The best camping near Paonia State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Paonia State Park adventure.

Paddle or water ski amongst the wildflowers at this low-key state park.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Paonia State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Paonia State Park

Spruce

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Paonia State Park

Hawsapple

7 sites · RVs, Tents In Paonia State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Paonia State Park

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Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents35 acres · Hotchkiss, CO

The House where we live is the corner stone of the Bruce Property and is on the Colorado Register of Historic Houses.The residence was constructed between 1905 and 1912, using red bricks made on the site. John and Sophia Bruce, early pioneers in the North Fork Valley, were first involved in cattle raising. The family later became successful fruit growers. Located along the West Elk Loop, a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway, the large two-story residence features a steeply pitched hipped roof with prominent attic dormers.As a guest of Riverwalk you will have full access to the river during your stay. In addition, there is the Riverwalk Trail System that skirts the North Fork of the Gunnison River from the top of the property, by the Riverwalk Yurt, (available on this site) meandering downstream past the Riverwalk TIPI (available on the site) passing the Grove Yurt (available on this site) and terminating at the bottom of the property with the sandy Riverwalk Beach. There is a trial that zigs through the Cottonwood Grove and zags back along the gentle Monitor Ditch skirting a newly planted grove of young trees.For RV Campers we provide 2- 30amp,1-50 amp and 1- 110-amp electrical services and potable water. There is a dump station available. There is also access to our heated shower house with running water and bathroom amenities (<3 min. walk, may be shared with other guests). The property is perfectly geared to groups of friends gathering in a central location between the onset of the Rockies and the termination high desert to the west. Friends or family will reserve both Yurts and the RV Site for a perfect reunion setting!

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Glenwood Springs Lodging & RV Sites

175 sites · Lodging, RVs10 acres · Glenwood Springs, CO

Glenwood Canyon Resort, located just east of Glenwood Springs, CO is the only lodging, camping, and RV resort in beautiful Glenwood Canyon, where Hanging Lake resides and the mighty Colorado River flows. Learn more about our newest addition, The Sprinter Village. A beautiful area custom designed for Sprinter vans, small RVs, truck campers, pop-up campers, and Rooftop Campers. Guests enjoy rafting, fly-fishing, and canyon bike path access, and package deals with Glenwood Hot Springs and Iron Mountain Hot Springs and deals for skiing and snowboarding at Sunlight Mountain Resort in the winter. Our variety of cabins is available year-round and perfect for couples getaways, family fun vacations, reunions of all kinds, RV & travel groups, and corporate retreats. Not only does the Glenwood Canyon Resort boast the most scenic and gorgeous location in all of the western slopes, but we also have some of the coolest (and most convenient) amenities to offer our guests. From the most adventurous activities requiring nerves of steel and uncommon strength to the least adventurous activity of doing your laundry, we’ve got what you’re looking for right here on site. Need camping supplies or maybe a souvenir for those back home? Stop by our resort office and store where we have basic camping needs including wood & fire starters, ice, cold drinks, tent stakes, propane, and all the s’mores fixings you may need. Don’t miss out on trying our favorite s’mores recipe with peanut butter cups! You’ll find other items for your laundry and RVing needs as well. Also located in our resort store are fun little trinkets and things that make great gifts for the ones back at home as well as souvenirs in the form of hats, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and such.

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Oasis RV Resort

104 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Gunnison, CO

Nestled beside Colorado’s expansive Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest body of water in the state, our location offers unparalleled access to serene waters and breathtaking views. Our Gunnison Lakeside Oasis Vacation Cottages offer a range of sizes and sleeping capacities, with a two-night minimum stay requirement. Each cottage includes restroom facilities, including a shower. Options include two-bedroom cottages, 12×12 and 12×16 cottages with or without covered porches, and even a 1960 Retro Trailer. Enjoy your stay close to the beautiful Blue Mesa Reservoir! Discover the exceptional amenities at Oasis RV Resort and Cottages where modern comforts meet the tranquility of nature. Equiped with fiber optic internet, stay connected to the world while surrounded by the serene beauty of our natural surroundings.

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Hillside Park

4 sites · RVs, Tents9 acres · New Castle, CO

Located 5 minutes from Highway 70. (Exit 105) Hillside Park is near the river with public access only 2 minutes away. 3 minute hike to a beautiful sunset view. Borders public State Wildlife property. Within Colorado Unit 42 for hunting easily reached by OHV on county road 312. 15 minutes from Rifle and Glenwood Springs. ***Please text or call before or after arrival***

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Tater's Black Canyon Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Crawford, CO

Hot showers and toilets are now available! Tater's was voted a 2024 top runner up as 'Best Hipcamp in Colorado'. 35 acres of bliss shared with 2 humans, 2 dogs, 2 cats, 3 horses and 4 chickens [Eggs may be available upon request]. Black Canyon National Park is a short drive to the west. Conveniently located to Crawford and the North Fork Valley to wineries, music fests and local eateries. Incredible views and dark skies make the perfect respite for just hanging out, climbing in the Black, foodie time in the North Fork Valley or pretty much whatever you like to do. Hunters are welcome as this is a perfect base camp to Unit 63.

