The best lakeside camping near Portland

316 sites · Cedaredge, Colorado

5. Grand Mesa National Forest

87%

(23)

Escape to a high elevation forest brimming with lakes, trails, and scenic views.

47mi from Portland · 1 site · Tent, RV · Durango, CO

6. Animas River Valley red cliffs

95%

(129)

Pitch your tent or park in the upper pasture and enjoy the view of the Animas Valley. Just 8 miles north of Durango off of the million dollar highway. Across the road from Honeyville and across the river from fun at the Bar D Ranch or James Ranch Harvest Grille. Durango Mountain Resort is just up the road. Horses and cattle grazing in the pasture below and the apple trees and the honey bees are in full production this year. No other view like it of the Mission Ridge red cliffs with the silhouettes and glow at sunset. At night you may hear the Animas River below or some animal sounds. Name the constellations among the amazing view of the stars! Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or park in the "sloped" pasture and enjoy the view of the Animas Valley. Just 8 miles north of Durango off of the million dollar highway. Across the highway from Honeyville and across the river from fun at the Bar D Ranch or James Ranch Harvest Grille. Durango Mountain Resort is just up the road. Horses and cattle grazing in the pasture below and the apple trees and the honey bees are in full production. Mission Ridge red cliffs with the mysterious silhouettes and glow at sunset. At night you may hear the Animas River below or some animal sounds. Name the constellations among the amazing view of the stars! Please provide what you will be driving and camping in, along with guesstimate of your arrival time for a quick booking response. Safe travels.

7. RV Space 1 Mile from Vallecito Lake

45mi from Portland · 1 site · RV · Bayfield, CO

(17)

Learn more about this land:Get away from the crowds of the local RV parks in Vallecito Lake, Colorado. Save money and stay in our quiet neighborhood instead! This RV space is located in a quiet neighborhood just 1 mile north of Vallecito Lake, Colorado, in the San Juan National Forest. The gravel RV space has easy access to County Road 501.This RV space is easy to access. It has full hookups: 50 amp electric, water, and sewer. Wifi is included (and it’s good for streaming!). Dogs are welcome with prior approval. No camping tents, RVs and campers only. The quiet Decker Park neighborhood is just 1 mile north of Vallecito Lake. Most residents are aged 50+. This is a kid-friendly neighborhood. Features include:One mile north of Vallecito Lake. Walking distance to Vallecito Creek (fishing opportunities!), restaurants, shops & marina just minutes away, firepit (available when fire restrictions allow)Local attractions include boating, fishing, hiking, biking, kayaking, paddle boarding, ziplining, horseback riding, whitewater rafting and just about everything you need to have an authentic Colorado experience.CAMPFIRES: Portable fire pits, charcoal and propane grills are permitted when fire restrictions allow.Thank you for booking our RV space in Vallecito Lake, CO!

8. Basecamp 550

93%

(7)

3mi from Portland · 2 sites · Ridgway, CO

This little campground was originally developed in the 1970s but the Weber Ranchers. It was built with small sites and big views in mind. We're giving this old campground a facelift little by little and adding unique lodging options for our guests. Hope you enjoy!

32mi from Portland · 33 sites · Gunnison, CO

9. Blue Mesa Outpost

Discover the unique charm of our campground, where every accommodation offers breathtaking views of the stunning Blue Mesa Reservoir and the majestic Rocky Mountains in Gunnison, Colorado. Our RV sites are designed for your comfort, with 10 pull-through options that face the reservoir or mesa. Each site is 25 feet wide and ranges from 75 to 80 feet in length. For those seeking a cozy retreat, our one-bedroom cabins accommodate four to six guests and provide picturesque overlooks of the reservoir. Additionally, we offer convenient propane fills and bottle exchanges right on site. Blue Mesa Reservoir is renowned for its exceptional trout and salmon fishing, making it a prime destination for anglers. Located just one mile from boat ramps, Blue Mesa Outpost is perfectly situated for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find us at 940 Cove Road, Gunnison, Colorado 81230, just 25 miles west of downtown Gunnison and 35 miles east of Montrose. We are conveniently located off Highway 50, between mile markers 131 and 132, making it easy to access nearby attractions and activities. Enjoy the beauty of nature while creating unforgettable memories at our campground!

