The best camping in Rifle Gap State Park, CO

·
100% (5)

The best camping in Rifle Gap State Park, CO

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Riverfront Retreat

7. Riverfront Retreat

91%
(11)
29mi from Rifle Gap State Park · 1 site · RV · Meeker, CO
Nearly 7 acres overlooking the White River on the edge of White River National Forest. Bordering a wildlife preserve which offers nearly a mile of public fishing on the White River and Coal Creek. Take your UTV/ATV to town or for a day ride upriver directly from the campsite as the camp is situated on the OHV trail that extends from town (2 miles from the campsite) to the White River National Forest (more than 40 miles up the river). Incredible views and wildlife galore. Turkeys often rest in the trees across the river, and it is not uncommon to watch deer tangle antlers during the rut. Eagles nest in the trees across the river and are often seen fishing from the trees directly across from the campsite. The sunsets from this campsite will leave you breathless. Nothing better than camping, relaxing or fishing on the White River!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
Ute Lodge - At the End of the Road

9. Ute Lodge - At the End of the Road

97%
(157)
32mi from Rifle Gap State Park · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Meeker, CO
The Ute Lodge was homesteaded in the 1930’s by Joe Fox who after leaving the military came west to settle in the White River valley. Joe was known for his friendliness, hospitality and wild stories. Today you might find much of the same. From Joe’s day to today it is a place where families come together to get away. The Ute Lodge is now owned by Karl and Mona Maser who celebrated 20 years of ownership summer of 2019! All summer our cabins are filled with guests from all over the US as well as international travelers. One of our favorite things about the summer is our weekly potlucks where we all share an outdoor meal. All of our visitors have a standing invitation to join us around the community campfire at night. From our beautiful private lake (where you can paddle-board, kayak and fish), to immediate access to the Papoose and Crooks Park Trails on National Forest land, as well as the vast variety of wildlife that roams around, you can find what you need here to unplug and get away from it all.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Stoneyard Distillery Awesome Possum RV Camping

11. Stoneyard Distillery Awesome Possum RV Camping

94%
(40)
39mi from Rifle Gap State Park · 1 site · RV · Gypsum, CO
Stoneyard Distillery, producing Beet Sugar Spirits since 2013. Taking its name from the old stoneyard surrounding it. Upstream from the confluence of the Eagle and Colorado Rivers, this site was chosen for it's private water source. Rocky Mountain water pulled directly from the river. The Distillery sits on a 4000 year old lava flow from the Dotsero Volcano. This lava rock provides the vapor refining distillation packing in the still hand built by the owners. With it's scratch built process, Stoneyard distills the true Spirit of Colorado into every last drop. Get Hammered... Responsibly!Learn more about this land:With beautiful Rocky Mountain views, the Distillery sits on a 4000 year old lava flow from the Dotsero Volcano. River access just a short walk away! 10 minutes to Hiking, Mountain Biking, and Eagle River Water Park. 25 minutes to Hot Springs, 35 minutes to World-Class Skiing! 40 Flavorful & Smooth Spirits distilled from Colorado beet sugar and rocky mountain water from the pristine Eagle River Craft Cocktails Production Tours
Pets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Sugar Loaf Mountain watches over the ranch

13. Riverside Rest for RVs

99%
(131)
43mi from Rifle Gap State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Dotsero, CO
The original homestead cabin from 1903 is still here! This became our home when my husband retired because it is his dream. Our Highland cattle have personality plus!! The river wrapping around the ranch at the foot of the mountain washes away the stress and leaves a peace here that fills the spirit with calm. We love the land, the bald eagles, the wildlife, our guests and each other! Learn more about this land: Sleep in your RV with the sound of the river lulling you to recharge and just breath in the peace. We have a great boat ramp with a put-in and a place to kayak, tube, raft or fish! Great hiking trails nearby and a quiet country road to bike that the big bike races use. Our Scottish Highland cows give kisses are happy to share your carrots, apples and watermelon! We only rent two spots to keep it peaceful here.
Potable water
Trash
Cooking equipment
from 
$32
 / night
Palisade Vista

