Curecanti National Recreation Area campgrounds sit at elevations ranging from 7,400 to 8,200 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than lower-elevation Colorado destinations. The region experiences afternoon thunderstorms during summer months, particularly in July and August. Winter access is limited to lower elevation sites as snow typically blocks forest roads from November through late April.
What to do
Fishing at multiple depths: Blue Mesa Reservoir offers fishing opportunities for kokanee salmon and lake trout. At Lake Fork Campground, the large boat ramp provides easy water access. "This campground is ideally suited to boaters and RV campers. There are a few walk in sites but most don't have a pad for tents," notes Lauren M.
Explore backcountry trails: The areas surrounding Curecanti have numerous hiking and ATV trails accessible from campgrounds. From Soap Creek Campground, visitors can access several trail networks. A camper explained, "We enjoy riding our ATV and have found some beautiful trails full of wildflowers and wildlife. It is also close enough to take day visits to Montrose or Crested Butte."
Dark sky stargazing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. Evelyn R. shares about Soap Creek Campground: "If you like star gazing this is the perfect spot as their is no light pollution." The higher elevation campgrounds tend to have clearer visibility on cloudless nights.
What campers like
Secluded sites away from crowds: The more remote campgrounds offer privacy rarely found in popular recreation areas. At Gunnison National Forest Soap Creek Campground, "We selected site 8 as it was fairly close to the restroom, had decent shade, and large enough to accommodate our large tent and two vehicles...with room enough to spare to play washers!" reports Glenna L.
Creek access for swimming: Several campgrounds feature small creek swimming areas. "The host showed us a great hike behind campsite along a small river. Kids and dog enjoyed the river and its hidden swimming holes!" shares Colleen M. about her experience at Soap Creek.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area hosts abundant wildlife including deer, bears, and numerous bird species. At Black Canyon of the Gunnison NP South Rim Campground, a camper noted, "Lots of birds, deer and other wildlife." Early mornings and evenings offer the best viewing times.
What you should know
Water availability varies seasonally: Many campgrounds have limited or no water sources, especially at higher elevations. Sarah's experience at South Rim Campground included "No cell connectivity, extremely limited water (best to bring what you need) and well-maintained vault toilets."
Road conditions can be challenging: Access to remote sites often requires traveling rough roads. At Black Canyon Dispersed Camping, a camper advised, "Road can be rough, especially slippery mud after rain. Many dispersed sites with cleared space and fire rings along the road, which goes for miles."
Limited cell service: Connectivity is minimal or non-existent throughout much of the area. Greg L. noted at Black Canyon South Rim: "No TMobile cell up here so my Starlink RV setup is working great." Verizon tends to have better coverage than other carriers, though service remains spotty.
Bear-aware camping required: The entire region has active bear populations requiring proper food storage. Derreck B. emphasizes this at Soap Creek: "BEAR COUNTRY. No cell phone service. Very quiet and primitive. Right next to a creek."
Tips for camping with families
Indoor activities for weather days: Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch offers indoor alternatives when weather turns. Jessica S. shares, "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."
Structured activities: Some campgrounds provide organized recreation. Shannon C. noted at Elk Creek, "Electric site with concrete pads, picnic tables and nice fire rings. The park is very clean nice rest rooms. Just off the hi way. Very beautiful views of the mountains and the lake. Nightly events at the amphitheater."
Fishing for children: Several locations offer easy fishing access suitable for younger anglers. Katie B. mentions Blue Mesa Ranch has "a lake for kids to fish in" among its amenities, making it convenient for families looking to introduce children to the activity.
Tips from RVers
Water and power limitations: Many campgrounds lack full hookups. "Stayed one night in campsite 02 pull thru. Campground is quiet and sites are spaced out nicely. Great value for site with power," notes Sheila J. about her stay at Elk Creek Campground.
High elevation considerations: The area's elevation affects RV systems and comfort. "Elv is 7600 so does not get super hot," notes Greg L. about Elk Creek Campground. RVs should be prepared for temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night.
Site length restrictions: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. Tori K. advises about South Rim Campground: "If you have a large RV or camper, there may not be a lot of sites that work for you, check the photos and use the length filter when looking at sites!"
