The best camping near Mancos State Park

Framed by lush pine forests and the distant peaks of the San Juan Mountains, Mancos State Park provides an idyllic setting for lakeside campers. The 225-acre Jackson Gulch Reservoir takes center stage—set sail across the lake, fish for yellow perch and rainbow trout from the banks, or paddle the shores in a kayak or canoe. Trails lead through the forests and hills, providing options for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, while winter visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. Year-round camping and heated yurts are offered on both the north and south shore.

• Best for year-round camping: The Main Campground has 22 sites for RVs and tents with easy access to the picnic area, boat launch, and trails.
• Best for tent campers: The West Campground offers nine shady tent campsites located at the trailhead. 
• Best for adventurous glamping: The park’s two yurts sleep up to six on comfy bunks and futons, and are heated for those frosty winter nights.

1. You can reserve one of the park’s 32 campsites or two yurts via the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website. All sites must be booked in advance, but same-day reservations are possible (depending on availability).
2. Campsite reservations open six months in advance. 
3. Campsites can book up as fast, especially on holiday weekends and during peak season (June through August). Book a minimum of three months in advance for these times.

Mancos State Park’s main campground and yurts are open year-round with a range of seasonal activities. Boating is  possible from spring through fall—the boat ramp closes from mid-October until March (or until the last frost). Expect snow and freezing temperatures in winter, while summers have average highs between 79-84°F. Whenever you visit, come prepared—Colorado weather can be unpredictable.

• Mancos State Park is located 33 miles west of Durango, or about a 40-minute drive away along the San Juan Skyway. The park also makes a good base for exploring the Mesa Verde National Park, 14 miles south. 
• Facilities include restrooms, canoe and kayak rentals, fire pits, a boat ramp, and a dump station. Firewood is available to buy from the ranger station in summer.
• Fire bans are possible at Mancos State Park during dry periods, and the boat ramp may be closed when the reservoir is low. 
• You can bring your own boats and watercraft, but there is a no-wake policy on the lake. 
• There is one wheelchair-accessible campsite at the Main Campground.