Summary
The campground is only accessible by boat and offers a unique camping experience on the water.
The surrounding views of the West Elk Mountains and the Blue Mesa Reservoir are breathtaking. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and water activities on the reservoir. The nearby Dillon Pinnacles offer unique geological formations to explore.
The campground offers 20 campsites equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and tent pad. Campers must bring their own water and pack out all trash. There are no restrooms or showers at the campground.
Interesting facts about the area include the Blue Mesa Reservoir being the largest body of water in Colorado, covering over 9,000 acres. The Curecanti Needle is another unique geological formation in the area, standing at 7,218 feet.
The best time of year to visit the West Elk Boat-In Campsite is from June to September when the temperatures are mild and the reservoir is open for water activities. The average temperature in June is around 70°F and in September it is around 65°F.
Sources:
- National Park Service: Curecanti National Recreation Area
- Colorado Parks and Wildlife: Blue Mesa Reservoir
- AllTrails: West Elk Boat-In Campsite
Nearby Campgrounds
West Elk Boat-In Campsite
West Elk
Ponderosa - Curecanti Area
Red Creek - Curecanti Area
Soap Creek
Soap Creek Campground - Gunnison RD
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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GUNNISON 3WSW
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CIMARRON 8NW HAM
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GUNNISON COOP
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BLACK CANYON OF THE GUNNISON
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MONTROSE 7.3 ENE
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CRESTED BUTTE COOP
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Ponderosa Campground Gunnison County
Curecanti National Recreation Area Boundary To High Water Line Of Blue Mesa Reservoir
Curecanti National Recreation Area Boundary To High Water Line Of Morrow Point Reservoir