- Desert Camping
The best desert camping in Blue Mesa Reservoir
99% (661) • 128 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Blue Mesa Reservoir
Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river
1. Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river
99%
(383)
Hotchkiss, CO · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$40
/ night
Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven
2. Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven
97%
(487)
Hotchkiss, CO · 5 sites
Formerly known as the North Fork Tipi Haven, this 22 acres is now home to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven. This property offers spectacular views, a large grass field for activities and games, a short hike up Mandala Mountain (behind the solar panels), and relaxion by Love Gulch in the many hammocks. Two mile drive from Big B's and even closer to the nearest winery (Storm Cellar). Tipi camping offers an authentic camping experience, complete with possible bugs and other critters one would expect to find in nature.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$65
/ night
Camp Stargazer
3. Camp Stargazer
100%
(9)
Delta, CO · 1 site
We started hosting our Glamping site in May of 2021 and have enjoyed sharing the experience with guests from Australia, Italy, Mexico City and all over the USA!
We are centrally located between Grand Junction/Montrose and the Paiona/Hotchiss/Crawford area of the Western Slope. Our glamping site is 100% private, 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, ATV'ing, dirt biking and horseback riding .The Grand Mesa has over 300 lakes to explore and we are 30 minutes away from a variety of wineries.
The glamping tent sleeps 2, and we offer an extra tent and a queen blow up bed for an additional fee. As well as fresh eggs and firewood.
We are a Coleman sponsored site so everything you need awaits your arrival. 5 gallons of drinking water, 5-6 gallons of washing water, Flashlights, lanterns, fans, Bluetooth speaker, chairs, cooler , wagon, telescope, sun shower , propane grill, dishes for 6 and more!! Just bring ice for cooler, towels for shower and your food & beverages!
We now offer Horseback rides from our location! Please inquire if interested.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$175
/ night
Uncompahgre National Forest
4. Uncompahgre National Forest
85%
(23)
National forest in Colorado · 228 sites
Head to wild western Colorado to truly get away from it all.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sunset Ridge
5. Sunset Ridge
Cimarron, CO · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to Sunset Ridge — your basecamp for adventure, sunsets, and Colorado mountain magic! Tucked away on the ruggedly beautiful Western Slope, our rustic mountain campsite offers panoramic sunset views, crackling campfires*, and easy access to the wild outdoors.
Whether you're chasing adrenaline or soaking in the scenery, we've got you covered:
🛻 Four-wheel across scenic trails and roadways,
🥾 Hike to jaw-dropping overlooks on nearby popular trails,
🎣 Cast a line in peaceful fishing spots,
🎶 Enjoy live music, drinks and food under the stars at the local lodge.
...and that’s just the start.
We’re a scenic drive from two classic Western Slope mountain towns—both offering hot springs, local eateries, charming shops, and even a nostalgic drive-in theater for the perfect nightcap.
At Sunset Ridge, you can rise with the sun and the sound of birdsong, bugling elk, or grazing sheep, explore untamed Colorado by day, and unwind beside the fire* while the sky erupts in color followed by a nightlight of stars from above. Whether you're pitching a tent or pulling up in your rig, this is your place to unplug, unwind, and explore.
*Availability is based on local fire restrictions, which are often in place during peak summer months.
Pets
from
$60
/ night
Fire Mountain Farmstead
6. Fire Mountain Farmstead
Hotchkiss, CO · 1 site
Fire Mountain Farmstead has easy access to the area's many attractions. Right on Hwy 92, 7 minutes to downtown Hotchkiss and 20 min to Paonia. Drive 45 min to the Black Canyon's North Rim, or 45 min the other direction to the Grand Mesa. World class fishing right down the road on the Gunnison River! High desert views of the Gunnison Gorge and the Uncompahgre Plateau.
We raise Dorper sheep, chickens, ducks, geese, and pigs. We also grow 90% of our own food and have a market garden which we sell at the Paonia Producer's Market. We offer meat, eggs, veggies, herbs, medicinal tinctures, nutritious bone broth, hand-made soap, and more! All of these items are available for our guests to purchase, although some are only available seasonally. Inquire with your hosts for more information or to schedule a farm tour!
Well-stocked kitchenette. 100 Mbps WiFi. Fire pit!
Dog allowed. No cats. Smoking OK outside, 420 friendly!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$73
/ night
Stay in Grace: Wine-Country Retreat
7. Stay in Grace: Wine-Country Retreat
100%
(4)
Paonia, CO · 1 site
Staying in "Grace" is an experience not to be missed, if you are traveling to the Paonia, Colorado area this season.
