94% (1.9K) • 2,565 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Blue Mesa Reservoir
Tater's Black Canyon Campground
1. Tater's Black Canyon Campground
97%
(281)
Crawford, CO · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
North Rim of Black Canyon National Park has re-opened. Hot showers and toilets! Tater's was voted a 2024 top runner up as 'Best Hipcamp in Colorado'. 35 acres of bliss shared with 2 humans, 2 dogs, 2 cats, 3 horses and 4 chickens [Eggs may be available upon request]. Black Canyon National Park is a short drive to the west. Conveniently located to Crawford and the North Fork Valley to wineries, music fests and local eateries.
Incredible views and dark skies make the perfect respite for just hanging out, climbing in the Black, foodie time in the North Fork Valley or pretty much whatever you like to do. Hunters are welcome as this is a perfect base camp to Unit 63.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
The Hop Yard Hideaway
2. The Hop Yard Hideaway
99%
(141)
Montrose, CO · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Wake up to the fresh aroma of hops, enjoys beers made with the hops grown next to your sleeping bag, have a campfire with an incredible view of the San Juan Mountains and open night sky, take a tour and learn about the unique world of hops, walk around an 18-foot tall, 32-acre hop trellis, and adventure in all that the Western Slope of Colorado has to offer.
We also have 'Fridays on the Farm' every Friday from May 22nd until October 2nd from 4-9pm serving beer with our hops, a local food truck, live music, and yard games. Check our website for more details! We can open the beer barn on other days by request, as well as offer tours! And our neighbors happen to be LaNoue DuBois Winery...
This is a perfect basecamp for adventure! The attractions are endless: Exploring Black Canyon NP, Curecanti NRA, and Gunnison Gorge NCA; fly fishing in gold metal waters; hunting; hiking, climbing, and traversing the Via Ferrata in the San Juan Mountains; rafting, kayaking, or SUPing on three different rivers, including a wave park right in town, as well as on reservoirs and lakes; relaxing in mineral-rich hot springs; shopping for unique souvenirs and gifts; and enjoying the activities, restaurants, and shopping of nearby Ouray and Telluride!
If we're booked out, message us and we may have some backup spots! ; )
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river
3. 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
Gunnison National Forest
4. Gunnison National Forest
96%
(37)
National forest in Colorado · 423 sites
Venture into the wild mountain wilderness of western Colorado.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
White River National Forest
5. White River National Forest
93%
(68)
National forest in Colorado · 1193 sites
Unspoiled scenery and year-round recreation abound in the nation’s most visited national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pogo's Hill
6. Pogo's Hill
Hotchkiss, CO · 3 sites
This property on a dead-end road offers beautiful views of the West Elk Mountains, the Adobes beyond the valley, and stunning stars, sunrises, and sunsets above. With camping options ranging from parking or tent camping to staying in a hunting tent, and a convenient location just three miles up the hill from Hotchkiss, it’s an ideal fit for groups with varying comfort needs.
There are separate sites that are private but also convenient for groups of up to 20 people, with private spots for sleeping and relaxing, plus a communal “cookhouse” for gathering. The bathroom amenities include two shower spots for bucket baths, a portapotty and a composting latrine.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Cedar Creek Lodging & RV Park
7. Cedar Creek Lodging & RV Park
90%
(5)
Montrose, CO · 47 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Campfire Ranch on the Taylor
8. Campfire Ranch on the Taylor
98%
(97)
Almont, CO · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We believe campgrounds should be more fun, more accessible and more inclusive for all kinds of campers - that's why we started Campfire Ranch to make camping easier. Our campground is nestled between the granite walls of Taylor Canyon alongside the Taylor River in central Colorado, halfway between Gunnison and Crested Butte, CO. If you've never been to the area, get ready to be amazed, with over 2,500 square miles of public land, 700+ miles of singletrack trail and countless rivers, creeks and lakes to explore. We'll see y'all in the woods!
We will open May 15th for the 2026 season!
