Dinosaur National Monument is a place where diverging paths come together. The monument itself straddles the border of Colorado and Utah, and it contains the confluence of the Green and…
Dinosaur National Monument is a place where diverging paths come together. The monument itself straddles the border of Colorado and Utah, and it contains the confluence of the Green and Yampa Rivers. It is also a place where nature, history, and culture all meet in captivating ways.
Named after the famous Dinosaur Quarry, it is the home of over 800 paleontological sites and numerous fossils of a variety of prehistoric species. Dinosaur National Monument also contains beautiful and well-preserved petroglyphs created by the Fremont People. And of course, the monument has endless recreational opportunities, such as hiking, rafting, and fishing. It is an official International Dark Sky Park, meaning that the stargazing there is top-notch.
Given all that, we think the best way to experience all that Dinosaur National Monument has to offer is by spending the night in your tent or RV where you’ll experience this incredible landscape firsthand.
Dinosaur National Monument and the surrounding areas have plenty of options for camping. From the six developed campgrounds located within the national monument to the primitive riverside sites, to the infinite backcountry options, you’re sure to find the perfect campsite in Dinosaur National Monument.
In addition to the campgrounds within the national monument, you’ll also find great options for RV and car camping just outside the park boundary. Needless to say, you’ll be spoiled for options.
Keeping reading and get all the details to plan your perfect camping trip in Dinosaur National Monument.
In This Post
- Dinosaur National Monument Campgrounds
- Dinosaur National Monument Camping Must Know
- Camping Near Dinosaur National Monument
Dinosaur National Monument Campgrounds
There are six developed campgrounds located with Dinosaur National Monument. Three of these are located on the Utah side of the park (Green River, Split Mountain, and Rainbow Park), and three are located on the Colorado side (Echo Park, Deerlodge Park, and Gates of Lodore).
In addition to these six campgrounds, Dinosaur National Monument also features nearly two dozen primitive riverside sites and an endless array of at large backcountry options for those really wanting to get off the beaten track. All of the campgrounds are well located throughout the park, giving visitors plenty of campsites to choose from regardless of which section of Dinosaur National Monument they want to explore.
The map below gives you a general sense of where each of the developed campgrounds are located in Dinosaur National Monument as well as their relation to the surrounding area.
Pay close attention to when each campground is open, as many are closed or difficult to access in the winter months. Additionally, the price for camping varies with the season; it is more expensive to camp during the summer months when water is available.
Generally speaking, April through October are the best months to visit Dinosaur National Monument. The weather is most agreeable and all of the campgrounds are typically open and accessible during this period.
Reservations and Permits
The following sites can be reserved on recreation.gov:
- Green River Campground (Loop B only)
- Split Mountain Campground (Group sites during high season only)
- Echo Park Campground (Group site during high season only)
There are two backcountry sites located at the confluence of Jones Hole Creek and Ely Creek, along the Jones Hole Trail that require reservations. Call (435) 781-7700 to reserve these sites.
Reservations can be made up to six months in advance of your trip, but are not accepted less than 48 hours prior to arrival.
All other campground sites and backcountry sites in Dinosaur National Monument are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
To secure a first-come, first-served campground during peak season, you will want to be sure to arrive early!
If you want to camp anywhere outside of the developed campgrounds (whether in a designated backcountry site or at large), you’ll need to obtain a free backcountry permit before heading out. You can get your permit by contacting either the Quarry Visitor’s Center: (435) 781-7700 or the Canyon Visitor’s Center: (970) 374-3000.
What to bring on your Dinosaur National Monument Camping trip
Preparing for your Dinosaur National Monument camping trip involves more than deciding which campground best fits your needs. There is also the important job of making sure you have all the right gear you’ll need to ensure a great trip.
We’re sure you’ll already have the essentials like a great tent, sleeping bags, and camp chairs, but below are some of our favorite items specifically for camping in Dinosaur National Monument:
- Coleman Camping Stove – This camping classic is perfect fun campsite dinners.
