Phil's World
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Phil's World brings fast, flowing trails to the rolling mesas just outside Cortez. Part of the Cortez Special Recreation Management Area, the system includes 15 miles of non-motorized BLM trails and 13 miles of BLM routes for off-highway vehicles (OHVs). Another 12 non-motorized miles cross adjacent State Trust Land leased by the Southwest Colorado Cycling Association. Mountain bikers must follow the trails clockwise, but hikers and other non-motorized visitors may also use them. RV travelers can visit during the day, but they can't camp within the recreation zone. The Phil’s World trailhead sits just off U.S. Highway 160. You don’t need a reservation to spend the day there.
Quick Facts About RVing at Phil’s World BLM
• RV Friendly: Limited to day use • Max RV Length: No posted limit • Camping Type: No onsite camping; dispersed camping nearby • Overnight Parking: Prohibited • Reservations: Not required • Trailhead Fee: No BLM fee; trail donations encouraged • Hookups: None • Dump Station: None onsite, but can find options near Cortez and Mancos • Potable Water: Bring your own • Cell Service: Varies across the trail system • Pets: Allowed; keep dogs leashed • Roads: Paved highway and unpaved access road • Non-Motorized Trails: 27 miles across BLM and State Trust lands • OHV Trails: 13 designated BLM miles • Bike Direction: Clockwise travel only • Terrain: Rolling mesas and small canyons • Best Season: Spring and fall
Why RV Travelers Love This BLM Area
• Easy access from U.S. Highway 160 • About 15 minutes from services and amenities in Cortez • Nearby RV parks with full hookups • Legal dispersed camping within driving distance • Day-use parking for smaller RVs • No reservations required for visiting • Close to Mesa Verde and other public lands • Convenient stop on a Four Corners RV trip
What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Rib Cage
This single track is one of the smaller parts of the Phil's World trail system, but it's also perhaps the most fun. You might hear the delightful screams of riders here long before you get to it. Once you do, you'll see the rolling terrain and why it's so fun. Lap this trail as many times as you want so you can keep doing it again and again. Length: 0.7 miles Intensity: Moderate
Lemonhead
This in-and-out single track has an average grade of just 2% and maxes out at 9%. You'll go 259 feet up on the way in and then the same combing back down. You get to drop off several ledges and traverse a hillside before hitting fast cruising along the top of a mesa. Stop at the Cortez overlook for views of the city and the Totten Reservoir. Length: 4.3 miles Intensity: Moderate
Stinking Springs
This single track is more of a technical ride than many trails around it. It's conveniently located right off the primary Phil's World Loop and close to Rib Cage, so you can take this loop and come right back to the main action. Ride through jumps, fast straights, and seriously banked turns. However, be ready for pinch flats on your bike, especially if you run tubed tires. Length: 5.4 miles Intensity: Moderate
Abajo
This trail is a 102-foot climb, but the max grade is only 7%. Take this trail to reach the Abajo overlook, but be prepared to share the space. Frequent riders stop here for snacking and regrouping with the rest of their pack. Try to visit on a clear day for panoramic views of mountains in every direction, such as the La Sals, Abajo, La Platas, and Wilson groups. Length: 0.8 miles Intensity: Moderate
Big Al Trail
If you want a hike instead of biking, then check this trail out 40 minutes northeast of Cortez. The trail might not take your breath away, but the views of Helmet Peak and Burro Mountain might. Late-summer hikes are a great time to see the fall foliage in this environment. Length: 0.5 miles Intensity: Beginner
Fishing and Boating
Denny Lake Park in Cortez has a playground, picnic tables, and restrooms beside the lake. Walk or hike the 1-mile trail that goes around the lake, stand on the shores to go fishing, or get your canoe in the water. Totten Lake is close to Cortez and attracts many waterbirds, given how rare water is in this region. Expect to see high concentrations of birds, but you might need a scope or binoculars to see them up close.
Climbing
If you want to do some bouldering, then Hawkins Preserve is where to look. This is a city-operated area with a number of uses, including Pueblo ruins. The primary bouldering path is along McElmo Creek, specifically a half-mile of sandstone escarpment along the north bank. You need a pass in order to go bouldering here, but it's very simple to get on site. The rim height ranges in different places and goes up to 30 feet. A multitude of different boulder sizes and positions keep this place versatile and interesting for a day on the rocks.
Wildlife Viewing
Most mammals in the area are bats and rodents, but larger mammals might include coyotes, mountain lions, bobcats, and mule deer. Common reptiles include sagebrush or side-blotched lizards, striped whipsnakes, gopher snakes, and midget faded rattlesnakes. Water spots are uncommon in the high desert, so waterbirds flock to them. If you spend time by water, you might see shorebirds, gulls, or even grebes.