16. Palisade Vista

97%
(91)
47mi from Rifle Gap State Park · 1 site · RV · Palisade, CO
Learn more about this land:Canyon and orchard views await. Only a short drive (≈2.5 Miles) or bike ride to Palisade, less then a mile to vineyards and wine tasting.  BookCliff Vinyards, Vines 79 Winery, Savage Spectrum Winery all within 1.5 miles.  Clark Family Orchards, Juicy Acers, Ball Fruit, and Cunningham Orchards also with 1.5 miles if you are looking for fresh fruit.  A put in to the Colorado river is also close by (≈2 miles) if you are looking for a leisurely float. Palisade Rim Trail and Mount Garfield trail are also near by for those looking for a hike or bike adventure.  The newly opened Palisade Plunge mountain bike trail which takes you from over 10000' to 4700' exits just about 2 miles below the camp site if you are looking for a thrill.A rustic camp site with privacy and access great night sky viewing and amazing sunsets and sunrises.
Pets
Potable water
from 
$40
 / night
Vail Valley BackCountry Access

17. Vail Valley BackCountry Access

91%
(180)
48mi from Rifle Gap State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Eagle, CO
This Gorgeous 6 acre property has DIRECT PRIVATE ACCESS to Hardscrabble Mountain, The Holy Cross Wilderness and The White River National Forest. There are 24,000 acres of BLM public land and also The White River National Forest with over 3,500 square miles, both with thousands of miles of recreation trails for mountain biking, hiking, ATVing, MOTO X Dirtbiking, SidebySide UTVing, backcountry skiing and snowboarding, 4x4 Jeeping/Mudding, Jeep, Bronco, Land Rovers, OffRoad, Bike, Hike and snowmobiling. Walk out of your tent, your RV or my cabin and you are in BLM and The White River National Forest. Plenty of flat, shaded ground with water and electric available. The biggest shade trees in Eagle County, firepits, and a creek with pond and waterfall with sand beach await. Incredible views of Castle Peak, The Flat tops Wilderness, Red Canyon and Hardscrabble Mountain right from the Property. Vail and Beaver Creek Ski Resorts with the best skiing and powder in the world and Glenwood Springs with the world famous Hot Springs Pool and Glenwood Caverns Amusement Park ( amusement park on top of a mountain) and the Iron Mountain Hot Springs Each 25 minutes away. Aspen is a little over an hour away. Pets are welcome and can be off leash if they can respond to voice controls and owners are responsible for their pets at all times. Dogs love it here! All poop must be picked up, $35 per pet per night. GoPro Mountain Games, Eagle County Rodeo, Birds of Prey Downhill, Vail Farmers Market, Free Showdown Down Thursday Eagle, Gerald R. Ford Ampitheater, Free Hot Summer Nights Music Vail Eagle is the county seat of Eagle County and is known for the Eagle and Colorado River and the amazing system of biking and hiking trails.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$64
 / night
Marble Mountain Yurt

18. Marble Mountain Yurt

100%
(130)
48mi from Rifle Gap State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Marble, CO
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
from 
$220
 / night
No neighbors here - just quiet solitude and fun.

