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Map showing campground location near Mesa Lakes, Colorado
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Carson Lake Recreation Area

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SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Sitting at the edge of Grand Mesa National Forest, Carson Lake Recreation Area reopened recently after a multi-year dam reconstruction project. The site has a large parking area, a new vault toilet, and roughly four tent-only spots with tables and fire rings. No water, no dumpsters, and no cell signal. The road down from the mesa top is steep, and floatation devices are prohibited on the lake, which serves as a municipal water supply. Fishing from the shore and access to nearby campsites near Grand Mesa National Forest make this a workable free overnight stop for tent campers who come prepared.

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Map & DirectionsCarson Lake Recreation Area is located in Colorado near Mesa Lakes

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

38.99675512950846 N
108.11162509187706 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

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General Info

Drive Time

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Reviews1 Camper Review - Carson Lake Recreation Area

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3.0

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1 Review

Reviewed Aug. 15, 2024

Free camping area

Carson Lake was closed for a couple years to reconstruct the dam. Open again and there is a large parking area with a new vault toilet. However, no floatation devices are allowed on the lake as it is a water supply for towns below. There are about 4 camping spots that were created with tables and fire rings. These spots are not for RVs or Trailers, most are for tent campers. The road access is steep from the mesa above. No water, no dumpsters, no cell signal.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Carson Lake Recreation Area by Greg L., August 15, 2024
  • Review photo of Carson Lake Recreation Area by Greg L., August 15, 2024
  • Review photo of Carson Lake Recreation Area by Greg L., August 15, 2024
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Frequently Asked Questions

What recreational activities can you do at Carson Lake Recreation Area?

Carson Lake Recreation Area offers fishing as the primary recreational activity, though with some restrictions—no flotation devices are allowed on the lake since it serves as a water supply. Visitors can also enjoy hiking on nearby trails, wildlife viewing, photography, and picnicking around the scenic lake area. The surrounding Grand Mesa National Forest provides additional opportunities for outdoor recreation including mountain biking, berry picking, and nature exploration during summer months.

Where is Carson Lake Recreation Area located on Grand Mesa?

Carson Lake Recreation Area is situated on Grand Mesa in western Colorado. The recreation area sits on the mesa top, which is known for its spectacular alpine scenery and cool mountain climate. It's part of the larger Grand Mesa National Forest area, which is the largest flat-topped mountain in the world. The lake is accessible via Grand Mesa roads and serves as a water supply for communities in the valleys below.

What camping facilities are available at Carson Lake Campground?

Carson Lake Campground features approximately 4 established camping spots, each equipped with tables. The recreation area has recently been upgraded with a new vault toilet and a large parking area. After being closed for dam reconstruction, the campground has reopened with these basic amenities. Campers should bring their own water as there are no water hookups available. The campground is rustic and simple, making it ideal for those seeking a more primitive camping experience in a beautiful mountain setting.

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