Campgrounds Near Black Canyon

CO · Campground

Overview A camping trip to the Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park makes for a beautiful getaway for sightseeing, stargazing, and hiking. The park protects the most dramatic section of the Gunnison River Canyon; no other canyon in North America combines the narrow opening, sheer walls, and startling depths of Black Canyon. Recreation Take one of many spectacular hiking trails such as the Oak Flat Loop Trail and watch for birds like the black-billed magpie. In summer, catch an evening educational program in the campground amphitheater. Winter activities include snowshoeing on Rim Rock Trail or go cross country skiing on South Rim Drive (South Rim Campground is first-come, first-served in winter). Facilities Take one of many spectacular hiking trails such as the Oak Flat Loop Trail and watch for birds like the black-billed magpie. In summer, catch an evening educational program in the campground amphitheater. Winter activities include snowshoeing on Rim Rock Trail or go cross country skiing on South Rim Drive (South Rim Campground is first-come, first-served in winter). Natural Features Perched on the South Rim of the Black Canyon, this campground is surrounded by scrub oak forests and sits atop ancient hard rocks. Deer, grouse, bears, and bobcats are known to frequent the area. Nearby Attractions Visit the Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit to see railcars and the last remaining railroad trestle on the Black Canyon of the Gunnison route. Head upstream to Curecanti National Recreation Area to enjoy water recreation on Colorado's largest reservoir.

Situated among mature cottonwood trees along the Gunnison River, this campground has six campsites, including one ADA accessible site with an adjacent accessible fishing pier. Site amenities include a boat ramp (non-motorized watercraft only), shade structures, picnic tables, fire rings and a vault toilet. Camping is free with a 7 day/6 night maximum stay length. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, please contact the Montrose Public Lands Center at 970-240-5300.

CO · Campground

Overview Lake Fork Campground is on the Blue Mesa Reservoir, near the reservoir's dam. It is a part of the historic Curecanti Recreation Area and is an ideal place to stay for days of boat recreation, hiking and taking in the views of the Black Canyon. Recreation Jet skiing, water skiing and canoeing are some of the many water activities available on the reservoir. Bird Watching is also rewarding, with chances to see the black-billed magpie. Along the shrubland, visitors can spot Gunnison's Prairie Dogs popping out of their holes. Facilities Jet skiing, water skiing and canoeing are some of the many water activities available on the reservoir. Bird Watching is also rewarding, with chances to see the black-billed magpie. Along the shrubland, visitors can spot Gunnison's Prairie Dogs popping out of their holes. Natural Features The steep canyon walls in this part of the reservoir were carved out by the Gunnison River, which once flowed with powerful intensity fueled by the snowmelt of nearby mountains. Today, the Gunnison river is dammed in three places, creating three large and beautiful reservoirs to be enjoyed by visitors. The land is characterized by semi-arid shrubland with vast expanses of sagebrush. The natural features and ecosystems of Curecanti vary greatly, with Riparian habitats, epic canyons and lush patches of Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir and aspen trees. Nearby Attractions The recreation area is just south of Gunnison National Forest and east of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. There's no shortage of options for Scenic Drives and Hiking. Try hiking the Curecanti Creek Trail or Hermit's Rest Trail off HWY 92.. Charges & Cancellations

CO · Campground

Overview In the heart of southwest Colorado is a group camp getaway for nature lovers and outdoor sports-enthusiasts. The Red Creek Group Site is located in the Curecanti Recreation Area, just south of the West Elk Mountains. The campground is surrounded by national forests and park lands with Gunnison National Forest to the north, Black Canyon to the west and the Uncompahgre National forest to the southwest. A wide range of mammals can be found within Curecanti, including mule deer, mountain lions, black bears, prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, elk and the occasional moose. Bald eagles come here to fish in winter. Recreation Hikers may enjoy the Dillon Pinnacles Trail for views of spires formed by erosional forces working volcanic debris. The trail is a lollipop of about 4 miles. Anglers can enjoy fishing for brown, rainbow, and Mackinaw trout and Kokanee salmon. The population of Kokanee salmon is denser at Blue Mesa Reservoir than anywhere else in the country. Facilities Hikers may enjoy the Dillon Pinnacles Trail for views of spires formed by erosional forces working volcanic debris. The trail is a lollipop of about 4 miles. Anglers can enjoy fishing for brown, rainbow, and Mackinaw trout and Kokanee salmon. The population of Kokanee salmon is denser at Blue Mesa Reservoir than anywhere else in the country. Natural Features “This area is characterized by semi-arid shrubland with large cottonwood trees lining the campground. Red Creek flows out of the West Elk Mountains, through this campground, and into Blue Mesa Reservoir. By mid to late summer, the creek is low enough for wading. Some small fish inhabit the deeper pools.” Blue Mesa connects to the Morrow Point Reservoir, which flows down to the more isolated Crystal Reservoir. The passage of the Gunnison River is marked by the steep, narrow cliffs of the Black Canyon. Nearby Attractions The Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit features a display of an old-fashioned locomotive at the last remaining railroad trestle in the Black Canyon on the Gunnison route. The bonus is picture-perfect access to the tallest cliffs in the canyon. The Red Creek Road, which passes by the campground, provides access to national forest lands where hiking abounds. Charges & Cancellations

