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The best camping in Blue Mesa Reservoir

Name: Blue Mesa Reservoir
Address: Blue Mesa Reservoir
Rating: 4.6845

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.

94% (1.8K) • 2,582 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Blue Mesa Reservoir

Tater's Black Canyon Campground

1. Tater's Black Canyon Campground

97%

(332)

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%

(178)

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

Coworking Space with Mountain Views

3. Coworking Space with Mountain Views

99%

(78)

Montrose, CO · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Our sites have a tent pad and 20-amp electric service. The main building, which we have converted into a coworking space, is available for our guests to use from 9 AM to 6 PM. Unfortunately, we are on old agricultural land, so the sites are in the direct sun during the day. Please be aware that it gets hot out here in the summer, and consider this when booking your stay with us. Please note that only one camping structure is allowed per site (one tent, one RV, one van, etc.). Our property is also on a bike trail that connects to 70 miles of (mostly paved) bike trails across the town of Montrose. Please reach out with any questions. We look forward to hosting you!

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Gunnison National Forest

4. Gunnison National Forest

96%

(39)

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%

(71)

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

Oasis RV Resort

6. Oasis RV Resort

91%

(43)

Gunnison, CO · 48 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

Cedar Creek Lodging & RV Park

7. Cedar Creek Lodging & RV Park

91%

(11)

Montrose, CO · 46 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 Dreamers (4WD or AWD)

8. Campfire Dreamers (4WD or AWD)

96%

(14)

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

Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

9. Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

99%

(398)

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

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

10. Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

97%

(32)

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

86%

(29)

National forest in Colorado · 691 sites

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

14. Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

97%

(506)

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

The Gold Links Ranch

15. The Gold Links Ranch

83%

(15)

Ohio City, CO · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Our 220 acre historical ranch has been in the family for over 100 years. The property was once a gold mine stop for the Denver South Park and Pacific Railroad and we are still able to enjoy the train depot and telegraph house from the early 1900’s when the train was running through the Quartz Creek Valley. We are also blessed with some of the oldest, largest Pine Trees in the Valley thanks to them being on protected railroad property when logging was prevalent. Come enjoy over 2 miles of private prime fly fishing on the Gunnison headwaters of Gold and Quartz Creek as well as 3 different well stocked lakes. Take a stroll, run or bike along the private 2 mile walking loop along Quartz Creek. Keep an eye out for the resident Geese, Blue Heron, ducks and other birds who reside here on the islands. If hiking is your thing-enjoy the Willow Creek Hike that cuts through the property, among other scenic trails in the area. Choose from 4 different lake & creek-side campsites and come relax on our private slice of heaven!

Pets

Tomichi Creek Trading Post

16. Tomichi Creek Trading Post

100%

(5)

Garfield, CO · 24 sites · RVs, Lodging

Make the Most of Your Next Outdoor Adventure If you would like to request a same-day reservation after 4 pm, please call the Tomichi Creek Trading Post (we can be found on Google) to ensure your request is seen. 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

Mountain Time RV Park and Cabins

17. Mountain Time RV Park and Cabins

Gunnison, CO · 103 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Gunnison, Colorado, this campground stands out for its breathtaking views and serene atmosphere, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers. Spanning over a generous acreage, the site offers ample space for campers to enjoy privacy and tranquility amidst the majestic mountains. Visitors can take advantage of the campground's unique features, including well-maintained facilities and easy access to nearby natural attractions. The area is renowned for its outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and mountain biking, ensuring that adventure seekers will find plenty to explore. For those looking to cool off, nearby swimming holes provide a refreshing escape during the warmer months. In addition to its natural beauty, the campground is conveniently located near charming local restaurants and shops, allowing guests to experience the vibrant culture of Gunnison. Whether you're seeking a peaceful getaway or an action-packed adventure, this campground offers the perfect base for your Colorado experience.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Poplar Place

18. Poplar Place

94%

(18)

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

Sage View Ranch

19. Sage View Ranch

98%

(224)

Paonia, CO · 11 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

Showers

The Herb Ranch

20. The Herb Ranch

90%

(5)

