Mill Creek Campground
Closed for the season. Opens in June and operates through September. 13 sites are reservable via Recreation.gov; 9 sites are first-come, first-served.
Hydrologic Outlook issued October 9 at 10:53AM MDT by NWS Grand Junction CO
ESFGJT A strong low pressure system off the Pacific Coast will begin to draw in tropical moisture associated with Topical Storm Rachel this weekend. This strong southerly fetch will draw anomalously high moisture content across the Desert Southwest and into eastern Utah and western Colorado. The chance for widespread precipitation increases Saturday evening into Sunday. Total precipitation forecasts range from 1 to 3 inches across high terrain, with highest amounts favoring the Uintas, Tavaputs and the Southwest San Juan mountains. Embedded thunderstorms are also possible Sunday afternoon, increasing the threat for flash flooding across vulnerable terrain. While confidence in location and rainfall rates remain low at this time, the potential for rapidly rising rivers, streams, normally dry arroyos and slot canyons are possible Sunday through Monday. Please follow the evolving forecast, especially if your plans including recreating or commuting across eastern Utah and western Colorado Sunday onward. Also, keep in mind weather potential above your location and upstream, particularly for those who reside below sensitive terrain like recent burn scars.
About
Mill Creek Campground sits at 9,500 feet elevation along the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River, 14 miles southwest of Lake City, Colorado. The 22 campsites are shaded among a mixed spruce, fir, and aspen forest with mountain views of some of Colorado's highest peaks. Each site accommodates up to 8 people and 2 vehicles, with amenities including metal fire rings with cooking grates, picnic tables, and bear-proof food storage boxes. The campground is surrounded by the Redcloud Peak and Handies Peak Wilderness Study Areas, offering world-class hiking to three 14,000-foot peaks. Licensed OHVs and high-clearance 4WD vehicles can access the Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway, a rugged 65-mile road system connecting Lake City, Silverton, and Ouray through the San Juan Mountains. Anglers can use the fishing access trail to the Lake Fork or visit nearby Lake San Cristobal, Colorado's second largest natural lake. Vault restrooms, hand pumps for potable water, and bear-proof trash dumpsters are provided. Campground hosts are present June through early September. Thirteen sites are reservable through Recreation.gov up to 180 days in advance; nine sites remain first-come, first-served with cash or check payment on-site.
Directions
From Lake City, take Highway 149 south for about 2 miles. Turn right onto County Road 30 and continue for about 10.5 miles. Mill Creek Campground is on the left, over the bridge.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $20 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| kacarson@blm.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (970) 642-4940 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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