How much does camping cost at Mancos State Park?

Camping fees at Mancos State Park range from $22-$31/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Mancos State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Mancos State Park accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Mancos State Park before I book?

Yes! Mancos State Park has 13 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Mancos State Park?

Mancos State Park is open During the winter months, the west campground is closed, but several campsites in the upper loop of the main campground remain open.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Mancos State Park?

Mancos State Park does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Mancos State Park?

Fire policies at Mancos State Park: Fire bans may be enacted seasonally, as indicated by user reviews.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Is there cell service at Mancos State Park?

Cell phone service at Mancos State Park is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Mancos State Park have?

Mancos State Park has 32 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Mancos State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Mancos State Park. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Mancos State Park?

Mancos State Park offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Mancos State Park

4.34

111 reviews

Box 1047, Dolores, Colorado, 81323, United States

Top 6% in COWinter

Summer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

7,858 ft

Price

$22 - $31/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

32 campsites

Season

During the winter mo...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Colorado Parks and Wildlife Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

7,858 ft

Price

$22 - $31/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

32 campsites

Season

During the winter mo...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Colorado Parks and Wildlife Official Website

Get Directions

Mancos State Park

$22.00 - $31.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Pass Campsite Description West Campground Duration 1 Night Cost $20 Pass Campsite Description Main Campground Duration 1 Night Cost $22

Standard Site Fee$22.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Reserve America

Provider

9708822213

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Mancos State Park

Compare with similar sites, watch availability, and build a packing list — Camp Sage handles all of it.

Campground Map

Box 1047, Dolores, Colorado, 81323, United States

Mancos State Park

Box 1047, Dolores, Colorado, 81323, United States

Nearby places

Mancos (approximately 5 miles), Durango (27 miles), Cortez (null, not explicitly mentioned but in the region)

Nearby supplies

The town of Mancos provides supplies and amenities, approximately 5 miles away. User reviews mention Mancos having great places to visit.

Driving directionsFrom Durango take Hwy 160 west 27 miles to the town of Mancos. Go north on Hwy 184 1/2 miles and turn east onto County Rd 42 (Forest Service Rd 561). Go 5 miles and take Rd N to the park entrance.

Road access includes paved highways leading to Mancos before transitioning to gravel roads. Seasonal accessibility issues are not explicitly mentioned, but dirt roads around the dam can be dusty due to vehicle traffic. User reviews describe the campground circle as narrow with trees on either side, posing challenges for larger rigs.

Weather at Mancos State Park

Current alert: Seasonal fire bans may be in effect as indicated in user reviews.

Best Time to Camp at Mancos State Park

Summer brings the most reliable conditions, with daytime highs in the mid-70s to low-80s and nights dropping into the 40s-50s. Water recreation peaks during these months, and afternoon monsoons are common. Mountain breezes pick up from mid-morning through evening. Winter turns the park into a snow-covered landscape for hardy campers willing to deal with limited services. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds but less predictable weather at this elevation.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Most reliable season; lake recreation peaks, comfortable daytime temps and active reviews.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: During the winter months, the west campground is closed, but several campsites in the upper loop of the main campground remain open.

About Mancos State Park

Mancos State Park sits at 7,858 feet in a Ponderosa pine forest with Jackson Lake at its center. The park has 32 campsites plus yurts, offering views of the San Juan Mountains and access to Mesa Verde and the San Juan Skyway. Sites run $22-31 per night and accommodate tents, RVs, and primitive camping.

Mancos State Park accommodates a range of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV sites, walk-in sites, and yurt rentals. The park is open year-round and offers winter camping opportunities.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most reliable conditions, with daytime highs in the mid-70s to low-80s and nights dropping into the 40s-50s. Water recreation peaks during these months, and afternoon monsoons are common. Mountain breezes pick up from mid-morning through evening. Winter turns the park into a snow-covered landscape for hardy campers willing to deal with limited services. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds but less predictable weather at this elevation.

ElevationPerched high in the mountainous terrain of Southwest Colorado, the park occupies that sweet spot where the air is crisp and clear, yet still comfortable for most visitors. This elevated sanctuary offers the perfect balance of mountain atmosphere without the extreme altitudes that can challenge some travelers.

Natural Features and SceneryThe San Juan mountain range rises behind the campground, where mature Ponderosa pines dominate the landscape. Jackson Lake is the focal point, with water levels that shift seasonally to reveal different shoreline features. The elevation and pine ecosystem create filtered light and cooler temperatures even in summer. Some campsites sit close to the water, trading privacy for direct lake access and mountain views.

Geological RegionSet against the dramatic backdrop of the San Juan mountain range, this corner of Southwest Colorado tells a story millions of years in the making. The campground rests within a mature Ponderosa pine ecosystem that has evolved alongside the ancient geology of the region. Jackson Lake, carved by time and geological forces, serves as the centerpiece of this remarkable landscape where the San Juan Skyway winds through some of Colorado's most breathtaking terrain.

Scenic ViewsViews include breathtaking scenery of surrounding mountains and Jackson Reservoir, although it has been noted that the reservoir may be drained during some seasons.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe park offers two yurts for rent. These yurts reportedly sleep up to six people, feature electricity and heat, and are described as 'pretty cool' by reviewers.

