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National Park

The best camping in Curecanti National Recreation Area, CO

Name: Curecanti National Recreation Area
Address: Curecanti National Recreation Area
Rating: 4.85

97% (19)

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

97% (19)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Curecanti National Recreation Area adventure.

Top-rated campgrounds in Curecanti National Recreation Area

Elk Creek Campground

1. Elk Creek Campground

100%

(1)

Campground in Curecanti National Recreation Area · 75 sites · Tents, RVs

At Elk Creek Campground, you’ll find prime access to the Blue Mesa Reservoir

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Lake Fork Campground

2. Lake Fork Campground

100%

(1)

Campground in Curecanti National Recreation Area · 64 sites · Tents, RVs

Overlooking the shimmering, sexy Blue Mesa Reservoir, this spot well get those camp vibes flowing real fast

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Stevens Creek Campground

3. Stevens Creek Campground

Campground in Curecanti National Recreation Area · 17 sites · Tents, RVs

Go big or go home

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Red Creek Group Campground

4. Red Creek Group Campground

Campground in Curecanti National Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV

Other campgrounds tremble in their boots when they hear about Red Creek Campground

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

East Elk Creek Group Campground

5. East Elk Creek Group Campground

Campground in Curecanti National Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV

Set in a picturesque valley surrounded by rocky ridges, East Elk Creek is a solid group site that lets you cram in the whole crew

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Top-rated campsites near Curecanti National Recreation Area

Balsam Bliss

1. Balsam Bliss

95%

(10)

9.3mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 1 site

Natural RV site at 9500 feet within Arrowhead Ranch. Electric (50 amp RV and 2 - 20 amp circuits), water, and septic on site. Enjoy nature on this primitive site. No WiFi provided and Cell Service is not ideal. No unapproved fire pits allowed. No firewood provided. Speed limit in Arrowhead is 20 mph. Arrowhead Mountain Lodge is a mile from the site. The lodge has a small convenience store and an excellent restaurant. In the summers, they offer musical groups on the weekends. Long Term Stays are available in Spring, Summer and early Fall. No winter camping allowed. Other things to note Hwy 867 is a gravel road. All roads within Arrowhead are gravel. Sorry no Fifth Wheels, they do not fit.

Pets

Full hookups

Arrowhead Getaway

2. Arrowhead Getaway

91%

(23)

9.4mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Darbywoods RV Mountain Lot

3. Darbywoods RV Mountain Lot

99%

(34)

9.4mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 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.

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

Mesa Campground

4. Mesa Campground

90%

(15)

18mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 10 sites · RVs, Lodging

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

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Tater's Black Canyon Campground

5. Tater's Black Canyon Campground

97%

(312)

21mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 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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Toilets

Showers

Double Rose Ranch

6. Double Rose Ranch

98%

(25)

21mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 5 sites

The only and closest Hipcamp under the steady majesty of Needlerock! You need to arrive in daylight! This area was Ute land first and Needlerock was ceremonial ground. We have lots of large fields (110 acres) A river running through to dip into and secluded areas to be at one with the magical beauty here. Once a working sheep ranch we are now taking time to dream into this magical place and it’s next incarnation. Come pitch a tent or there are a couple spots to car camp and share in this ranch paradise. We limit each camping spot to two adults or a family with children are fine. Please do not come with 4+ people and one tent. Book accordingly and respectfully. There are mosquitos down by the creek at certain times in the summer in the evening, so we recommend bringing some bug spray. There is a fridge in the barn to keep small things cold and tables to use to sit and enjoy the rustic lux surroundings. We provide a porta potty so please only #1 (pee) outdoors. The land is big although we have 7 camping spots listed, and they are mowed all summer, there is plenty of room to usually be able to choose your own exact spot. This is a cut above basic camping with some nice amenities! We have very friendly dogs, horses and goats. The dogs are out and about and will want to greet you and possible hang out a little. It’s their home too:) We often have a friends yaks grazing here and the next door neighbors cows are always there.

Potable water

Picnic table

Gunnison Glamping @ Blue Bear Ranch

7. Gunnison Glamping @ Blue Bear Ranch

100%

(14)

27mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 1 site

Take advantage of this private glamping tent on an acre between Gunnison and Almont, CO and forget trying to find a spot in nearby campgrounds or dispersed camp sites! The entrance is right off of highway 135, 8 miles north of Gunnison. Come down the driveway and take a right into the field. The tent is nestled against the cottonwoods far enough away from the main house for complete privacy. Relax on the property or use it as your adventure base camp. Less than a mile from Gunnison river access, National Forest access in hunting units 54 and 55. Not far from units 66 and 67. Almont is a 2 minute drive, Gunnison is about 10 minutes away and Crested Butte is about 20 minutes from the property. The queen size bed will be made (additional cots can be added with advance notice) and the kitchen has a two burner propane camp stove, tea pot, pots, pans, plates, bowls, cups, mugs, and utensils. It is stocked with drinking water, oil, S&P, coffee, tea, marshmallows and fresh eggs from our chickens will be provided daily. The tent is equipped with a wood burning stove and stocked with firewood. Additional firewood can be purchased. Kindling and fire starters are also available at no charge- let us do the hard work - you RELAX! Electricity is provided, so you can charge your phone or whatever else you need. Enjoy your private fire pit, chill in the rocking camping chairs, or walk across the field to the main house and enjoy the hot tub on the deck. You may spot our horse "Sassy" or some of our chickens roaming around. A porta potty is situated near (but not too near) the tent for your convenience. Towels and wash cloths are also provided.

Toilets

Campfires

Hot Tub

The Hop Yard Hideaway

8. The Hop Yard Hideaway

98%

(164)

28mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 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

9. Coworking Space with Mountain Views

99%

(73)

29mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 5 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

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Cedar Creek Lodging & RV Park

10. Cedar Creek Lodging & RV Park

90%

(10)

29mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 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

Secluded Property with All Hookups,

11. Secluded Property with All Hookups,

98%

(23)

30mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 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

Zenzen Gardens

12. Zenzen Gardens

94%

(225)

31mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 4 sites

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.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

13. Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

99%

(393)

31mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 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

Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

14. Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

97%

(498)

32mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 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

Sage View Ranch

15. Sage View Ranch

98%

(223)

32mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 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

Campfire Dreamers (4WD or AWD)

16. Campfire Dreamers (4WD or AWD)

95%

(10)

34mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 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

Poplar Place

17. Poplar Place

94%

(16)

36mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 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

Riverside Vintage Campers

18. Riverside Vintage Campers

92%

(12)

40mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 2 sites

Just 20min from Gunnison, sit two Vintage 16ft Shasta Campers that have recently been renovated and updated. Inside the campers there are full size beds that convert into couches as well as a seating areas in the front for eating or reading. The campers have amenities like running water for hand washing, heat, and small fridges. Ohio City is a mecca for hiking, biking, ORV riding, and fishing making this the perfect jumping off point for all the recreation activities in the area.

Pets

Toilets

Wifi

Marble Mountain Yurt

19. Marble Mountain Yurt

100%

(132)

43mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 1 site

Enjoy hut-style glamping at its finest in our modern mountain yurt. Bask in the sun and take in the stunning panoramic mountain views on our one-acre property above the quirky town of Marble, CO. With immediate access to public lands and some of the best backcountry skiing, hiking, biking, lakes, rivers, and BBQ in Colorado, there is truly something for everyone to love! The heated bathhouse features a toilet and foot pump sink. Purified drinking water is available from May - September. You must bring your own water from October - April. The kitchen features an oven/range and basic cooking and serving supplies. There is no refrigerator, so please bring your own cooler and ice. Campfires are allowed, but it is your responsibility to determine if there is a fire ban in effect. Firewood may be available or dead wood can be collected on the property. There is a picnic table nestled in the scrub oaks. We only rent one side and the entire property is private to you! We do have neighbors, but the property is pretty well tucked away. You may see the occasional vehicle or hiker on the road or hear someone doing some yard work, but it is generally very quiet and secluded at the yurt. Our neighbors have chosen to live in Marble for its privacy and tranquillity. Please show them respect by keeping the noise down and leaving them be. If you have questions or need help, call us from the yurt landline. Winter camping experience/equipment and a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle with severe snow-rated tires and chains may be required to access the yurt Oct-April. During large snow events, driving to the yurt may be impossible in any vehicle. Skiing to the yurt may be an option Dec - Feb. Gear sleds are available at the yurt for your use.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Tongue Creek Ranch

20. Tongue Creek Ranch

100%

(16)

43mi from Curecanti National Recreation Area · 1 site

Tongue Creek Ranch is beautifully situated at the base of the Adobe Buttes on the southern side of the Grand Mesa in Austin, Colorado. The 70-acre ranch has over 40 acres in hay and alfalfa with seasonal cattle grazing in the fall and winter months. Whether you come to stay at one of the rental properties, get married or host a special event, we welcome you to enjoy the beautiful setting of Tongue Creek Ranch and the incredible sites of the Western Slope! David and Barb Cocetti purchased the ranch in June 2019 to embark on a new life where they could cultivate the land and be more self-sustaining. By following Biblical guidelines for work and agriculture, this land has come to life! It is proving to be an oasis where people find peace while enjoying the serenity of the surroundings. The clamping Cabin sits behind the horse arena and in front of Tongue Creek. It's the cutest little cabin and we mean little, more like an expertly finished big shed. It is 10x14 with a 3x14 covered porch but finished inside like a 5 star hotel. AC, TV, Wifi, fireplace, comfortable queen size bed. Beetle kill tongue and groove ceiling, cultured barn wood wanes coating. It's super nice. The ranch itself may be the reason for the "glamp" booking. The yard is manicured and the 25 house, goats and chickens are fun to see. The big plus is we are only 20 minutes away from the Grand Mesa outdoorsman mecca. This is probably the cheapest base camp to the Mesa. The ranch is a great base camp to wineries, Moab, Telluride, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, fishing, boating, hiking, trails and hundreds of open BLM land for Razor riding. Check us out.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Kerry

