Elk Creek Campground is on the north shore of Blue Mesa Reservoir. The lake is Colorado's largest body of water with 96 miles of shoreline and the largest Kokanee Salmon fishery in the United States. The campground is part of the Curecanti National Recreation Area, which was named after a Ute Indian chief of the mid-19th century. Recreation Anglers delight in catching large salmon and rainbow trout, while water sports fans find excitement in windsurfing and water skiing. Swimming is permitted throughout the 20-mile long reservoir and birders can find bald eagles here in the winter. Facilities Campfire programs are in full swing during the summer months. There's a marina adjacent to the campground that's open late spring to early fall. Concession run coin operated showers are nearby, open during summer months.. Cell phone service is limited. Electric hookups are in Loop D only. Natural Features At an altitude of 7,540 feet, Elk Creek is surrounded by a vast expanse of sagebrush. Trees are minimal because the reservoir gets less than 12 inches of rain a year. Curecanti National Recreation Area is sandwiched between the towns of Montrose and Gunnison, Colorado. It spans three reservoirs, named for corresponding dams on the Gunnison River. These include the Crystal Reservoir, Morrow Point Reservoir and Blue Mesa. Nearby Attractions Head down to the Gunnison Diversion Tunnel, a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark or visit the Morrow Point Reservoir at the beginning of the Black Canyon. At morrow point, visitors can take a ranger-led pontoon boat through the upper Black Canyon. Find more tour information here. ADA Access: N

Elk Creek Campground

## Overview

Lake Fork Campground is on the Blue Mesa Reservoir, near the reservoir's dam. It is a part of the historic Curecanti Recreation Area and is an ideal place to stay for days of boat recreation, hiking and taking in the views of the Black Canyon.

## Recreation

Jet skiing, water skiing and canoeing are some of the many water activities available on the reservoir.  
  
Birding is also rewarding, with chances to see the black-billed magpie.   
  
Along the shrubland, visitors can spot Gunnison's prairie dogs popping out of their holes.

## Facilities

Flush toilets are available in summer months. Cell phone service is limited.   
For anglers, a fish cleaning station is provided for conveniently preparing the days catch.   
Concession run coin operated showers are nearby and open during summer months.

## Natural Features

The steep canyon walls in this part of the reservoir were carved out by the Gunnison River, which once flowed with powerful intensity fueled by the snowmelt of nearby mountains.   
  
  
Today, the Gunnison river is dammed in three places, creating three large and beautiful reservoirs to be enjoyed by visitors.   
  
  
The land is characterized by semi-arid shrubland with vast expanses of sagebrush. The natural features and ecosystems of Curecanti vary greatly, with Riparian habitats, epic canyons and lush patches of Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir and aspen trees.

## Nearby Attractions

The recreation area is just south of Gunnison National Forest and east of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. There's no shortage of options for scenic drives and hikes.   
  
  
Try hiking the Curecanti Creek Trail or Hermit's Rest Trail off HWY 92..

Lake Fork Campground

Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/

Soap Creek Corral

This is the HEADLINE

Western

$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**GRAND PRIZE**
$150 to REI, $100 to MiiR, and 1 year of The Dyrt PRO

**4 RUNNERS UP WIN**
[The Dyrt PRO](https://thedyrt.com/pro): 6-Month Membershp


nearby

Looking for walk-in camping in Colorado? You'll be sleeping under the stars in your own private paradise when you stay at these campsites. Find the best information on walk-in camping in Colorado, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience.

Colorado

The Best Walk-In Camping in Colorado

If you enjoy the outdoors, it's time to embrace the wild and go with a walk-in camping experience near Curecanti National Recreation Area. Enjoy seclusion and peaceful nature. Best of all, walk-in sites are only a short distance from your car, versus a backpacking site. Check out some of the best walk-in campsites near Curecanti National Recreation Area.

