The best luxury camping in Blue Mesa Reservoir

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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.

96% (23) 69 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Blue Mesa Reservoir

Mesa Campground

1. Mesa Campground

88%
(13)
12 sites · RVs, Lodging · Gunnison, CO
Mesa Campground is located in a beautiful setting that boasts a multitude of activities including world class fishing, hiking, mountain biking, 4-wheeling, rafting/kayaking/paddle boarding, Colorado’s largest reservoir, Black Canyon National Park, amazing restaurants and specialty shops, wildflower festivals, rodeos and more! We offer both pull-thru and back in sites, 30 or 50 amp, patio sites, and we can accommodate any size rig. We also have van sites with full hook up for a special price. Our tent sites are grassy and provide shade. We have two beautifully kept modern cabins that you will find cozy and perfect for a get-away.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$58
 / night
Cedar Creek Lodging & RV Park

2. Cedar Creek Lodging & RV Park

90%
(5)
118 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Montrose, CO
Cedar Creek stands out as a unique destination near downtown Montrose, offering a serene and well-shaded RV park that caters to a variety of accommodation preferences. Whether you choose to stay in one of our charming tiny homes, park your own RV or van, indulge in glamping, or set up your tent right by the creek, you’ll find a perfect spot to unwind in nature. Our campground provides essential amenities to enhance your stay, including access to a bathhouse, laundry facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi. With the beautiful surroundings, you can explore nearby natural features, enjoy swimming holes, and partake in various outdoor activities. Plus, you’ll be just a short distance from local restaurants and shops, making it easy to experience the best of Montrose. We look forward to welcoming you to Cedar Creek for a memorable getaway!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Oasis Cottages

3. Oasis Cottages

6 sites · Lodging · Gunnison, CO
Our Vacation Cottages at Gunnison Lakeside Oasis vary in size and sleeping capacities. A two-night minimum stay applies to all. Pricing starts at $109/night All of our cottages/cabins are equipped with restroom facilities, including a shower. From a two-bedroom cottage to 12×12 and 12×16 cottages with and without covered porches all the way to a 1960 Retro Trailer await you close to the shores of Colorado’s largest body of water, the Blue Mesa Reservoir!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$119
 / night
Hideaway

4. Hideaway

1 site · Lodging · Crawford, CO
Welcome to Hideaway Ranch, a one-of-a-kind retreat in Crawford County nestled in a canyon, perfect for yoga, family trips, corporate off-sites, or creative escapes. Perched above Morrow Point Reservoir, this 4-bedroom, 2-bath home (sleeps 11) offers 50-mile panoramic views of 14,000-ft peaks with total seclusion. Built in 2023, the property features an open living space, master suite, loft bedroom, covered patio, Wi-Fi, solar power, and modern comforts, offering the perfect blend of nature and privacy. Stay comfortably at this 4-bedroom house. Amenities such as AC, a fitness room, and a jetted bathtub allow guests to relax and unwind. This inviting property provides a soothing atmosphere, ideal for a memorable getaway. Hosts are available to answer any questions during your stay.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$550
 / night
The YURT at Screwball Ranch