19. The YURT at Screwball Ranch

96%
(14)
48mi from Rifle Gap State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Cedaredge, CO
The YURT at Screwball Ranch sits on its own private 80 wooded acres only 20 minutes away from the western Colorado town of Cedaredge - Gateway to Grand Mesa. The YURT will comfortably sleep 4 - 6 guests and there's room for several tents within the fenced compound that includes The YURT, parking, corrals, & fire pit. You're within an hours drive of Grand Mesa (300+ lakes on the world's largest flat top mountain) The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and many, many other monuments and points of interest. Gold Medal fishing in the Gunnison River, North Fork of the Gunnison can keep you away from challenging golf courses in both Cedaredge and Delta (Devil's Thumb Golf Course.)A beautiful view across Cactus Park to the West Elks Mountain Range is the perfect setting for that evening cocktail or wine. Other than the occasional deer or elk walking by, a distant Coyote howl or Owl hoot - the silence can be almost deafening. We love pets - all pets.  A little over 2 acres surrounding the YURT,  Fire Pit, Corrals, Loafing Shed, and parking area is surrounded by a pet secure fence that allows guests to turn pets (children, guests) loose without fear they will get lost or bother any of the neighbor's livestock,  Just close the gate after you enter the YURT area.Part of Cedar Mesa - northeast of the town of Cedaredge, The YURT at Screwball Ranch is maintained by it's owners as a base camp for their own big game hunting each fall. Because of the unique setting, close proximity to the host's property and only one of it's kind of YURT (...full kitchen, 3/4 bath, loft, spiral staircase - WOW! - What a YURT!) the owners offer it for rental during the non-hunting seasons.Learn more about this land:You'll be camping(?) in a 30' diameter YURT with loft, enclosed entryway, large surrounding deck, solar energy (generator backup). loft with twin beds, spiral staircase, two full sized futon on the main floor, full kitchen (range, oven, refrigerator, microwave, slow cooker, coffee maker, pots, pans, dishes, utensils, etc.), 3/4 bath with hot and cold running water - all while off-the-grid and isolated on 80 private acres including hiking, biking, riding, ATV trails galore. You also have private access to 1000's of acres of BLM land not open to public access.  Base Price ($157.00 per night, 3 night minimum) is for double occupancy.   Children 12 and under stay free SO DO NOT ADD THOSE KIDDOS TO THE ADDITIONAL GUEST COUNT.  Additional guests over 12 pay an additional $15.00 per day (we're off-the-grid and additional guests consume more of all the stuff we have to haul in and stock for you - like water, generator fuel, firewood, etc.)  7.7% Applicable taxes will be added.The YURT at Screwball Ranch sits at the base of Grand Mesa, the largest flat-top mountain in the world.  Grand Mesa has over 300 lakes and hundreds of miles of Hiking, Bicycle, riding, ATV, Snowmobile, jeep trails.  With most of Grand Mesa's activities near 11,000 feet above sea level, the air is cool, crisp and clean, even during the hottest days of summer.  Find us on google maps.Treat yourself to Glamping (Glorious Camping) - not just camping.  You deserve it!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$199
 / night
Beautiful scenic views

20. Double D Farm

100%
(18)
48mi from Rifle Gap State Park · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging · Palisade, CO
Rustic Orchard Campsite in Palisade Wine Country Location: Palisade, Colorado Description: Unplug and unwind at our peaceful orchard campsite nestled in the heart of Colorado’s wine country. Surrounded by peach trees and panoramic views of the Grand Mesa, this spot offers a truly serene escape just minutes from Palisade’s renowned wineries, fruit stands, and scenic bike trails. What You’ll Love: • Wake up to the scent of blooming fruit trees • Sip local wine under starry skies • Walking distance to vineyards and the Colorado River • Stunning mountain views & golden hour sunsets • Fresh fruit available in-season Nearby Attractions: • Wineries and cideries just minutes away • Ride the Fruit & Wine Byway • Kayak or float the Colorado River • Hike Grand Mesa or Colorado National Monument • Explore lavender farms, orchard stands & downtown Palisade
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$24
 / night
100% (5)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Rifle Gap State Park adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Riverfront Retreat

91%
(11)
29mi from Rifle Gap State Park · 1 site · RV · Meeker, CO
Nearly 7 acres overlooking the White River on the edge of White River National Forest. Bordering a wildlife preserve which offers nearly a mile of public fishing on the White River and Coal Creek. Take your UTV/ATV to town or for a day ride upriver directly from the campsite as the camp is situated on the OHV trail that extends from town (2 miles from the campsite) to the White River National Forest (more than 40 miles up the river). Incredible views and wildlife galore. Turkeys often rest in the trees across the river, and it is not uncommon to watch deer tangle antlers during the rut. Eagles nest in the trees across the river and are often seen fishing from the trees directly across from the campsite. The sunsets from this campsite will leave you breathless. Nothing better than camping, relaxing or fishing on the White River!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