Curecanti National Recreation Area

The Best Walk-In Camping Near Curecanti National Recreation Area, Colorado

Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground

Dry Gulch Campground is located 17 miles west of Gunnison just north of U.S. Highway 50. The campground is shaded by large cottonwood trees and can accommodate tents or medium sized RVs. All sites are first-come first-served. A horse corral is available. Elevation: 7560 feet

Dry Gulch Campground

Ponderosa - Curecanti National Recreation Area

Red Bridge Campground is a short distance off of the Silver Thread National Scenic Byway. You'll find public fishing access to the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River, and access to the Lake Fork Spur scenic drive. Red Bridge Campground located on the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River and is a perfect place for someone to relax and fish. The campground has 7 campsites and 1 restroom. Each campsite has a parking spur, metal fire ring, and a picnic table. Potable water is not available at this campground. For more information, please contact the Gunnison Field Office.

Red Bridge Campground

All roadside vehicle and tent campers are required to camp ONLY in designated sites. Accessibility is not guaranteed. Please use caution when venturing down forest roads. 

Sites are designated by the presence of a 6in X 6in wooden post with a site number and camping symbol along with a permanent metal fire ring. All sites are first come first serve, if a site is occupied please look for another site.

Fires are only permitted in the established metal fire rings. Extinguish all fires so they are cold to the touch.

Sites are limited to two vehicles only per site. 

Finding a site to camp and enjoy dispersed recreation activities in remote areas or in relative solitude has
become a popular form of camping throughout the Forest. At some more popular areas,toilet facilities may be
provided. Contact the local Forest Service office for current information and refer to the Motor Vehicle Use
Map (MVUM) for each forest (Grand Mesa, Gunnison, and Uncompahgre National Forests). Dispersed
camping is permitted in most areas of the Forest. Some caution should be used in selecting a site because of
intermingled private lands within the National Forest. Recreation maps are available at all local Forest Service
offices. Personnel at each office can answer questions on specific sites. Unlike developed campgrounds which
are designed and maintained to protect the vegetation, soils, and natural setting, camping in undeveloped areas
require more from the camper to help keep the site in the condition in which it was found. Dispersed camping
must not occur within 100 feet of water sources (rivers, streams, ponds, or wetlands) or within 100 feet of any
road or system trail. In some areas, dispersed camping is restricted to specific sites, contact the local Forest
Service office for current information. Campsites can be occupied for no more than 14 days, then the site must
be moved at least 3 miles away. Camping is also limited to a total of 28 days in a 60 day period. 

In areas closed to the use of vehicles off forest roads, where developed parking sites are not
provided, and where not otherwise prohibited, direct access to a suitable parking site within 300 feet of the
road is permitted. Such travel must not damage the land or streams. Please select your route carefully, and do
not cut live timber. Off road travel should be limited to when the ground is dry. The public is encouraged to
camp in locations where others have previously camped and utilized existing routes to those camp areas.
Campers are required to leave a clean camp, not to damage vegetation or pollute streams and lakes on the
National Forest and implement “Leave No Trace” practices. 

Slate River Road Designated Dispersed

The East Portal Campground is located within Curecanti National Recreation Area, but is adjacent to and only accessible from Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, where the entrance fee is $30. The campground is located at the bottom of the canyon, along the Gunnison River. It is a small campground shaded by box elder trees. East Portal is closed in winter, when the Bureau of Reclamation closes the East Portal Road. Elevation: 6526 feet

East Portal Campground

Gunnison Lakeside Resort

Are you in need of a campground near Denver, CO? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Denver and user-submitted reviews.

Denver

The Best Camping Near Denver | Colorado Campgrounds

While all Colorado towns are outdoor-friendly, Colorado Springs is up there with the best of them. If you’re looking to visit Colorado, but Boulder and Denver just aren’t for you, the Springs is where you want to be.

With a wealth of US Forest Service and BLM land, the best camping near Colorado Springs is all free. If you’re looking for the best hiking around, you have solid options between Garden of the Gods and Red Rock Canyon Open Space. Unfortunately, there are no campsites for tents or RVs in either of those places. Point yourself towards Florissant, CO, and see the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument if you want to keep driving. There are no campgrounds available at the national monument either, though you, again, have a host of free camping opportunities nearby.

Colorado Springs

Looking for the best campgrounds near Colorado Springs, CO? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Colorado Springs and user-submitted reviews.

The Best Colorado Springs Camping | CO Camping

Looking for the best campgrounds near Aurora, CO? Aurora is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Aurora and user-submitted reviews.