- Pop-up canopy – The sun here can be extremely strong. We recommend bringing a portable shade structure like this one.
- Portable water container – These portable water containers are a life saver.
- Cooler – The hot temperatures here make a good cooler essential. We can’t recommend Yeti enough!
- Dinosaur National Monument Map – An essential for any trip, a good map is a must.
- Dinosaur National Monument Guidebook – A good guidebook will provide insights and information to help you plan your perfect trip.
Developed Campgrounds in Dinosaur National Monument
There are six developed campgrounds located in Dinosaur National Monument. These campgrounds vary in size and services and give plenty of options for those looking to explore all that Dinosaur has to offer. Details for all six campgrounds are below.
Green River Campground
Number of Sites: 80 sites
Fee: $18/night ($9.00 for seniors and access pass holders)
RVs: Yes, max size of 30′ RV or 20′ trailer.
Reservations: Available for B Loop sites (27 sites). Click here to reserve.
Season: Mid April through Mid October
More Information
The Green River Campground is set in a tranquil cottonwood grove on the banks of the Green River. Located just five miles from Dinosaur Quarry, it’s the closest lodging option to this popular destination. The Green River Campground also provides good proximity to the Split Mountain boat ramp, a common endpoint for rafting trips in the area.
The Green River Campground contains 80 campsites. Site #41 and the adjacent bathroom are accessible for wheelchair users. The campground is organized into several loops with potable water and restrooms available throughout. There are flush toilets, but no showers. 27 out of the 80 total campsites are reservable in advance on Recreation.gov, while the remaining sites are always available on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground typically only fills up on weekends near holidays.
RV’s are welcome at the Green River Campground, although there are no hookups or dump station available. RV’s longer than 30′ and trailers longer than 20′ are not recommended at the campground due to the narrow roads.
Split Mountain Campground
Number of Sites: 4 group sites
Fee: $40/night during peak season, $6/night during the off season
RVs: Yes
Reservations: Available for group sites in peak season. Click here to reserve.
Season: Peak Season is early April through Mid/late October
More Information
The Split Mountain Campground is conveniently located adjacent to the Split Mountain Boat Ramp and just a few miles from the popular Dinosaur Quarry. Its riverside location allows campers to enjoy great views of Green River and the iconic Split Mountain towering above.
During the peak season (typically early April through mid to late October), the Split Mountain Campground functions as a group campsite only, with four large sites accommodating 8-25 people and up to six vehicles. In peak season, reservations can be made for group sites on recreation.gov. Throughout the remainder of the year, the group sites are split up into several individual sites that are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Potable water and flush toilets are available from early April through early October. Vault toilets are available for the off season, but there is no running water during this time.
The Split Mountain Campground can accommodate RVs, but there are no hookups or dump stations. Generator use is allowed from 7 am-9 pm.
Rainbow Park Campground
Number of Sites: 4 sites
Fee: $6/night ($3.00 for seniors and access pass holders)
RVs: No
Reservations: N/A
Season: Open all year, but the road to the campground is impassible when wet and not serviced in the winter.
More Information
This small, primitive campground is located on the Utah side of Dinosaur National Monument and is 28 miles from the Quarry Visitor Center. It is located next to the boat ramp at the head of Split Mountain Canyon, a popular launch point for single-day rafting trips. The Rainbow Park area is packed with historical and natural attractions, including petroglyph panels from the Fremont People at McKee Springs, the Ruple Ranch, and several hiking trails and picnicking spots.
The Rainbow Park campground is located on the banks of the Green River. It consists of just four walk-in sites that can accommodate up to eight people each. Sites have picnic tables and campfire rings, and vault toilets and trash/recycling are available at the campground. It is important to note, however, that there is no potable water available at the Rainbow Park Campground. Water will need to be brought in or filtered from the river.
RV’s are not permitted at the Rainbow Park Campground, due to the rugged nature of the access road and sites.
The Rainbow Park Campground is open all year, although the road may be impassible in wet or winter conditions. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Echo Park Campground
Number of Sites: 22 sites
Fee: $10/night for individual sites and $15 for the group site during peak season when water is available. $6.00/night when water is not available.