Ute Lodge - At the End of the Road

97%
(157)
32mi from Rifle Gap State Park · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Meeker, CO
The Ute Lodge was homesteaded in the 1930’s by Joe Fox who after leaving the military came west to settle in the White River valley. Joe was known for his friendliness, hospitality and wild stories. Today you might find much of the same. From Joe’s day to today it is a place where families come together to get away. The Ute Lodge is now owned by Karl and Mona Maser who celebrated 20 years of ownership summer of 2019! All summer our cabins are filled with guests from all over the US as well as international travelers. One of our favorite things about the summer is our weekly potlucks where we all share an outdoor meal. All of our visitors have a standing invitation to join us around the community campfire at night. From our beautiful private lake (where you can paddle-board, kayak and fish), to immediate access to the Papoose and Crooks Park Trails on National Forest land, as well as the vast variety of wildlife that roams around, you can find what you need here to unplug and get away from it all.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

Stoneyard Distillery Awesome Possum RV Camping

94%
(40)
39mi from Rifle Gap State Park · 1 site · RV · Gypsum, CO
Stoneyard Distillery, producing Beet Sugar Spirits since 2013. Taking its name from the old stoneyard surrounding it. Upstream from the confluence of the Eagle and Colorado Rivers, this site was chosen for it's private water source. Rocky Mountain water pulled directly from the river. The Distillery sits on a 4000 year old lava flow from the Dotsero Volcano. This lava rock provides the vapor refining distillation packing in the still hand built by the owners. With it's scratch built process, Stoneyard distills the true Spirit of Colorado into every last drop. Get Hammered... Responsibly!Learn more about this land:With beautiful Rocky Mountain views, the Distillery sits on a 4000 year old lava flow from the Dotsero Volcano. River access just a short walk away! 10 minutes to Hiking, Mountain Biking, and Eagle River Water Park. 25 minutes to Hot Springs, 35 minutes to World-Class Skiing! 40 Flavorful & Smooth Spirits distilled from Colorado beet sugar and rocky mountain water from the pristine Eagle River Craft Cocktails Production Tours
Pets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night

Riverside Rest for RVs

99%
(131)
43mi from Rifle Gap State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Dotsero, CO
The original homestead cabin from 1903 is still here! This became our home when my husband retired because it is his dream. Our Highland cattle have personality plus!! The river wrapping around the ranch at the foot of the mountain washes away the stress and leaves a peace here that fills the spirit with calm. We love the land, the bald eagles, the wildlife, our guests and each other! Learn more about this land: Sleep in your RV with the sound of the river lulling you to recharge and just breath in the peace. We have a great boat ramp with a put-in and a place to kayak, tube, raft or fish! Great hiking trails nearby and a quiet country road to bike that the big bike races use. Our Scottish Highland cows give kisses are happy to share your carrots, apples and watermelon! We only rent two spots to keep it peaceful here.
Potable water
Trash
Cooking equipment
from 
$32
 / night

Palisade Vista

97%
(91)
47mi from Rifle Gap State Park · 1 site · RV · Palisade, CO
Learn more about this land:Canyon and orchard views await. Only a short drive (≈2.5 Miles) or bike ride to Palisade, less then a mile to vineyards and wine tasting.  BookCliff Vinyards, Vines 79 Winery, Savage Spectrum Winery all within 1.5 miles.  Clark Family Orchards, Juicy Acers, Ball Fruit, and Cunningham Orchards also with 1.5 miles if you are looking for fresh fruit.  A put in to the Colorado river is also close by (≈2 miles) if you are looking for a leisurely float. Palisade Rim Trail and Mount Garfield trail are also near by for those looking for a hike or bike adventure.  The newly opened Palisade Plunge mountain bike trail which takes you from over 10000' to 4700' exits just about 2 miles below the camp site if you are looking for a thrill.A rustic camp site with privacy and access great night sky viewing and amazing sunsets and sunrises.
Pets
Potable water
from 
$40
 / night

