Desert camping in Blue Mesa Reservoir
Colorado’s largest body of water offers great fishing, plus lakeside and boat-in camping.
98% (558 reviews)
- Blue Mesa Reservoir
98% (558 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Blue Mesa Reservoir
Under $50
7 top desert campgrounds in Blue Mesa Reservoir
99%
(271)
Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river
7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents35 acres · Hotchkiss, CO
The House where we live is the corner stone of the Bruce Property and is on the Colorado Register of Historic Houses.The residence was constructed between 1905 and 1912, using red bricks made on the site. John and Sophia Bruce, early pioneers in the North Fork Valley, were first involved in cattle raising. The family later became successful fruit growers. Located along the West Elk Loop, a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway, the large two-story residence features a steeply pitched hipped roof with prominent attic dormers.As a guest of Riverwalk you will have full access to the river during your stay. In addition, there is the Riverwalk Trail System that skirts the North Fork of the Gunnison River from the top of the property, by the Riverwalk Yurt, (available on this site) meandering downstream past the Riverwalk TIPI (available on the site) passing the Grove Yurt (available on this site) and terminating at the bottom of the property with the sandy Riverwalk Beach. There is a trial that zigs through the Cottonwood Grove and zags back along the gentle Monitor Ditch skirting a newly planted grove of young trees.For RV Campers we provide 2- 30amp,1-50 amp and 1- 110-amp electrical services and potable water. There is a dump station available. There is also access to our heated shower house with running water and bathroom amenities (<3 min. walk, may be shared with other guests). The property is perfectly geared to groups of friends gathering in a central location between the onset of the Rockies and the termination high desert to the west. Friends or family will reserve both Yurts and the RV Site for a perfect reunion setting!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$35
/ night
98%
(416)
Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven
7 sites · Lodging22 acres · Paonia, CO
Formerly known as the North Fork Tipi Haven, this 22 acres was once owned by International sculptor Lincoln Fox, and built by Mr. Wooten in the early 1900's as an apple orchard, Old Moon Acres is now home to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven.
The North Fork Valley of the Gunnison River, encompassing Crawford, Hotchkiss and Paonia, was an important fruit orchard area in the late 1800's and well into the early 1900's. The valley's climate is a banana belt, perfect for fruit with the cold air coming down from the mountains at night and the heat from the mesas warming up the valley during the day. Coal mines up the road in Bowie and Somerset paid better, so many of the orchards languished over the years. Since the closing of all the mines but one, today the NFV is home to the largest concentration of organic farms in the state of Colorado as well as becoming a state Creative District serving the multitudes of artist and creatives that call the valley home.
There are many pick-your-own peaches, cherries, apples, pears, nectarines and if we are lucky, apricots, in the valley. Delicious Orchards, 1 mile down Hwy 133, is an excellent place to pick your own, drink local hard cider and listen to live music on the weekend over a wonderful brunch. It is all about the farms, cattle, art, music, outdoor adventure, fun and relaxation here in the North Fork Valley.
The tipis are custom made by the Colorado Yurt Company in Montrose, Colorado where they have been making yurts, tents and tipis since 1976. The tipis are expertly designed and made with custom paintings invoking the animal spirits that inhabit our land. These are a Sioux design tipi as the Ute's mainly lived in wiki-ups until they were introduced to the tipi in the 1800's. The Ute's appropriated the tipi design from the Sioux or Plains Natives.
We have solar showers (solar bags of water heated by the sun during the day) available for free.
Showers are also available at the local laundromat in Hotchkiss.
Our goal is to awaken your sense of wonder by sleeping out in nature and waking up to the Colorado blue sky in clean, clear air at 5500 ft. You can visit the many high altitude wineries, fruit orchards, organic farms, farm-to-table restaurants, great music, interesting movies at the community owned Paradise Theater, art at the Creamery Arts Center in Hotchkiss, stand-up paddle boarding, WSSUP, at Crawford reservoir, mountain biking in Grand Mesa, hiking in the West Elks, rafting down the Gunnison river in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, fishing up canyon in the coolness of the forest or relaxing in one of many hot springs within an hour of us.
Colorado Detours is highly recommended by us to take you and yours on a hiking, farm, wine, or geology tour of the area.
Aspen, Crested Butte (over Kebler Pass), Glenwood Springs, Gunnison, Ouray, Grand Junction, Ridgeway
and Telluride all are about an hour or two
away by car.
Welcome to Colorado.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$65
/ night
95%
(62)
The Farm...