5. The YURT at Screwball Ranch

96%
(14)
1 site · Lodging · Cedaredge, CO
The YURT at Screwball Ranch sits on its own private 80 wooded acres only 20 minutes away from the western Colorado town of Cedaredge - Gateway to Grand Mesa. The YURT will comfortably sleep 4 - 6 guests and there's room for several tents within the fenced compound that includes The YURT, parking, corrals, & fire pit. You're within an hours drive of Grand Mesa (300+ lakes on the world's largest flat top mountain) The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and many, many other monuments and points of interest. Gold Medal fishing in the Gunnison River, North Fork of the Gunnison can keep you away from challenging golf courses in both Cedaredge and Delta (Devil's Thumb Golf Course.)A beautiful view across Cactus Park to the West Elks Mountain Range is the perfect setting for that evening cocktail or wine. Other than the occasional deer or elk walking by, a distant Coyote howl or Owl hoot - the silence can be almost deafening. We love pets - all pets.  A little over 2 acres surrounding the YURT,  Fire Pit, Corrals, Loafing Shed, and parking area is surrounded by a pet secure fence that allows guests to turn pets (children, guests) loose without fear they will get lost or bother any of the neighbor's livestock,  Just close the gate after you enter the YURT area.Part of Cedar Mesa - northeast of the town of Cedaredge, The YURT at Screwball Ranch is maintained by it's owners as a base camp for their own big game hunting each fall. Because of the unique setting, close proximity to the host's property and only one of it's kind of YURT (...full kitchen, 3/4 bath, loft, spiral staircase - WOW! - What a YURT!) the owners offer it for rental during the non-hunting seasons.Learn more about this land:You'll be camping(?) in a 30' diameter YURT with loft, enclosed entryway, large surrounding deck, solar energy (generator backup). loft with twin beds, spiral staircase, two full sized futon on the main floor, full kitchen (range, oven, refrigerator, microwave, slow cooker, coffee maker, pots, pans, dishes, utensils, etc.), 3/4 bath with hot and cold running water - all while off-the-grid and isolated on 80 private acres including hiking, biking, riding, ATV trails galore. You also have private access to 1000's of acres of BLM land not open to public access.  Base Price ($157.00 per night, 3 night minimum) is for double occupancy.   Children 12 and under stay free SO DO NOT ADD THOSE KIDDOS TO THE ADDITIONAL GUEST COUNT.  Additional guests over 12 pay an additional $15.00 per day (we're off-the-grid and additional guests consume more of all the stuff we have to haul in and stock for you - like water, generator fuel, firewood, etc.)  7.7% Applicable taxes will be added.The YURT at Screwball Ranch sits at the base of Grand Mesa, the largest flat-top mountain in the world.  Grand Mesa has over 300 lakes and hundreds of miles of Hiking, Bicycle, riding, ATV, Snowmobile, jeep trails.  With most of Grand Mesa's activities near 11,000 feet above sea level, the air is cool, crisp and clean, even during the hottest days of summer.  Find us on google maps.Treat yourself to Glamping (Glorious Camping) - not just camping.  You deserve it!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$199
 / night
Fire Mountain Farmstead

6. Fire Mountain Farmstead

1 site · Lodging · Hotchkiss, CO
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! 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 for a popular Paonia Producer's Market. We sell meat, eggs, veggies, herbs, medicinal tinctures, 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
Washington Gulch Getaway

7. Washington Gulch Getaway

1 site · Lodging · Crested Butte, CO
Welcome to the Washington Gulch Getaway! Don't miss this rare opportunity to stay at one of the most coveted homes in Crested Butte. Featuring 20 acres of private land surrounded by National Forest, ample mountain views and wildlife, 3 ponds, and trout stream, this 3-story creekside cabin is the perfect place for you and your friends or loved ones to enjoy the CO backcountry, or to simply relax and recharge. Book now to lock in your dates before they're gone; I would love to host your stay! ABOUT THE LOCATION: The Washington Gulch Getaway is your premier destination to enjoy a remote mountain retreat in the beautiful backcountry of Crested Butte, Colorado. Start your day watching the sun rise over Gothic Mountain before it slowly starts moving across a picturesque view of Whetstone. Enjoy the views from two decks and frequent visits from wildlife, including elk, deer, moose, bears, and beavers. Sit and sunbathe by the two small ponds, or grab your fishing rod and follow the creek down to the third pond with plenty of trout waiting to bite. Hand-built over decades by the legendary Phil P., take in the sights, sounds, and rich history of one of the oldest gold mining claims in Gunnison County as you walk the property to find hidden gems like an old sluce box, outhouse, and some of the original equipment used to create this one-of-a-kind oasis. You'll also find countless trinkets, treasures, and antiques throughout the home. End your day watching the sunset over Anthracite Mesa, where an old coal mine once stood in the 1890's, as deer and other wildlife return almost every evening to graze and visit the ponds. Some might even get as close as the front door!
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$800
 / night

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.

