Cortez SRMA
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Cortez SRMA is the home of Phil’s World Mountain Bike Trail with flowing trails crossing mesa tops. Guests will also find cross-country open zones designed for OHVs and rock climbing. The high elevation offers more pleasant spring and fall excursions. RVers will find a basecamp near Canyons of the Ancients and ample access to developed and dispersed campgrounds. It's the perfect locale for RVers who enjoy an active lifestyle. Guests generally need reservations for RV parks and developed accommodations.
Quick Facts About RVing in Cortez SRMA
● RV Friendly: Yes ● Max RV Length: 45 feet ● Camping Type: Dispersed camping ● Reservations: No ● Hookups: None ● Dump Station: None onsite ● Potable Water: Bring your own ● Cell Service: Spotty ● Pets: Allowed, but must be on a leash ● Roads: Sandy soil and slickrock ● Best Season: Spring and fall
Why RV Travelers Love This BLM Area
● Almost year-round outdoor recreation ● A world-class mountain bike opportunity ● The Mud Springs zone, offering an epic 4x4 and ATV adventure ● Close proximity to Mesa Verde National Park ● Cultural sites including Canyons of the Ancients and Hovenweep National Monuments ● Dispersed camping and developed RV parks ● Small-town convenience, including local breweries and restaurants
What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Phil's World Mountain Bike Trail
The Phil's World mountain biking trail system is located within the Cortez SRMA BLM site. With numerous trails ranging from beginner to intermediate in difficulty, the trail system features both classic single-track riding and more challenging slickrock riding. Many of the biking trails are mildly technical with extended uphill areas.
Length: 18.9 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Sand Canyon Trail
The Sand Canyon Trail can be found near the Canyons of The Ancients National Monument to the west of the Cortez SRMA. As you may have guessed, the heavily trafficked trail takes hikers on a trek through sandy areas and canyons. During the hike, you'll experience gorgeous views and numerous beautiful wildflowers. The trail is best used between March and October.
Length: 12.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Ruins Road Loop
Located near the Hawkins Preserve, the Ruins Road Loop is a quiet, peaceful loop trail suitable for hikers of all skill levels. You'll want to be careful not to get lost since the trail isn't clearly marked in some areas.
Length: 1 mile
Intensity: Easy
Fishing and Boating
If you're hoping to do some fishing or boating in the area, you'll be in luck. The McPhee Reservoir is located less than ten miles north of the Cortez SRMA. The sizable lake is regarded as an excellent fishery, with numerous species of both cold and warm water fish inhabiting it. Some of the fish you may catch there include small and largemouth bass, rainbow trout, crappie, northern pike, perch, and kokanee salmon. As for boating on the reservoir, it typically opens on May 1st each year, and the lake features a boat ramp that's open seven days a week. You can also use the calm waters for swimming or water sports.
Climbing
Although rock climbing is prohibited in nearby Mesa Verde National Park, you will find several fantastic climbing routes in San Juan National Forest to the east of the BLM site. Among the breathtaking forested mountains of the area, climbing opportunities of varying difficulty levels are abundant. A few potential climbing routes and trails that you can take on include Chicago Basin to Mount Eolus, the Engineer Mountain Trail, and the Pilot Knob Trail.
Wildlife Viewing
Although you may see a few interesting animals roaming the Cortez SRMA, many of the best nearby wildlife viewing opportunities can be found at Mesa Verde National Park. Among the vast park's many trails and archaeological sites, you'll have a good chance to spot bobcats, coyotes, mule deer, weasels, rabbits, owls, and a variety of snakes and lizards. If you look up through the trees, you'll also observe many types of birds roaming the skies.
Picnicking
The closest picnicking facilities to the BLM site will likely be found at scenic Totten Lake. You can enjoy your lunch while you relax by the water, and when you're finished, you can partake in some water-based recreation or hiking.
Bureau of Land Management Camping
RV Camping 
Any RV camping within the actual Cortez SRMA BLM site will have to be primitive camping as there aren't any Bureau of Land Management campgrounds nearby. However, you will have several nearby options for quality RV campgrounds. La Mesa RV Park is very close to the SRMA, and it features large pull-through RV campsites with 50-amp electricity hookups. Just north of that campground is the WestView RV Resort, which boasts 93 full hookup RV sites and numerous amenities and conveniences.
Dispersed Camping
Dispersed camping is available onsite. The stay limit for the campground is 14 days within a 28-day period. Guests should park their RV on durable surfaces where there are existing pull-outs. You should also avoid blocking access points for mountain bike paths. All guests should adhere to fire restrictions and bans to avoid penalties. Roads along this area are unpaved and rocky.
Is This BLM Area Good for Your RV?
● Camper Vans: Camper vans are a good choice for Cortez SRMA because their short wheelbase makes them easier to maneuver on narrower roads. ● Travel Trailers: Travel trailers would be suitable for this trip if you choose a single-axle type that is more compact and has independent suspension. ● Fifth Wheels: Fifth wheels are well suited to paved roads and developed campgrounds near Cortez SRMA. Their extra length and wider turning radius can make narrow, uneven roads and dispersed camping areas more difficult to navigate. ● Class A Motorhomes: Class A motorhomes are typically larger and require a wider turning radius, so they are best suited to developed campgrounds and more spacious, paved areas. ● Class B Motorhomes: Smaller Class B motorhomes are a good fit for this trip. Their short wheelbase and compact size make them easier to maneuver on narrow roads. ● Class C Motorhomes: Smaller Class C motorhomes can work well around Cortez SRMA, especially on paved and gravel roads. If you have a larger model, consider leaving it at camp when exploring steep or rough access roads.