423 sites · Crested Butte, Colorado

10. Gunnison National Forest

96%

(37)

Venture into the wild mountain wilderness of western Colorado.

696 sites · Rico, Colorado

11. San Juan National Forest

97%

(41)

Hike through the rugged wilderness or take a scenic drive in this expansive national forest.

12. Curecanti National Recreation Area

158 sites · Gunnison, Colorado

(2)

Nestled high in the mountains west of Colorado Springs is a boater's paradise.

691 sites · Alpine, Colorado

13. Rio Grande National Forest

85%

(27)

Explore the many ecosystems of south-central Colorado in this massive national forest.

48mi from Portland · 88 sites · Bayfield, CO

14. Five Branches Camper Park

Discover the charm of our unique wilderness campground, where nature takes center stage and the beauty of the great outdoors awaits you. Nestled on the west side, a scenic drive through Vallecito leads you to this serene escape, perfect for those seeking a true connection with nature. At our wilderness campground, you’ll experience a rustic atmosphere that sets us apart from traditional campgrounds. Here, you won’t find concrete pads or pull-through sites, instead, immerse yourself in the natural landscape. We welcome pets, but please keep them on a leash, whether they’re cats, dogs, or even ferrets. Our campground offers 30 amp service, ensuring you have the essentials while enjoying the wilderness. While you may encounter spotty Wi-Fi and cell service, this only enhances your opportunity to disconnect and truly engage with the surrounding wildlife. Expect to see various animals during your stay, adding to the excitement of your outdoor adventure. With plenty of fun activities available, you’ll create lasting memories in this beautiful setting. Come and experience the wilderness like never before!

39mi from Portland · 6 sites · Gunnison, CO

15. Blue Mesa Adventure Pods at Elk Creek Campground

Experience the unique blend of camping and water sports at Colorado's largest body of water, located near Gunnison in Western Colorado. Blue Mesa Reservoir offers an exhilarating outdoor adventure, featuring 20 miles of pristine water and over 96 miles of scenic shoreline, perfect for paddling and exploration. Nestled within the Curecanti National Recreation Area, this destination boasts two full-service marinas—Elk Creek Marina and Lake Fork Marina—along with the renowned Pappy’s Restaurant, which provides stunning views of the reservoir. The surrounding Gunnison County is a treasure trove of natural beauty, showcasing breathtaking landscapes, gold medal trout fishing, and a variety of recreational activities. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, your next unforgettable experience awaits at Blue Mesa Reservoir!

44mi from Portland · 158 sites · Bayfield, CO

16. Blue Spruce RV Park & Cabins

Discover the charm of Blue Spruce RV Park, a unique retreat located just 40 minutes northeast of Durango, CO. This serene RV park stands out with its full amenities and picturesque setting, nestled within a tranquil pine forest that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Our RV sites come equipped with full hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst nature. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a spacious dining hall, a game room filled with classic parlor games, and an outdoor pavilion perfect for gatherings. The park also features numerous outdoor activities, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors. In addition to RV sites, we offer a selection of cozy cabins, park apartments, and pre-set RVs for rent, catering to different preferences and group sizes. Blue Spruce RV Park serves as an ideal launching point for a plethora of outdoor adventures, including hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby natural attractions. With local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, you’ll find everything you need for a memorable getaway. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Blue Spruce RV Park.

