Rivers End Campground

Hello, fellow Coloradoans! Are you seeking a camping experience that truly captures the grandeur of our state, with expansive skies, breathtaking mountain vistas, and direct access to pristine waters? Rivers End Campground in Almont, Colorado, offers just that. Situated at the north end of Taylor Park Reservoir, this destination is a unique choice for those who value wide-open spaces, incredible fishing, and panoramic views of the majestic Colorado Rockies. While it might be "pretty far from civilization" and less shaded than some forested campgrounds, its stunning scenery and direct recreational opportunities make it a compelling choice for many local adventurers.

For us in Colorado, the allure of the outdoors often means finding those special spots where nature truly dominates. Rivers End Campground, with its open spaces and unobstructed views, provides an invigorating sense of freedom and connection to the landscape. It's a place where you're more likely to spot wildlife like moose and mule deer than be surrounded by crowds, offering a genuine escape into the high country. We understand that diverse outdoor activities are a priority, and this campground serves as an excellent base for everything from fly fishing to kayaking, mountain biking, and even off-roading.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the specifics that make Rivers End Campground a noteworthy destination. We'll cover its remote yet accessible location, detail the essential services and features available, and provide crucial contact information. Our aim is to give you all the factual insights you need to determine if this scenic and activity-rich campground is the ideal setting for your next unforgettable Colorado outdoor adventure. Get ready to embrace the wide-open beauty and abundant recreation that Rivers End Campground has to offer!

Rivers End Campground is uniquely situated at the north end of Taylor Park Reservoir in Almont, CO 81210, USA. This location places it within the vast and beautiful Gunnison National Forest, offering an elevation that provides cool mountain air and spectacular views. Its address, while technically Almont, points to a remote setting that is "pretty far from civilization," a feature cherished by many who seek to truly disconnect.

Accessibility to Rivers End Campground involves navigating a journey that, while scenic, takes you away from main thoroughfares. It is approximately 15 minutes off a paved road, requiring travel on well-maintained gravel or dirt roads. This might deter some, but for many Coloradoans, it's a small trade-off for the promise of seclusion and untouched natural beauty. The roads leading to and within the campground are generally suitable for standard vehicles, including those with trailers, but it's always wise to check current road conditions, especially during or after inclement weather.

The campground's primary accessibility highlight is its direct access to Taylor Park Reservoir. Campers can easily launch a canoe or kayak from the site, making water-based activities incredibly convenient. Additionally, a trailhead with parking for the Matchless Trail is located on the grounds, providing immediate access to hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding opportunities. While the remoteness means fewer nearby towns for quick supply runs, the nearby Almont Resort offers fire and riverside dining with a full-service cocktail bar, providing a touch of convenience not too far away. This combination of seclusion and direct outdoor access makes Rivers End Campground a desirable spot for those eager to immerse themselves in the Colorado high country.

Services Offered:

• Designated Campsites: Rivers End Campground offers 15 campsites, with some described as pull-through sites. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring for campfires (subject to fire restrictions).
• Vault Toilets: Basic vault toilets are available for public use. As is common in more primitive campgrounds, these facilities do not have running water.
• Potable Water: Potable water is available at the campground, which is a significant amenity for a more secluded site. Campers should confirm seasonal availability, as water may be shut off during colder months.
• First-Come, First-Served: Rivers End Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are generally not accepted. This requires flexibility and an early arrival, especially during peak seasons, to secure a site.
• No Camp Host: Reviews indicate there may not be a consistent camp host on-site, which means campers are responsible for maintaining the campground's cleanliness and adherence to rules.
• No Shade: It's explicitly noted that there are "no trees for shade," so campers should be prepared with their own shade structures.

Features / Highlights:

• Panoramic Views: A standout feature is the "panoramic views of the Colorado Rockies." The open spaces ensure unobstructed vistas of the surrounding mountains, offering incredible photographic opportunities and a truly grand sense of scale.
• Excellent Fishing: The campground provides "great fishing" opportunities, being located at the north end of Taylor Park Reservoir. The reservoir is known for various trout species and Kokanee salmon.
• Easy Watercraft Launch: It's easy to launch a canoe or kayak directly from the campground into Taylor Park Reservoir, making it ideal for non-motorized water sports enthusiasts.
• Access to Taylor Park Reservoir: Direct access to the large reservoir allows for a variety of water activities beyond fishing, including flatwater boating and stand-up paddleboarding.
• Wildlife Abundance: Campers frequently report seeing "more moose and mule deer than people," highlighting the rich wildlife in the area and offering fantastic viewing opportunities.
• Seclusion and Open Spaces: The campground offers "open spaces and amazing views!" and is described as "secluded" and "pretty far from civilization," appealing to those who desire peace and quiet away from crowds.
• Multi-Use Trail Access: A trailhead with parking provides access to the Matchless Trail, which caters to hiking, four-wheel driving, mountain biking, enduro biking, and horseback riding, offering a wide array of recreational pursuits.
• Wind Exposure: Due to the lack of trees, the campground offers no windbreak, which means campers should be prepared for potentially windy conditions.

Contact Information:

Address: Almont, CO 81210, USA

For specific information regarding Rivers End Campground, including current conditions, operating seasons, and any potential fees, it is best to contact the Gunnison Ranger District of the U.S. Forest Service, which manages this area.

Gunnison Ranger District Phone: (970) 874-6600

In conclusion, Rivers End Campground near Almont, Colorado, is a truly special destination for locals who embrace the raw, expansive beauty of the Colorado Rockies. While it foregoes some traditional amenities like abundant shade or a constant camp host, its unique advantages—panoramic mountain views, exceptional fishing, and easy water access for canoeing and kayaking on Taylor Park Reservoir—make it an outstanding choice for those seeking a more rugged, yet immensely rewarding, outdoor experience. For us Coloradoans, the chance to immerse ourselves in wide-open spaces, spot abundant wildlife, and access a vast network of trails for hiking, biking, and off-roading, all from a quiet and secluded base, is incredibly appealing. Rivers End Campground promises an unforgettable adventure for those prepared to embrace its natural, untamed charm, offering a genuine taste of the Colorado high country that truly feels "pretty far from civilization."

This video provides a visual tour and more details about a similar camping experience in the Colorado mountains: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pE2--TG-Jzs).

Rivers End Campground

Almont, CO 81210, USA