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Meadows of San Juan RV Resort

112 sites · RVs30 acres · Montrose, CO

Meadows of San Juan is located in Colorado's high desert region and is conveniently situated near some of the area's most popular attractions, including Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Ouray Hot Springs, and Colorado National Monument. Our RV park is family, pet, and big rig-friendly, with 120 spacious Full Hook-Up Pull-thru or Back-in Sites equipped with 30 amp and 50 amp service. Each site features a picnic table, complimentary Wi-Fi, and stunning Colorado views. You can even stay hooked up if you're only staying for one night. Our vacation cabins are cozy and comfortable, featuring wooden decks, a full bed, and a set of twin bunks that can accommodate up to four people. Each cabin comes with a small kitchenette equipped with a cooktop and refrigerator, and a charcoal grill and picnic table are available outside. The cabins also have a full bathroom with a shower, sink, and toilet. For a more rustic camping experience, we offer primitive cabins that sleep four comfortably with two bunk beds and an air mattress, but no heat, electricity, kitchen, or bathroom. We offer a range of amenities and activities for guests to enjoy, including a seasonal indoor/outdoor pool, billiards, horseshoes, shuffleboard, and pedal karts. Other amenities include WiFi, propane, a general store where firewood is sold, and access to communal fire rings for campfire nights. For families with children and pets, there is a playground and a "Bark Park" for off-leash exercise. The resort also has an event center available for groups, reunions, weddings, and other celebrations. The scenic views and beauty of Montrose, CO enhance your camping experience with added value. Discover and explore the authentic Colorado experience with Meadows of San Juan RV Resort as your ideal "home base".

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Sage View Ranch

24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Paonia, CO

After traveling the US in our motorhome for almost 5 years my husband Scott and I know the value of a smiling face and a helping hand after a day (or week) of travel. Exploring and experiencing this amazing country, its diversity and incredible people enhanced our lives in so many ways. In mid 2017 we found out our first grandchild was on the way. Long story short we parked the RV and parked ourselves here in Paonia, CO. In December of that year, we moved onto this amazing property full time and started the long list of fix ups (the list is still long). lol We are blessed to have our two adult sons and (aforementioned) grandson living on this property with us. Our philosophy is to live in the moment as the present is the gift. Whether enjoying a sunrise or a sunset or anytime in between you’ll likely find us outside most days. In that, we love all that nature has to offer including fresh fruits and veggies, animals, beauty and fragrances. Sage View Ranch is being created with the desire to have people experience the natural rustic beauty and magic of Paonia. Scott and I look forward to meeting you :)

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Marble Mountain Yurt

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Marble, CO

NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS FOR THE 2024 SEASON (May-October)! A little about our reservation process. We accept two group reservations per week: 1) A discounted mid-week booking (Checking-in Tuesday or Wednesday) for 1-2 nights minimum (depending on the season) 2) A weekend booking starting Thursday, Friday, or Saturday weekly with a 2-3 night minimum. Enjoy hut-style glamping at its finest in our modern mountain yurt. Bask in the sun and take in the stunning panoramic mountain views on our one-acre property above the quirky town of Marble, CO. With immediate access to public lands and some of the best backcountry skiing, hiking, biking, lakes, rivers, and BBQ in Colorado, there is truly something for everyone to love! The heated bathhouse features a toilet and foot pump sink. Purified drinking water is available from May - September. You must bring your own water from October - April. The kitchen features an oven/range and basic cooking and serving supplies. There is no refrigerator, so please bring your own cooler and ice. Campfires are allowed, but it is your responsibility to determine if there is a fire ban in effect. Firewood may be available or dead wood can be collected on the property. There is a picnic table nestled in the scrub oaks. We only rent one side and the entire property is private to you! We do have neighbors, but the property is pretty well tucked away. You may see the occasional vehicle or hiker on the road or hear someone doing some yard work, but it is generally very quiet and secluded at the yurt. Our neighbors have chosen to live in Marble for its privacy and tranquillity. Please show them respect by keeping the noise down and leaving them be. If you have questions or need help, call us from the yurt landline. Winter camping experience/equipment and a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle with severe snow-rated tires and chains may be required to access the yurt Oct-April. During large snow events, driving to the yurt may be impossible in any vehicle. Skiing to the yurt may be an option Dec - Feb. Gear sleds are available at the yurt for your use.

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Kiser Creek Cabins LLC

5 sites · Lodging4 acres · Cedaredge, CO

7 quaint and rustic cabins located on 4 acres next to the majestic Grand Mesa. Quiet and relaxing venue lying in an Aspen ForestLearn more about this land:Surrounded by Aspen Trees. Beautiful views of the West Elk mountains. Over 300 lakes to fish on. Hiking trails. ATV trails. Gunnison River is 12 miles south of camp. Abundant wildlife to watch all over the Grand Mesa.

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Delta Hobby Farm

1 site · RV, Tent4 acres · Delta, CO

We are a working hobby farm, complete with orchard, goats, pasture, and yurts. We love this slice of Western Colorado beauty... so close to the Grand Mesa, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, and the Uncompaghre Plateau. So many outdoor possibilities! We build a brand new shower house with flushing toilet to share between all guests as we also have 2 yurts. We also welcome pets that don't chase the free range chickens and are on a leash when out n about.