Please contact us before booking if you are seeking a family focused experience - we do not have a kids area or playground and require that children under the age of 16 be in the company of an adult at all times due to our proximity to Co Rd 742 and the Taylor River. No multi-room tents are allowed at camp, we simply don't have the room, the largest tent size we can accommodate is 12'x12' - please inquire if you have specific tent questions.
You can check-in with us anytime after 3pm the day of your reservation, please message us if you need to check-in after 8pm. All campers will be required to sign our release of liability waiver before camping (parents/guardians will have to sign for minors in your group)
- you can review these terms and rules on our website: CampfireRanch.co
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Campfire Dreamers (4WD or AWD)
9. Campfire Dreamers (4WD or AWD)
94%
(9)
Ridgway, CO · 1 site · Tent, RV
This location is 4WD only and no trailers. Access to the site requires going down a 12% grade. Beautiful location on the side of a mountain with great views. Fire ring, firewood and water for extinguish your fire are provided.
Pets
Campfires
Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park
10. Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park
97%
(30)
National park in Colorado · 85 sites
A dramatic vertical wilderness ideal for hikers, rock climbers, and sightseers.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Grand Mesa National Forest
11. Grand Mesa National Forest
88%
(24)
National forest in Colorado · 316 sites
Escape to a high elevation forest brimming with lakes, trails, and scenic views.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ridgway State Park
12. Ridgway State Park
100%
(5)
State park in Colorado · 257 sites
Pack up your boat or paddle-board for a camping excursion at this reservoir park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Rio Grande National Forest
13. Rio Grande National Forest
85%
(27)
National forest in Colorado · 691 sites
Explore the many ecosystems of south-central Colorado in this massive national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sage View Ranch
14. Sage View Ranch
98%
(220)
Paonia, CO · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
After traveling the US in our motorhome for almost 5 years my husband Scott and I know the value of a smiling face and a helping hand after a day (or week) of travel. Exploring and experiencing this amazing country, its diversity and incredible people enhanced our lives in so many ways.
In mid 2017 we found out our first grandchild was on the way. Long story short we parked the RV and parked ourselves here in Paonia, CO. In December of that year, we moved onto this amazing property full time and started the long list of fix ups (the list is still long). lol
We are blessed to have our two adult sons and (aforementioned) grandson living on this property with us. Our philosophy is to live in the moment as the present is the gift. Whether enjoying a sunrise or a sunset or anytime in between you’ll likely find us outside most days.
In that, we love all that nature has to offer including fresh fruits and veggies, animals, beauty and fragrances.
Sage View Ranch is being created with the desire to have people experience the natural rustic beauty and magic of Paonia.
Scott and I look forward to meeting you :)
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven
15. 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
Darbywoods RV Mountain Lot
16. Darbywoods RV Mountain Lot
98%
(28)
Cimarron, CO · 1 site · Tent, RV
This is a one acre lot for just one RV located at 9500ft in the Colorado mountains located halfway between Montrose and Gunnison off Hwy 50. The lot is six miles up the Alpine Plateau road. Thiis area is surrounded by BLM land and National Forest. The lot is located with full hook ups and wifi in a neighborhood with cabins and rv lots. Please ask about deep discounts for long term rentals.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Oasis RV Resort
17. Oasis RV Resort
89%
(33)
Gunnison, CO · 53 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled beside Colorado’s expansive Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest body of water in the state, our location offers unparalleled access to serene waters and breathtaking views.
Our Gunnison Lakeside Oasis Vacation Cottages offer a range of sizes and sleeping capacities, with a two-night minimum stay requirement. Each cottage includes restroom facilities, including a shower. Options include two-bedroom cottages, 12×12 and 12×16 cottages with or without covered porches, and even a 1960 Retro Trailer. Enjoy your stay close to the beautiful Blue Mesa Reservoir!
Discover the exceptional amenities at Oasis RV Resort and Cottages where modern comforts meet the tranquility of nature. Equiped with fiber optic internet, stay connected to the world while surrounded by the serene beauty of our natural surroundings.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Poplar Place
18. Poplar Place
93%
(14)
Olathe, CO · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Locally owned, this large tree grove with over 100 trees, was
planted in 1979 for privacy and shade between 2 homes.