7 sites · RVs10 acres · Montrose, CO
Statigicly located in the heart of Base Camp Montrose Valley, Close to Tulluride ,Million DollarHighway, Black Canyon, and San Juan Mountains. Horse Country & ATV country. Ride to BLM land on county roads.Learn more about this land:Great location, near trail head, Small Working horse farm in rural setting, Gateway to the San Juans, creek side camping, Black Canyon nearby, Farm Community, Historic Montrose and surrounding area. 420 freindly. ADD $5.00 ELECTRIC per night
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
Trash
from
$33
/ night
100%
(1)
Gerken's Organics Farm
6 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Montrose, CO
Welcome to our listing! We are thrilled to introduce our small family-owned and operated agritourism farm located in Montrose, CO. At our farm, we have a strong focus on regenerative organic agriculture, which means we prioritize sustainable farming practices that restore and nourish the land.
We are dedicated to involving both our local community and visitors in our efforts to raise awareness about protecting our planet and restoring natural ecosystems. By staying with us, you'll have the opportunity to support sustainable agriculture firsthand and witness the positive impact it has on our environment.
One of the highlights of our farm is the breathtaking morning coffee views. Imagine sipping your favorite brew while surrounded by the beauty of nature and crisp clear views of the San Juans! Additionally, if you're up for it, you can experience not just one, but two stunning sunsets in the evening. This unique feature allows you to witness the beauty of nature's transitions in the sky. As the day comes to a close, you'll be treated to a perfect, clear view of the evening sky, providing a truly magical experience.
We are excited to announce that 2023 marks our first year back in production after a hiatus due to the pandemic. We have been eagerly preparing for this moment and are thrilled to welcome guests back to our farm. By staying with us, you will not only enjoy a peaceful and picturesque environment but also support our efforts in sustainable agriculture and community engagement.
We can't wait to host you and provide you with a full-spectrum experience of a spectacular day on our farm.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from
$58
/ night
Booked 3 times
Camp Stargazer
1 site · Lodging130 acres · Delta, CO
We are centrally located between Grand Junction/Montrose and the Paiona/Hotchiss/Crawford area of the Western Slope. Our camping site is located on a secluded part of the 130 acre Stargazer Ranch in Delta Colorado. Just 7 miles from town yet has zero light pollution allowing for amazing epic views of the night sky. The site offers stunning views of the San Juan mountains to the South and the Grand Mesa to the North. Behind you and bordering the property is the Gunnison Gorge/Black Canyon with miles of trails for hiking, biking, ATVing, dirt biking and horseback riding .The Grand Mesa has over 300 lakes to explore and we are 30 minutes away from a variety of winerys.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Trash
from
$150
/ night
93%
(7)
FestiVille: Juniper Springs
1 site · RV, Tent44 acres · Crawford, CO
We are happy to welcome you to nearly 44 acres of wild terrain and gorgeous views with 4 swimming ponds. A piece of land like no other around, Juniper Springs boasts ponds and gorgeous creeks connecting them, lichen covered rocks resembling castle ruins, wildflowers in the meadows and cacti on the high grounds. Run by a non-profit project we offer add-ons for breakfast, picnic lunches, massage, horseback tours, permaculture classes, art workshops and more!
**Note as of March 1st 2024 we have a damaged drive that is only passable by higher clearance vehicles. Our composting toilet is also being updated. Both of these will be back in action by May 1st.
Pets
Campfires
from
$33
/ night
95%
(21)
Red Earth Ranch
9 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Hotchkiss, CO
Red Earth Ranch is a four generation working ranch with other family parcels located throughout Colorado. This particular 40 acre parcel was lovingly created by the family patriarch over 30 years ago. As a firefighter and an avid outdoorsman, he worked to extensively fire mitigate and recreate the land into a wildlife sanctuary. Through countless hours of land development in cooperation with the National Wildlife Foundation, Mule deer Association, and The Division of Wildlife, this property is being honored in his memory by sharing this special place with you. Welcome to Red Earth Ranch.Learn more about this land:Welcome: to Red Earth located in a quaint farm to table community filled with orchards, vineyards, farms and ranches. An area rich in history and filled with beauty. Tons of outdoor activities to choose from both on site and within a short drive or a fun day trip. Ask us, we'll point you in the right direction. Designated Sites: We provide clean and quiet campsites in a few different areas on the acreage. We're sure to have a special spot you'll love....among the cedars away from it all or close to the babbling creek are just a few of the different type sites available to you. Around our mini oasis, the pond is always a favorite. We provide dry camping only. We have designated only camp sites . We no longer allow wandering off accommodations. Please do not ask. We are a safe private community and we are very aware of our guests and particularly women solo travelers, creating safe distances following covid guidelines and thoughts on security. Parking: Driving to or near the camp site to set up and then we require you park in our secure parking area available for our guests. Thank you for understanding. The drive in is tight and we want to take all precautionary measures to allow room for emergency vehicles access. The only exceptions are vans and suv camper top vehicles or trailers obviously. We have specific sites for you. We provide dry camping only. PLEASE NOTE GENERATORS ARE WELCOME, our listing is incorrect.Cooking: A communal propane grill and a dozen tables are available for everyone's enjoyment. Located near the grill is a chuckwagon box of grilling utensils, paper plates, salt and pepper etc. If you need something please ask. An outdoor community sink with potable water is available. Please be kind and follow the instructions at the sink. A community fire ring is a fun way to enjoy smores and make friends with all of our guests. Plan on booking to enjoy our Smores n Stars Party near sunset.Facilities: A private restroom with sink and toilet but no shower, located inside our home is available to our guests during the daytime hours. Emergency only between dusk and dawn due to no outside lighting to and from your campsites to the lodge. Dry camping facilities are your responsibility during the night. (If you are needing more availability for facilities please book as a guest on our ABNB site for inside the home accommodations.) If you need help or suggestions, we always provide to our guests a feeling of welcome. We are always open to suggestions as we grow and change with our guests needs. Please keep in mind the lodge home is an ABNB. Some areas will be separated for our HipCamp guests and our ABNB guests.We're so much more... Our ranch is for all ages, and best enjoyed by adults seeking a summer camp atmosphere of ECO Nature Therapies based on our Indigenous Teachings. We have an extensive walking path system to accommodate our guests, a native prayer circle, ECO friendly places of meditation and healing, and just plain enjoying the Colorado fresh air. Quiet self led nature walks or Indigenous led ceremonial medicine walks are also available. Ask us. Remember, we are also an ABNB providing a service to those wishing to experience nature and other therapies. As our camping guests these services are available to you also. Ask us.Blessings and safe travels.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
Cooking equipment
from
$35
/ night
Dog-friendly getaways
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Desert camping in Blue Mesa Reservoir guide
Overview
In the high mountain desert between Gunnison and Montrose, Blue Mesa Reservoir is the largest body of water in Colorado. Part of the Curecanti National Recreation Area, the 29-mile-long reservoir offers 96 miles of shoreline surrounded by canyons and mesas. Stocked with fish and home to the largest kokanee salmon hatchery in the country, the fishing is legendary. Visitors also come to go boating, paddling, windsurfing, and swimming, as well as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and wildlife spotting. Campers can choose from more than 10 lakeside and boat-in campgrounds around the reservoir, with many more options available elsewhere in Curecanti National Recreation Area and Gunnison National Forest nearby.
Where to go
Sapinero Basin
At the western end of the reservoir is the Sapinero Basin, with three arms branching off north and south, and four campgrounds. The largest campground in the area, Lake Fork, offers 90 tent and RV sites, along with a marina and an information center. The Ponderosa campground can be found along the Soap Creek Arm while the West Elk Creek boat-in campground can be found along the West Elk arm.
Cebolla Basin
Centrally located, the Cebolla Basin is home to the Dillon Pinnacles and Elk Creek Campground, offering 160 sites for tents and large RVs, with fire rings and picnic tables. It’s also the only campground with electric hookups. Near the Elk Creek Visitor Center are a boat ramp, fish cleaning station, and a seasonal marina and restaurant. The basin is also home to the Red Creek, Dry Creek, and East Elk Creek Group Campground, plus the Cebolla Creek boat-in campground.
Iola Basin
On the eastern end of the reservoir, the Iola Basin is home to the Stevens Creek Campground, with 53 tent and RV sites. The Turtle Rock boat-in campground can also be found in this area, along with several picnic areas, two boat launches, and the Lake City Bridge.
Curecanti National Recreation Area
To the west of Blue Mesa are two other lakes that form part of the Curecanti National Recreation Area—Morrow Point Lake and Crystal Lake. Just west of Blue Mesa, Morrow Point offers two boat-in campgrounds at Curecanti Creek and Hermits Rest. Further west, Crystal Lake offers one boat-in campground and two developed campgrounds for tents and RVs, including East Portal, at the far western end of Curecanti National Recreation Area and just below Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
Gunnison National Forest
To the northwest of Blue Mesa River is the Gunnison National Forest, spanning more than 1.6 million acres. In addition to plenty of space for dispersed backcountry camping, there are more than 30 developed backgrounds that offer tent sites, RV sites, and cabins. The closest developed campgrounds to Blue Mesa Reservoir include Soap Creek Campground, with 21 campsites, Lake Irwin Campground, with 25 campsites, and the Lost Lake Campground-Paionia, with 18 campsites.
Top cities in and near Blue Mesa Reservoir
Safety at Hipcamp
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.