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Arrowhead Getaway

This is our second stay here and it did not disappoint. We love this space, the tent is cozy, and the location is perfect.

Steven

2 weeks ago

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to The Hop Yard Hideaway

Fantastic experience. Highly recommend the farm tour

Kevin

2 weeks ago

15 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

This is our third stay at this unique property. So private, but close to all sorts of activities. Excellent hosts, who love and care for their land. Bathhouse with outdoor and indoor showers are a dream.

Larkin

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Tater's Black Canyon Campground

A great stay with an even better view! Bathrooms were extremely clean and very nice, showers were hot! Close drive to the North Rim and we saw deer and turkeys and got a glimpse of Tater 🐈‍⬛

Elliott

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Arrowhead Getaway

This location was great for being roughly halfway between Black Canyon and Crested Butte. The campsite is beautifully situated in an aspen grove and is well-leveled. When we were there, there was a picnic table, benches, firebox, and “bathroom” tent with a pump toilet and sink. There was also a roomy permanent tent with a double cot and a couple of chairs. Unfortunately for us, there was standing water in a couple places inside the tent and one of the rugs in there was completely soaked. Thankfully the cot and chairs were dry. Definitely bring your own tent/sleeping system as a backup, just in case.

Amanda

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Hop Yard Hideaway

Such a cool place to stay!! We showed up a little late and the live music was just ending, but we were able to get one drink from the bar. The land is nice and soft for tent camping. The showers and restrooms were super clean. One thing I didn’t know was that they had yurts and I would’ve loved to had one of those. Maybe they were already booked by the time I made my reservation? I want to do a girls trip to the area, so we would definitely stay there again!!

John

2 weeks ago

35 ft fifth wheel

7 nights at Darbywoods RV Mountain Lot

We loved the RV location. We felt so secluded with all of the amenities of full hook ups. We had deer frequently walk through the camp. There are endless roads and trails in this area to explore. We will most definitely be back.

Alicia

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

My family and I loved Stay’s property! The grounds were absolutely gorgeous. The cooking area has a beautiful creek and everything you need for a cookout. Multiple hammocks to choose from, a little tree bridge to cross the creek, and breathtaking views. So many deer came right up to us. They thought of everything! We had clean restrooms and warm showers. The yurt was such a cool experience and the extra fee for bedding gave us a fully made bed with extra blankets. We LOVED every moment. The downtown area has a great food options and we really enjoyed 476 Eatery for dinner. For breakfast we stopped by Paonia Bread Works and had the BEST coffee, sandwiches and pastries. The only bad part was that we could not stay longer due to our trip schedule. Thank you so much Stacy. You truly have a beautiful place. Thank you for sharing it with us.

Megan

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at The Hop Yard Hideaway

This spot is one of the coolest we have ever camped! The sites are long, and being right by the hop field was such a cool experience. Great bathrooms and showers. We took the tour of the farm Audrey offered and felt like it was a great add-on and so reasonably priced!

From the entry way- warm colors of red, rust, and blue inside

Paula

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Zenzen Gardens

This place is an oasis! Lush green clover lawn, beautiful beds of flowers, a pond, and fantastic views throughout the property. I come to this part of Colorado each summer, and this is my must stay location each time!

Lisa

2 weeks ago

29 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Balsam Bliss

Peaceful and quiet with amazing views. Property was private as well. Deer hanging out too Tricky getting our 29’ rv in because it’s at a 90 degree angle but smaller RVs would do just fine. Would definitely recommend and Jennifer was great.

Pam

2 weeks ago

1 night at Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

Stacy was great and her land is really special. vega is the bestest of dogs and we enjoyed our stay. Pro tip. There is less road noise in the tipis. Yurt was super comfortable though. The tree in the communal kitchen is one of the best trees I have ever met. It is truly magical.

Ryenne

2 weeks ago

2 nights at The Hop Yard Hideaway

Super awesome place to camp. We loved the tent and furnishings. The beds were comfortable and the bathroom/shower facilities were great. We should’ve known how incredibly hot it was going to be and I do regret bringing a canopy for you are out in the OPEN no coverage. Although there is some on the property within the cool cutout silos where they host live music events. We had a great time and would definitely stay here again. Most likely in spring or early fall.