Programs & ActivitiesNo specific cultural or educational programs are mentioned in the content or user reviews.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Visitors may not camp or park a motor vehicle, trailer, or camper in a state park for more than 14 days in any 28-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum number of guests per site is not explicitly mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground splits into east and west sections. Sites are generally large and level with good spacing between them. West side prioritizes seclusion, east side emphasizes convenience. Some smaller sites exist around the reservoir perimeter.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at www.cpwshop.com.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve camping may be available outside reservation dates. Contact the park for details.

Cancellation PolicyReservations made with one or more days outside the 6-month reservation window are frozen to changes for 14 days from the reservation date. Cancellation deadlines are not explicitly stated.

AccessibilityLimited specific details on accessibility are provided. However, basic and easy trails are mentioned, and the campgrounds are described as well-maintained.

Site SizeCampsites are generally described as large, with some small campgrounds around the reservoir. West side sites are noted for their bear boxes and seclusion while east side sites include potable water and dumpsters.

PrivacyThere is a good level of privacy at most campsites, with sites spaced out enough to feel isolated to some extent. Some campsites are located closer to the shoreline, providing scenic but less private settings.

Total Campsites32 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid campsite 25 due to proximity to an outhouse. West-side campsites offer seclusion and quieter experiences.

Best CampsitesWest-side sites offer more seclusion and include bear boxes. East-side sites have potable water and dumpsters nearby. Lakeside spots provide scenic settings but less privacy and may have reduced water access when reservoir levels drop. Multiple reviewers recommend reserving in advance, especially for holiday weekends.

Need help booking Mancos State Park?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

ReserveAmerica Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

There are no electrical hook-ups at Mancos.

Potable water

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Lodging and accommodations

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The park offers a wide range of activities to campers, including fishing, hiking, non-motorized boating, bird and wildlife watching, and winter activities like snowshoeing. Nearby attractions such as the Four Corners region and Mesa Verde National Park add to the recreational opportunities.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include bear activity; bear-proof lockers are available at west-side sites. Seasonal fire bans and narrow roads also pose challenges.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers are available at west-side campsites but are not provided at east-side sites.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFire bans may be enacted seasonally, as indicated by user reviews.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services such as ranger stations are available at the park, and contact numbers include 9708822213 for the direct line and 9705337065 for the ranger station.

Trash & RecyclingTrash receptacles are available at vault toilets and dumpsters are located on the east side. Reviewers noted issues with trash along the shoreline during their visits.

Water FeaturesJackson Reservoir is the focal point for fishing and non-motorized boating, although it may be drained during certain seasons.

Camp HostHosts are available, with some users praising their helpfulness, e.g., 'Camp host Yves was very helpful.'

Cell CoverageCell service is described as good by multiple reviewers, though specific network coverage details are absent.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.3

111 reviews

Recommended

Mancos State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Mancos State Park has received mixed reviews, with common praise for its clean facilities, beautiful scenery, and diverse recreational activities. Some negative comments include issues with trash, reservation challenges, and additional fees.

Review Summaries

Based on 111 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers often noted the park's cleanliness, beautiful mountain views, abundant recreational options, and friendly staff. The yurts and stargazing opportunities also received specific praise.

Based on 111 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include additional entrance fees beyond the reservation cost, limited availability of showers and flush toilets, and trash along the shoreline. Some reviewers found the reservation system...

Based on 111 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

West side sites are described as secluded with bear boxes, while east side sites include potable water and more amenities. Campsite 25 is noted as undesirable due to proximity to an outhouse.

Based on 111 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive with a reservation, and be aware of additional entrance fees. Opt for west-side campsites for seclusion and bear boxes. Bring extra trash bags to help keep the area clean.

Based on 111 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight the lake's activities, while winter reviews focus on snowshoeing and the 'magical' experience of winter yurt camping. Spring can be challenging due to snow cover on campsites.

Based on 111 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Fishing was excellent on both trips, and the hiking trail around the lake is nice." - A Smith. "Winter yurt camping is a magical experience." - Abe Young. "West side campsites are secluded and offer...

Based on 111 reviews

Accessibility Features

Limited details on accessibility, but the park has basic trails and well-maintained grounds.

Based on 111 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, but leash rules are strictly enforced. Most reviewers had positive experiences bringing their dogs.

Based on 111 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Go if

Anglers and paddlers get the most from this place: rainbow trout stocking makes limits genuinely achievable, and the non-motorized boat ramp puts kayaks on the water in minutes. West-side sites have bear boxes and real seclusion. Avoid site 25.

Skip if

No showers, no electric hookups, and a separate entrance fee on top of the nightly rate frustrate people who don't read the fine print. The reservoir sometimes runs low enough to disappoint, and flush toilets aren't in the picture.

Nearby Campgrounds

San Juan National Forest, Mancos, CO 81328, USA

Transfer Campground sits in the San Juan National Forest near Mancos, Colorado, at high elevation where quaking aspens blaze gold each fall. Operated by the San Juan National Forest, this small campground offers tent, RV, primitive, and group sites with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Campers come for hiking access and the quiet alpine setting, with camp hosts maintaining clean facilities and a peaceful atmosphere.