RVs: No
Reservations: The group site can be reserved at recreation.gov. All other sites are first-come, first-served.
Season: Open all year, but the road to the campground is impassible when wet and not serviced in the winter.
More Information
For those campers willing to have a more rugged experience, Echo Park provides an incredible chance to sleep in one of Dinosaur National Monument’s most spectacular places. Situated in the shadow of the impressive Steamboat Rock and surrounding cliffs, nearly every site in this campground has uninterrupted views. The campground provides access to several trails that lead to the confluence of the Green and Yampa Rivers, the acclaimed Mitten Park trail, and more. Camping at Echo Park also gives you good proximity to unique sites like Whispering Cave and the Pool Creek Petroglyphs.
The Echo Park Campground consists of 22 sites, 17 of which are arranged around a loop road and accessible for cars and camper-top trucks. One of the sites on this loop is handicapped-accessible. There are also four walk-in tent sites, which are reached by following a short trail at the far end of the loop road. One group site is available at Echo Park Campground, which can accommodate 9-25 people. Vault toilets, picnic tables, and campfire rings with grills are provided. Water is available seasonally.
Due to the rugged road used to reach the Echo Park Campground, RV’s and trailers are strongly discouraged from attempting to access this area. Additionally, high-clearance vehicles are advised, due to the steep grades, sharp turns, and generally rough road conditions.
The Echo Park Campground is open all year, although the road is impassable in wet and winter conditions. Water is available at the campground only from late May through Mid-September.
Reservations for the group site can be made up to 12 months in advance at recreation.gov. All other sites at the Echo Park Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground typically only fills up during holiday weekends in the summer.
Deerlodge Park Campground
Number of Sites: 7 sites
Fee: $10/night during peak rafting season when water is available. $6.00/night when water is not available. (50% discount for seniors and access pass holders)
RVs: No
Reservations: N/A
Season: Open all year, but the road to the campground is impassible when wet and not serviced in the winter. The campground typically floods in late Spring.
More Information
Deerlodge Park is a small, tent-only campground located on the eastern edge of Dinosaur National Monument. Set on the banks of the Yampa River, the campground enjoys plenty of shade and lovely views. It is located next to the boat ramp at the head of the Yampa Canyon. The campground is commonly used for boaters prior to beginning their raft trips.
The Deerlodge Park Campground has seven walk-in sites, each with a fire pit and picnic table. Each site can accommodate up to 25 people. There are vault toilets, and running water is typically available from mid-May through Mid-July. All trash must be packed out, as there is no garbage service at this campground.
Due to the rugged road used to reach the Deerlodge Campground, RV’s and trailers are strongly discouraged from attempting to access this area. Additionally, high-clearance vehicles are advised, due to the steep grades, sharp turns, and generally rough road conditions.
While the campground is open all year, the road is not accessible in wet or wintery conditions. Water is only available during the peak boating season for the Yampa River, which is typically mid-May through Mid-July. All sites at the campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Gates of Lodore Campground
Number of Sites: 19 sites
Fee: $10/night during peak season when water is available. $6.00/night when water is not available. (50% discount for seniors and access pass holders)
RVs: Yes
Reservations: N/A
Season: Open all year, but the campground may be difficult to access in winter due to snow.
More Information
The Gates of Lodore Campground is located on the northern edge of Dinosaur National Monument. It is adjacent to a boat ramp that serves as a popular launch point for rafters heading down the Green River. The campground provides easy access to the Gates of Lodore Trail, as well as many other hiking options in the backcountry within this remote part of the Monument. The campground is also near other regional attractions, including the Brown’s Park National Wildlife Refuge and the John Jarvie Ranch.
The 19 sites in the Gates of Lodore Campground sit side-by-side along an unpaved dirt road. Vault toilets and bear-safe lockers are located throughout the campground, and picnic tables and fire pits are provided at each site. Drinking water is available during the peak summer season, typically late April through late October. There is no trash service at Gates of Lodore Campground, so all waste must be packed out.