Immediately next door to the Stone Cottage winery and tasting room, Grace is a completely transformed 1998 Shasta Phoenix 5th wheel with world-class views, expansive night skies, and peaceful mountain vibes.
Grace the Camper is a sanctuary. A unique and whimsical refuge, crafted with love, perfect for a romantic adventure getaway, a solo artist retreat, a girls trip for wine tasting and music - or just the chance to unplug and unwind from the crazy of the world.
The Paonia - Hotchkiss - Crawford area (North Fork Valley) is an agricultural mecca with world-renowned natural sites, such as Needle Rock and the Black Canyon.
You can’t go wrong with hot springs, rivers, farms, and hikes in every direction, great restaurants nearby, live music, and a premier winery tasting room mere feet from your doorstep.
All while coming home to a cozy little hideaway just above the Stone Cottage vineyards, with inspiring views and lots of light. Walk next door to enjoy a glass of wine under the shade of their patio. Cook a nice meal to enjoy on your private deck. Go for a walk and take in the vastness of view from the Raggeds to the Elks to the Black Canyon and desert beyond. At night, you can hear the owls and the coyotes across the edges of a beautiful Milky Way.
Grace has been lovingly renovated from top to bottom. Roof to floor, given new life that let's her spacious floorplan shine. She is a perfect size for a couple or even three friends or a family with one child to enjoy a high-class glamping-style adventure in a mountain paradise.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$84
/ night
99% (661) • 128 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Blue Mesa Reservoir
Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river
1. Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river
99%
(383)
Hotchkiss, CO · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$40
/ night
Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven
2. Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven
97%
(487)
Hotchkiss, CO · 5 sites
Formerly known as the North Fork Tipi Haven, this 22 acres is now home to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven. This property offers spectacular views, a large grass field for activities and games, a short hike up Mandala Mountain (behind the solar panels), and relaxion by Love Gulch in the many hammocks. Two mile drive from Big B's and even closer to the nearest winery (Storm Cellar). Tipi camping offers an authentic camping experience, complete with possible bugs and other critters one would expect to find in nature.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$65
/ night
Camp Stargazer
3. Camp Stargazer
100%
(9)
Delta, CO · 1 site
We started hosting our Glamping site in May of 2021 and have enjoyed sharing the experience with guests from Australia, Italy, Mexico City and all over the USA!
We are centrally located between Grand Junction/Montrose and the Paiona/Hotchiss/Crawford area of the Western Slope. Our glamping site is 100% private, 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, ATV'ing, dirt biking and horseback riding .The Grand Mesa has over 300 lakes to explore and we are 30 minutes away from a variety of wineries.
The glamping tent sleeps 2, and we offer an extra tent and a queen blow up bed for an additional fee. As well as fresh eggs and firewood.
We are a Coleman sponsored site so everything you need awaits your arrival. 5 gallons of drinking water, 5-6 gallons of washing water, Flashlights, lanterns, fans, Bluetooth speaker, chairs, cooler , wagon, telescope, sun shower , propane grill, dishes for 6 and more!! Just bring ice for cooler, towels for shower and your food & beverages!
We now offer Horseback rides from our location! Please inquire if interested.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$175
/ night
Uncompahgre National Forest
4. Uncompahgre National Forest
85%
(23)
National forest in Colorado · 228 sites
Head to wild western Colorado to truly get away from it all.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sunset Ridge
5. Sunset Ridge
Cimarron, CO · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to Sunset Ridge — your basecamp for adventure, sunsets, and Colorado mountain magic! Tucked away on the ruggedly beautiful Western Slope, our rustic mountain campsite offers panoramic sunset views, crackling campfires*, and easy access to the wild outdoors.
Whether you're chasing adrenaline or soaking in the scenery, we've got you covered:
🛻 Four-wheel across scenic trails and roadways,
🥾 Hike to jaw-dropping overlooks on nearby popular trails,
🎣 Cast a line in peaceful fishing spots,
🎶 Enjoy live music, drinks and food under the stars at the local lodge.
...and that’s just the start.
We’re a scenic drive from two classic Western Slope mountain towns—both offering hot springs, local eateries, charming shops, and even a nostalgic drive-in theater for the perfect nightcap.
At Sunset Ridge, you can rise with the sun and the sound of birdsong, bugling elk, or grazing sheep, explore untamed Colorado by day, and unwind beside the fire* while the sky erupts in color followed by a nightlight of stars from above. Whether you're pitching a tent or pulling up in your rig, this is your place to unplug, unwind, and explore.
*Availability is based on local fire restrictions, which are often in place during peak summer months.
