Elk Creek Campground
Elk Creek Campground is open with Loops A, B, and D available. The dump station remains offline until temperatures are regularly above freezing at night. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov on a 6-month rolling basis. Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect; campfires are only permitted within designated metal fire grates.
Hydrologic Outlook issued July 20 at 10:32AM MDT by NWS Grand Junction CO
ESFGJT Anomalous moisture has become established across portions of eastern Utah and western Colorado. Scattered thunderstorms capable of producing heavy rain are expected this afternoon and early evening. Rainfall rates of 1-2 inches per hour will be possible with the stronger storms. These rates could lead to flash flooding and debris flows especially over steep terrain and recent burn scars. Also, rain over the past several days has lead to saturated soils, which increase the chances for excessive runoff. As a reminder: Keep an eye on our forecasts through the end of the week and stay tuned for updated hydrology alerts if visiting or if you reside below vulnerable terrain to flash flooding and/or debris flows. Storms across the west develop quickly, leaving little room for lead time in flashy terrain.
From Recreation.gov
The dump station is offline until temperatures are regularly above freezing at night.
East Portal Closed Due to Wildfires
East Portal remains closed due to fire activity and post-fire hazards. Do not enter closed or burned areas until further notice.
About
Elk Creek Campground is the largest and most developed campground within Curecanti National Recreation Area, situated on the north shore of Blue Mesa Reservoir at 7,540 feet elevation. The reservoir spans 96 miles of shoreline and supports the largest Kokanee Salmon fishery in the United States. Rainbow trout fishing is also excellent. The campground accommodates everything from tent camping to large RVs up to 55 feet, with Loop D offering electric hookups at both 30 and 50 amp service. The surrounding landscape is dominated by high desert sagebrush with minimal tree cover due to the area receiving less than 12 inches of rain annually. Blue Mesa Reservoir allows swimming, windsurfing, and water skiing throughout its length. Bald eagles can be spotted year-round. The Elk Creek Visitor Center and marina are nearby, and watercraft inspection stations operate at the boat ramp during peak season to prevent aquatic invasive species. Curecanti National Recreation Area was named after a Ute Indian chief of the mid-19th century and spans three reservoirs formed by dams on the Gunnison River. Nearby attractions include the Cimarron Rail Exhibit featuring historic railcars and the last remaining railroad trestle on the Black Canyon of the Gunnison route.
Directions
From Gunnison, drive 16 miles west on US Highway 50 to Mile Marker 142. Turn left at the Elk Creek sign.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | Yes |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $24 - $34 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 62ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 62ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | Yes |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (970) 641-2337 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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