RV’s and trailers are welcome at the Gates of Lodore Campground, but there are no hookups or dump stations available. All of the sites are quite flat and can easily fit a 25′ RV, while some sites can accommodate even larger vehicles.
The Gates of Lodore Campground is open all year, although it may be hard to access during winter months. Water is only available during the summer season. Reservations are not accepted for this campground; all sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Designated Backcountry Sites
If you would prefer to get away from the bustle of the campgrounds and enjoy more solitude in the wilderness, Dinosaur National Monument offers plenty of great options for backcountry camping. The sites described in this section are only reachable by foot or boat, but they have basic facilities, including picnic tables and vault toilets. The majority of the designated backcountry sites are located along the river and are primarily used by boaters. There are two additional sites that are located along the Jones Hole trail.
River Campsites
Designated backcountry sites are located along each of the three major river-running routes in Dinosaur National Monument: Lodore Canyon, Yampa Canyon, and Whirlpool and Split Mountain Canyons. Campsites are generally spaced every couple of miles along the route. This map provides an overview of river camping options:
There are vault toilets provided at each site, but campers must filter their own water. The use of soap on the banks of the river is forbidden, and campers must pack out their own trash.
The high-use river-running season is from the second Monday in May through the second Friday in September. During this time, river sites may only be used by boaters. Outside of the high-use season, backpackers may also use the river sites. Sites are open all year and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Permits are required for backcountry camping at any of the river sites. Permits are free, although you’ll still need to pay the Dinosaur National Monument entrance fee. Boaters will also be required to pay River Recreation fees, detailed on page 11 of this booklet.
Jones Hole Trail Backcountry Sites
In addition to the backcountry sites for boaters located along the Green River, there are two campsites near the confluence of Jones Hole Creek and Ely Creek. To reach these sites, campers will start at the trailhead parking area at the Jones Hole Fish Hatchery, and hike about two miles along the Jones Hole Trail.
There are picnic tables and a vault toilet available at the sites. Each site can accommodate up to eight people. Fires are not permitted, and all trash must be packed out. There is no potable water provided at these sites, so campers should plan on filtering water from the creek. Sites are open all year, but must be reserved by calling (435) 781-7700.
At Large Backcountry Camping in Dinosaur National Monument
Beyond the campgrounds and designated backcountry sites, there’s yet another option for camping in Dinosaur National Monument. Experienced and adventurous campers can sleep out under the stars in the spot of their choosing, provided they follow a few important rules and regulations. This option, referred to as “At Large” backcountry camping, allows campers to hike on or off trail and pitch their tent anywhere in the Monument.
If you’re considering At Large Backcountry Camping in Dinosaur National Monument, it’s imperative you know some key information.
You CANNOT Camp in the following areas:
- Within 1 mile of developed areas
- Within half a mile from roads
- Within 100 feet of any water source (river, stream, pond, etc)
- Within 100 yards of any cultural, paleontological, or historic site
- With 1/8 of a mile from any river
- Along any of the following trails: Desert Voices, Sound of Silence, Box Canyon or Hog Canyon.
Also, keep in mind:
- Water sources are scarce. Have a plan (and a backup plan) for where and how you’ll obtain all of the water you need for drinking and cooking.
- You are camping in bear country. Use proper techniques for securing food and other scented items that might attract bears.
- Campfires are only permitted in certain areas of the Monument. See this page for details.
Permits are required for At Large Camping. See this section for more information on permits.
Contact a ranger at (435) 781-7700 if you have questions about At Large camping in the backcountry.
Dinosaur National Monument Camping Must Know
The following sections contain all the basic information you need to ensure you have a great time camping in Dinosaur National Monument. Before we dive in, there are a few important regulations to note:
- Water is not widely available, especially during the winter offseason. Check if your campsite will have access to potable water when you plan to camp and prepare accordingly.
- Only camp in designated sites or areas that abide by the At Large Backcountry regulations.
- No more than eight people per individual campsite and 25 people per group campsite.