Powderhorn, CO · 2 sites

The Herb Ranch is a privately own home on 40 acres bordered on 4 sides by Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The Powderhorn Wilderness is literally in the back yard. You will find hiking and biking trails plentiful. The Lake Fork of the Gunnison River is just across the street, with public access just two miles away. If you are looking for Jeep or ATV trails, they are less than a mile down the road. We are twenty miles from the spectacular Alpine Loop! And twenty-five miles from Blue Mesa Reservoir. Tent sites include a firepit, and flat spot for tent. Water and electricity are available at the well house, but not the tent sites. If needed we will supply each campsite with a five gallon bucket of water, a camp potty with a removable bag that you dispose. Please do not plan on using the firepit unless we have had recent rain and the camp host approves. The grass around the campsite is a wildfire waiting to happen since we have been in a severe drought. Please make sure you have a way to extinguish your fire. The road to the tent sites is BLM. It is not gravel, it is dirt. My car can get to most sites, but the camp host can help haul gear if you don’t want to drive down it. I have had several sedans drive the road, but if you have a low profile vehicle we can tote your supplies. Also, in spring or after rain, the road may be muddy. Please have a 4 wheel drive. Just send me a message and we will make it work for you. Satellite Wifi is available near the house. Some people get cell service at the top of the hill, but otherwise there is very little in the area. Your tent sites are arranged around the property next to the wilderness and a BLM trail. You will be able to drive there. There is a log home on the center of the property, about a quarter mile or more away from the tent sites. We rent the lower level and we are living on premises. There are gardens, barn cats, dogs, horse and a fuzzy cow. Please ask Pa (the old cowboy in the small house) before approaching the horses. If you are interested in more seclusion, please see the Private Valley campsite. It has a ridge between the cabin, other campsites and the well house.

Campfires

Potable water

Picnic table

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Jennifer

2 weeks ago

20 ft truck camper

Weekend Trip to Poplar Place

Kortni was very accommodating at the last minute when our other plans fell through and saved our night! We loved sleeping outside and hearing all the birds. Such a bonus to have a bathroom.

Allison

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Tater's Black Canyon Campground

This was a delightful stay! Quiet, beautiful views, and nice clean bathrooms. SO easy to access with clear signage. Got to meet and chat with the friendly owner Chris on our way out - he introduced us to Tater and even gave us a Tater-themed sticker 🥹 this site is the reason I love Hip Camps. Stays like this are special!!!

pavan

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

1 night at Coworking Space with Mountain Views

This place is really beautiful for overnight camping. You will find clean restrooms with showers and wifi network.

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

Edie

3 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

With pets

2 nights at Tater's Black Canyon Campground

Beautiful setting! And the bathhouse is above and beyond. Very convenient to town of Crawford and reservoir. Highly recommend.

Jena

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Campfire Dreamers (4WD or AWD)

Campfire Dreamers was the perfect spot on our road trip through Colorado! The site was well kept, easy to find, and had the most incredible views. We easily made the drive down into the site with a Crosstrek! We got lucky with some wildlife sighting (turkey, mule deer, and plenty of birds!), had a fantastic view of the sun setting on the mountains, and got the perfect night for stargazing. Michael was incredibly responsive and helpful! If you’re in the area, you don’t want to miss this one.

Jacob

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Hop Yard Hideaway

Awesome setup and atmosphere. Hosts are super cool and feels cozy. I stayed in the Nugget and it was perfect. It was hot out there but not much you can do about that! Great cell Service, showers were solid, and clean!

Eric

3 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Gunnison Glamping @ Blue Bear Ranch

This was a great setup. The tent was cozy and the bed was comfortable. All the supplies for cooking were provided which was lovely and the fresh eggs were a lovely touch! Overall this is a great option if you are looking for a home base while exploring Gunnison or Crested Butte.

Scott

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Campfire Dreamers (4WD or AWD)

Artwork campsite is beautiful with amazing views, and very peaceful. Mary, the host, is super helpful, responds quickly, and it’s very accommodating to your needs. There are several campgrounds to choose from, and gas fire pits to make the night enjoyable. I highly recommend this camp spot if you’re trying to stay in or near Telluride.

Edward

3 weeks ago

32 ft travel trailer

7 nights at Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

George and Devin are amazing people and great hosts. As far as the facilities, the electric and water work perfectly. They have a dump station for the sewer. There is a place for grilling, and they have a newly built shower house, which is amazing. It's in a beautiful spot, which is secluded for privacy. It's close to several hiking, rafting, and sight-seeing areas. There are two small cities nearby with grocery stores and restaurants. Overall, this is a great place to camp for RVs, tents, and yurts. You'll love it. Highly recommend.

