Lyons Gulch Campground & River Access

For Colorado locals drawn to the allure of the mighty Colorado River, Lyons Gulch Campground & River Access near Gypsum offers an exceptionally sweet spot to camp. This Bureau of Land Management (BLM) site provides a convenient and scenic gateway to the river, making it a popular choice for those looking to fish, float, or simply relax by the water's edge. It's a place that combines rustic charm with easy accessibility, providing a genuine outdoor experience without straying too far from major routes.

Praised by visitors for its clear access from I-70 and its beautiful setting, Lyons Gulch is a highly regarded option for a spontaneous camping trip. Reviewers highlight the "nice tree cover" over the campsites and the ability to pitch a tent right on the river's edge, creating an immersive natural environment. While some might jokingly mention the river "doesn't taste good or like cotton candy," the consistent praise for the overall camping experience, the peaceful atmosphere, and the presence of clean restrooms (considering its remote nature) underscores its suitability for Coloradoans seeking a direct connection with the state's most iconic waterway. It's a fantastic, affordable option for river enthusiasts and those simply looking for a tranquil escape into nature.

Lyons Gulch Campground & River Access is located near Gypsum, CO 81637, USA, directly along the banks of the Colorado River. Its precise address is within the 4613-4197, 301 range, which places it within the Upper Colorado River Recreation Area, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). This location is key for its accessibility and popularity among river users.

One of the significant advantages of Lyons Gulch is its ease of access from Interstate 70. For locals traveling from Denver or other points along the I-70 corridor, this campground is a convenient stop or destination. While the exact exit from I-70 isn't explicitly stated in the provided information, it's typically accessed via easily navigable state or county roads that lead directly to the BLM site. This "easy to get to" nature, as noted by reviewers, makes it a prime choice for impromptu weekend trips or as a stopover during longer journeys through the Colorado mountains.

Being right by the Colorado River also means that while the setting feels natural and somewhat remote, it's connected to a network of established river access points. Visitors should always be aware of local conditions, especially during periods of heavy rain, as the area can be susceptible to "mud slides and flooding" due to its proximity to the river. Therefore, checking current weather and BLM advisories is always recommended before heading out. Despite being readily accessible, the campsites offer a decent "spot to pitch a tent" with "nice tree cover," creating a pleasant environment close to the famous river.

Lyons Gulch Campground & River Access provides essential, rustic amenities, typical of a BLM site, designed to support a comfortable outdoor experience along the Colorado River. It caters primarily to those seeking a more traditional camping adventure rather than full-service RV park amenities.

• Campsites:
  • Number of Sites: The campground features five designated campsites.
  • Site Layout: All campsites are described as having "nice tree cover and a decent spot to pitch a tent." Some sites are located "right on the river's edge," offering prime views and access.
  • Group Accommodation: Campsite #1 is specifically designed to accommodate larger groups.
  • Occupancy Limits: Individual campsites can host up to nine people, two vehicles, and two tents per site. The group site has a maximum occupancy of 25 people.
  • First-Come, First-Served: All sites at Lyons Gulch are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are accepted. This allows for spontaneous trips but suggests arriving early, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to secure a spot.
• Restrooms:
  • Vault Toilet: A restroom (vault toilet) is available on-site. Reviews indicate these are generally "clean toilets considering how remote the location is." However, it's important to note that the restroom is closed seasonally, typically from November 15th to May 15th.
  • Waste Disposal: "Cat holes are not permitted due to the proximity to the river," emphasizing the use of the provided restroom facilities or proper waste disposal methods when the restroom is closed.
• River Access:
  • Boat Launch: The site includes a designated boat launch, making it highly convenient for those with non-motorized boats (e.g., kayaks, canoes, rafts) or those looking to fish or put-in for a float trip on the Colorado River.
• Parking:
  • Plenty of Parking: Reviewers note that there is "plenty of parking" available, accommodating multiple vehicles.
• Water:
  • No Potable Water: While one review has a quirky note about water not being good to drink, public BLM information typically indicates that potable water is NOT available at primitive sites like this. Campers should assume they need to bring all their own drinking water.
• Fees:
  • Camping Fees: While some historical information might refer to it as "free," current BLM information indicates a fee of $20 per night, per site for individual campsites. The group site costs $4 per person per night, with a $40 per night minimum.
• No Hookups: Lyons Gulch is a primitive campground and does not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs. It's suitable for self-contained RVs or tent camping.