CO · Campground

Overview Invite family and friends to East Elk for an active group camping experience surrounded by rugged and stark mountains. The campground is perched on the tranquil East Elk Creek, which allows for water activities without the commotion of the reservoir. Enjoy time picnicking, kayaking, fishing or exploring wildlife. Recreation The campground is set just off of the windsurfing area in the Cebolla Basin. It's an ideal location for avid windsurfers. It's also great for canoeing and hiking. Try the Dillon Pinnacles Trail for the nearest hiking trail. Visit Curecanti's hiking web page for details. Facilities The campground is set just off of the windsurfing area in the Cebolla Basin. It's an ideal location for avid windsurfers. It's also great for canoeing and hiking. Try the Dillon Pinnacles Trail for the nearest hiking trail. Visit Curecanti's hiking web page for details. Natural Features East Elk Creek sits at an altitude of 7,800 feet, just off the Blue Mesa Reservoir in Curecanti National Recreation Area. The reservoir is surrounded by scenic mountains and is home to the largest population of Kokanee land locked salmon in the state of Colorado. The other two reservoirs in the recreation area, Crystal Reservoir and Morrow Point Reservoir, are surrounded by high rising cliffs. Nearby Attractions Charges & Cancellations

CO · Campground

Overview Elk Creek Campground is on the north shore of Blue Mesa Reservoir. The lake is Colorado's largest body of water with 96 miles of shoreline and the largest Kokanee Salmon fishery in the United States. Elk Creek Campground is located off of US HWY 50 -15 miles west of Gunnison Co. at Mile Marker 142. The campground is part of the Curecanti National Recreation Area, which was named after a Ute Indian chief of the mid-19th century. The Elk Creek area is a hub for water based activities year round. Recreation Anglers delight in catching salmon and rainbow trout, while water sports fans find excitement in windsurfing and water skiing. Swimming is permitted throughout the 20-mile long reservoir and birders can find bald eagles here year round. Facilities Anglers delight in catching salmon and rainbow trout, while water sports fans find excitement in windsurfing and water skiing. Swimming is permitted throughout the 20-mile long reservoir and birders can find bald eagles here year round. Natural Features At an altitude of 7,540 feet, Elk Creek is surrounded by a vast expanse of sagebrush. Trees are minimal because the reservoir gets less than 12 inches of rain a year. Curecanti National Recreation Area is sandwiched between the towns of Montrose and Gunnison, Colorado. It spans three reservoirs, named for corresponding dams on the Gunnison River. These include the Crystal Reservoir, Morrow Point Reservoir and Blue Mesa. Nearby Attractions Visit the Cimarron Rail Exhibit to see railcars and the last remaining railroad trestle on the Black Canyon of the Gunnison route. Charges & Cancellations

CO · Campground

Red Bridge Campground is a short distance off of the Silver Thread National Scenic Byway. You'll find public fishing access to the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River, and access to the Lake Fork Spur scenic drive. Red Bridge Campground located on the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River and is a perfect place for someone to relax and fish. The campground has 7 campsites and 1 restroom. Each campsite has a parking spur, metal fire ring, and a picnic table. Potable water is not available at this campground. For more information, please contact the Gunnison Field Office.