- Always store your food using the provided food storage locker, in your car or in an animal-proof container.
- Always practice Leave No Trace principles.
Detailed information on fires, pets, wildlife, and more can be found in the sections below.
Fires
Fires are permitted at all designated campsites and picnic areas, but only in the fire rings and grills provided. Always check with the ranger or visitor center upon arrival, as seasonal fire bans may be in effect. Additionally, it is important to note that wood gathering is prohibited in all developed and riverside areas of the monument. Visitors must bring in their own locally-sourced firewood.
Fires are typically permitted in the backcountry, EXCEPT:
- Jones Hole Creek Canyon (including the designated backcountry sites along the Jones Hole Trail)
- Upper Pool Creek Canyon
- Lower Sand Canyon
- Pats Draw
- Green and Yampa Rivers Canyons (with the exception of designated river campsites)
- Within 1 mile of developed areas and campgrounds.
If you plan to make a fire in the backcountry, you must exercise extreme caution to ensure that the fire and sparks are properly contained and monitored, and fully extinguished before departure.
Fires are ONLY permitted in backcountry at large and river campsites IF:
- A fire pan is used and all fire debris is removed from the backcountry.
- The fire pan must be at least 3 inches above the ground and be placed on a fireproof tarp or blanket to catch all debris from the area around the pan.
Wildlife
Dinosaur National Monument’s diverse landscapes host a multitude of unique ecosystems. The deserts, canyons, rivers, and mountains are home to a wonderful range of species. Some notable fauna include the peregrine falcon, the greater sage grouse, and several species of endangered fish. While the chance to see wildlife in their native habitat is certainly an unforgettable experience for those lucky enough to witness it, there are some precautions to keep in mind when spending time in Dinosaur National Monument.
Black Bears: Even though it may not seem like it, Dinosaur National Monument is bear country. Black bears are not typically aggressive, but they are curious and they can be dangerous when they feel threatened. The most common encounters with bears happen when they are seeking food. Be sure to read these safety guidelines before camping in Dinosaur.
Mountain Lions: Dinosaur National Monument is home to mountain lions, although it is incredibly rare to encounter this elusive big cat. That being said, they can be dangerous to humans and it’s important to know what to do if you cross paths with a mountain lion. Learn more about mountain lion safety here.
Pets
Pets are allowed in Dinosaur National Monument, but only in specific areas and under specific rules. Pets are not allowed in the backcountry, on certain trails, or on river trips.
They are permitted in the developed campgrounds, adjacent to park infrastructure, and on the main park roads. They are also allowed on the following trails: Plug Hat Butte and other trails at the Plug Hat Picnic Area, Canyon Overlook, Echo Park Overlook, Iron Springs Bench Overlook, Swelter Shelter Petroglyphs Trail, and the River Trail.
If you bring your pet to Dinosaur National Monument, you must follow these regulations:
- Pets must be on a leash at all times.
- Pets are allowed within campgrounds, on park roads, and in picnic areas.
- Pets are not allowed in park buildings, on trails (except the ones noted above), or in the backcountry.
- Do not leave your pet unattended in your vehicle. Temperatures can get extremely hot in Dinosaur.
- Always properly dispose of pet waste.
- Properly documented and trained service animals are permitted to accompany individuals with disabilities anywhere members of the public may normally go within the park.
Where to Get Supplies
Dinosaur National Monument is a vast area with no supplies or services available within the park (with the exception of a few snack items at the Visitor centers). This means it is extremely important that you enter the monument well-stocked on food, water (if there’s none available at your destination), gas, and any other necessities you may need while camping.
The available services and their proximity to the Monument vary depending on which direction you’ll be coming from. Your options are outlined below:
Vernal, UT: Located just twenty minutes from the Quarry Visitor Center, this is the major portal to Dinosaur National Monument on the Utah side of the park. In Vernal and the surrounding area, you’ll find grocery stores, outdoor retailers, gas stations, restaurants, hotels, and a medical center.
