How to Camp at Mesa Verde National Park

Andreas F. Borchert

It's hard to see all of Mesa Verde National Park in a single day. With a dozen ranger- or self-guided tours, hiking trails, lectures, campfire programs, a museum and souvenir shops, it makes sense to spend a few nights. The large Morefield campground rents more than 400 comfortable campsites, accommodating both RVs and tent campers. Morefield, open May to October, seldom fills to capacity. The park has showers, laundry, fuel, restaurants and groceries. For those without camping gear, rent Aramark's Base Camp: a roomy tent, two cots, a lantern and breakfast for two.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Camping gear Food Entry fee Campsite Tent
Camping gear
Food
Entry fee
Campsite
Tent

Step 1

MapQuest.com

Reserve ahead if you want a group camp, Base Camp or RV site with hookup. Aramark Parks and Destinations deftly manages lodging at the park, so call (888) 896-3831 or check out visitmesaverde.com.

Step 2

Arrive at the park, near Cortez in southwest Colorado, from Albuquerque, N.M., Denver, Colo., Provo, Utah, or Flagstaff, Ariz., early enough to get a choice of campsites. Park entry fee of $15 (May to October) is good for a week.

Step 3

Photo courtesy of Jacob Rus

Follow signs from the park entrance to the Morefield Campground registration area, where you will find efficient help. The campground is large enough that you may walk in and rent a tent or RV site without electricity nearly any day, May to October.

Step 4

Find a campsite, complete the form and drop it, with payment, in the after-hours box if you arrive between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m.

Tips & Warnings

During high season, Memorial Day to Labor Day, take advantage of the pancake breakfast at the Knife's Edge Café. Breakfast for two is included in Base Camp rental.

Resources

Camping with supplied tent

Article Written By Lani Johnson

Lani Johnson is a hiking, writing musician. Recent published work includes journalism, poetry and research. See her online writing at Trails.com or at Azacda.presspublisher.us.

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