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Dragonsong Sanctuary Forest Retreat

2 sites · Lodging40 acres · Cedaredge, CO

Dragonsong is home to our family and we are available to provide nourishment and nurturing if that is what you need. Tai Ji, Qi Gong, herbal consultations, Rune Readings, healthy organic homecooked meals (with advanced notice, vegan and gluten free too ), guided journeys to the Mesa or to your inner spaces, and hugs are always available. We also realize that sometimes what you need most is space and silence and that is something Dragonsong has in abundance. This is your journey and we want to support you in whatever way feels best! We're also here to host your joyful gatherings of friends who want to share stories, tasty beverages, and a beautiful fire. (weather and wind permitting) We are 25 minutes from the Grand Mesa and it's breathtaking 500 square miles of wilderness and 300 mountain lakes. Dragonsong Sanctuary sits amidst 40 acres of Juniper and Pinion forest with incredible views of the San Juan and West Elk Mountains. There are trails running through the property for you to explore and all well behaved dogs are welcome. We have a unique and colorful tiny home, several camp sites with a compost potty nearby, paddleboards available for adventures on the Mesa, a 23 ft Star Belle tent, and big open skies perfect for catching meteor showers and basking in the wonder of the Milky Way. We are 10 minutes from the town of Cedaredge, where you will find restaurants, galleries, a beautiful town park with playgrounds and a creek for the kiddos, free live music Friday nights through the summer at the Grand Mesa Arts and Event Center, antique shops, Snow Capped Cider tasting room, SIPS wine bar, and Applefest, our annual fall festival. Stop by the Appleshed, our local indoor art mall and enjoy a wine tasting from Williams Cellars, with Sugar Mama's bakeshop inside providing cafe faire and mouth watering fresh breads. Just add a well stocked local grocery store, golf course, thrift shops and wonderful boutiques, Cedaredge has something for everyone! We are an hour from The Black Canyon, Paonia and Palisade and their incredible wineries and organic farms, an hour and 20 min from Orvis Hot springs in gorgeous Rdigeway,and only 15 more min to Ouray, called the Switzerland of Colorado. National monuments, forests, canyons, hiking, mountain biking, cross country skiing, ancient culture, petroglyphs, rivers, mountains, incredible fall foliage and kind folks at every turn, there is something for everyone close by! Our mission at Dragonsong Sanctuary is to provide a space of safety, love and belonging while helping people connect deeply to the heart of Nature. We foster kindness, compassion, inclusivity, and believe in celebrating life with mirth and reverence. We welcome groups and retreats in alignment with that vision. We hold all life as sacred and ask that you honor the land and all the creatures who call this forest home. We look forward to sharing this beautiful landscape with you. Bright Blessings and lovelovelove, Kaewyn, Jory, Tirion, Nana Karen and Russ

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Darbywoods Mountain Lot

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Cimarron, CO

This is a one acre lot for just one RV located at 9500ft in the Colorado mountains between Montrose and Gunnison. Located half way between and six miles up the Alpine Plateau road this area is surrounded by BLM land and National Forest. The lot is located with full hook ups and wifi in a neighborhood with cabins and rv lots.

The best camping near Paonia State Park guide

Overview

About

Situated in a canyon surrounding the long, narrow Paonia Reservoir, this state camp is a popular choice for campers and water skiing enthusiasts in the summer months and cross-country skiers come winter. The park feels a bit wilder than the average Colorado State Park, with wildflowers, mountain scenery, and a two-mile long reservoir, but not much in terms of creature comforts. In other words, if you want to camp here, be prepared to bring your own drinking water—facilities are limited to two primitive campgrounds with vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings (though one does have a boat launch).

Notable campgrounds

Best for tree-lovers: As the name suggests, Spruce Campground is surrounded by blue spruce trees.
Best for water skiers: Hawsapple Campground has its own boat ramp for easy access to the water.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve a site at one of Paonia State Park’s two campgrounds by using the Colorado Parks and Wildlife online reservation system or over the phone, but not in person.
Reservations can be made up to six months in advance.
The campgrounds are only open from May through September. If you are looking for something outside of those months, or simply can’t find a site in the park, consider a Hipcamp instead.

When to go

Paonia State Park is open throughout the year. While some people come here for cross-country skiing during the snowy winter, the park is at its most popular in the summer months when the weather is warm enough for camping and water sports. Boating is allowed in the park from mid-June until usually about August, depending on the water level. Once the water gets too low to use the boat ramp, only carry-on boats are permitted.

Know before you go

The best nearby town for stocking up on supplies and groceries is Paonia, about a 25-minute drive away.
Parking is not included in the price of camping reservations. You can purchase day passes or an annual pass online or at the park.
Dogs are welcome in the park and at its campgrounds, but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet in length.
There’s no potable water at the park, so make sure you bring your own.
Jet skiers and water skiers are required to travel in a clockwise direction.