The best camping in Blue Mesa Reservoir

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% (1.9K) • 2,587 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Blue Mesa Reservoir

The Hop Yard Hideaway

1. The Hop Yard Hideaway

98%
(194)
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! ; )
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Tater's Black Canyon Campground

2. Tater's Black Canyon Campground

98%
(298)
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.
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Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

3. Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

97%
(512)
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.
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Gunnison National Forest

4. Gunnison National Forest

94%
(41)
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
Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

6. Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

99%
(405)
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!
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Full hookups
Sage View Ranch

7. Sage View Ranch

98%
(192)
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
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Campfires
Cedar Creek Lodging & RV Park

8. Cedar Creek Lodging & RV Park

93%
(14)
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
Zenzen Gardens

9. Zenzen Gardens

95%
(228)
Paonia, CO · 10 sites · RVs, Lodging
Zenzen Gardens is now the official tasting room for Alfred Eames Cellars, a local winery located 3 miles south of Paonia. Come enjoy some local wines in the garden with a beautiful mountain view. Our tasting room is open May 1st to November 1st from 12 PM - 6 PM. We will be hosting several Farm to Table Dinners along with a Summer Concert Series, Water Lantern Festival, Masquerade Ball, and Murder Mystery Night There is veranda seating to enjoy the beautiful flower gardens and where you can access the internet. Wine tastings are offered daily 12-6:00pm. The veranda is open from 9:00 am till 8:00 pm. At the turn of the century, this farm was a dairy operation with its huge old red barn built in the 1880's. The property is pastoral, relaxing, rural and beautiful! It is surrounded by hay and alfalfa fields. It is very quiet with wide open spaces. You might see deer, fox, Golden Eagles, Bald Eagles, Red Tail Hawks and Red Wing Blackbirds, just to name a few.
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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

87%
(30)
National forest in Colorado · 691 sites
Explore the many ecosystems of south-central Colorado in this massive national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Coworking Space with Mountain Views

14. Coworking Space with Mountain Views

99%
(82)
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
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Full hookups
Secluded Property with All Hookups,

15. Secluded Property with All Hookups,

98%
(28)
Paonia, CO · 1 site · Tent, RV
We have a lovely, shady, and quiet property about a mile outside of Paonia- just a 20 minute walk, or a few minutes bike ride into town. The camping spot is shaded and secluded with hookups on site, as well as a flush toilet and sink in rustic out house and is about 150 feet from the main house. There are a lot of birds, squirrels, chipmunks, and foxes around, and we do our best to respect them! The Entrance has been widened substantially to improve backing in and a deck, flushing toilet and sink have been added to the sight You can relax on the deck of the Dry Gulch Saloon mockup, or soak in one of the cool tubs while enjoying the serenity. Bathroom on site. Pets are welcome as long as they are well behaved and diligently picked up after :)
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
The Gold Links Ranch

16. The Gold Links Ranch

89%
(22)
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!
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Arrowhead Getaway

17. Arrowhead Getaway

92%
(26)
Cimarron, CO · 1 site · Tent, RV
Come to a private camping space with great scenery and access to lakes. This space provides access to water, a tent, fire pit/grill with an additional tent pad and rv pad. There is also an additional shower and bathroom tent on the premise. Arrowhead lodge has live entertainment throughout the summer as well as dining and additional housing if needed.
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Grateful Flats Campground

18. Grateful Flats Campground

100%
(7)
Crawford, CO · 3 sites
Grateful Flats Campground is an intimate campground nestled on Colorado's Western Slope, where desert meets mountains. Conveniently located on the edge of charming Crawford, you'll be within walking distance of the local coffee shop, restaurant, bar, laundromat, and hardware store. Use Grateful Flats as your basecamp for adventure and exploration of the North Fork Valley. Venture to the breathtaking Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, cast a line in nearby lakes and streams, hike scenic trails, or spend the day touring local wineries and orchards. For boating, fishing, paddleboarding, and swimming, Crawford State Park is just minutes away. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, small-town charm, or a peaceful place to unwind under Colorado's dark skies, Grateful Flats offers the perfect home base.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Tomichi Creek Trading Post

19. Tomichi Creek Trading Post

100%
(6)
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
Darbywoods RV Mountain Lot

20. Darbywoods RV Mountain Lot

99%
(42)
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. This 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.
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Campfires
Full hookups

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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

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.

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.

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.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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