Camping options near Powderhorn, Colorado range from primitive sites to developed campgrounds at elevations between 7,000-10,000 feet. The area experiences significant temperature drops after sunset even during summer months, with nighttime temperatures frequently dipping into the 40s. Water access varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering drinking water facilities while others require campers to bring all water supplies.
What to do
Fishing access: At The Gate Campground, campers have excellent river fishing opportunities. "Nice river fishing spot, my partner caught two trout," notes River G., who appreciated the spacious sites that accommodated "a large tent, our car, a hammock, cooking station, and chairs, all spread out nicely."
Mountain biking trails: The Hartman's Rocks Dispersed Site provides direct access to mountain biking trails right from camp. A visitor explains, "Tons of off-road paths, plenty of camping even for my 20ft camper and lots of rock climbing! So excited to come back!" The area includes numerous marked trails of varying difficulty levels.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear night skies present exceptional stargazing conditions when weather permits. At The Gate Campground, one camper mentioned, "The sky was great, you could make out the Milky Way (if you knew where to look, it's not super obvious)," highlighting the reduced light pollution in this rural area.
What campers like
Lake proximity: Elk Creek Campground receives high ratings for its lake access. Sheila J. notes, "You can walk down to the lake which is beautiful," while David L. suggests, "If you are tent camping I would try and get a site that is next to the reservoir. Makes for a great sunset view!"
Animal interactions: Gunnison KOA features unique animal encounters that campers frequently mention. Michelle A. observed, "Nice grassy sites that come complete with a cow who is as cute as can be!!" Another camper adds, "They also have a little pen with donkeys and goats at the front entrance which my dog loved and was fun to arrive to!"
Well-maintained facilities: Several campsites receive praise for cleanliness. At Elk Creek Campground, Dawn K. found "peaceful and relaxing, clean bathrooms, and polite hosts," while another visitor mentioned "Electric site with concrete pads, picnic tables and nice fire rings. The park is very clean nice rest rooms."
What you should know
Shade availability: Many campgrounds in the area lack natural shade. CJ C. notes that Stevens Creek Campground "has no shade and gets really hot in the summer. We got to the campground around 2pm and swam in the lake. It was refreshing, but we left to make our dinner and relax somewhere else because the heat was a bit unbearable."
Road conditions: Access to dispersed camping areas often requires appropriate vehicles. At Hartman Rocks, johny R. warns, "If you have a 2wd vehicle you could very easily get turned up and tear your 2wd vehicle up, especially if low clearance. Study Google maps sat images, stay to the main road and NEVER rush in at dusk, you will be sorry."
Site spacing: Proximity between sites varies significantly between campgrounds. At Red Bridge Campground, Mack Daddy Van L. cautions, "Sites are real tight. Like less than 5 feet apart. I lucked out and there we only 3 campers during my stay. So we had our space."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch offers extensive family activities. Jessica S. reports, "We had such a relaxing stay at Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch! One of the major highlights for us was the amazing pool setup—both indoor and outdoor pools were clean, well-maintained, and perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring." Katie B. adds, "There is an indoor and outdoor pool, playground, cool mini golf set up, horses, and a lake for kids to fish in!"
Educational opportunities: Look for campgrounds with ranger programs or nature activities. At Elk Creek Campground, shannon C. mentions "Nightly events at the amphitheater," which often include educational presentations about local wildlife and ecology.
Safety considerations: Prepare for temperature changes and limited cell service. One camper at Stevens Creek explains, "We swam in the lake. It was refreshing, but we left to make our dinner and relax somewhere else because the heat was a bit unbearable. When we came back around sunset, the views were amazing and it had cooled down significantly."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Elk Creek Campground offers limited electrical hookups. Patty H. clarifies, "I'm in Loop C that has no hook ups. I think Loop D is the only one with hookups and maybe water too." Spring visitors should note limitations as Chip D. observed, "No water at dump station due a problem was inconvenient."
Site leveling needs: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for leveling. At Gunnison Lakeside Resort, Jeanne B. noted, "Road and sites need some work. Our site was not level." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for most area campgrounds.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. Greg L. reports, "No TMobile cell signal, only art and Verizon," at Elk Creek Campground, while at Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch, Vernon G. S. cautions, "The only thing I have against Thousand Trails Blue Mesa is the lack of internet. To have internet, you must have Starlink or a satellite dish."
