early estimates predict an area of 1 to 2 inches of new rainfall for portions of southeast UT and southwest CO. This is a preliminary forecast that hinges on slight shifts in a strong moisture plume impacting the region. It also attempts to capture the most statistically likely outcome, despite stronger and weaker outlier predictions. Outdoor enthusiasts, motorists, and residents of recent flood impacted areas are encouraged to remain abreast of the developing forecast in the coming days.
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
West Dolores Campground is situated along the scenic West Dolores River, which originates in the nearby Lizard Head Wilderness. At an elevation of 7,800 feet, the campground provides a cool mountain retreat shaded by spruce, ponderosa pine, and Douglas fir trees. The 18 campsites spread across 10 acres offer a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served options, with 7 sites featuring electrical hookups and several accommodating RVs up to 35 feet. Anglers can fish the West Dolores River for brown, rainbow, cutthroat, and brook trout right from the campground. Mountain biking is permitted on Forest Roads 532 and 535, and Forest Service Trail 624 begins three miles south. The campground also serves as a base for exploring southwestern Colorado's rich archaeological heritage, including Mesa Verde National Park about 90 minutes to the south. Facilities include potable water, composting toilets, picnic tables, fire grates at each site, and trash pickup. One site near the restroom is wheelchair accessible and has electricity. The campground is located on the West Dolores Road (FR 535), which follows the river for 32 miles before rejoining Highway 145 north of Rico.
Directions
From Dolores, CO: Head north on Highway 145 for approximately 13 miles. Turn left onto West Dolores Road (FR 535) and continue for approximately 7.5 miles. The campground is on your right.
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 | — |
| Price | $32 - $43 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 65ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 65ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (970) 882-7296 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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