Little Bear Campground

For Colorado locals seeking a truly tranquil and picturesque camping experience, Little Bear Campground on the Grand Mesa offers an idyllic escape. Nestled amidst towering spruce trees and situated directly on the serene shores of Island Lake, this campground provides a peaceful haven away from the noise and demands of daily life. It’s a cherished spot for those who appreciate the quiet beauty of the Rocky Mountains, offering abundant shade, clear waters, and a chance to truly unwind in nature's embrace.

Little Bear Campground is renowned for its intimate atmosphere, in part due to its smaller size and the natural barriers provided by the surrounding forest. Unlike larger, busier campgrounds, Little Bear tends to attract a respectful and quieter crowd, ensuring a more serene experience, especially at night. It's an ideal destination for individuals, couples, or small families who prioritize peace, natural beauty, and outdoor activities like fishing and walking, all within the breathtaking landscape of the Grand Mesa National Forest.

Little Bear Campground is located at Forest Rd 116, Cedaredge, CO 81413, USA, placing it strategically within the Grand Mesa National Forest. Its exact position is between Island Lake and the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway, making it easily identifiable and accessible. For Colorado residents, reaching this mountain oasis is a scenic journey, typically involving a drive up Colorado Highway 65 (Grand Mesa Drive) from Cedaredge.

From Cedaredge, travelers will take State Route 65 north for approximately 16 miles until they see the campground sign for Forest Road 116. A left turn onto this gravel road, followed by another short drive of about 0.8 miles, will lead directly to the campground. While the road and loops within the campground can be tight, particularly for larger recreational vehicles, smaller travel trailers (up to about 24 feet) and tents can navigate it with ease. Its proximity to the main Grand Mesa Visitor Center and other Grand Mesa lakes further enhances its accessibility, providing multiple avenues for exploration and supplies once you’ve set up camp.

Little Bear Campground provides essential services and facilities focused on delivering a comfortable yet rustic camping experience, allowing campers to truly immerse themselves in the natural surroundings:

• Campsites: The campground features 36 single-family campsites. These sites are situated along two loops, with some offering direct views or immediate access to the shore of Island Lake.
• Shade: Most sites are heavily wooded with spruce trees, providing ample shade, a welcome feature during warmer summer days.
• First-Come, First-Served: All campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are required, which can be ideal for spontaneous trips. However, it also means securing a spot, especially a prime lakeside one, requires early arrival during peak seasons.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and maintained vault toilets are available throughout the campground, offering necessary restroom facilities. Some sources indicate the presence of "flush toilets" in addition to vault toilets, suggesting improvements or variations across the campground's facilities.
• Potable Water: Water spigots provide access to potable drinking water, ensuring campers have a clean water source.
• Dumpsters: Designated dumpsters are available for trash disposal, promoting a clean and respectful camping environment.
• Host On-site: A dedicated camp host is typically present to assist campers, provide information, and ensure a pleasant stay, often going above and beyond to be helpful.
• Fish Cleaning Station: A wheelchair-friendly fish cleaning station is located adjacent to the Island Lake Boat Ramp, catering to fishing enthusiasts.
• Fees: The nightly fee is generally $20, with a discounted rate of $10 for seniors, making it an affordable option for many. Day-use picnicking is also available for a small fee.

Little Bear Campground stands out for several compelling features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination for Colorado locals:

• Lakeside Location: Its most prominent feature is its direct location on Island Lake. Many campsites offer beautiful lake views, and there are walking paths along the lake, perfect for strolls or accessing fishing spots. Island Lake is one of the biggest and most popular lakes on Grand Mesa.
• Excellent Fishing: Island Lake is known for great fishing opportunities, making Little Bear a prime spot for anglers. Campers consistently praise the fishing here.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Surrounded by trees and with a less crowded feel than some other campgrounds, Little Bear is lauded as a very peaceful and quiet place, especially at night. This tranquil environment is perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature's sounds.
• Great Walking Paths: The campground offers lovely walking paths along the lake, inviting leisurely strolls and opportunities to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.
• Suitable for Smaller Rigs: While not ideal for very large RVs or fifth wheels due to tight roads and loops, it is perfectly suited for tents and smaller travel trailers (e.g., up to 24-foot travel trailers), which are easily maneuverable. This caters to a significant segment of local campers.
• Proximity to Island Lake Campground: For those with larger rigs or groups, the nearby Island Lake Campground offers more spacious spots, providing a convenient alternative or overflow option.
• First-Come, First-Served Availability: The lack of a reservation system means that spontaneous trips are always an option, though arriving early is recommended for best site selection during popular times.
• Impeccable Natural Beauty: Located at 10,200 feet elevation and heavily wooded with spruce trees, the campground provides stunning natural scenery that is characteristic of the Grand Mesa.

For inquiries or further information about Little Bear Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: Forest Rd 116, Cedaredge, CO 81413, USA

Phone: (970) 874-6600

Mobile Phone: +1 970-874-6600

Little Bear Campground is an outstanding choice for Colorado locals, offering an accessible yet truly immersive mountain camping experience right in their backyard. Its location on Island Lake within the majestic Grand Mesa provides unparalleled opportunities for fishing, hiking, and simply enjoying the serene beauty of a high-altitude forest. For residents seeking a break from the fast pace of city life, the peaceful and quiet atmosphere of Little Bear is a profound draw, allowing for a genuine digital detox and reconnection with nature.

The campground's suitability for smaller rigs makes it a perfect fit for many local campers who own tents or modest travel trailers, providing a less daunting alternative to navigating larger RV parks. While some might find the pricing a bit high compared to dispersed camping, the amenities, the prime lakeside location, and the generally respectful community of campers offer significant value. Ultimately, Little Bear Campground delivers an authentic Colorado mountain getaway that is both convenient and deeply rewarding for those who call the Centennial State home.

Little Bear Campground

Forest Rd 116, Cedaredge, CO 81413, USA