47mi from Portland · 1 site · Tent, RV · Durango, CO

Camper favorites near Portland

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Animas River Valley red cliffs

95%

(129)

Pitch your tent or park in the upper pasture and enjoy the view of the Animas Valley. Just 8 miles north of Durango off of the million dollar highway. Across the road from Honeyville and across the river from fun at the Bar D Ranch or James Ranch Harvest Grille. Durango Mountain Resort is just up the road. Horses and cattle grazing in the pasture below and the apple trees and the honey bees are in full production this year. No other view like it of the Mission Ridge red cliffs with the silhouettes and glow at sunset. At night you may hear the Animas River below or some animal sounds. Name the constellations among the amazing view of the stars! Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or park in the "sloped" pasture and enjoy the view of the Animas Valley. Just 8 miles north of Durango off of the million dollar highway. Across the highway from Honeyville and across the river from fun at the Bar D Ranch or James Ranch Harvest Grille. Durango Mountain Resort is just up the road. Horses and cattle grazing in the pasture below and the apple trees and the honey bees are in full production. Mission Ridge red cliffs with the mysterious silhouettes and glow at sunset. At night you may hear the Animas River below or some animal sounds. Name the constellations among the amazing view of the stars! Please provide what you will be driving and camping in, along with guesstimate of your arrival time for a quick booking response. Safe travels.

RV Space 1 Mile from Vallecito Lake

45mi from Portland · 1 site · RV · Bayfield, CO

(17)

Learn more about this land:Get away from the crowds of the local RV parks in Vallecito Lake, Colorado. Save money and stay in our quiet neighborhood instead! This RV space is located in a quiet neighborhood just 1 mile north of Vallecito Lake, Colorado, in the San Juan National Forest. The gravel RV space has easy access to County Road 501.This RV space is easy to access. It has full hookups: 50 amp electric, water, and sewer. Wifi is included (and it’s good for streaming!). Dogs are welcome with prior approval. No camping tents, RVs and campers only. The quiet Decker Park neighborhood is just 1 mile north of Vallecito Lake. Most residents are aged 50+. This is a kid-friendly neighborhood. Features include:One mile north of Vallecito Lake. Walking distance to Vallecito Creek (fishing opportunities!), restaurants, shops & marina just minutes away, firepit (available when fire restrictions allow)Local attractions include boating, fishing, hiking, biking, kayaking, paddle boarding, ziplining, horseback riding, whitewater rafting and just about everything you need to have an authentic Colorado experience.CAMPFIRES: Portable fire pits, charcoal and propane grills are permitted when fire restrictions allow.Thank you for booking our RV space in Vallecito Lake, CO!

Basecamp 550

93%

(7)

3mi from Portland · 2 sites · Ridgway, CO

This little campground was originally developed in the 1970s but the Weber Ranchers. It was built with small sites and big views in mind. We're giving this old campground a facelift little by little and adding unique lodging options for our guests. Hope you enjoy!

32mi from Portland · 33 sites · Gunnison, CO

Blue Mesa Outpost

Discover the unique charm of our campground, where every accommodation offers breathtaking views of the stunning Blue Mesa Reservoir and the majestic Rocky Mountains in Gunnison, Colorado. Our RV sites are designed for your comfort, with 10 pull-through options that face the reservoir or mesa. Each site is 25 feet wide and ranges from 75 to 80 feet in length. For those seeking a cozy retreat, our one-bedroom cabins accommodate four to six guests and provide picturesque overlooks of the reservoir. Additionally, we offer convenient propane fills and bottle exchanges right on site. Blue Mesa Reservoir is renowned for its exceptional trout and salmon fishing, making it a prime destination for anglers. Located just one mile from boat ramps, Blue Mesa Outpost is perfectly situated for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find us at 940 Cove Road, Gunnison, Colorado 81230, just 25 miles west of downtown Gunnison and 35 miles east of Montrose. We are conveniently located off Highway 50, between mile markers 131 and 132, making it easy to access nearby attractions and activities. Enjoy the beauty of nature while creating unforgettable memories at our campground!

