Blue Mesa Reservoir, Curecanti National Recreation Area
Open

Open for the 2026 season. Reservations available through Recreation.gov from mid-May through mid-September; lower loop sites are first-come, first-served only. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are in effect: campfires are permitted only within designated metal fire grates. Seasonal amenities including flush toilets, potable water, and dump station are operational.

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.

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are in effect. Campfires are prohibited except within designated metal fire grates at campgrounds and picnic areas. Additional restrictions apply.

Blue Mesa Water Update

As of 8/22 cyanotoxin levels were negative/below acceptable State of Colorado public health levels at Iola Basin. Cautionary signs will remain posted around Iola Basin on Blue Mesa Reservoir due to possible future reoccurrence as conditions may change.

About

Lake Fork Campground occupies a scenic position on Blue Mesa Reservoir, Colorado's largest body of water, within Curecanti National Recreation Area. The reservoir's steep canyon walls were carved by the Gunnison River, now dammed to create this expansive recreation destination. The surrounding semi-arid shrubland hosts sagebrush, Gunnison's prairie dogs, and diverse birdlife including black-billed magpies. The campground is divided into three sections totaling 90 sites. The upper and middle loops offer 57 reservable sites, while the lower loop provides 19 first-come, first-served sites. Five walk-in tent sites (046-050) are specifically designated for tent campers. Most sites feature paved parking suitable for RVs up to 55 feet, though no electric hookups are available. Seasonal amenities include flush toilets, potable water, a dump station, and trash collection. Recreation centers on Blue Mesa Reservoir, with jet skiing, water skiing, canoeing, and fishing all popular activities. A boat inspection station operates at the Lake Fork ramp during peak season. Nearby hiking options include the Dillon Pinnacles Trail, Curecanti Creek Trail, and Hermit's Rest Trail. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park lies just to the west.

Directions

Lake Fork Campground is located 27 miles west of Gunnison on CO Highway 92 near the intersection with U.S. Highway 50, on the shore of Blue Mesa Reservoir.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station Yes
Wifi
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store
Price $24

Vehicle

Max RV Length 30ft
Max Trailer Length 30ft
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

Blue Mesa Reservoir, Curecanti National Recreation Area
Clouds above Blue Mesa Reservoir
Curecanti National Recreation Area
U.S. Highway 50 crosses Blue Mesa Reservoir on Middle Bridge
Curecanti National Recreation Area
Sunrise Over Curecanti National Recreation Area
Wildlife in Curecanti National Recreation Area

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