Learn more about this land:
Pitch a tent, sleep in a hammock or park your RV at the Poplar Place. Several campsites within a large grove of trees which provide privacy & shade. Enjoy the sounds of nature including but not limited to: woodpeckers, owls, hawks, farm animals, frogs, crickets & much more. Hammocks, local area maps & yard games available at our check-in station and don’t forget to carve your initials in the totem pole before you leave. You can enjoy visiting with friends around the fire pit, play a game of tic-tac-toe, have an axe throwing contest or hide out in the Tee-Pee, whatever your heart desires. **Pets are welcome, however, they MUST BE ON LEASHES AT ALL TIMES & PROPER DISPOSAL OF ANIMAL WASTE IS A MUST*
Thank you
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Tomichi Creek Trading Post
19. Tomichi Creek Trading Post
100%
(2)
Garfield, CO · 24 sites · RVs, Lodging
Make the Most of Your Next Outdoor Adventure
Whether you're looking for an action-packed week of outdoor adventures, or a relaxing weekend away where you can breathe clear mountain air and observe beautiful wildlife, Tomichi Creek Trading Post is the place you want to be.
We are located in one of the most scenic areas of Colorado and the year-round list of things to do is limitless. If you're new to the area, we'll be happy to answer your questions and offer our recommendations for activities during your stay.
Our property is ride-in, ride-out to hundreds of miles of off-road trails, so you can unload at your site, and get out into the wild right away. And when you're at your site, you'll have just about everything you need close at hand. Gas and fuel, a well stocked store with gifts and souvenirs, a restaurant and bar, and even an EV charging station. We'll take great care of you!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Hoskin’s Crested Butte Place
20. Hoskin’s Crested Butte Place
100%
(14)
Crested Butte, CO · 1 site
A lovely flat spot alongside our residential garage for a van, small RV, small trailer, teardrop or truck camper. Electric and water. No available bathroom. This option is especially great since van/rv/trailer camping is not allowed on public streets or in public parking lots in the Town of Crested Butte. (Our spot is a great way to avoid the Marshal knocking on your window at 11 PM and asking you to move on. Yes it happens because we know the officers.). This is a great way to be in town and walk or bike everywhere. Trailers must back in and detach.
Gorgeous views, easy dog walks and a recreation path right nearby. Walking distance to downtown Crested Butte. Bikable to some of the best mountain biking in the USA. Available year-round, even in the deep snow. Nordic skiing right outside your door. Public transit nearby so you can get settled and leave your van/camper without all the pack up, unpack, leveling process. Local public transportation is great!
Quiet dog-friendly neighborhood of locals. Sustainable! (Power is photovoltaic solar. 20 Amp. Not so well suited to AC units or high demand electric heat) Trash, compost, recycling and potable water are available on site. Two blocks away is the CB dump station for sewer and non-potable/potable water (except in winter months).
A great spot to support evening and late night arrivals to avoid driving all over the backcountry looking for a dispersed spot during busy times. Worry free!
Easy walking distance to the Crested Butte Center for the Arts, Alpenglow concerts (Mondays in summer), bus to Music on the Mountain (Wednesdays in summer), Public House (music venue), wedding venues and other music venues, restaurants, bars and nightlife.
1/2 a block from the Slate River and paddleboarding put-in. 1 block from Rainbow Park and playgrounds, soccer fields, etc. 2 blocks from the public/ski bus.
Reliable high speed internet. Please note! This is a relatively small site in town, not a spacious farm/acreage type of site or a campground. Gunnison County has a lot of dispersed camping available outside of town. This spot is ideal for vans and campers that have their own bathroom, who want to camp within town limits and be able to walk/bike everywhere year round.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jeremy
3 weeks ago
15 ft Class B
Perfect spot, walkable to downtown and to the free parking lot that picks you up on the local bus for the slopes. Ren was super friendly and responsive, definitely recommend to anyone.
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C
Chris
March 2026
16 ft car
This place was AMAZING!