48mi from Portland · 88 sites · Bayfield, CO

Five Branches Camper Park

Discover the charm of our unique wilderness campground, where nature takes center stage and the beauty of the great outdoors awaits you. Nestled on the west side, a scenic drive through Vallecito leads you to this serene escape, perfect for those seeking a true connection with nature. At our wilderness campground, you’ll experience a rustic atmosphere that sets us apart from traditional campgrounds. Here, you won’t find concrete pads or pull-through sites, instead, immerse yourself in the natural landscape. We welcome pets, but please keep them on a leash, whether they’re cats, dogs, or even ferrets. Our campground offers 30 amp service, ensuring you have the essentials while enjoying the wilderness. While you may encounter spotty Wi-Fi and cell service, this only enhances your opportunity to disconnect and truly engage with the surrounding wildlife. Expect to see various animals during your stay, adding to the excitement of your outdoor adventure. With plenty of fun activities available, you’ll create lasting memories in this beautiful setting. Come and experience the wilderness like never before!

39mi from Portland · 6 sites · Gunnison, CO

Blue Mesa Adventure Pods at Elk Creek Campground

Experience the unique blend of camping and water sports at Colorado's largest body of water, located near Gunnison in Western Colorado. Blue Mesa Reservoir offers an exhilarating outdoor adventure, featuring 20 miles of pristine water and over 96 miles of scenic shoreline, perfect for paddling and exploration. Nestled within the Curecanti National Recreation Area, this destination boasts two full-service marinas—Elk Creek Marina and Lake Fork Marina—along with the renowned Pappy’s Restaurant, which provides stunning views of the reservoir. The surrounding Gunnison County is a treasure trove of natural beauty, showcasing breathtaking landscapes, gold medal trout fishing, and a variety of recreational activities. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, your next unforgettable experience awaits at Blue Mesa Reservoir!

44mi from Portland · 158 sites · Bayfield, CO

Blue Spruce RV Park & Cabins

Discover the charm of Blue Spruce RV Park, a unique retreat located just 40 minutes northeast of Durango, CO. This serene RV park stands out with its full amenities and picturesque setting, nestled within a tranquil pine forest that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Our RV sites come equipped with full hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst nature. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a spacious dining hall, a game room filled with classic parlor games, and an outdoor pavilion perfect for gatherings. The park also features numerous outdoor activities, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors. In addition to RV sites, we offer a selection of cozy cabins, park apartments, and pre-set RVs for rent, catering to different preferences and group sizes. Blue Spruce RV Park serves as an ideal launching point for a plethora of outdoor adventures, including hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby natural attractions. With local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, you’ll find everything you need for a memorable getaway. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Blue Spruce RV Park.

5mi from Portland · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Public campgrounds near Portland

Campsite #9 - 100 yards off road, behind #10, very private and quiet. Loved this spot.

88%

(4)

Amphitheatre Campground

83%

(6)

Angel Creek Campground

6mi from Portland · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Grand Mesa National Forest

This is a great campground to base from when planning on climbing Sneffells peak, one of the Colorado fourteeners. Here is the SW ridge, a more scrambly exposed option to the regular route.

6mi from Portland · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Grand Mesa National Forest

(3)

Thistledown Campground - Ouray

Jackson Guard Station

13mi from Portland · 1 site · in Uncompahgre National Forest

13mi from Portland · 61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

(1)

Silver Jack Campground

Beaver Lake Campground

14mi from Portland · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Big Cimarron Campground

14mi from Portland · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

16mi from Portland · 16 sites · in Uncompahgre National Forest

(11)

Alta Lakes Campground

EarthRoamers descending Last Dollar Road towards Telluride, CO

Sunshine Campground - Norwood

17mi from Portland · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

19mi from Portland · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Gunnison National Forest

(3)

Big Blue Campground

67%

(3)

Matterhorn Campground

20mi from Portland · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Matterhorn Cabin

20mi from Portland · 1 site · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Stories from the community

J

JJ

October 2025

12 ft campervan

1 night at CampV Colorado

Awesome spot beneath the golden cottonwoods! Loved checking out the installations and spaces.