Vail Valley BackCountry Access

91%
(180)
48mi from Rifle Gap State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Eagle, CO
This Gorgeous 6 acre property has DIRECT PRIVATE ACCESS to Hardscrabble Mountain, The Holy Cross Wilderness and The White River National Forest. There are 24,000 acres of BLM public land and also The White River National Forest with over 3,500 square miles, both with thousands of miles of recreation trails for mountain biking, hiking, ATVing, MOTO X Dirtbiking, SidebySide UTVing, backcountry skiing and snowboarding, 4x4 Jeeping/Mudding, Jeep, Bronco, Land Rovers, OffRoad, Bike, Hike and snowmobiling. Walk out of your tent, your RV or my cabin and you are in BLM and The White River National Forest. Plenty of flat, shaded ground with water and electric available. The biggest shade trees in Eagle County, firepits, and a creek with pond and waterfall with sand beach await. Incredible views of Castle Peak, The Flat tops Wilderness, Red Canyon and Hardscrabble Mountain right from the Property. Vail and Beaver Creek Ski Resorts with the best skiing and powder in the world and Glenwood Springs with the world famous Hot Springs Pool and Glenwood Caverns Amusement Park ( amusement park on top of a mountain) and the Iron Mountain Hot Springs Each 25 minutes away. Aspen is a little over an hour away. Pets are welcome and can be off leash if they can respond to voice controls and owners are responsible for their pets at all times. Dogs love it here! All poop must be picked up, $35 per pet per night. GoPro Mountain Games, Eagle County Rodeo, Birds of Prey Downhill, Vail Farmers Market, Free Showdown Down Thursday Eagle, Gerald R. Ford Ampitheater, Free Hot Summer Nights Music Vail Eagle is the county seat of Eagle County and is known for the Eagle and Colorado River and the amazing system of biking and hiking trails.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$64
 / night

Other options near Rifle Gap State Park

The best camping in Rifle Gap State Park, CO guide

Overview

About

Situated at the base of the Grand Hogback ridge in western Colorado, Rifle Gap is popular among water-sports enthusiasts, due to its prime location on the banks of the Rifle Gap Reservoir. Popular activities here include fishing, and waterskiing, and there are multiple picnic areas plus a swim beach right in the park. For those wishing to spend the night, Rifle Gap offers 89 campsites spread across over five campgrounds, some with electric hookups. Other park facilities include a seasonal boat ramp, a visitor center with a gift shop, coin-operated showers, and a dump station.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for families: Cottonwood Campground offers coin-operated showers and easy-access to the dump station.
  • Best for boaters: Pinyon Campground is conveniently situated right by the park’s boat ramp.
  • Best for off-highway vehicles (OHV): Sage Campground is right by a stretch of BLM land that many use for OHV driving.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve one of the 89 campsites at Rifle Gap by calling Colorado Parks and Wildlife or using their online reservation system.
  2. If you plan to come in the summer, reserve well in advance. Reservations are available up to six months in advance online or over the phone.
  3. Same-day reservations are also available online, over the phone, and in person.
  4. If you can’t find a site in the park, you may have better luck at Rifle Falls State Park nearby or at one of the private campgrounds or  Hipcamps in the area.

When to go

The most popular time of year to visit  Rifle Gap State Park is between Memorial Day Weekend and Labor Day Weekend, when the weather in the area is generally hot. However, this is also the busiest time of year—for good weather with fewer crowds, consider coming in May or September. If you’re a fan of birdwatching, you’ll likely see the largest number of migratory species in spring or autumn. Note that all of the campgrounds, except Lakeview, are open in winter.

Know before you go

  • The closest place to pick up groceries and supplies is the city of Rifle, about a 15-minute drive from the park.
  • All boaters must have their boats inspected for aquatic nuisance species before they will be allowed to launch.
  • Dogs are welcome at the park, but must remain on six-foot leashes and may not be left unattended.
  • ADA sites are available in Cottonwood, Lakeview, and cedar Campgrounds.
  • All visitors will need to purchase and display a single-day or annual parking pass, irrespective of whether they are camping or just coming for the day.
100%
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