Siubhan

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Tater's Black Canyon Campground

I loved tent camping here! The washrooms are very clean and private. There is a lovely peacefulness here - this is my second time staying, and I enjoyed it just as much as the first. We stay deer pass by, wonderful birds and even Tater himself!

Dana

July 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tater's Black Canyon Campground

Wonderful camping sites on the bluff, beautiful views of the mountains and reservoir, fantastic hosts, and incredible bathrooms/showers given the remote location! We'll definitely be back!!!

Dana

July 2026

20 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Tater's Black Canyon Campground

Wonderful camping sites on the bluff, beautiful views of the mountains and reservoir, fantastic hosts, and incredible bathrooms/showers given the remote location! We'll definitely be back!!!

Andrea

July 2026

14 ft rooftop tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Gold Links Ranch

This campsite was absolutely beautiful and so peaceful. There were flowers everywhere, and the entire property was clean, well maintained, and clearly cared for. There was also plenty of water nearby for fishing, which was a huge highlight for us! The hosts were incredibly kind, welcoming, and accommodating throughout our stay. One important thing to know is that there is no cell service here, but honestly, that made it an even better place to unplug and enjoy the surroundings. I would absolutely stay here again!

Alicia

July 2026

Tent

With kids

3 nights at The Hop Yard Hideaway

What a cool spot Billy Goat Hop Farm is! Great views, great brews, great vibes. Friday night music on the farm was the perfect addition to our trip. Nearby Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is truly a sight to see. Highly recommend!

Kia

July 2026

With pets

Weekend Trip to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

Such a great stay! Would definitely recommend. The kitchen area was lovely and the solar showers were awesome!

Gwynnie

July 2026

15 ft rooftop tent

1 night at The Hop Yard Hideaway

Camping here was amazing! Beautiful views, quiet, super simple and clean (always a major bonus with bathrooms and showers while camping). So many spots so we weren’t all packed in together either and I loved the dog greeters :)

Sumona

July 2026

Tent

1 night at The Hop Yard Hideaway

The hop hideaway is a true gem! We loved everything about this campsite, the location, the friendly farm dogs, and the communal space to relax. We also had a chance to try some of their beers which were fantastic. The hosts were really sweet and you can feel that they love their land. A really cool spot to camp and check out while you're in the area!

Scott

July 2026

Tent

With kids

2 nights at The Hop Yard Hideaway

What a fantastic place. We arrived late afternoon and saw the beer both open and went down to say hello. We were able to have an ice cold beer brewed from the hops next to us. The camping sites are very well played out, marked and plenty of room for vehicles and tents. Onsite flushing bathrooms and showers available as well. Overall this place was absolutely amazing. Great views all around.

Carol

July 2026

15 ft rooftop tent

Weekend Trip to The Hop Yard Hideaway

Audrey and Chris provided a unique camping space for our rooftop tent. The Friday night music and food was a great way to meet locals and others camping at this site. We toured the the hops fields and enjoyed some of the beer made with their hops. HIGHLY recommend staying here and supporting this unique small farmer operation. They are awesome!!

Sophia

July 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tater's Black Canyon Campground

Lovely campground. Site 1 does seem to have the most shade which is important if you want to hang around the site during the day. We would totally go again!

Blue 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some activities to do at Blue Mesa Reservoir?

Visitors come to Blue Mesa Reservoir to go boating, paddling, windsurfing, swimming, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and wildlife spotting. The reservoir offers 96 miles of shoreline surrounded by canyons and mesas, making it a great destination for outdoor activities. The fishing is also legendary, as the reservoir is stocked with fish and home to the largest kokanee salmon hatchery in the country.

What are the camping options near Blue Mesa Reservoir?

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. 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. You can also explore different options for camping near Blue Mesa Reservoir on Hipcamp.

What are the camping options in the Gunnison National Forest near Blue Mesa Reservoir?

In addition to plenty of space for dispersed backcountry camping, there are more than 30 developed campgrounds that offer tent sites, RV sites, and cabins in the Gunnison National Forest. 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. You can also explore different options for camping near Blue Mesa Reservoir on Hipcamp.