Best Tent Camping near Curecanti National Recreation Area
Curecanti National Recreation Area in Colorado offers diverse tent camping options along the shores of Blue Mesa Reservoir and the Gunnison River canyon. Tent campers can choose between established sites at Red Creek Campground near Gunnison or more remote boat-in tent sites like Hermits Rest, Turtle Rock, and Curecanti Creek. The area also includes dispersed camping opportunities at nearby Black Canyon where tent campers can find solitude with minimal amenities.
Tent sites at Curecanti Creek require either a 2-mile hike with 900 feet of elevation change or boat access, making them suitable for more adventurous campers. Most backcountry tent sites feature fire rings, though fire bans may be in effect during dry periods. Vault toilets are available at some locations like Hermits Rest and Red Creek, but many primitive tent areas lack facilities entirely. Bear boxes are provided at certain sites, and campers should properly store food to prevent wildlife encounters. Seasonal access varies, with Red Creek Campground typically open from April through December.
The challenging access to many Curecanti tent sites ensures relative solitude and pristine camping conditions. Areas accessible only by boat or trail provide secluded tent camping experiences away from RV sites and road noise. Curecanti Creek offers excellent opportunities for paddling, swimming and fishing, with tent sites positioned near the water's edge. The canyon setting provides dramatic scenery for tent campers willing to make the effort to reach these remote sites. A review on The Dyrt noted, "Since you have to hike 3 miles, descending 1800 feet into the canyon, there weren't many people at the campsite... The reservoir was beautiful and we caught and ate two big trout."