Usually we camp on public land but we were coming in super late and didn’t want to search for a spot.
We were in town for a funeral and this place allowed us a comfortable place to sleep, get clean, and be within min of our family.
I will forever be thankful for this place and will be back.
We heard that certain times of the year they do a Friday event. I believe we will be back to camp and experience this.
Overall great place to camp. Yes you should stay here.
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Nathan
March 2026
Tent
Great little hidden gem, the facilities are top notch, and great placement, cant wait to come back
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P
P
March 2026
19 ft fifth wheel
With kids
We booked this spot last minute for a quick stop over on a longer journey. We got in late and left early so we didn’t spend too much time at the property but everything was great. The host met us when we arrived (even though it was late) and was very helpful. The spot was as described, power hookup and nice camp bathroom very close and private. The area is beautiful. We would stay again if we were in the area.
See moreV
Valentina
March 2026
Tent
With pets
We loved staying here. The welcome committee (doggos) were super nice 🐾
The beer was great!
And we felt very safe.
Thanks again!!
See moreA
Allen
March 2026
19 ft Class B
I really enjoyed staying here as it’s walking distance to town. Even though the host was not there the communication and directions were great. She gave me great recommendations to dinner.
See moreK
Kimberly
February 2026
19 ft campervan
Perfect spot to park for a ski weekend! Convenient access to town and groomed trails for walking and XC skiing. We plan to come back in summer too
See moreK
Kate
February 2026
20 ft campervan
With pets
Ren’s place was perfect! Short walk into town, right next to some great walking trails. Easy drive up to the resort. We’ll definitely stay again!
See moreJ
Jerry
October 2025
Tent
It was good. I needed a place last minute and it was easy to book and find. Left first thing.
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Michael
October 2025
16 ft car
With pets
Quiet, peaceful and a perfect spot for a quick overnighter. Super clean restrooms with a hot shower! Would definitely recommend this place!
See moreN
Nicole
October 2025
24 ft campervan
Perfect place to park overnight in Crested Butte! Close proximity to town. Thanks : )
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K
Kristen
October 2025
22 ft travel trailer
With kids
Beautiful area. Tricky to back into the spot and wish it was more level. Thanks for the firewood.
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G
Gabriella
October 2025
With pets
George's property is absolutely stunning and the site offers everything you need! The tipi is quite charming and includes a foam mattress (bring your pillow and sleeping bag), a table and chairs, a mini cooler, a lantern, drinking water, flowers from his garden, and towels for the very nice bathhouse. The heated bathhouse is a short walk away with hot water. You'll be nestled in the trees with a front row view of the river, plenty of space between you and your neighbors. A 5-minute walk to Big B's Cider and a 3 min drive into Paonia town. George was a lovely host and this place is a gem! We will certainly be back!
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K
Katie
October 2025
Tent
I thoroughly enjoyed camping on this land!! Very quiet, the two farm dogs are beautiful and friendly. I also greatly appreciated the clean bathroom facilities. Lovely space, I’d love to return!!
See moreB
Brian
October 2025
Tent
It was pretty close to perfect experience. The bathrooms and showers were clean, heated and private. The tent sites were flat. The location was about a 30 minute drive to Ouray, CO and Black Canyon Gunnison. The location was also 8 minutes to downtown Montrose which had every store you would want. The host Audrey was friendly. The cost was reasonable.
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G
Garver
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Our second time here. George and Devon are really great hosts and their property is amazing.
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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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C
Catherine
October 2025
Tent
Lovely stay! Beautiful view. Quiet. Bathhouse terrific. Only sad that Tater didn’t visit. 😹. Highly recommend.
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Michelle
October 2025
22 ft travel trailer
With pets
We were camping with our trailer. Great site, with river access, fire pit, grill, a true restroom and shower (not an outhouse with a bucket), you feel secluded yet you are close to everything Paonia had to offer. Would camp here again the next time we visit the western slope.
See moreA
Ashley
October 2025
22 ft campervan
With pets
Great little spot to stop for the night. Would definitely stay again.
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.