96% (23) 69 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Blue Mesa Reservoir

Mesa Campground

1. Mesa Campground

88%
(13)
12 sites · RVs, Lodging · Gunnison, CO
Mesa Campground is located in a beautiful setting that boasts a multitude of activities including world class fishing, hiking, mountain biking, 4-wheeling, rafting/kayaking/paddle boarding, Colorado’s largest reservoir, Black Canyon National Park, amazing restaurants and specialty shops, wildflower festivals, rodeos and more! We offer both pull-thru and back in sites, 30 or 50 amp, patio sites, and we can accommodate any size rig. We also have van sites with full hook up for a special price. Our tent sites are grassy and provide shade. We have two beautifully kept modern cabins that you will find cozy and perfect for a get-away.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$58
 / night
Cedar Creek Lodging & RV Park

2. Cedar Creek Lodging & RV Park

90%
(5)
118 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Montrose, CO
Cedar Creek stands out as a unique destination near downtown Montrose, offering a serene and well-shaded RV park that caters to a variety of accommodation preferences. Whether you choose to stay in one of our charming tiny homes, park your own RV or van, indulge in glamping, or set up your tent right by the creek, you’ll find a perfect spot to unwind in nature. Our campground provides essential amenities to enhance your stay, including access to a bathhouse, laundry facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi. With the beautiful surroundings, you can explore nearby natural features, enjoy swimming holes, and partake in various outdoor activities. Plus, you’ll be just a short distance from local restaurants and shops, making it easy to experience the best of Montrose. We look forward to welcoming you to Cedar Creek for a memorable getaway!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Oasis Cottages

3. Oasis Cottages

6 sites · Lodging · Gunnison, CO
Our Vacation Cottages at Gunnison Lakeside Oasis vary in size and sleeping capacities. A two-night minimum stay applies to all. Pricing starts at $109/night All of our cottages/cabins are equipped with restroom facilities, including a shower. From a two-bedroom cottage to 12×12 and 12×16 cottages with and without covered porches all the way to a 1960 Retro Trailer await you close to the shores of Colorado’s largest body of water, the Blue Mesa Reservoir!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$119
 / night
Hideaway

4. Hideaway

1 site · Lodging · Crawford, CO
Welcome to Hideaway Ranch, a one-of-a-kind retreat in Crawford County nestled in a canyon, perfect for yoga, family trips, corporate off-sites, or creative escapes. Perched above Morrow Point Reservoir, this 4-bedroom, 2-bath home (sleeps 11) offers 50-mile panoramic views of 14,000-ft peaks with total seclusion. Built in 2023, the property features an open living space, master suite, loft bedroom, covered patio, Wi-Fi, solar power, and modern comforts, offering the perfect blend of nature and privacy. Stay comfortably at this 4-bedroom house. Amenities such as AC, a fitness room, and a jetted bathtub allow guests to relax and unwind. This inviting property provides a soothing atmosphere, ideal for a memorable getaway. Hosts are available to answer any questions during your stay.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$550
 / night
The YURT at Screwball Ranch

