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 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
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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