Joy

3 weeks ago

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Hop Yard Hideaway

We parked a 30' travel trailer in the end space. That is maximum for sure. Love the rope like material spread on the ground which would be soft for tents and not muddy. Amazing toilet building. I wish we had come on a weekday to see the beer Barn.

Megan

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to The Hop Yard Hideaway

Excellent accommodations and I had fun at their Friday free music event

Cody

3 weeks ago

24 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cedar Creek Lodging & RV Park

Very clean and quite. Host was super friendly. Easy to find and easy access.

Camille

3 weeks ago

3 nights at Sage View Ranch

Laurie and Scott were amazing hosts! The property is beautiful and well kept, we loved interacting with the goats and chickens and had an amazing time!

Asher

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Tater's Black Canyon Campground

Incredible campground! perfect distance to stop for a visit to Black Canyon of the Gunnison! Great for my toddler and I with beautiful views :) and the on site bathrooms with showers were very well maintained!

Aimee

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Tater's Black Canyon Campground

The land was well maintained, the facilities were in perfect condition, and the views were incredible! The space made my solo trip feel safe and worry-free!

Kristi

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

1 night at The Hop Yard Hideaway

We loved tent camping on Audrey's land! We were on a tour of national parks and it was within a half hour of black canyon which was perfect. It was quiet, neighbors were respectful and the friendly dogs were a bonus! Road noise was minimal at night but you are pretty close to a road and do hear some noise.

Curecanti National Recreation Area camping guide

Overview

About

Curecanti Creek contains three reservoirs on the Gunnison River. Blue Mesa Reservoir is Colorado's largest body of water, and it's very popular. Summertime brings out plenty of boats thanks to two marinas and five boat launches.

BYOB or rent a boat from a nearby outfitter. Deep waters of the reservoirs and canyons contain a copious amount of fish. Try to snag a huge lake trout or Kokanee salmon. Some areas even allow ice fishing in winter.

Curecanti Creek has something for everyone, even if you're a landlubber. Cimarron Visitor Center displays some narrow gauge railroad cars that delve into the mining history of the area. Elk Creek Visitor Center explains the natural history of the Gunnison River. Get up close to wildlife and wildflowers along the many miles of hiking trails here.

Ten campgrounds offer year-round home bases for your outdoor excursion. Elk Creek has 160 sites with full RV hook-ups.

Notable campgrounds

Elk Creek Campground – A gateway to Blue Mesa Reservoir with facilities for both RVs and tents.
Lake Fork Campground – Offers a cozy spot for anglers and boaters alike, with easy access to the water.
Stevens Creek Campground – Perfect for those seeking a quieter camping experience with scenic views.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, as spots fill up quickly, especially during peak summer months.
Check for cancellations regularly to snag a last-minute reservation.
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for better availability.
Explore nearby camping options for alternative accommodations when the park is full.

When to go

The best time to visit Curecanti is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is warm and all facilities are open. Winter can be harsh, with limited access and services, but offers a tranquil, snowy landscape for the intrepid.

Know before you go

Check weather conditions and prepare for sudden changes, as the park is at a high elevation.
Watercraft inspections are mandatory to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Be aware of wildlife and practice safe viewing distances.
Some areas may be closed due to weather or conservation efforts, so verify accessibility in advance.
Bring all necessary supplies, as amenities are limited in certain parts of the park.

Reviews for Curecanti National Recreation Area Campgrounds

97%

19 ratings · 8 reviews

Recommends

· June 2026

Beautiful area. Water levels at drought levels this year. Couldn’t get kids on the water. Did a couple hikes- great area.

Sena J.

2 reviews

Recommends

· June 2026

Lots of water!

Doug S.

2 reviews

Recommends

· June 2026

Sand Castle Cliffs

Gorgeous cliffs and water area!

Nicole E.

9 reviews

Recommends

· September 2025

Amazing views!

Kris R.

2 reviews

Recommends

· July 2025

Rented a pontoon boat at the marina and enjoyed a day cruising and exploring the lake. Saw that some of the fishermen had good luck but didn't really focus on that ourselves.

Beth B.

2 reviews

Recommends

· June 2025

I stopped at Blue Mesa Reservoir for a quick dip. It was cold and refreshing on a hot day of travel.

Holly Jo J.

5 reviews

Recommends

· June 2025

Cool

Andrew H.

2 reviews

November 2019

Elk Creek Campground

We were leary about the lack of trees here, but that was quickly proved wrong when seeing the gorgeous sunset over the reservoir. Very spacious sites. The bathrooms were clean and easily accessible. The hosts and rangers were super helpful and full of local knowledge! Stay here!