Aurora

The Best Camping Near Aurora, Colorado

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Fort Collins. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Fort Collins, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Fort Collins

The Best Camping Near Fort Collins, Colorado

Are you in need of a campground near Lakewood, CO? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Colorado camping adventure.

Lakewood

The Best Camping Near Lakewood, Colorado

Searching for the best camping near Thornton, CO? Thornton is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Thornton, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Thornton

The Best Camping Near Thornton, Colorado

Thornton is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Thornton. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Pueblo is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Pueblo is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Discover great camping spots near Pueblo, reviewed by campers like you.

Pueblo

The Best Camping Near Pueblo, Colorado

Are you in need of a campground near Arvada, CO? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Arvada camping trip.

Arvada

The Best Camping Near Arvada, Colorado

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Westminster, CO has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Westminster. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Colorado camping adventure.

Westminster

The Best Camping Near Westminster, Colorado

Rio Grande National Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Rio Grande National Forest, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Rio Grande National Forest, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Rio Grande National Forest

The Best Camping Near Rio Grande National Forest, Colorado

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, San Juan National Forest, CO has a lot to offer. San Juan National Forest is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Discover great camping spots near San Juan National Forest, reviewed by campers like you.

San Juan National Forest

The Best Camping Near San Juan National Forest, Colorado

Are you in need of a campground near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests, CO? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests camping trip.

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests

The Best Camping Near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests, Colorado

White River National Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of White River National Forest. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near White River National Forest and user-submitted reviews.

White River National Forest

The Best Camping Near White River National Forest, Colorado

Searching for the best camping near Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland, CO? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland, CO. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland

The Best Camping Near Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland, Colorado

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, CO has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Colorado camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, CO. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland

The Best Camping Near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, Colorado

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Curecanti National Recreation Area. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Discover great camping spots near Curecanti National Recreation Area, reviewed by campers like you.

The Best Camping Near Curecanti National Recreation Area, Colorado

Surrounded by a steep gorge lies Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, near the small city of Montrose, NV. RVers and campers will want to stop and stock up on supplies before heading toward the campgrounds by the Gunnison River. Offering some of the best camping in Nevada, campers can wander the trails catching stunning views of the striated Painted Wall cliff. Some of the wildlife you can expect to see include deer, elk, mule, and majestic golden eagles. Pitch a tent at one of the campsites by the river for a day of fishing or get a group together and stay in a cabin.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

The Best Camping Near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park embodies the Colorado spirit perfectly. If you want to get out into nature with other avid outdoors types, few parks are more suited for you. Though the altitude can be tricky, the views are worth the effort.

Currently, there are three campgrounds available during the summer season, with two on TBD status. Rocky Mountain campsites open at the end of May and close around late September. The three available campsites are all on a reservation system. Longs Peak, which is still TBD, is the only first-come, first-served camping option. You can RV camp in Rocky Mountain, though there are no RV-specific sites. If you can’t get a spot in the park during peak season, the best camping near Rocky Mountain National Park is in Estes Park, CO, or any US Forest Service land to the east.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Rocky Mountain National Park is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Rocky Mountain National Park. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

The Best Camping Near Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Are you in need of a campground near Dinosaur National Monument, CO? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Dinosaur National Monument camping trip.

The Best Camping in Curecanti National Recreation Area, Colorado

Top Curecanti National Recreation Area Campgrounds

Elk Creek Campground

Lake Fork Campground

Soap Creek Corral

Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground

Dry Gulch Campground

Ponderosa - Curecanti National Recreation Area

Red Bridge Campground

Slate River Road Designated Dispersed

East Portal Campground

Gunnison Lakeside Resort

Browse By Type

Browse Curecanti National Recreation Area Boat-In

Elk Creek Campground

Lake Fork Campground

Soap Creek Corral

Browse Curecanti National Recreation Area Walk-In

Elk Creek Campground

Lake Fork Campground

Soap Creek Corral

Browse Curecanti National Recreation Area Hike-In

Elk Creek Campground

Lake Fork Campground

Soap Creek Corral

Browse Curecanti National Recreation Area Drive-In

Elk Creek Campground

Lake Fork Campground

Soap Creek Corral

Get the App

See What We’re Up To