CO · Campground

This campground is tucked into the center of the geologic formation known as The Gate, a notch in the rocks carved by the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River. The Gate is a great spot for picnics, camping, and fishing access to the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River. This campground is conveniently located on the Silver Thread National Scenic Byway, about 16 miles north of Lake City. The Gate Campground has 8 campsites, two vault restrooms, and a hand pump with potable water. For more information, please contact the Gunnison Field Office.

CO · Campground

Overview Island Lake Campground is located at an elevation of 10,000 feet on Colorado's Grand Mesa, which is home to more than 300 fishing lakes, near the cities of Cedaredge and Delta. Visitors enjoy the area for its excellent fishing, canoeing and hiking opportunities. Recreation More than 3,000 miles of trails and routes provide access to areas of rugged beauty and solitude. Many were carved by indigenous peoples, early explorers and miners, offering an experience that connects visitors to the land and its prehistoric and historic past. The topography allows the forest to provide year-round trails for beginners to experts. The mountains, plateau and mesa never fail to provide a breathtaking backdrop. Facilities More than 3,000 miles of trails and routes provide access to areas of rugged beauty and solitude. Many were carved by indigenous peoples, early explorers and miners, offering an experience that connects visitors to the land and its prehistoric and historic past. The topography allows the forest to provide year-round trails for beginners to experts. The mountains, plateau and mesa never fail to provide a breathtaking backdrop. Natural Features Island Lake is just .10 miles from the campground. A few sites offer panoramic views of Grand Valley and several lakes below. A dense grove of mature spruce trees covers most sites. A wide variety of wildlife frequents the area, including deer and elk. contact_info For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888. Nearby Attractions Recreation opportunities on the Grand Mesa National National Forest and surrounding areas are varied, and millions of visitors come to enjoy nearly 60 campgrounds and 13 picnic areas and more than 3,700 miles of system roads, including national and state-designated scenic byways and other scenic or recreation travel corridors. Thousands of miles of trails for hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, mountain biking and motorcycle riding are available, including sections of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and the Colorado Trail. More than 300 lakes and 3,600 miles of streams are found on the Forest. Six mountain peaks reach more than 14,000 feet in elevation, creating many popular areas for rock and ice climbing, hiking and driving along high elevation meadows thick with colorful wildflowers and nature observation and photography of Colorado's abundant wildlife. A variety of historic mining sites are also found in the forest, including the San Juan Mining area, as well as the Alpine Tunnel Historic District, which includes approximately 13 miles of the former Denver, South Park and Pacific Railroad railbed across the Continental Divide. The forest also contains three ski resorts, three lodges, two organizational camps and one marina.

CO · Campground

Overview Cobbett Lake Campground is located on Colorado's Grand Mesa, in the Land O' Lakes area, which is home to more than 300 lakes. Visitors enjoy the area for its great fishing, canoeing and hiking opportunities. Recreation Cobbett Lake is open to non-motorized watercraft, making it a perfect place for canoeing and fishing. Anglers cast for rainbow, brook and cutthroat trout. Numerous additional lakes in the area provide more fishing and canoeing opportunities, as well as beautiful scenery. A variety of hiking trails, including the Cobbett Lake Trail and Grand Mesa Discovery Trail begin nearby. Several off-road vehicle trails are in the surrounding area. Grand Mesa Visitor Center is within walking distance at Island Lake. The center offers interpretive exhibits, a bookstore and a high-altitude wildflower garden containing more than 50 native species. Facilities Cobbett Lake is open to non-motorized watercraft, making it a perfect place for canoeing and fishing. Anglers cast for rainbow, brook and cutthroat trout. Numerous additional lakes in the area provide more fishing and canoeing opportunities, as well as beautiful scenery. A variety of hiking trails, including the Cobbett Lake Trail and Grand Mesa Discovery Trail begin nearby. Several off-road vehicle trails are in the surrounding area. Grand Mesa Visitor Center is within walking distance at Island Lake. The center offers interpretive exhibits, a bookstore and a high-altitude wildflower garden containing more than 50 native species. Natural Features The campground is situated along the Grand Mesa National Scenic and Historic Byway on the shore of Cobbett Lake, at an elevation of 10,300 feet. A dense grove of spruce trees covers the campground, offering shade in nearly every site. A variety of wildlife, including deer and elk, frequents the area. Nearby Attractions The Grand Mesa National Scenic and Historic Byway offers 63 miles of scenic driving as it climbs from the rugged canyon floor, up to the forested mesa tops, at 11,000 feet. The road passes sparkling lakes and meadows bursting with wildflowers. Many trailheads are found along the byway. The town of Cedaredge is 15 miles from the campground. It is home to Pioneer Town, a 19th Century village with frontier museums and more than 20 structures. A historic schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, saloon and jail can be visited there. Cedaredge's "Applefest" festival is held annually in October.