Dinosaur, CO: Less than 10 minutes from the southern entrance to the Monument and the Canyon Visitor Center, the town of Dinosaur has a gas station, convenience store, restaurant, and a liquor store. However, if you’re looking for lodging, several restaurant options, and a full grocery store, you’ll need to head about 18 miles southeast to the town of Rangely, CO.
Maybell, CO: If you plan on camping at Deerlodge Park and exploring the eastern side of the Monument, the tiny town of Maybell is located just 30 minutes driving from the Deerlodge Park Campground and is the closest place for supplies and services. Maybell has a gas station, post office, small general store, and one hotel. If you’re needing more services, the town of Craig, CO is 37 miles east of Maybell and has several dining and lodging options, supermarkets, gas stations, and a hospital.
Camping Near Dinosaur National Monument
While camping within the confines of Dinosaur National Monument is a remarkable and unrivaled experience, there are many reasons why you might seek out one of the developed campgrounds in the nearby area. Considering there are no hookups nor dump stations at any of the campgrounds inside the Monument, RV’s may prefer to set up camp in one of the more accommodating sites nearby. Additionally, the campgrounds listed in this section provide a great place to stay before or after your trip to Dinosaur National Monument, as they give you more convenient access to services, supplies, and major roadways.
If you’re looking to check out any of the other Colorado National Parks or National Monuments, but sure to take a look at our other camping guides below:
- The Complete Guide to Camping in Rocky Mountain National Park
- The Complete Guide to Camping in Mesa Verde National Park
- The Complete Guide to Camping in Colorado National Monument
- The Complete Guide to Camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park
Camping Near Vernal, UT
Ashley National Forest
Number of sites: Varies
Fee: $12-25/night for tents, $25-50/night for RVs (plus entry fee and optional additional dump station fees)
Capacity: None stated.
RVs: Yes
Reservations: Recommended for RV sites and cabins. Call 1-877-444-6777 or visit recreation.gov
Pets: Allowed
More Information
Located about 40 minutes north of Vernal, Ashley National Forest has a wide range of options to suit all types of campers. RV’s are welcome at many of the numerous campgrounds in Ashley National Forest, although the Lodgepole Campground is the best option given it’s the only one with a dump station that gives easy proximity to Dinosaur. Beyond traditional developed campgrounds, there are also options for cabin rentals and dispersed camping.
Vernal/Dinosaurland KOA
Number of sites: 86
Fee: $39-44/night for tents, $47-85/night for RVs, $75-250/night for cabins
Capacity: None stated.
RVs: Yes
Reservations: Recommended for RV sites and cabins.
Pets: Allowed
More Information
With a convenient location in the center of Vernal and plenty of great amenities, this is a fantastic option for RVs and families. Extra-large sites and well-equipped hookups make this a welcoming place for even the biggest rigs.
Amenities include a swimming pool, small shop, laundry, wifi, and pet park.
Fossil Valley RV Park
Number of sites: 70
Fee: $41-49/night for RV’s and tents
Capacity: 6 people per standard site
RVs: Yes
Reservations: Recommended
Pets: Allowed (max 2)
More Information
This Good Sam park is within walking distance to shops and restaurants in central Vernal, making it a convenient choice. It is well suited for RVs of all sizes, with full hookups, large flat pitches, and a dump station. Both tents and RVs will appreciate the plentiful shade trees and grassy areas.
Amenities include laundry, wifi, picnic tables, and bathrooms with showers.
Outlaw Trail RV Park
Number of sites: 29
Fee: $35-38/night for RV’s, $15-20/night for tents, $30-95/night for cabins
Capacity: None stated
RVs: Yes
Reservations: Recommended
Pets: Allowed
More Information
Situated in the town of Jensen and just seven miles from the entrance of Dinosaur National Monument, this RV park is the closest option on this side of the Monument. While you won’t be quite as close to restaurants and services as you would be in Vernal, you’ll be well-positioned for endless adventures. Outlaw Trail offers pull-through and back-in gravel sites with full hookups, grassy tent pitches, and two rustic cabins.
Amenities include laundry, coin-operated showers, and a playground.