Pets
from
$60
/ night
Fire Mountain Farmstead
6. Fire Mountain Farmstead
Hotchkiss, CO · 1 site
Fire Mountain Farmstead has easy access to the area's many attractions. Right on Hwy 92, 7 minutes to downtown Hotchkiss and 20 min to Paonia. Drive 45 min to the Black Canyon's North Rim, or 45 min the other direction to the Grand Mesa. World class fishing right down the road on the Gunnison River! High desert views of the Gunnison Gorge and the Uncompahgre Plateau.
We raise Dorper sheep, chickens, ducks, geese, and pigs. We also grow 90% of our own food and have a market garden which we sell at the Paonia Producer's Market. We offer meat, eggs, veggies, herbs, medicinal tinctures, nutritious bone broth, hand-made soap, and more! All of these items are available for our guests to purchase, although some are only available seasonally. Inquire with your hosts for more information or to schedule a farm tour!
Well-stocked kitchenette. 100 Mbps WiFi. Fire pit!
Dog allowed. No cats. Smoking OK outside, 420 friendly!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$73
/ night
Stay in Grace: Wine-Country Retreat
7. Stay in Grace: Wine-Country Retreat
100%
(4)
Paonia, CO · 1 site
Staying in "Grace" is an experience not to be missed, if you are traveling to the Paonia, Colorado area this season.
Immediately next door to the Stone Cottage winery and tasting room, Grace is a completely transformed 1998 Shasta Phoenix 5th wheel with world-class views, expansive night skies, and peaceful mountain vibes.
Grace the Camper is a sanctuary. A unique and whimsical refuge, crafted with love, perfect for a romantic adventure getaway, a solo artist retreat, a girls trip for wine tasting and music - or just the chance to unplug and unwind from the crazy of the world.
The Paonia - Hotchkiss - Crawford area (North Fork Valley) is an agricultural mecca with world-renowned natural sites, such as Needle Rock and the Black Canyon.
You can’t go wrong with hot springs, rivers, farms, and hikes in every direction, great restaurants nearby, live music, and a premier winery tasting room mere feet from your doorstep.
All while coming home to a cozy little hideaway just above the Stone Cottage vineyards, with inspiring views and lots of light. Walk next door to enjoy a glass of wine under the shade of their patio. Cook a nice meal to enjoy on your private deck. Go for a walk and take in the vastness of view from the Raggeds to the Elks to the Black Canyon and desert beyond. At night, you can hear the owls and the coyotes across the edges of a beautiful Milky Way.
Grace has been lovingly renovated from top to bottom. Roof to floor, given new life that let's her spacious floorplan shine. She is a perfect size for a couple or even three friends or a family with one child to enjoy a high-class glamping-style adventure in a mountain paradise.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$84
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
D
D.l.
October 2025
4 nights at Stay in Grace: Wine-Country Retreat
Grace is a sweet glamping option. The view from the breakfast table was lovely, the decor appealing and it was clean. It had everything we needed to make meals and wash dishes. The bed was comfortable. The furnace, electric stove and small heater for the bedroom made cool nights comfortable. Paonia is beautiful! The drive to Crested Butte from here is amazing!!!
Karina was very communicative with clear instructions before our trip and was quick to respond to our requests.
If you've never used a composting toilet before, it's an adjustment but it's a good option for glamping. The shower had hot water and enough pressure.
I would stay here again.
See more
I
Iris
October 2025
With pets
Beautiful natural environment. Loved the pathways. amazing atmosphere.
My best moments: awaking to wild geese flying over, eyes lift to the ceiling and then outside through many windows. Sun rising, mountains, creek sounds. Make fire and Coffee!
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K
Kate
September 2025
With pets
Beautiful place! They've created such a nice space with beautiful spots to sit by the river. The inside of the you're is beautifully furnished and we enjoyed it thoroughly. Highly recommend.
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T
Tamzen
September 2025
With pets
If you need recharging, a reset, peace, quiet, Magik, grounding and to be in nature, feel the basics of living minimally with mother Earth, the trees, the mountains, this is a must. Second time here in the same year
The Hawk TiPi comfortably fits 4 adults and 4 dogs.
Pure Bliss. Cannot believe I have to wait until next year to come back. 🙏🪶🙏
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K
Kelli
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Camp Stargazer
Camp Stargazer is an absolute gem! Sean and Vickie have built an incredible campsite. It is very comfortable, has everything you need, and looking up at the stars is jaw-droppingly beautiful. Hands down the coolest bathroom experience of my life.. you'll see when you're there!
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J
Jane
September 2025
With kids
This is one of our favorite places to glamp. It’s nice to not have to pack dishes, cookware, etc. There’s a great setup to cook. Sway in the hammocks after breakfast. The beds inside the teepees are so comfy. The host is incredibly kind.
