Lakeview Gunnison Campground

For Colorado residents seeking an unforgettable outdoor experience, Lakeview Gunnison Campground stands as a true gem, nestled high in the Rocky Mountains. Located at an impressive elevation of 9,400 feet, this campground offers a panoramic spectacle of the majestic Taylor Park Reservoir and the surrounding peaks of the Sawatch Range. It's more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a gateway to boundless adventure and serene relaxation, perfectly embodying the spirit of Colorado's rugged beauty.

Lakeview Gunnison Campground is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, with towering ponderosa and lodgepole pine trees providing ample shade and a refreshing mountain ambiance. Imagine waking up to cool, crisp air, with the promise of perfect fall weather extending throughout the summer months. The campground is a haven for those who appreciate nature's grandeur, offering frequent sightings of abundant wildlife and stunning vistas that change with the light of day. Whether you're an avid angler, a boating enthusiast, a keen hiker, or simply someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Lakeview Gunnison provides the ideal backdrop for your next Colorado adventure.

The campground boasts a total of 68 sites, catering to a range of camping preferences. While many sites are nonelectric, there are approximately 20 sites that offer electric hookups, providing a comfortable option for RV and trailer campers. What truly sets Lakeview Gunnison apart is not just its spectacular setting, but also the dedication of its hosts, like Mickey and Crystal, who are frequently praised by visitors for their friendliness, helpfulness, and commitment to keeping the grounds impeccably clean. Their warm welcome ensures that every guest feels right at home in this mountain paradise.

Lakeview Gunnison Campground is strategically located at Co Rd 742, Almont, CO 81210, USA. While the address places it firmly in the heart of Colorado's outdoor recreation areas, it's important for local users to understand its relative remoteness and the journey required to reach this elevated sanctuary. The campground is situated approximately 30 miles from the town of Gunnison, making it a convenient distance for stocking up on supplies before heading into the mountains.

The drive to Lakeview Gunnison Campground is part of the adventure itself. From Gunnison, you'll travel north on Highway 135 for about 10 miles to the small community of Almont. From Almont, you’ll turn right onto County Road 742, often referred to as Taylor Canyon Road. This road then transforms into a scenic 20-mile climb up the mountain, winding through picturesque landscapes that prepare you for the beauty awaiting you at the campground. While the drive involves a climb, the road is generally well-maintained, but as with any mountain road in Colorado, it's always wise to check conditions, especially outside of the peak summer season. The journey is well worth it, leading you to an elevation of 9,400 feet where the air is fresh and the views are unparalleled. The remote, yet accessible, nature of Lakeview Gunnison Campground is a significant draw for Colorado locals seeking to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the high country.

• Diverse Campsite Options: Lakeview Gunnison Campground features 68 total sites, accommodating tents, RVs, and trailers. Sites vary in size, with some RV and trailer sites able to handle vehicles between 25 and 45 feet.

• Electric Hookups: Approximately 20 sites offer electric hookups, providing 50/30/15 amp outlets for added convenience, though specific hookups should be confirmed upon reservation.

• No Water Hookups at Sites: Individual campsites do not have water hookups, but potable water is available at certain designated locations within the campground via a hand pump.

• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are conveniently located throughout the campground, frequently praised by visitors for their cleanliness.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a campfire ring with a grill, perfect for cooking outdoors and enjoying a crackling fire under the stars (always check for fire restrictions).

• Trash Collection: Trash receptacles are provided, ensuring a clean and tidy environment for all campers and helping to preserve the natural beauty of the area.

• Dump Station Access: While there is no sewer hookup at individual sites or a dump station directly within the campground, a dump station is available approximately 5 miles away for a fee of $8.00.

• Friendly and Helpful Camp Hosts: The campground is known for its excellent hosts, like Mickey and Crystal, who are highly regarded by visitors for their welcoming demeanor, helpfulness, and dedication to maintaining the campground's cleanliness and order.

• Pet-Friendly: Leashed pets are permitted, making it possible to bring your beloved companions on your outdoor adventure.

