Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Gunnison National Forest

I cannot thank Leslie, Frederick and Tom for their support with my RVing needs! We ended up staying an extra night--such a lovely campground with special touches at every site. If we visit again, I would definitely request a back-in site along the river! Just walking along the river pathway was breathtaking! The dog park is huge and has fun obstacle course activities to encourage interactions with pets. Everything about this KOA is great! We took a day trip to the Iron Mountain Hot Springs (fun!) and to the Rifle River water falls (an easy little hike but WOW! Cool water falls and caves to explore!) Come visit this KOA! You won't be disappointed!

The Gunnison KOA is in a beautiful setting with large trees that is about 75 yards from the river. The spaces are generously sized, although the camping sites could use power outlets. They are very kid and pet friendly; and have a dog park. There is a friendly donkey who roams the grounds, so make sure your 4 legged friends are okay around bigger animals. The bathrooms are clean and functional. The same could not be said for the dishwashing station that is outdoors. It is in horrible condition, including a dripping faucet. Also, be aware that you are very close to the river and there is a mosquito and moisture problem. Even with these minor problems, this is still a great place to stay.

Great little place in the Gunnison National Forest. Had my folks go late morning and secure a spot. I came with my car around 5pm but I'd say best time to secure is between 9am-2pm on Friday. Obvs if you can get there Thursday or earlier you'll have no problems.

Each spot has huge picnic table, fire pit with grill, flat ground for tents, tons of trees for hammocks, we have a roof top tent so there was plenty of space in the car spot. Bathrooms on site, firewood for sale ($10), dumpsters for trash. Host on site (Kathy) to help with fees, firewood, questions.

Great hiking in the ragged wilderness, trail and another bathroom about 10 min walk from the campground. Great hike along a river (not sure which one) but we came early June and the river was raging. Couple pictures from that hike attached.

Lost Lake Campground near Crested Butte, Colorado, is a hidden gem that combines serene alpine beauty with a peaceful camping experience. Tucked away in the Gunnison National Forest, this campground offers stunning views of wildflower-filled meadows, dense forests, and the pristine Lost Lake itself, which mirrors the surrounding peaks.

The campsites are well-maintained, spacious, and thoughtfully spaced for privacy, with some offering lakefront views. There’s a charming rustic vibe, with basic amenities like vault toilets and picnic tables, but no hookups. The nearby trails, including the popular Three Lakes Loop, are perfect for hiking, fishing, and soaking in the mountain scenery.

What sets Lost Lake apart is its tranquil atmosphere—especially if you’re visiting during the off-season. It’s the ideal spot to disconnect and enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty, whether you’re kayaking on the lake or simply relaxing by the campfire.

Be aware that the road to the campground is a bit rough and narrow, so it’s best suited for smaller campers or tents. Also, temperatures can drop quickly at night, so pack warm gear even in summer.

If you’re looking for a quiet retreat near Crested Butte with postcard-worthy scenery, Lost Lake Campground is hard to beat. It’s the perfect blend of solitude, recreation, and breathtaking views.

Small campground in the Gunnison National Forest, closest to Gunnison and Crested Butte, spelled Rosy and Rosey, depending on what sign or website you see! Even though just off Hwy 742, you can barely make out traffic noise! Clean and the sites are awesome! Some sites have been refurbished with paved pads and heavy metal picnic tables. Hosts very friendly and informative about the area. A few rafters and kayakers came by during the day floating the lower Taylor River (Taylor River Class II-III rapids, with some Class IV on the upper Taylor River). Awesome cliffs to view right outside our door. Our site #4 also had two large tent pads. There is a paved path through most of the campground along and up from the river's edge. Fishing was good... lots of little pools to cast into! There is one restroom building with vault toilets which were very clean, and there is community water only (no electric). Lots of wildlife and springtime flora to dazzle your eyes! There are bears and mountain lions in this area, of course and gratefully so! Fires are allowed in fire pits only on no-Red Flag warning days. Little to no internet service, cell service is okay. Be prepared to be cradled and loved by Mother Nature! One of her finest spots is here!!

Let’s just start with the only downside- this campground is not near Glenwood. It’s about 20-25 miles into Glenwood Springs from here. So just know that going into it and everything else is great.

Now onto the awesome campground itself. The people are really friendly and the spots are perfectly level.

Our spot was right on the river which is beautiful. The campground maintains nice grass in the area, fire pits and picnic tables. The park is an all encompassing RV resort. There is a splash pad, a bbq/ picnic area, a trail around the river, a nice store, a pool, a dog park and to top it off big grassy areas to play in. It’s a very nice park.

I would also recommend checking out Rifle Falls (video attached) and Rifle Gap State Park which are both nearby!