Lyons Gulch Campground & River Access offers a distinct blend of convenience and natural beauty, making it a favorite for Coloradoans seeking specific outdoor experiences.

• Direct Colorado River Access: The most significant highlight is its immediate proximity to and access to the Colorado River. This makes it an ideal spot for:
  • Fishing: Anglers will appreciate the direct access to the river for trout and other species.
  • Boating: With a dedicated boat launch, it's a prime put-in or take-out point for kayaks, canoes, rafts, and other non-motorized river craft.
  • Swimming/Wading: On warm days, the river offers opportunities for cooling off, though caution should always be exercised due to currents.
• Scenic Riverside Camping: Campers can enjoy "campsites right on the river's edge," providing tranquil views and the soothing sounds of flowing water. The "nice tree cover" offers shade and a sense of natural immersion.
• Easy Accessibility: Being "easy to get to from I-70" is a major convenience, reducing travel time and making it suitable for quick getaways or those pulling trailers.
• Peaceful and Beautiful Setting: Despite its accessibility, reviewers describe the campground as "very peaceful" and "very beautiful," offering a serene escape into nature.
• Plenty of Parking: Ample parking capacity ensures that visitors can find space, even on busy weekends, reducing stress upon arrival.
• Affordable Camping: While no longer free, the "still cheap" fee makes it a highly economical option for experiencing riverside camping compared to many private or more developed campgrounds.
• Wildlife Viewing: As with many natural areas along the Colorado River, opportunities to observe local wildlife, such as various bird species (including potential eagles, as seen in other river areas) and small mammals, are present. One reviewer even mentioned seeing a "frog," highlighting the natural environment.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: This feature allows for spontaneous trips without the need for advance reservations, appealing to those who prefer flexible travel plans.

Lyons Gulch Campground & River Access is a BLM (Bureau of Land Management) managed site. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding fees, current conditions, or specific regulations, it is best to contact the relevant BLM field office.

Address: 4613-4197, 301, Gypsum, CO 81637, USA

BLM Colorado River Field Office Phone: (970) 876-9000

Mobile Phone: +1 970-876-9000

For additional details, including current alerts, closures, or maps, it is highly recommended to visit the official Bureau of Land Management website for the Colorado River Field Office or search for "Lyons Gulch Campground and Boat Launch BLM" on recreation.gov. Always check these resources before your trip, especially to confirm the operational status of the restroom (closed seasonally) and any warnings regarding high water or potential for mudslides.

For Colorado locals, Lyons Gulch Campground & River Access is an incredibly appealing and practical destination, embodying the adventurous spirit of the state without requiring an arduous journey. Its prime location directly on the Colorado River, with its own boat launch, makes it an ideal spot for immediate river access. Whether you're planning a fishing trip, a leisurely float, or simply want to camp by the soothing sounds of flowing water, this campground delivers. This direct connection to the river is a major draw for many Coloradoans who cherish the state's natural waterways.

The ease of accessibility from I-70 is another significant advantage, especially for spontaneous weekend getaways. You don't need to navigate challenging forest roads to reach this "sweet spot," making it suitable for a wide range of vehicles, including RVs and those towing trailers. Despite its convenient location, the campground maintains a "very peaceful" and "beautiful" atmosphere, with ample tree cover and riverfront sites that still offer a sense of escape.

While it’s a primitive campground without full hookups, the presence of clean vault toilets and plenty of parking provides essential comforts. The nominal fee makes it an incredibly affordable option for experiencing the Colorado wilderness, providing excellent value. For locals, Lyons Gulch is more than just a campsite; it’s a gateway to authentic Colorado outdoor recreation, a place to disconnect, enjoy the natural beauty, and create lasting memories by the iconic Colorado River. It offers a perfect balance of convenience, natural appeal, and affordability for those who love to explore their own stunning state.

Lyons Gulch Campground & River Access

4613-4197, 301, Gypsum, CO 81637, USA