CO · Campground

Overview Stevens Creek Campground lies on the north shore at the eastern end of Blue Mesa Reservoir. This is the closest campground to the town of Gunnison, CO. Popular with boaters, Stevens Creek has easy access to the reservoir. It is very sunny and bright, and the scent of sagebrush adds to the camping experience. A bit downstream is the Morrow Point Reservoir and the Crystal Reservoir, both surrounded by the steep cliffs of the Black Canyon. Recreation Stand up paddleboarding, fishing, canoeing and other water sports are popular here. Bird Watching is rewarding throughout the park but especially so in this shallower end of the reservoir which is ideal for waterfowl. Hikers, try the 1.5 mile (2.4) Neversink Trail, which meanders along the Gunnison River upstream of Blue Mesa Reservoir. Check the park's Hiking web page for more information. Facilities Stand up paddleboarding, fishing, canoeing and other water sports are popular here. Bird Watching is rewarding throughout the park but especially so in this shallower end of the reservoir which is ideal for waterfowl. Hikers, try the 1.5 mile (2.4) Neversink Trail, which meanders along the Gunnison River upstream of Blue Mesa Reservoir. Check the park's Hiking web page for more information. Natural Features The campground sits at an elevation of 7,540 feet (2298 m) and is characterized by a semi-arid, treeless shrubland. The mesa landscape is covered with sagebrush and receives less than 12 inches (30 cm) of rain each year. Nearby Attractions Head into Gunnison for a meal, a bit of shopping, or a visit to the local park or museum. Gunnison is known for its western ambiance and small town friendliness. Mountain biking and hiking can be found at Hartman Rocks Trail just south of Gunnison. Charges & Cancellations This is a Scan and Pay campground. There are no refunds,changes, cancellations, or other fee changes allowed with Scan and Pay payments. This system is the same as putting cash into a fee tube and cannot be refunded.

CO · Campground

Overview Black Bear Cabin at Mesa Lakes offers guests the opportunity to experience an overnight stay in a traditional Forest Service Ranger Station. The original Black Bear Cabin was constructed in the 1930s, where rangers worked for years overseeing the expansive forest. The cabin is about a 45-minute drive from Grand Junction area of western Colorado, and plenty of canoeing, mountain biking and fishing activities are within reach. From mid-August through October, guests can enjoy fall colors with extensive golden aspen stands surrounding the area. A large grass yard fronts the cabin, which can be used for family gatherings and weddings. This cabin is not ADA accessible. Recreation A popular mountain biking and horseback riding trail, West Bench Trail #501, connects the seven lakes of the Mesa Lakes Recreation Area. The cabin is also within walking distance to a carry-down boat ramp for canoeing and kayaking. The Grand Mesa Scenic Byway is well worth exploring. The byway passes near the cabin and offers 63 miles of scenery as it climbs from the rugged canyon floor up to the forested mesa tops at 11,000 feet. The road passes sparkling lakes and meadows bursting with wildflowers. Facilities A popular mountain biking and horseback riding trail, West Bench Trail #501, connects the seven lakes of the Mesa Lakes Recreation Area. The cabin is also within walking distance to a carry-down boat ramp for canoeing and kayaking. The Grand Mesa Scenic Byway is well worth exploring. The byway passes near the cabin and offers 63 miles of scenery as it climbs from the rugged canyon floor up to the forested mesa tops at 11,000 feet. The road passes sparkling lakes and meadows bursting with wildflowers. Natural Features Black Bear is perched on a grassy lawn, partially shaded by large pines. Spruce, fir and aspen are among the surrounding trees. At an elevation of 9,500, the cabin is in close proximity to several mountain lakes, including Waterdog Reservoir and Jumbo Reservoir. Mesa Creek flows nearby. A variety of wildlife, including deer, elk and moose, frequents the area. Nearby Attractions Grand Mesa Visitor Center is a short drive away at Island Lake. The center offers educational exhibits, a bookstore and a high-altitude wildflower garden containing over 50 native species. The town of Cedaredge, 26 miles from the campground, is home to Pioneer Town, a 19th-century village with frontier museums and over 20 structures housing a schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, saloon and jail. Cedaredge's Applefest is held annually in October.