Free Camping 
All of the established campgrounds near the BLM site require reservations or fees, but you're free to explore dispersed Bureau of Land Management free camping throughout the SRMA. As long as you stay off the mountain biking trails and only use durable land surfaces, you can set up a primitive campsite wherever you deem to be a suitable spot. The most secluded and scenic options will likely be around any of the nearby lakes.
RV Rentals Near Cortez SRMA Plan your next adventure
Planning your Cortez SRMA BLM trip
If you're planning a trip to the Cortez SRMA BLM site and planning to camp overnight, keep in mind that you won't have access to any amenities, services, food, or drinking water within the SRMA. If you do need to make a trip for supplies or equipment, your best bet will be the nearby town of Cortez. All of the nearby communities are relatively small towns with limited shopping options, so you'll probably want to bring most of what you'll need with you on the trip. Additionally, if you partake in mountain biking at the Phil's World trails, make sure to ride safely and watch out for other riders. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
What RV Travelers Should Know Before Arriving
RVers should arrive with plenty of water, especially during the warmer months. Cortez SRMA is only about five to 10 minutes from grocery stores, gas stations, and camping-supply shops, so it’s easy to stock up before heading out. The Cortez Industrial Park Dump Station is the closest option for emptying your tanks. Cell service can be spotty, and trash disposal is generally limited to developed campgrounds, so plan accordingly. Generators are allowed on BLM land, but quiet hours run from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. Winter visitors should also watch for icy roads and possible closures. Cortez and Dolores are the nearest service towns, with emergency response provided through Montezuma County. Read this RV checklist for advice on what to bring with you.
Leave No Trace 
The BLM asks that all visitors to their sites follow the Leave No Trace guidelines. These guidelines are about protecting the health of the sites and treating the areas with respect. Please properly dispose of all garbage and waste and respect your fellow visitors at the site. If you encounter any wildlife, maintain a healthy distance and avoid disturbing or removing anything you find on the land. Anything you can do to minimize your impact on the land will help preserve the beautiful area.
Cortez SRMA Location
To reach the Cortez SRMA from Durango, CO, take US-160 W for approximately 40 miles. When you reach Rd 30.1, turn right, and you'll reach the BLM site.
Ready to visit Cortez SRMA? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
Plan Your Day at Cortez SRMA
● Morning: Eat a healthy breakfast to start your day. Head to the singletrack flow trails for a walk, or take a ride on your bicycle. ● Afternoon: Head back to your RV, and then drive to Colorado Highway 184. Stop at the Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center and Museum. Take the Pueblo tour, and view artifacts and archaeological sites. ● Evening: In the evening, head to the town of Cortez for dinner at a local restaurant or to take in the local nightlife. Return to your RV for a peaceful evening of stargazing.
Nearby Attractions
● Mesa Verde National Park: About 20 minutes from Cortez SRMA, Mesa Verde National Park is a preserve featuring Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings. You’ll see Cliff Palace at this attraction, and it is close to the town of Cortez. ● Canyons of the Ancients National Monument: About 15 minutes from Cortez SRMA, Canyons of the Ancients National Monument offers archaeological sites, petroglyphs, and a visitor center and museum. It's a convenient stop that combines outdoor recreation with exploring the region's cultural history. ● Hovenweep National Monument: A little over an hour from Cortez SRMA, Hovenweep National Monument is known for its multi-story Puebloan towers and archaeological sites. ● Hawkins Preserve: About 20 minutes from Cortez SRMA, Hawkins Preserve is a 122-acre natural area with slickrock trails, archaeological features, and hiking. Its location close to Cortez makes it an easy stop before returning to camp. ● McPhee Reservoir: McPhee Reservoir is about 20 minutes away and offers water-based recreation. You can boat or fish at this reservoir.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you RV camp at Cortez SRMA? You can RV camp at dispersed and developed campgrounds near Cortez SRMA. You may find a few primitive camping sites inside Cortez SRMA. Because sites are primitive, arrive with your own water, and plan to pack out trash and manage your RV waste. Full-service RV parks are minutes away and offer electric and water hookups. Are motorized vehicles permitted at Cortez SRMA? Currently, there are designated trails for motorized and non-motorized trails. You can only take motorized vehicles on the OHV trails, so check for appropriate signage. Keep your RV or tow vehicle on routes designated for motorized travel, and avoid blocking trail access or parking areas. When is the best time to visit Cortez SRMA? You are welcome to visit any time of year, since it is a year-round attraction. However, it is best to visit in spring and fall because of the extreme summer temperatures and potential for icy conditions in winter. How does the stay limit work at Cortez SRMA and BLM lands? You are allowed to stay at a specific BLM campground for a maximum of 14 days within a 28-day period. You can move to another BLM campground after your 14-day stay if you want to stay in the area. Can you bring pets to Cortez SRMA? Yes, pets are allowed at Cortez SRMA, but you must keep them on a leash when outside. Remain cautious if you take your dogs on the hiking trails. Bring plenty of water for your pet, particularly during warmer weather, and clean up all pet waste before you leave.
Rent the Right RV for This Trip
When planning a trip to Cortez SRMA, it’s important to rent the best RV to ensure comfort and convenience. Camper vans and Class B motorhomes are the best choice for this area; however, Class C models are suitable if you choose a model that is 24 feet or lower. Some RVshare rentals may offer setup or delivery for added convenience. You can also book a reservation at a developed campground or RV park in advance. Consider visiting the area in spring or fall to avoid crowds and extreme summer temperatures. Browse RV rentals in Cortez, CO, and find the best model for your trip.
Nearby BLM Locations
- Durango SRMA - Bureau of Land Management
- Canyons of the Ancients National Monument - Bureau of Land Management
- Canyons of the Ancients National Monument - Visitor Center and Museum - Bureau of Land Management
- Phil's World - Bureau of Land Management
- Lowry Pueblo National Historic Landmark - Bureau of Land Management