C

Christine

October 2025

Tent

4 nights at Animas River Valley red cliffs

We loved staying on Melinda's land! It was pouring rain from a freak storm and she generously allowed us to use her mudroom and her addition downstairs. Genuinely, she saved our trip. She had great recommendations on things to do in the area and was available and communicative. I could not ask for a better host,

T

Tammy

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Animas River Valley red cliffs

We love camping at Melinda’s. Beautiful views, gracious host and close to hiking trails and Durango. This was our 2nd time there and we’ll be back our next time through Colorado.

C

Catherine

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Tater's Black Canyon Campground

Lovely stay! Beautiful view. Quiet. Bathhouse terrific. Only sad that Tater didn’t visit. 😹. Highly recommend.

Bath house. Tater inspecting to make sure campers did not leave the lights on...

J

Joey

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tater's Black Canyon Campground

Great scenic spot with nice full bathrooms. Great for a weekend getaway to enjoy the beautiful mountains.

M

McKenna

September 2025

Tent

This was a great site! I was worried about being on the north rim of Black Canyon because the “main” stuff is on the south rim but IT WAS SO GREAT! We did the south rim the day before and hit the North Rim morning after (views are 10x better!!) Definitely recommend Tater’s campground, so clean, so comfortable, so serene. Star gazing, stunning views, seclusion, and sweet pets 🩵 Traci + Chris have done a wonderful job.

Picnic table and view to lake, mountains and Needle Rock. Tater inspecting the site...

Janet

September 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

2 nights at Tater's Black Canyon Campground

We enjoyed our 2 night stay at Tater’s. Chris is a helpful and friendly host and we enjoyed chatting with him and meeting Tater, Sugi and Otis. The view of the nearby mountains was amazing, especially at sunset and the dark sky allowed for wonderful stargazing. The bathhouse with showers was a short walk from the campsite and it is kept clean. We had everything we needed for a relaxing visit while exploring the north rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

S

Shelby

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tater's Black Canyon Campground

This was a great spot! The view was great, the site was well maintained, and the bathrooms were spacious and clean. We would definitely recommend and visit again.

D

Dorothy

September 2025

Tent

1 night at CampV Colorado

I found this camp at the last minute, while pulled over on the side of the road. It was awesome! The owner came and showed me around and advised me on working the hot shower. There.was a pond, total privacy, with everything I needed. It was lovely and I would definitely recommend staying at CampV!

H

Harriet

September 2025

Tent

We had the place to ourselves, and it was wonderfully quiet and peaceful. The owners were so warm and welcoming, and the showers were absolutely incredible; after a few days on the road camping, they felt like such a treat! They were warm, clean, and exactly what we needed. Having such beautiful amenities really made the stay extra special. Highly recommend!

R

Russell

September 2025

Tent

3 nights at Tater's Black Canyon Campground

Great views, quiet camping & clean facilities, just fantastic!

T

Trevor

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tater's Black Canyon Campground

Tent camping here was great! Clean area, clean bathrooms with shower, and newly built. Very close to the north rim entrance of the Black canyon of the gunnison. Beautiful views!

R

Rylan

August 2025

14 ft travel trailer

With pets

5 nights at Oasis RV Resort

Incredible folks. Lovely place. Would highly recommend to anyone.

K

Kathy

August 2025

32 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Oasis RV Resort

We really enjoyed our stay and loved that it was complete/full hook ups. Everybody that lives there was very friendly.

Evening views over the res to iconic Needlerock and the West Elk Mountains

B

Breanna

August 2025

Tent

Wonderful views. It had a nice flat area for the tent. The bathhouse was very nice to have. It was clean and well kept. The host was friendly and it was a great experience overall.

A

Alex

August 2025

Tent