CO · Campground

Overview Jumbo Campground is located on the northern slope of Colorado's Grand Mesa, in the Mesa Lakes area, which is home to over 300 lakes. Visitors enjoy the area for its great fishing, canoeing and hiking opportunities. Recreation Jumbo and Sunset Lakes are open to non-motorized watercraft, making each a perfect place for canoeing and fishing. Anglers cast for brown, brook and rainbow trout. Numerous additional lakes in the area provide still more fishing and canoeing opportunities, as well as beautiful scenery. The West Bench Trail No. 501 is open to hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. This popular path stretches several miles through the surrounding area. Facilities Jumbo and Sunset Lakes are open to non-motorized watercraft, making each a perfect place for canoeing and fishing. Anglers cast for brown, brook and rainbow trout. Numerous additional lakes in the area provide still more fishing and canoeing opportunities, as well as beautiful scenery. The West Bench Trail No. 501 is open to hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. This popular path stretches several miles through the surrounding area. Natural Features The campground is situated between Jumbo and Sunset Lakes along the Grand Mesa National Scenic and Historic Byway, at an elevation of 9,800 feet. A forest of mature spruce and aspen trees covers the area. Most sites have views of the lakes. A variety of wildlife, including deer and elk, frequents the area. Nearby Attractions The Grand Mesa National Scenic and Historic Byway offers 63 miles of scenic driving as it climbs from the rugged canyon floor, up to the forested mesa tops at 11,000 feet. The road passes sparkling lakes and meadows bursting with wildflowers. Many trailheads can be found along the byway. Grand Mesa Visitor Center is a short drive from the campground, at Island Lake. The center offers interpretive exhibits, a bookstore and a high-altitude wildflower garden containing over 50 native species. The town of Cedaredge is 26 miles from the campground. It is home to Pioneer Town, a 19th Century village with frontier museums and more than 20 structures. A historic schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, saloon and jail can be seen in the town. Cedaredge's "Applefest" festival is held annually in October.

CO · Campground

Overview Moose Manor at Mesa Lakes Recreation Area offers guests the opportunity to stay overnight in a traditional Forest Service ranger station. The original cabin was constructed in the 1930s, housing many rangers before it became a rental cabin. Located just 45 minutes from Grand Junction, the semi-rustic dwelling is convenient for hiking, mountain biking and fishing. From mid-August through October, guests can enjoy fall colors with extensive golden aspen stands surrounding the area. A large grass yard fronts the cabin, which is ideal for family gatherings and weddings. Recreation A popular mountain biking and horseback riding trail, West Bench Trail #501, connects the seven lakes of the Mesa Lakes Recreation Area. The cabin is also within walking distance to a carry-down boat ramp for canoeing and kayaking. Facilities A popular mountain biking and horseback riding trail, West Bench Trail #501, connects the seven lakes of the Mesa Lakes Recreation Area. The cabin is also within walking distance to a carry-down boat ramp for canoeing and kayaking. Natural Features Moose Manor in nestled in a stand of aspen and spruce trees at an elevation of 9,500 feet. Located on the north side of Grand Mesa National Forest, the cabin is in close proximity to several mountain lakes, including Sunset Lake and Jumbo Reservoir. Mesa Creek flows nearby. A variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, moose and bear, frequents the area. Nearby Attractions The Grand Mesa National Scenic and Historic Byway offers 63 miles of scenic driving as it climbs from the rugged canyon floor up to the forested mesa tops at 11,000 feet. The road passes sparkling lakes and meadows bursting with wildflowers. Many trailheads are found along the byway. Grand Mesa Visitor Center is a short drive away at Island Lake. The center offers interpretive exhibits, a bookstore and a high-altitude wildflower garden containing over 50 native species. The town of Cedaredge, 26 miles from the campground, is home to Pioneer Town, a 19th-century village with frontier museums and over 20 structures housing a schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, saloon and jail. Cedaredge's Applefest is held annually in October.

