Summary
The campsite is non-reservable and requires a fee for use.
This area is known for its abundance of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Gunnison River and Taylor River offer world-class fishing opportunities, with rainbow and brown trout commonly caught. The Blue Mesa Reservoir is also a popular spot for boating and fishing.
The Lower Margaritaville Campsite provides basic amenities such as vault toilets and fire rings, but visitors should come prepared with their own water and camping supplies. There are no RV hookups available.
Interesting facts about the area include the presence of several ghost towns nearby, remnants of the area's mining history. The town of Crested Butte, known for its charming historic district and world-renowned skiing, is also just a short drive away.
The best time to visit the Lower Margaritaville Campsite is during the summer months, with average temperatures ranging from 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and cooling off to 30-40 degrees at night. Visitors should also be aware of the potential for afternoon thunderstorms during this time.
Sources:
- Colorado Parks and Wildlife: https://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/BlueMesaReservoir
- Visit Crested Butte: https://www.visitcrestedbutte.com/activities/fishing/
- AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/lower-margaritaville-campground-trail
Nearby Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations |
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Lower Margaritaville
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Upper Magaritaville
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Chukar
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Chukar Trailhead Camping Area
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Rainbow Wall (lunch spot)
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Otter #1
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Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Camping Essential Practices
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.
Related Links
Nearby Snowpack Depths
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MONTROSE 7.3 ENE
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0" |
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MONTROSE 4.0 NW
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0" |
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BLACK CANYON OF THE GUNNISON
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0" |
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MONTROSE 1.6 E
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0" |
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HOTCHKISS 4.7 W
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0" |
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HOTCHKISS 5WNW
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0" |
Chukar Boat Ramp
Orchard Boat Launch
Shea Road Delta County
Gunnison Forks
The Painted Wall
To The Black Canyon Gunnison National Monument-Gunnison Gorge Wilderness Boundary
Gunnison Gorge
The Southern Boundary Of The Black Canyon Gunnison National Monument
To The Painted Wall
Olathe Community Park
Centennial Plaza
Rainbow Meadows
Wilderness Black Canyon of the Gunnison