5. The YURT at Screwball Ranch

96%
(14)
1 site · Lodging · Cedaredge, CO
The YURT at Screwball Ranch sits on its own private 80 wooded acres only 20 minutes away from the western Colorado town of Cedaredge - Gateway to Grand Mesa. The YURT will comfortably sleep 4 - 6 guests and there's room for several tents within the fenced compound that includes The YURT, parking, corrals, & fire pit. You're within an hours drive of Grand Mesa (300+ lakes on the world's largest flat top mountain) The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and many, many other monuments and points of interest. Gold Medal fishing in the Gunnison River, North Fork of the Gunnison can keep you away from challenging golf courses in both Cedaredge and Delta (Devil's Thumb Golf Course.)A beautiful view across Cactus Park to the West Elks Mountain Range is the perfect setting for that evening cocktail or wine. Other than the occasional deer or elk walking by, a distant Coyote howl or Owl hoot - the silence can be almost deafening. We love pets - all pets.  A little over 2 acres surrounding the YURT,  Fire Pit, Corrals, Loafing Shed, and parking area is surrounded by a pet secure fence that allows guests to turn pets (children, guests) loose without fear they will get lost or bother any of the neighbor's livestock,  Just close the gate after you enter the YURT area.Part of Cedar Mesa - northeast of the town of Cedaredge, The YURT at Screwball Ranch is maintained by it's owners as a base camp for their own big game hunting each fall. Because of the unique setting, close proximity to the host's property and only one of it's kind of YURT (...full kitchen, 3/4 bath, loft, spiral staircase - WOW! - What a YURT!) the owners offer it for rental during the non-hunting seasons.Learn more about this land:You'll be camping(?) in a 30' diameter YURT with loft, enclosed entryway, large surrounding deck, solar energy (generator backup). loft with twin beds, spiral staircase, two full sized futon on the main floor, full kitchen (range, oven, refrigerator, microwave, slow cooker, coffee maker, pots, pans, dishes, utensils, etc.), 3/4 bath with hot and cold running water - all while off-the-grid and isolated on 80 private acres including hiking, biking, riding, ATV trails galore. You also have private access to 1000's of acres of BLM land not open to public access.  Base Price ($157.00 per night, 3 night minimum) is for double occupancy.   Children 12 and under stay free SO DO NOT ADD THOSE KIDDOS TO THE ADDITIONAL GUEST COUNT.  Additional guests over 12 pay an additional $15.00 per day (we're off-the-grid and additional guests consume more of all the stuff we have to haul in and stock for you - like water, generator fuel, firewood, etc.)  7.7% Applicable taxes will be added.The YURT at Screwball Ranch sits at the base of Grand Mesa, the largest flat-top mountain in the world.  Grand Mesa has over 300 lakes and hundreds of miles of Hiking, Bicycle, riding, ATV, Snowmobile, jeep trails.  With most of Grand Mesa's activities near 11,000 feet above sea level, the air is cool, crisp and clean, even during the hottest days of summer.  Find us on google maps.Treat yourself to Glamping (Glorious Camping) - not just camping.  You deserve it!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$199
 / night
Fire Mountain Farmstead

6. Fire Mountain Farmstead

1 site · Lodging · Hotchkiss, CO
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! 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 for a popular Paonia Producer's Market. We sell meat, eggs, veggies, herbs, medicinal tinctures, 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
Washington Gulch Getaway

7. Washington Gulch Getaway

1 site · Lodging · Crested Butte, CO
Welcome to the Washington Gulch Getaway! Don't miss this rare opportunity to stay at one of the most coveted homes in Crested Butte. Featuring 20 acres of private land surrounded by National Forest, ample mountain views and wildlife, 3 ponds, and trout stream, this 3-story creekside cabin is the perfect place for you and your friends or loved ones to enjoy the CO backcountry, or to simply relax and recharge. Book now to lock in your dates before they're gone; I would love to host your stay! ABOUT THE LOCATION: The Washington Gulch Getaway is your premier destination to enjoy a remote mountain retreat in the beautiful backcountry of Crested Butte, Colorado. Start your day watching the sun rise over Gothic Mountain before it slowly starts moving across a picturesque view of Whetstone. Enjoy the views from two decks and frequent visits from wildlife, including elk, deer, moose, bears, and beavers. Sit and sunbathe by the two small ponds, or grab your fishing rod and follow the creek down to the third pond with plenty of trout waiting to bite. Hand-built over decades by the legendary Phil P., take in the sights, sounds, and rich history of one of the oldest gold mining claims in Gunnison County as you walk the property to find hidden gems like an old sluce box, outhouse, and some of the original equipment used to create this one-of-a-kind oasis. You'll also find countless trinkets, treasures, and antiques throughout the home. End your day watching the sunset over Anthracite Mesa, where an old coal mine once stood in the 1890's, as deer and other wildlife return almost every evening to graze and visit the ponds. Some might even get as close as the front door!
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$800
 / night

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The best luxury camping in Blue Mesa Reservoir 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.

Top parks in and near Blue Mesa Reservoir

Top regions near Blue Mesa Reservoir