CO · Campground

Overview Amphitheater Campground is located near the town of Ouray, Colo., at an elevation of 8,400 feet. Visitors enjoy the area for its beautiful scenery and great hiking and off-road trail opportunities. Recreation Many hiking trails are found in the immediate area, including the popular Upper Cascade Falls Trail, which begins at the campground. Baby Bath Tubs and Chief Ouray Mine trails can also be accessed from the same trailhead. The campground is a favorite among jeep and off-road enthusiasts for its close proximity to a number of exciting trails in the surrounding area. Facilities Many hiking trails are found in the immediate area, including the popular Upper Cascade Falls Trail, which begins at the campground. Baby Bath Tubs and Chief Ouray Mine trails can also be accessed from the same trailhead. The campground is a favorite among jeep and off-road enthusiasts for its close proximity to a number of exciting trails in the surrounding area. Natural Features The campground is named for the natural rock amphitheater that stands over Ouray. The massive gray cliffs were created by ancient volcanic and glacial activity. The campground is situated on the mountainside above Ouray, with stellar views of the amphitheater. A forest of Gambel oak trees and mixed conifers covers the area. Nearby Attractions Ouray is known as America's Switzerland. The charming, historic, mountain town offers a variety of dining, shopping and lodging options, as well as a hot springs pool and a variety of annual festivals.

CO · Campground

Overview Lake Irwin Campground is situated on the western banks of its picturesque namesake lake, approximately 9 miles from Crested Butte, Colorado. Visitors enjoy the area for its abundant trail opportunities, fishing and beautiful scenery. Recreation Mountain biking and hiking are popular activities in this challenging, rugged terrain. Canoeing and fishing are favorite pastimes as well. The lake is usually so full of fish, one can see them rise to the calm surface. Facilities Mountain biking and hiking are popular activities in this challenging, rugged terrain. Canoeing and fishing are favorite pastimes as well. The lake is usually so full of fish, one can see them rise to the calm surface. Natural Features The campground is set high in the Colorado Rockies at an elevation of 10,200 feet. Summer days are cool and afternoon showers are common. Nights can be chilly. Lake Irwin borders the campground on the east, and the Ruby Mountain Range lies to the west. Vivid wildflowers fill the landscape during July and August. Most campsites are shaded by mature Englemann spruce and subalpine fir trees. The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests are located on the western slope of the Rocky Mountains. Together, the three forests cover 2.9 million acres in the central and southern Rocky Mountains, south of the Colorado River and west of the Continental Divide. contact_info For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888. Nearby Attractions The charming town of Crested Butte is a short drive from the campground. The former coal mining town offers a variety of outdoor activities, dining and shopping options and annual festivals, like the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival.

CO · Campground

Overview Bogan Flats Campground stretches along the Crystal River in a valley of aspen groves, towering Ponderosa Pine, spruce, and willow. The setting is ideal for larger groups seeking recreation and relaxation in White River National Forest. Sites in the campground are widely spaced and offer a nice mixture of open and shaded spots, with several sites at the river's edge. The group site is located away from the main campground, offering a more private location. Recreation Crystal River, a tributary of Roaring Fork River, is renowned for its fly fishing. Rainbow, cutthroat and brown trout are plentiful in this waterway. A hike up Mt. Sopris offers spectacular panoramic views. This 12,953-foot mountain dominates the surrounding landscape. The hike is 14.8 miles with a 4,600-foot. elevation gain. In summer, wildflowers carpet the trail through aspen groves and mixed conifer forest, climbing up to talus slopes. Other popular activities in the area include jeep tours, biking, and historic sightseeing. Facilities Crystal River, a tributary of Roaring Fork River, is renowned for its fly fishing. Rainbow, cutthroat and brown trout are plentiful in this waterway. A hike up Mt. Sopris offers spectacular panoramic views. This 12,953-foot mountain dominates the surrounding landscape. The hike is 14.8 miles with a 4,600-foot. elevation gain. In summer, wildflowers carpet the trail through aspen groves and mixed conifer forest, climbing up to talus slopes. Other popular activities in the area include jeep tours, biking, and historic sightseeing. Natural Features In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the 2.3 million acre White River National Forest is a place of serenity and adventure, boasting 8 wilderness areas, 4 defined seasons, and 10 peaks surpassing 14,000 feet in elevation. The Crystal River flows near the campground and drains the Valley of the Coal Miners, a glacial valley that was once a center of coal mining in southwestern Colorado. Wildlife in the area abounds. Bighorn sheep navigate rocky ridges and bull elk bugle at dusk. Scenic rivers sustain populations of cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout. Alpine regions provide habitat for pika and ptarmigan. These species, along with many others, depend on surrounding undeveloped wilderness, clean streams, and diverse forests to live. contact_info For facility specific information, please call (801) 226-3564. Nearby Attractions The quaint mountain town of Redstone is a hidden gem, located south of Carbondale. In addition to shops, galleries, and restaurants, the town boasts a castle that was built by industrialist John Osgood at the turn of the 20th century. Charges & Cancellations Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