• Majestic Scenery: The primary highlight is undoubtedly the breathtaking mountain scenery, with stunning views of Taylor Park Reservoir and the Sawatch Mountains. The high elevation provides cool temperatures, making it a perfect summer escape.

• Abundant Wildlife: The area is rich in wildlife, offering opportunities to spot various animal species, including mule deer, elk, and potentially moose, enhancing the wilderness experience.

• Taylor Park Reservoir Access: Located directly across from the campground, Taylor Park Reservoir is a hub for water-based activities. A boat ramp is conveniently located just below the campground, providing easy access for boating and fishing.

• Fishing Paradise: Anglers will delight in the fishing opportunities, with a variety of fish species including cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, brown trout, Kokanee salmon, mackinaw, and northern pike. Both shore fishing and boating for fishing are popular options.

• Extensive Off-Roading and Biking Opportunities: The surrounding area boasts numerous off-road and biking trails, catering to adventure seekers. Trails like Doctor Park Trail, Taylor River Trail, and Taylor Vista Trail are accessible nearby.

• Proximity to Cottonwood Pass: A scenic drive up Cottonwood Pass (about 20 miles away) offers incredible views of the valley and is a popular route for both vehicles and athletic road cyclists.

• Near Tincup: The historic mining town of Tincup, approximately 35 miles away, makes for an interesting day trip, with old cabins from the 1800s and local businesses.

• Excellent Campground Maintenance: Consistently reviewed for its cleanliness, especially the bathrooms, thanks to dedicated camp hosts who ensure a pleasant stay for all visitors.

• Ample Space and Privacy: Campsites are generally well-spaced, providing a good sense of privacy amidst the pine trees, allowing for a more secluded and enjoyable camping experience.

Address: Co Rd 742, Almont, CO 81210, USA

Phone: (970) 642-0566 (This number can be used for general campground inquiries and often for reservations as well, or for reaching the camp hosts directly when available).

Mobile Phone: +1 970-642-0566 (Same as above, provided for international dialing convenience).

For reservations, especially during peak season, it is highly recommended to use the national reservation system:

Website: Recreation.gov (search for "Lakeview Gunnison Campground")

While there isn't a direct email provided, contacting the local Ranger District (Gunnison Ranger District of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests) might be an option for more detailed inquiries, though phone contact is typically the most direct for campground-specific questions.

For Colorado locals, Lakeview Gunnison Campground isn't just another camping spot; it's an quintessential high-country experience that perfectly captures the essence of our state. Its location at 9,400 feet ensures cool temperatures even during the warmest summer months, making it a fantastic escape from the heat of lower elevations. The relatively short, albeit scenic, drive from Gunnison makes it an accessible mountain retreat without requiring an exhaustive journey from Colorado's Front Range, for example.

The diverse recreational opportunities available right at your doorstep are a major draw. As Coloradoans, we cherish our access to public lands, and Lakeview Gunnison delivers. Whether you're a seasoned angler hoping to reel in a trophy trout from Taylor Park Reservoir, a family eager to spend a day boating on the lake, or an off-road enthusiast ready to tackle the vast network of trails in the surrounding National Forest, this campground serves as an ideal base. The abundant wildlife sightings, from deer and elk to the potential for moose, add an element of wild wonder that deeply resonates with local nature lovers.

Furthermore, the consistently clean facilities and the welcoming presence of dedicated camp hosts, who are often praised by fellow campers, contribute significantly to a comfortable and enjoyable stay. This attention to detail, combined with the awe-inspiring natural beauty, creates an environment where locals can truly relax, recharge, and reconnect with the outdoors. It's a place where childhood memories are made, where friendships are deepened around crackling campfires, and where the everyday stresses simply melt away against a backdrop of majestic mountains and sparkling water. For an authentic, memorable, and quintessentially Colorado camping adventure, Lakeview Gunnison Campground stands out as an exceptional choice for those who call this beautiful state home.

Lakeview Gunnison Campground

Co Rd 742, Almont, CO 81210, USA