Red Fleet State Park Campground
Number of sites: 29
Fee: $25-28/night for RV’s, $15/night for tents, $35/night for teepees
Capacity: 8 people per site
RVs: Yes (sites #18-22 have hookups)
Reservations: Recommended for peak season (May 15th-October 1st)
Pets: Allowed
More Information
This beautiful campground is situated on the edge of the Red Fleet Reservoir and surrounded by the dramatic scenery of Red Fleet State Park. The 29 sites all welcome tents and RVs, although only sites #18-22 have hookups. The campground is about 10 miles north of Vernal and 40 minutes’ drive from the entrance of Dinosaur National Monument.
Amenities include picnic tables, firepits, flush toilets, trash collection, and boat rentals.
Camping Near Moffat County, CO
Craig KOA
Number of sites: 103
Fee: $39-64/night for RV’s, $30/night for tents, $63-72/night for cabins
Capacity: None stated
RVs: Yes
Reservations: Recommended
Pets: Allowed
More Information
This popular KOA is one of the best options for those entering Dinosaur National Monument from its eastern side. It is set on the edge of the town of Craig, providing easy access to shops and dining. The campground offers a variety of full hookup RV sites, plus tent camping and cabin rentals.
Amenities include a small shop, laundry, playground, and dog park.
Elkhead Reservoir State Park
Number of sites: 46 (30 electric at the Pronghorn Campground & 16 nonelectric at the Bears Ears Campground)
Fee: $22/night for a basic site (Bears Ears), $30/night for an electric site (Pronghorn)
Capacity: 6 people per site
RVs: Yes, electricity available at the Pronghorn Campground only
Reservations: Required. Reservations can be made online or by calling 1-800-244-5613.
Pets: Allowed
More Information
Elkhead Reservoir State Park offers two great campgrounds located just under an hour from the east entrance of Dinosaur National Monument. RVs and tents are welcome at both campgrounds, but electric hookups are only provided at the Pronghorn Campground. All sites have picnic tables, firepits, parking pads and access to nearby restrooms. Many sites enjoy shoreline locations on the edge of the reservoir. Keep in mind that reservations are required to camp in Elkhead Reservoir State Park.
Camping Near Dinosaur, CO
Rangely Camper Park
Number of sites: 26
Fee: $15/night
Capacity: None stated
RVs: Yes,
Reservations: Recommended in peak season
Pets: Allowed
More Information
This friendly, city-run campground is conveniently located in the center of Rangely, and within walking distance to shops and restaurants. It’s about a 25-minute drive from the southern entrance of Dinosaur National Monument. The paved sites, 30 amp hookups, dump station, and shady, grassy pitches make this a welcoming place for both tents and RVs. Amenities include bathrooms, hot showers, and a kids’ fishing pond.
Buck ‘N’ Bull RV Park
Number of sites: 29
Fee: $15/night for tents, $35/night for RVs
Capacity: None stated, but additional fee for more than 2 people
RVs: Yes
Reservations: Recommended in peak season
Pets: Allowed
More Information
This is a no-frills campground that provides well-equipped sites for both tents and RVs. It is located just a few miles outside of the town of Rangely, meaning its just a short drive from shops and restaurants and about 30 minutes from Dinosaur National Monument.
Amenities include laundry, wifi, and restrooms.
Kenney Reservoir
Number of sites: Varies
Fee: $8/night
Capacity: None stated
RVs: Yes
Reservations: N/A
Pets: Allowed
More Information
Seasonal camping (April-October) is allowed in designated sites along the edge of the reservoir. RVs are welcome, but there are no hookups and some spots can be tight. There are bathrooms, picnic tables, and swimming areas available for campers to use. Kenney Reservoir is just six miles from the town of Rangely and 30 minutes from Dinosaur National Monument.
Have a great trip!
That’s it!
We hope you’ve found all of the information in this post helpful and we know you’ll find the perfect campsite for your upcoming adventure in Dinosaur National Monument! Be sure to let us know in the comments below if you have any questions or had a great time out camping!
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