Khumbu camp ground

For Colorado locals, the call of the mountains and rivers is a constant invitation to explore. While our state is known for its majestic peaks, sometimes the best adventures are found along the winding waterways that cut through the valleys. The Gypsum Campground, a hidden gem managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), offers a serene and accessible camping experience right on the banks of the Eagle River, near the vibrant town of Gypsum.

This campground provides a refreshingly simple approach to outdoor recreation, focusing on the natural beauty and abundant activities available in the area. It’s perfect for those seeking a tranquil retreat, an excellent fishing spot, or a convenient base for exploring the diverse landscapes of the Colorado River Valley. Forget the hassle of reservations; Gypsum Campground welcomes you on a first-come, first-served basis, embodying the spirit of spontaneous Colorado adventure.

The Gypsum Campground is located at MR5G+8Q, Gypsum, CO 81637, USA. This places it along the Eagle River, making it readily accessible from Interstate Highway 70. Its proximity to I-70 (exit 140) makes it a convenient stop for travelers and a quick getaway for locals from various parts of Colorado, including the larger communities of Silt and Rifle.

Upon exiting I-70 at Gypsum (exit 140), you turn south, then right onto the frontage road (Old Highway 6), and after about 1.5 miles past the roundabout, take a left to the Gypsum Recreation Area where the campground is situated. While it offers a sense of being in nature, the sound of the highway might be audible, so tent campers should be aware. However, its easy access means less time driving and more time enjoying the outdoors. The campground is generally open from May 15 to November 15 annually, making it a seasonal haven. Its position along the Eagle River means visitors can easily walk from their campsite to the river for fishing or other water-based activities.

Gypsum Campground, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), provides a basic yet functional set of services designed to support a rustic camping experience. It's known for its simplicity and affordability.

• Campsites: The campground features approximately 8 campsites, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites are suitable for both primitive walk-in camping and potentially smaller RVs/trailers, though specific hookups (electric, water, sewer) are not typically available. Each site usually includes a fire ring and a picnic table.
• Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets (also known as pit toilets). While functional, some reviews mention potential odor issues, so campers should be prepared for a basic restroom experience. ADA accessible restrooms are also available.
• Water: There is generally no potable (drinking) water available at the campsites, so campers must bring their own water supply or be prepared to filter and treat water from the river.
• Trash Disposal: Dumpsters are usually available for waste disposal, encouraging campers to keep the area clean.
• River Access: A significant service is the easy access to the Eagle River, perfect for fishing and launching rafts or kayaks. The campground offers gravel roads leading to primitive walk-in fishing and camping spots directly by the river.

Gypsum Campground offers several unique features that make it a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts in Colorado:

• Riverside Location: Its prime location along the Eagle River is a major highlight, offering scenic views and direct access for water-based activities. The "steep slopes and cliffs which tower up to 800 feet above the river" create a dramatic backdrop.
• First-Come, First-Served: The absence of a reservation system means that spontaneous adventurers can often find a spot, especially if they arrive earlier in the week or during non-peak times. This flexibility is highly valued by many local campers.
• Affordable Camping: With a fee of around $10 per night, Gypsum Campground offers a very affordable option for experiencing the Colorado outdoors, making it accessible to a wide range of budgets.
• Excellent Fishing: The Eagle River is known for its excellent fishing, particularly for wild brown and rainbow trout. Fishing is popular year-round, with spring and early summer being particularly fruitful due to Caddis hatches.
• Rafting and Floating: The river provides fantastic opportunities for rafting and floating, with the floating season generally running from late May through July. Both calmer lower sections and faster upper sections of the Eagle River are accessible.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is rich in wildlife, including ducks, geese, blue heron, and bald eagles. Visitors with binoculars will enjoy spotting various raptors and other species. Nearby Gypsum Ponds State Wildlife Centre is particularly popular for birdwatching.
• Proximity to Other Recreation: While the campground itself is relatively primitive, it serves as a convenient basecamp for exploring other recreational opportunities in the Gypsum area, including mountain biking, ATV/4x4 trails, and even world-class ski resorts like Vail and Beaver Creek (during the off-season for camping).
• Unique Geological Features: Inactive volcanic craters and lava flows are nearby to Dotsero, adding an interesting geological element to the surrounding landscape for those interested in exploring.

As Gypsum Campground is a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) site, direct contact typically goes through the relevant BLM field office. There isn't a specific phone number located at the campground itself.

Address: MR5G+8Q, Gypsum, CO 81637, USA

For more information, including current conditions, fire restrictions, and any specific questions, it is best to contact the BLM Colorado River Valley Field Office:

Phone: (970) 876-9000 (This number is associated with the BLM Colorado River Valley Field Office, which manages the area.)

Alternatively, general inquiries can sometimes be made through the Town of Gypsum's recreation department, though they may direct you back to the BLM for specific campground details.

For Colorado locals, Gypsum Campground embodies the accessible and authentic outdoor experience that defines our state's appeal. Its suitability stems from several key factors that cater directly to the desires of those who call Colorado home.

Firstly, its location along the Eagle River, readily accessible from I-70, makes it an incredibly convenient "usable camping off I-70," as one reviewer put it. This ease of access means less travel time and more time spent enjoying nature, whether for a spontaneous weekend trip or a planned escape. For busy Coloradans, the ability to quickly get to a serene riverside setting without extensive planning is a huge advantage.

Secondly, the campground's first-come, first-served policy and affordable $10 per night fee resonate with the practical, independent spirit often found in Colorado. It allows for flexible travel plans and ensures that quality outdoor experiences are not exclusive to those with advanced reservations or large budgets. This democratic access to our public lands is a value many locals appreciate.

Finally, the rich recreational opportunities surrounding Gypsum Campground truly make it a local treasure. From exceptional trout fishing in the Eagle River to exciting rafting adventures during the floating season, and the chance to observe diverse wildlife like bald eagles and blue herons, there's always "a lot to do." It's a prime spot for embracing the outdoor lifestyle that draws so many to Colorado. Despite minor trade-offs like highway noise or basic amenities, the sheer beauty, affordability, and accessibility of Gypsum Campground make it an ideal, no-frills, and deeply Coloradoan choice for anyone seeking to connect with the state's natural charm.

To get a visual tour and more insights into the campground, you can watch this video: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HOaa6JkLS8U)

Khumbu camp ground

MR5G+8Q, Gypsum, CO 81637, USA