Where to car camp near Grand Junction?

Can anyone give me some specific places to car camp near GJ preferably not too far from I-70 (BLM or National Forest campgrounds)? My girlfriend and I will be passing through late in the evening and I'd like to have an idea of where we could pitch a tent without too much hassle. Anyone know of some good ones? Directions? Thanks.

d.

doug,

rabbit valley exit (just W of GJ) works pretty well. either side (N or S of I-70). usually, i go up the road a bit on the north side, take a left at the the little 'trail through time' thing and trundle up the road a bit. surprisingly quiet in terms of I-70 noise, plus you get early morning sun so you can wake up and be on your way. happy trails.

Colorado National Monument. The only problem is, once you see the place, you might not want to leave. The drive around the rim is worth the time, even if you dont have time to stay and climb/explore.

If you have a national parks pass, the monument is covered, and I'm told by the rangers that the campground never fills up.

I have camped in Fruita before. I'm sorry I can't be more specific with details. I just know it was in a mountain biking area east of I-70. It was free and all that I recall is that the streets were named with just letters or something like that. . .like H Street, or A Street.

Thanks to all of you for your suggestions. Sound like Rabbit Valley might be a good choice.

18 Road is the off the north side of I-70 from the Fruita exit...

Great free camping I've used for mountain biking before. Tons of sites, outhouses and great views of the Book Cliffs...

About 15-20 minutes off the highway...

Go north through town (cool dinosaur in the middle of town on a traffic circle), head North on Cherry, right on K Road, left on Maple which turns into 17and1/2 Road and it eventually forces you to make a right (N 3/10 Road) and quick left on 18 road...follow unitl you are right up against the cliffs and camping is all around...

If you want something more civilized (grass and hot showers) follow the signs from the Loma exit up to Highline Lake. It's maybe 5 miles and there will be no nighttime noise. Even though it's really a reservoir, it's a nice place. You set your tents up on cut grass underneath shady cottonwoods.

parks.state.co.us/Parks/hig…

What is the state park by the Colorado river like in Fruita? Thinking of camping there. Any pros or cons to that place? Thanks.