Colorado / Gunnison County / Curecanti National Recreation Area

Elk Creek Campground

Open — Open year-round for camping. Water is shut off for the winter season; campers must bring all drinking water. Flush toilets are seasonal; vault toilets available year-round.

About

Elk Creek Campground is situated on the north shore of Blue Mesa Reservoir within Curecanti National Recreation Area, 16 miles west of Gunnison along U.S. Highway 50. The campground is a hub for water-based recreation on Colorado's largest body of water, which features 96 miles of shoreline and the largest Kokanee salmon fishery in the United States. Anglers enjoy catching salmon and rainbow trout, while water sports enthusiasts find excellent conditions for windsurfing and water skiing. Swimming is permitted throughout the 20-mile-long reservoir, and birders can spot bald eagles year-round. The campground offers 155 sites total, with 111 reservable sites and 49 first-come, first-served sites. All camping types are accommodated, from tents to large RVs up to 55 feet. Loop D offers the only electric hookups at Curecanti. At an elevation of 7,540 feet, the campground is surrounded by a vast expanse of sagebrush with minimal trees, as the area receives less than 12 inches of rain annually. The campground features paved roads, flush toilets seasonally and vault toilets year-round, and a dump station. Weather varies greatly, with summer temperatures ranging from 50 to 90°F during the day and 40 to 60°F at night, with afternoon thunderstorms and strong winds common.

Directions

Located 16 miles west of Gunnison on U.S. Highway 50 along Blue Mesa Reservoir. Turn left at Elk Creek at Mile Marker 142.

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