The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Dolores River Overlook, also referred to as the Dolores Canyon Overlook, is a remote and scenic location in southwestern Colorado. Like many of the state's most beautiful natural areas, the site is watched over by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The BLM administers various public sites all over the United States, many of which are often utilized for camping, hiking, fishing, and many other recreational activities. If you enjoy connecting with nature and visiting new places, consider searching online for "BLM camping near me." Doing so is a great way to find the most popular and unique BLM sites in your region to get started on your adventures.
Located about 30 miles north of Cortez, CO, the Dolores River Overlook is primarily used for primitive camping. However, there are also some excellent opportunities in the surrounding area for activities like fishing, hiking, and boating. During your visit to the site, you could also head to cool nearby destinations like Uncompahgre National Forest, Lone Mesa State Park, and San Juan National Forest.
This scenic out-and-back trail is located right near the Dolores River Overlook BLM site. You can hike or run the trail, and you'll definitely want to watch the skies for unique bird species flying overhead. The route takes you along a dirt pathway through Dolores Canyon, providing a serene atmosphere and some nice views.
Length: 5.9 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This short loop trail offers the chance to see the beautiful Treasure Falls waterfall up close. Located in San Juan National Forest, the route is great for hiking during spring and summer and an excellent spot for snowshoeing during winter. The ideal times to visit the trail are between May and November. It does tend to get a bit muddy after rainfall. You're welcome to bring your pups along, but they'll need to stay leashed.
Length: 0.7 miles
Intensity: Easy
This long out-and-back trail is located in San Juan National Forest near the city of Pagosa Springs, CO. The route, which meanders along the Piedra River, is perfect for both hiking and horseback riding. The trail should be doable for hikers of all ability levels, and the views and scenery are both excellent.
Length: 7.3 miles
Intensity: Easy
Although there isn't a fishing pier or boat access at the Dolores River Overlook BLM site, fishing and boating are both popular activities in the area. The river is a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, and rafting. Its waters are mostly gentle, so it shouldn't require too much experience to enjoy a day of non-motorized boating. As for fishing, the stream presents a top-notch opportunity to reel in brown, cutthroat, cutbow, and rainbow trout.
If you're skilled in rock climbing or canyoneering, you'll find several good spots around the Dolores River Overlook. However, many of the region's most popular rock-climbing destinations are found in San Juan National Forest. One that's definitely worth checking out is Coal Bank Pass to Engineer Mountain Summit, a challenging climbing route that's best visited between May and September. As you make your way to the summit of Engineer Mountain, you'll be able to enjoy exceptional views of the surrounding forest.
While spending time at the Dolores River Overlook, you might be lucky enough to spot river otters, elk, mule deer, and various birds and small mammals. You might also want to head over to the nearby Lone Mesa State Park, which is inhabited by many black bears, deer, and elk. San Juan National Forest is a great spot for wildlife observation as well. There, some of the species you might see include mountain lions, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, moose, bald eagles, and lots of other creatures.
The Dolores River Overlook BLM site is one of the most pleasant places in the region to enjoy a picnic lunch. The site provides several picnic tables and fire rings, so you won't need to worry about bringing along a blanket. Plus, you can cook some delicious food over the fire if you like. And while you eat, you'll be able to enjoy the gorgeous views of the river and canyon, which will make for an exceptionally memorable picnic.
You can absolutely enjoy BLM RV camping at the Dolores River Overlook site. The site features six individual camping sites as well as one group site, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Although the site can accommodate RV camping, there aren't any Bureau of Land Management campgrounds nearby with hookups or advanced amenities. However, you'll find several nice RV parks within a reasonable distance of the BLM site, including The Views RV Park & Campground and the WestView RV Resort.
There's no fee for the campsites at the Dolores River Overlook, so you're welcome to partake in Bureau of Land Management free camping at the site. Alternatively, if you're hoping to stake out your own dispersed campsite, you can look for a nice area outside the BLM site.
When you are planning a trip to the Dolores River Overlook, keep in mind that there aren't that many campsites available. Although the site isn't usually too busy, it may fill up quickly during the summer on weekends. Additionally, although you can bring your RV to the site, the campsites are more suited to tent camping. You should also come prepared with plenty of your own food and water since none is provided at the site. Once you've made the drive up to the overlook, it will be inconvenient to make a trip back into town to purchase any supplies. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
The BLM needs your help keeping places like the Dolores River Overlook clean, healthy, and beautiful. During your visit, please respect the "Leave No Trace" principles. If there are other guests at the site, be courteous and treat them the way you'd prefer to be treated.
To reach the Dolores River Overlook from Cortez, head north on US Highway 491 until you come to County Road J, then turn east. The turn will be only a short distance south of Dove Creek, CO. After about 2.4 miles, you will come to a "Y" in the road. Stay left, then continue on County Road J, which will turn into a dirt road after about two more miles. When you reach Road 15, take a left and continue until you come to the BLM site.
Ready to visit Dolores River Overlook? 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.