Picnicking
Centennial Park has picnic tables, trash receptacles, restrooms, a playground, and even one electrical outlet. This ADA-accessible space has park shelters you can reserve in advance. Montezuma Park is one of the oldest parks in the city of Cortez. Located conveniently close to downtown, it's a great spot for a summer picnic, thanks to mature trees providing shade.
Bureau of Land Management Camping
RV Camping 
RV camping isn't permitted at the trailhead parking lot, but Cortez has places you can stay. Sundance RV Park has pull-through sites with electricity connections, showers, and restrooms. Long, wide sites are easy to pull into, and many trees dot the site for shade. Pets are allowed, and Sundance is close to shopping and groceries. Other Cortez RV camping options include Cortez Elks Lodge #1789, Cortez RV Resort by Rjourney, and La Mesa RV Park.
Dispersed Camping
Phil’s World permits day use only, so dispersed camping isn’t available within the recreation zone or at the trailheads. RV travelers can find legal places to camp on other BLM land near Cortez. You may want to check out some of the backcountry areas of Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. Campers may stay for up to 14 days within a 28-day period. To get the most out of your RV trip, you should choose an existing site. Keep your RV near an open route, and follow Leave No Trace principles by camping only in previously disturbed sites, packing out all trash, and minimizing your impact. Watch the weather conditions, since dirt roads can become muddy after rain or snow, making smaller, high-clearance rigs easier to place. Before you use a stove or build a fire, check the local fire restrictions.
Is This BLM Area Good for Your RV?
• Camper Vans: Camper vans fit easily in the day-use lot and handle the short unpaved approach well. They also provide a convenient place to change clothes or store your bikes. • Travel Trailers: You should leave the trailer at a legal campsite, and visit Phil’s World in the tow vehicle. This can help you avoid taking up extra parking. You’ll have an easier time turning around. • Fifth Wheels: Fifth wheels are not a practical choice for the Phil’s World area. Fifth wheels are too long and wide. In addition, their wide turning radius can cause problems when the parking area gets busy. • Class A Motorhomes: The approach has no major grades, but large motorhomes need too much parking space to work well here. Arrive early, or leave the RV at camp. • Class B Motorhomes: Class B motorhomes are the easiest RVs to use at Phil's World because they fit comfortably in the day-use parking area. • Class C Motorhomes: Shorter Class Cs should fit comfortably during quieter periods. Longer models may have difficulty finding room on weekends or during cycling events.
Free Camping 
Plenty of dispersed camping sites are available in the Cortez area. Find two on Road 34 opposite the entrance to Mesa Verde National Park. Four more sites are available north of Dolores east of McPhee Reservoir. Take N 11th Street out of town and follow it when it turns into Road 31.
RV Rentals Near Phil's World Plan your next adventure
Planning your Phil's World BLM trip
Phil's World is partly on BLM land, but the rest is located on State Trust Land that the Kokopelli Bike Club leases and maintains. If you don't have an annual membership, the club asks riders to put $3 per person in the parking lot pay box to help them manage their lease, trail, and liability insurance. The trailhead parking lot has a changing station, restroom, and picnic area available. The parking lot and trails are open all year long. Tools and common replacement parts for your bike need to be included in your packing. Make sure you and your bike are ready for miles and miles of fun, but also remember that it's a high-desert environment. Pack clothes in layers, bring plenty of water, and have sunscreen handy. 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
Since you can’t stay overnight at Phil’s World, you won’t find RV amenities. Instead, you’ll need to fill up at one of several RV parks along U.S. Highway 160. Roughly five minutes away from Phil’s World is Cortez RV Resort. This campground features full-hookup RV sites. You can fill your water tank, empty your holding tanks, and buy propane and other supplies. In Cortez, you’ll find grocery stores, repair shops, and restaurants. Because overnight camping isn't permitted at Phil's World, generator use isn't an issue within the recreation area. If you're staying on nearby BLM land or in an RV park, follow the campground's posted quiet hours and generator policies. Travelers should keep in mind that cell service outside Cortez may be spotty. You should download any maps and directions before leaving the campsite. If you need medical care, the nearest 24-hour emergency room is at Southwest Memorial Hospital, which is 10 minutes away from Phil’s World.
Leave No Trace 
Phil's World attracts a lot of mountain bikers who crave the natural beauty and thrills of this part of Colorado. While some of the land is maintained by the Kokopelli Bike Club, it's everyone's responsibility to do their part in keeping this space pristine and available for future riders. Never leave any trash or anything else behind, and stay on the trails when you ride. Remembering to "Leave No Trace" should be the goal for everyone. Also, don't disturb the juniper forest or other vegetation since it is an animal habitat.
Phil's World Location
The Phil's World trailhead parking lot is just 3 miles east of Cortez along Highway 160. Look for it on the north side, and access it on Road 30.1. It's opposite the Montezuma County Fairgrounds. Tres Rios Field Office Address: 29211 Highway 184, Dolores, CO 81323 Ready to visit Phil's World? 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 Phil’s World BLM
• Morning: Enjoy coffee at the campsite, then drive to Phil’s World before the mesa heats up. Follow one of the non-motorized trails on foot, and pause at an overlook for views of Cortez and the surrounding mountains. • Afternoon: Return to the RV for lunch, or head into Cortez for a restaurant meal. Spend the afternoon visiting a local museum, walking through Hawkins Preserve, or picking up supplies for the next part of the trip. • Evening: Leave Phil’s World before the day-use area closes. Return to your RV campsite for dinner before watching the sunset, and stay outside for stargazing.
Nearby Attractions
• Cortez: About 10 minutes away, Cortez is the closest stop for groceries, fuel, propane, bike repairs, restaurants, and medical care. RV travelers can also stock up on drinking water and other camping supplies. • Mesa Verde National Park: Reach the park entrance in about 20 minutes. Some roads become steep and winding, so leave larger RVs at camp when possible. • Canyons of the Ancients National Monument: The visitor center is roughly 20 minutes away. You can stop here to pick up maps, use the restroom, and find current backcountry road information. • Lowry Pueblo: About 35 minutes away, this archaeological site has parking, picnic tables, interpretive signs, and a short walking trail. • Mancos State Park: Drive about 35 minutes to fish, paddle, watch birds, or relax beside Jackson Gulch Reservoir.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you camp overnight at Phil’s World? No. BLM manages Phil’s World as a day-use recreation area. Camping and overnight parking are prohibited at the main trailhead, Simon Draw Trailhead, and Cash Canyon Trailhead. Stay at a developed campground or legal dispersed site nearby, and leave the recreation zone by the end of the day. Can a large RV reach the Phil’s World trailhead? Yes, but visiting in a smaller vehicle is usually easier. U.S. Highway 160 provides a paved approach, followed by a short unpaved access road. BLM does not post an RV length limit. Large motorhomes and tow combinations may struggle to find enough parking or turning space during busy periods. Do visitors need reservations or an entrance pass? No reservation or BLM entrance fee is required. However, part of the trail network crosses State Trust Land leased by the Southwest Colorado Cycling Association. Visitors may see a donation box near the entrance. Carrying a small amount of cash allows trail users to support maintenance, insurance, and visitor facilities. Do you need four-wheel drive to visit Phil’s World? Four-wheel drive is not normally necessary. Passenger vehicles and standard RVs can handle the short unpaved approach during dry weather. Rain or melting snow may create mud, ruts, and slippery conditions. Avoid driving or using the trails when mud begins collecting on tires or leaving deep tracks. Are the trails only for mountain bikers? No. Hikers and other non-motorized visitors may use the non-motorized trails, although mountain bikes account for much of the traffic. Cyclists must travel clockwise to reduce congestion. Phil’s World also includes 13 miles of designated BLM routes for off-highway vehicles. Stay on routes marked for the chosen activity. What is the best season for an RV trip to Phil’s World? Spring and fall usually offer the most comfortable temperatures and dependable trail conditions. Summer visits require an early start, extra water, and sun protection. Winter weather varies. Snow, ice, or thawing soil may temporarily make trails unusable, even when the parking area and access road remain open.
Rent the Right RV for This Trip
A camper van, Class B motorhome, or compact Class C can get you to and from Phil’s World. Renting a smaller camper van or Class B through RVshare can make visiting Phil's World easier, since compact rigs fit more comfortably in the trailhead parking area while still providing a convenient basecamp. BLM doesn’t post an RV length limit, but shorter rigs fit more comfortably in the day-use parking area. Travelers who prefer a large trailer or fifth wheel can establish camp nearby and visit in the tow vehicle. This also keeps the trailhead from becoming crowded. If you’re looking for a campsite, you should choose one that offers secure gear storage, outdoor space for cleaning equipment, and enough water capacity for the high-desert climate. If you’re visiting during the summer, be prepared for hot, dry weather. Spring and fall nights can get chilly. Browse RV rentals near Cortez to plan your trip.
Nearby BLM Locations
- Cortez SRMA - Bureau of Land Management
- 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
- Lowry Pueblo National Historic Landmark - Bureau of Land Management