Established Camping
Gunnison National Forest Lake Irwin Campground
Gunnison National Forest Lake Irwin Campground, near Crested Butte, Colorado, is a stunning spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. With breathtaking mountain views and direct access to a beautiful alpine lake, it’s a prime location for outdoor activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
The campground offers a laid-back vibe with sites that come equipped with fire pits and plenty of space for tents. Visitors have raved about the scenery, with one camper noting, “The breathtaking view of the Grand Dike, Ruby Peak, & Mt Owen made us quickly forget about missing out on the view of the lake.” Keep in mind, though, that there’s no drinking water or electric hookups, so come prepared.
Hiking trails are abundant in the area, with options like the Scarp Ridge Trail providing some of the most stunning views around. Reviewers have highlighted the peacefulness of the campground, especially with zero cell service, allowing you to truly disconnect and enjoy the great outdoors. As one camper put it, “Zero cell service means you can focus on pretty much any outdoor activity you can think of.”
Located just a short drive from downtown Crested Butte, this campground is perfect for a weekend escape or a longer adventure. Whether you’re here to soak in the fall colors or enjoy a summer swim, Gunnison National Forest Lake Irwin Campground is a fantastic choice for your next outdoor getaway.
Description
USDA Forest Service
Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest
Overview
Lake Irwin Campground is situated on the western banks of its picturesque namesake lake, approximately 9 miles from Crested Butte, Colorado. Visitors enjoy the area for its abundant trail opportunities, fishing and beautiful scenery.
Recreation
Mountain biking and hiking are popular activities in this challenging, rugged terrain. Canoeing and fishing are favorite pastimes as well. The lake is usually so full of fish, one can see them rise to the calm surface.
Facilities
Mountain biking and hiking are popular activities in this challenging, rugged terrain. Canoeing and fishing are favorite pastimes as well. The lake is usually so full of fish, one can see them rise to the calm surface.
Natural Features
The campground is set high in the Colorado Rockies at an elevation of 10,200 feet. Summer days are cool and afternoon showers are common. Nights can be chilly. Lake Irwin borders the campground on the east, and the Ruby Mountain Range lies to the west. Vivid wildflowers fill the landscape during July and August. Most campsites are shaded by mature Englemann spruce and subalpine fir trees. The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests are located on the western slope of the Rocky Mountains. Together, the three forests cover 2.9 million acres in the central and southern Rocky Mountains, south of the Colorado River and west of the Continental Divide.
Nearby Attractions
The charming town of Crested Butte is a short drive from the campground. The former coal mining town offers a variety of outdoor activities, dining and shopping options and annual festivals, like the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival.
contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.
Location
Gunnison National Forest Lake Irwin Campground is located in Colorado
Directions
From Gunnison, take Colorado Highway 135 north 28 miles to Crested Butte. Turn left on Gunnison County Road 12. Proceed 7 miles. Turn right on Forest Road 826 and follow signs to the campground.
Address
GUNNISON, GRAND MESA, AND UNCO
CO
Coordinates
38.8811111 N
107.1069444 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TAvailable
- T-MobileAvailable
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites