Cowskin Camping Area Camping Area

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Cowskin Camping Area is a primitive, non-reservable, no fee campsite located in the Lower Dolores watershed of Utah.


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Summary

The campsite offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.

Nearby points of interest include the town of Dove Creek, which is known for its historic downtown district and its annual Dove Creek Mushroom Festival. Other nearby attractions include the Dolores River, the San Juan National Forest, and the Mesa Verde National Park.

Campground amenities are limited, with no potable water or electricity available, but there are pit toilets and fire rings for campfires. Visitors are advised to bring their own water and supplies.

Interesting facts about the area include the fact that the Dolores River is one of the last free-flowing rivers in the southwest, and that it provides critical habitat for a variety of fish and wildlife species. The surrounding mountains are also home to a number of rare and endangered plant species.

The best time of year to visit the Cowskin Camping Area is during the summer months, when temperatures average in the mid to high 80s. However, visitors should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and temperature, as the area is known for its unpredictable weather patterns.

Sources:

- "Cowskin Camping Area." Recreation.gov, U.S. Department of the Interior, accessed 26 July 2021, https://www.recreation.gov/camping/cowskin-camping-area/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=NRSO&parkId=70545.
- "Dove Creek Mushroom Festival." Colorado.com, Colorado Tourism Office, accessed 26 July 2021, https://www.colorado.com/events/dove-creek-mushroom-festival.

       

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Camping Essential Practices

Pack It In, Pack It Out
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.

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