Best Campgrounds near Cedaredge, CO
The Cedaredge area provides diverse camping options across the Grand Mesa and surrounding public lands. Tent and RV camping is available at established sites like Little Bear Campground, situated at Island Lake with about 34 sites, and Ward Lake Campground, which sits at approximately 10,000 feet elevation. Dispersed camping opportunities exist along the Gunnison River at Cottonwood Grove Campground and at dispersed sites within the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with Little Bear typically open from May to September and Ward Lake available from May to October. The region's campground density increases near water features, with several options situated directly along lakeshores or riverbanks.
Road conditions to many campgrounds require careful navigation, particularly in the Gunnison River area where narrow, exposed dirt roads can become hazardous when wet. Campgrounds on Grand Mesa generally have better access but still require driving on forest roads. Most established campgrounds provide vault toilets and drinking water, while dispersed areas typically offer minimal facilities. Summer temperatures remain moderate due to the higher elevations, but visitors should prepare for significant temperature drops at night, even during peak season. Wind can be intense near the water, especially during storm systems. A visitor noted, "The road getting there is rough and can be dangerous, especially after dark. It's a longer drive down the dirt road than I expected, so if you come, keep going."
Campgrounds near water receive consistently positive reviews, with Island Lake and Little Bear providing direct lake access. At Cottonwood Grove, campers appreciate the riverside location with fishing opportunities and hiking trails. Several sites feature concrete picnic tables and fire pits, with some including shelters for weather protection. The higher elevation campgrounds offer a cool retreat during summer months when lower elevations become hot. Privacy between campsites varies considerably between locations. One camper reported, "We ended up driving all the way to the end of the road and back up to the beginning of the sites for the best views. The fishing wasn't ideal from the shore but we had a fantastic view of the sunrise and sunset." Wildlife viewing opportunities include bats at dusk along the river, and fishing is a popular activity throughout the region with several accessible fishing platforms available.
