West Campground

For those of us in Colorado who seek a genuine escape into nature, where the focus is on starry nights, crackling campfires, and the gentle sounds of the outdoors, West Campground at Mancos State Park stands out as a prime destination. Located on "Unnamed Road, Mancos, CO 81328, USA," this specific loop within the state park offers a more rustic and intimate experience, particularly appealing to tent campers and families looking to unplug and reconnect with the wilderness.

Mancos State Park, nestled in the scenic San Juan Mountains of Southwest Colorado, is a gem for year-round outdoor enthusiasts. Its West Campground, while perhaps not catering to every RV's electrical needs, is celebrated for its beautiful, spacious sites and close proximity to Jackson Gulch Reservoir. As one local review humorously notes, it's "a great spot for tent camping with family. RVs are less well served, electrical hookups are absent. Kids love it, parents are slightly horrified." This sentiment highlights its appeal for those embracing a more traditional camping style, ensuring a focus on the natural environment and shared experiences. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of West Campground, detailing its ideal location, the services it offers, its distinct features, and why it's a perfectly suited spot for us, the Coloradans who truly appreciate authentic outdoor adventures.

West Campground is one of two campgrounds located within Mancos State Park, situated at the address 42545 Road N, Mancos, CO 81328. While the provided "Unnamed Road" address is generic, the specific park entrance and campgrounds are well-marked. Mancos State Park itself is conveniently located in Southwest Colorado, approximately 6 miles east of the town of Mancos and about 30 minutes drive from the entrance to Mesa Verde National Park.

To access West Campground from Mancos, travelers typically head north on Highway 184 for a short distance, then turn onto County Road 42 (which becomes a well-maintained gravel road) before turning onto County Road N, which leads directly into the park. The roads leading to the park and within it are generally well-maintained, making it accessible for most vehicles, though campers should be aware that the West Campground specifically is noted to be "six miles from US160" on a sloped road towards the lake, which might require some leveling for RVs.

West Campground is positioned along the northwest side of Jackson Gulch Reservoir, offering views and easy access to the water. Its setting within a ponderosa pine forest at an elevation of approximately 7,800 feet provides a comfortable climate, often cooler than surrounding lower elevations during summer. This makes it an ideal escape from the heat, while still being centrally located to explore other attractions like the San Juan National Forest, the San Juan Skyway, and the historic town of Durango.

• Designated Campsites: West Campground offers nine campsites primarily suited for tent campers. Each site includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate, providing essential amenities for outdoor living. While RVs can park in designated spots, the lack of hookups makes it less ideal for them.

• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets for campers, which are regularly cleaned and maintained, contributing to a comfortable and sanitary camping experience.

• Bear Safes (Food Storage Lockers): A crucial service in this natural habitat is the provision of "bear safes for food." These sturdy, animal-resistant lockers are essential for securely storing food and scented items, helping to protect both campers and local wildlife.

• No Potable Water: It's important to note that the West Campground specifically does not have drinking water available on-site. Campers must "bring their own water" or access potable water from the Main Campground loop in Mancos State Park, which does offer it.

• No Electrical Hookups: As highlighted by reviews, West Campground lacks electrical hookups, making it ideal for those seeking a more traditional, off-grid camping experience. This encourages a focus on the natural surroundings.

• Check-in/Check-out: Check-in is typically at 1 p.m. on the day of arrival, and check-out is at 12 p.m. (noon) on the day of departure.

• Pet-Friendly: Leashed dogs are permitted within the campground, allowing families to bring their furry companions along for the adventure, provided owners clean up after them.

• Primarily Tent Camping Focused: West Campground is a perfect match for tent campers, offering spacious and secluded sites that allow for an immersive natural experience. This focus creates a quieter atmosphere compared to areas with heavy RV traffic.

• Beautiful, Shaded Sites with Views: The campground boasts "beautiful, spacious sites with well-maintained facilities, picnic tables and fire rings." Many sites offer "nice views through the trees to the surrounding mountains," and some have views of Jackson Gulch Reservoir, particularly on the western side which is recommended for its seclusion and views.

• Direct Access to Jackson Gulch Reservoir: Being located along the northwest side of the reservoir, campers have easy access to the water for non-motorized boating activities like canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The reservoir also offers opportunities for fishing for yellow perch and rainbow trout.

• Proximity to Hiking Trails: Mancos State Park features over five miles of trails, including the Black Bear Trail, Mountain Lion Trail, and Mule Deer Trail, with connections to longer US Forest Service trails. The campground provides an excellent base for exploring these routes.

• Rustic and Natural Atmosphere: The absence of electrical hookups and the emphasis on basic amenities contribute to a more authentic and natural camping feel. This appeals to those who truly want to disconnect and enjoy the serenity of the ponderosa pine forest.

• Wildlife Opportunities: The park and surrounding forest are home to various wildlife, including deer and possibly bears (hence the bear safes), offering opportunities for observation and photography.

• Quiet and Peaceful Environment (Especially Mid-week): While popular, the campground is often described as "quiet on a weeknight," suggesting a peaceful retreat, especially outside of peak weekend hours.

West Campground is part of Mancos State Park, which is managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). For detailed information, reservations (if applicable), and current conditions, it's best to contact the park directly.

• Address: 42545 Road N, Mancos, CO 81328, USA (This is the general park address, not specific to an "Unnamed Road")

• Park Phone: (970) 533-7065 (This is the primary contact number for Mancos State Park, which oversees West Campground)

• Park Email: Mancos.Park@State.Co.Us

• Reservations: While West Campground sites are typically first-come, first-served for tent sites, some state parks require reservations for all camping. It is always recommended to check the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website (cpw.state.co.us) or ReserveAmerica.com (1-800-244-5613) for the most current reservation policies and availability. Yurt reservations, if desired, are always required.

Always check the official CPW website for Mancos State Park for the most up-to-date information on fees, fire restrictions, water availability (especially for West Campground), and any other park alerts before your visit.

For us Coloradans, West Campground at Mancos State Park is an exceptionally suitable and appealing choice for a camping getaway, embodying much of what we love about our state's outdoor offerings. Its suitability for locals stems from its blend of natural beauty, authentic camping experience, and convenient access to the wonders of Southwest Colorado.

Firstly, its focus on tent camping and the absence of electrical hookups provide a genuine opportunity to disconnect from modern conveniences and truly immerse ourselves in the natural environment. This back-to-basics approach, complete with essential amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and especially the crucial bear safes, resonates with our appreciation for responsible and self-sufficient outdoor living. For families seeking to introduce their children to the joys of traditional camping, this environment is ideal, allowing them to experience nature unadulterated.

Secondly, the stunning setting within a ponderosa pine forest, with "spacious sites" and "nice views through the trees to the surrounding mountains" and Jackson Gulch Reservoir, provides the quintessential Colorado mountain-lake experience. The ability to enjoy non-motorized boating, fishing, and direct access to a network of hiking trails right from the campground means that a full day of adventure is always within reach. Its somewhat cooler summer temperatures offer a refreshing escape from the heat often found at lower elevations.

Finally, its strategic location near the charming town of Mancos and the world-renowned Mesa Verde National Park makes it a practical and enriching base for local exploration. We can easily venture out to discover ancient history or embark on scenic drives, returning to a peaceful and natural campsite. West Campground isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's an invitation for Coloradans to embrace the simple, profound beauty of our state, offering an "unplugged" experience that fosters connection with nature and creates lasting family memories, all within our beloved backyard.

West Campground

Unnamed Road, Mancos, CO 81328, USA