See moreS
Simon
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven
Absolutely great experience, great host with one of the cutest little towns to go in and have dinner as well.
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C
Callie
August 2025
With kids
Absolutely beautiful. Stacy was so nice. Everything was perfect- will definitely be back!
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T
Tamzen
August 2025
With pets
One night wasn't enough.. What a sanctuary. Clean, green, so so peaceful, relaxing. I booked a second night in the deer 🦌 Tipi. Loved the solar bag showers, loved loved the views, and the private mini hike. Love that we could take our dogs because lots of places do not. Our dogs were in heaven. Highly highly recommend this sanctuary.
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K
Kathleen
August 2025
With kids
This was a fun spot for me and my kids to stay for the night. The host was very welcoming and the space was clean.
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D
David
August 2025
With kids
Our stay at old moon acres was awesome! We all had a blast and especially our kids. Stacy was very accommodating to our needs and helping us out from the very beginning. She is very nice and takes good care of her guests. It was a nice get away from the city. It is very kid friendly and a nice place to take the family. The place is very clean and it was a nice experience sleeping in a Tipi. Has a nice view of the mountains, a nice little spot to cook with everything provided and a nice fire pit to have a camp fire at night. Also not too far away are some fishing spots and a small town Crawford for whatever you might need. I would definitely recommend this place it was a nice stay 10/10 for us.
See moreP
Patti
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Camp Stargazer
Had a great time! Vickie and Sean are awesome and welcoming. They think of everything and are quick to respond and answer questions. Thanks for the hospitality!
See moreS
Spencer
July 2025
With kids
The property was perfect! My husband and sons had one Tipi, and my friend and her son had another and they were spacious and cute! The mattresses were comfy and the kids had so much fun! The porta-potties were clean, and the shower was perfect. Would much rather this bathroom set up than any facility at a camp ground. The little kitchen area by the creek was accommodating and relaxing, and the creek was a blast for the kids to get muddy and play in, without the concern of drowning. There was plenty of area in the pretty grass for the kids and puppies to run! Can’t wait to go back!
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J
Jaclyn
July 2025
With kids
We loved tipi camping here! We were the only ones this particular trip. It was easy to find and Stacy was very responsive and helpful. She even checked in with us to make sure we were all set The views are beautiful. Close to activities in Paonia or Crawford.
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C
Colin
July 2025
With kids
The Tipi Haven is a little slice of heaven in the North Fork! My son and I spent a really magical night in Raven in the secret little field just a mile from Big B’s. Cooking area in the shaded grove was a nice touch and it was amazing to have a fan in the tipi, especially during the Paonia summer. Hosts came and checked on us in the morning and the little creek and knotty climbing trees were a wonder. We’ll stay here again soon!
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a
arielle
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven
What a special place! My husband and I had a great time and everything we needed was right at our fingertips. We will definitely be back!
See moreL
Liza
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven
Super easy! Bed was comfortable and the tipi was clean. Yes, there were some bugs but it’s a tipi. Don’t forget your sheets and you’ll have a wonderful stay.
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J
Jessica
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven
Everything was nice and clean, which I have come to release expectation around, when camping. I took my daughter and her three friends for her birthday and we played and sang and ate and it was great. The original listing said there was a lake, but the owners were really wonderful in explaining that the previous owners perhaps thought they were supposed to list what was near by, rather than what was on the property. They offered to bring out the irrigation cannon for the girls to play in the water and they absolutely loved it! Hot cranky teens are no fun, so I was extra grateful for this.
The portapotty's were super clean and didn't smell like chemicals, someone helped us find fire wood and it was peaceful and lovely through and through. I would recommend this to anyone , especially if you're tired of the desert and want to lay in the hammocks among the trees by a little creek.
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J
Jacob
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven
First off Stacy did a great job at communicating back with any questions I had! We stayed around July 4th and had a great time! Plenty of space away from the other campers but good community feeling as well. The tipis had a cool ambiance and were a fun way to experience a new part of CO.
See moreB
Barbara
July 2025
With kids
We loved the Tipi we stayed at! It was large enough for the five of us. I will say though, the porta potties seemed like it was forever away because we were the last Tipi. The Tipi’s were somewhat spaced out and you have to park a good ways away from the Tipi’s. Personally, I would have loved to be able to park next the Tipi I was staying in. So, make sure not to show up after dark or you will be packing things in the dark like we did. There is no light to help either. It kind of ruined the experience for us.
See moreBlue Mesa Reservoir camping guide
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.