Overview Approximately 5 miles from Crested Butte, Colorado, Oh Be Joyful Campground is a 30-unit campground along the Slate River. The campground itself gets its name from nearby Oh Be Joyful Creek that features massive waterfalls and colorful wildflowers in the summer months. The campground is located at approximately 9,000 feet in elevation and the views are spectacular. Recreation This premier area is known for camping, fishing, horseback riding, sight-seeing, hiking/walking, water play, kayaking, mountain biking, wildflower viewing, and motorized recreational uses. A foot bridge allows visitors to access the west side of the Slate River to hike along Oh Be Joyful Creek and into the Raggeds Wilderness. Facilities This premier area is known for camping, fishing, horseback riding, sight-seeing, hiking/walking, water play, kayaking, mountain biking, wildflower viewing, and motorized recreational uses. A foot bridge allows visitors to access the west side of the Slate River to hike along Oh Be Joyful Creek and into the Raggeds Wilderness. Natural Features The campground sits directly on the east bank of the Slate River and is nestled in a valley with mountains on either side of the valley. Due to the abundance of moisture in the spring and early summer, wildflowers are abundant. Look for our State flower the Columbine and other species including Indian Paintbrush and Avalanche Lilies. Nearby Attractions

Overview Mill Creek Campground is located 14 miles southwest of Lake City, Colorado at 9,500 feet above sea level. Nestled along the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River, the campground offers a fishing access trail for anglers and river access (though boating is not recommended from this location). The campground is surrounded by the Redcloud Peak and Handies Peak Wilderness Study Areas with world class hiking opportunities just a short drive away, including trails to three 14,000-foot peaks. From the campground, licensed OHV's and high clearance 4-wheel-drive vehicles can access the legendary Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway; a rugged 65 mile road system that connects the towns of Lake City, Silverton, and Ouray through the spectacular mountain scenery of the San Juan Mountains. The campground is accessible June through September. Recreation Mill Creek Campground is an ideal base camp for exploring the Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway and the majestic San Juan Mountains. Whether you like to ride an off-highway vehicle, fly fish the Lake Fork, learn about the area's hardrock mining history, or challenge yourself to hike one of the 14,000-foot peaks, this area has something for everyone. There are also opportunities for viewing wildlife, seasonal wildflowers, and fishing the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River or nearby Lake San Cristobal. Facilities Mill Creek Campground is an ideal base camp for exploring the Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway and the majestic San Juan Mountains. Whether you like to ride an off-highway vehicle, fly fish the Lake Fork, learn about the area's hardrock mining history, or challenge yourself to hike one of the 14,000-foot peaks, this area has something for everyone. There are also opportunities for viewing wildlife, seasonal wildflowers, and fishing the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River or nearby Lake San Cristobal. Natural Features Mill Creek offers shaded campsites among a mixed spruce/fir and aspen forest with magnificent mountain views of some of the highest peaks in Colorado and the sounds of the nearby Mill Creek and the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River. Nearby Attractions Enjoy Lake City, nestled in the valley of the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River and Henson Creek, not only for shopping but to take in the impressive Hinsdale County Museum that celebrates the residents of past and present and tells of the rich railway history of the rail line that went to Lake City from 1889 to 1933. A variety of tours are also available including learning about the momental volcano that formed Lake City. Lake City also is a Gateway Community for hiking the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) that traverses 800 miles of majestic and challenging peaks dotted with abandoned homesteads, ghost towns, and remnants of Native Americans and settlers who flocked here to mine gold and silver. Other shorter hikes from town can lead to some wonderful waterfalls. Discover Lake San Cristobal, the second largest natural lake in Colorado that was formed by the Slumgullion Earthflow that slid 700 years ago, damming the Lake Fork of the Gunnison. The lake offers a wide variety of recreation opportunities including boating and fishing and much more. contact_info For facility specific information, please call (970) 642-4940.