Red Creek Group Site

4.68

13 reviews

21001 Hwy 50, Gunnison, CO 81230, USA

Peace & QuietStargazingSummer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Quick Facts

7,542 ft

Price

$60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open mid-May through...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Curecanti National Recreation Area site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

7,542 ft

Price

$60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open mid-May through...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Curecanti National Recreation Area site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Red Creek Group Site

$60.00 - $60.00 / night

Campsite Fees

$60.00 per night. Reservations are required for the group site accommodating between 9 and 20 people. Rates reflect charges during the peak season...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$60.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

970-641-2337

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What Campers Say

4.68

Top-Rated

Based on 13 reviews

4 Google reviews

Most mentioned

privacycleanhikingwater

"Overall, users rate the Red Creek Group Site positively, citing its privacy, stargazing opportunities, and proximity to recreational activities as key highlights. Common complaints include maintenance issues such as broken vault toilet locks and lack of shade during the afternoon."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

21001 Hwy 50, Gunnison, CO 81230, USA

Red Creek Group Site

21001 Hwy 50, Gunnison, CO 81230, USA

Driving directionsFrom Gunnison, drive west down U.S. Highway 50 for 19 miles. Red Creek is on the north side of the highway approximately 3 1/2 miles (5.5 km) west of Elk Creek.

Accessible via U.S. Highway 50, suitable for small RVs under 22 feet. Not recommended for larger RVs due to narrow parking areas and limited turning space.

Nearby places

Gunnison (19 miles, approximately 30 minutes)

Montrose (null, information on distance and time unavailable).

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies, including groceries and camping essentials, are likely in Gunnison (19 miles away). Detailed supply location not explicitly listed.

Best Time to Camp at Red Creek Group Site

Experience the dramatic dance of mountain weather at Red Creek, where summer days unfold in a symphony of changing conditions. Morning mists give way to brilliant sunshine that warms the landscape to a comfortable 50°F to 90°F, perfect for daytime adventures. As evening approaches, temperatures gracefully descend to a crisp 40°F to 60°F, ideal for campfire stories and stargazing. Be prepared for nature's afternoon performances of thunderstorms and spirited winds that sweep across the high plateau. The campground embraces a well-deserved winter rest from October through May, when snow blankets the landscape in pristine silence.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open mid-May–Sept; warm days, wading, boating, hiking and active recreation in summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.0 / 5

Open through Sept 30; early fall usable but campground closes Oct 1, so season is short.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Opens mid-May so late spring access is limited; mountain weather variable.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Closed Oct 1–May 31; winter use not permitted.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 23 - September 30.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open mid-May through end of September. Closed October 1 to May 31.
Current Alerts: Water shut off occurs annually around September 19. Pit toilets remain available. Vault toilet locks have been non-functional.

About Red Creek Group Site

Tucked away in the heart of Curecanti National Recreation Area, Red Creek Group Site beckons groups seeking an intimate escape into Colorado's high country. This hidden gem offers a perfect blend of seclusion and accessibility, where towering cottonwood trees create natural cathedral ceilings above your campsite. The gentle murmur of Red Creek mingles with the distant lapping of Blue Mesa Reservoir's waters, creating a soundtrack for unforgettable group gatherings under star-filled skies.

Red Creek Group Site is designed exclusively for group camping with one reservable site accommodating up to 20 people.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the nearby Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit, where the echoes of steam engines and the dreams of railroad pioneers come alive through meticulously preserved historical displays. This fascinating glimpse into the region's transportation heritage serves as your gateway to experiencing the raw majesty of the Black Canyon's towering cliffs – the tallest and most dramatic in this geological wonderland. These cultural treasures remind visitors that Red Creek sits at the crossroads of human ambition and natural splendor.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of mountain weather at Red Creek, where summer days unfold in a symphony of changing conditions. Morning mists give way to brilliant sunshine that warms the landscape to a comfortable 50°F to 90°F, perfect for daytime adventures. As evening approaches, temperatures gracefully descend to a crisp 40°F to 60°F, ideal for campfire stories and stargazing. Be prepared for nature's afternoon performances of thunderstorms and spirited winds that sweep across the high plateau. The campground embraces a well-deserved winter rest from October through May, when snow blankets the landscape in pristine silence.

ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,542 feet above sea level, Red Creek Group Site invites you to literally breathe in the high country experience. At this elevation, the air is crisp and pure, though noticeably thinner than at lower altitudes. Take time to acclimate to this mountain environment – your body will thank you as it adjusts to the reduced oxygen levels. The elevation rewards visitors with cooler temperatures, clearer skies, and that distinctive mountain atmosphere that makes every sunrise and sunset more spectacular.

Natural Features and SceneryRed Creek Group Site unfolds across a captivating semi-arid landscape where nature paints with a subtle but stunning palette. Majestic cottonwood giants stand as sentinels throughout the campground, their leaves whispering ancient stories in the mountain breeze and providing welcome shade during warm afternoons. The namesake Red Creek threads its way through the terrain like a liquid lifeline, eventually joining the vast expanse of Blue Mesa Reservoir. This diverse ecosystem supports an impressive cast of wildlife characters – from graceful mule deer browsing at dawn to majestic elk bugling at dusk. Lucky visitors might spot black bears foraging in the distance or catch the breathtaking sight of bald eagles soaring overhead, while the landscape itself serves as a living canvas of high desert beauty.

Geological RegionRed Creek Group Site rests within a fascinating geological tapestry where semi-arid shrubland meets riparian oasis. The mighty cottonwoods that dominate the landscape tell a story of water's precious presence in this high desert environment, their roots drinking deeply from Red Creek as it journeys toward its confluence with Blue Mesa Reservoir. This vital waterway is part of the greater Gunnison River system, famous for carving the dramatic Black Canyon with its sheer, dark walls that plunge dramatically from rim to river. The surrounding shrubland ecosystem showcases nature's resilience, where hardy plants have adapted to thrive in this land of temperature extremes and limited rainfall, creating a unique botanical community that changes subtly with each season.

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in begins at 12:00 PM.

Check-out

Check-out is required by 11:00 AM.

Stay Limit

Maximum Consecutive Stay: 14 nights during any visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Minimum of 9 people and maximum of 20 people per group site.

Groups

The group site accommodates a minimum of 9 people and a maximum of 20. User reviews suggest that the space can hold 3-4 tents or 2 small campers comfortably.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSingle group site accommodating 9-20 individuals. Limited space for RVs and tents; arranged near Red Creek.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up or first-come-first-served sites. Reservations are required for the group site.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled ahead of the arrival date. Fees include a $10 cancellation charge and forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations (within 14 days of check-in). Reservations can be modified with specific fees ($10 for major changes).

AccessibilityWheelchair access is limited due to unpaved surfaces. There are no ADA-accessible sites.

Site SizeUser reviews suggest the group site can accommodate up to 3-4 tents and 2 small campers. Official sources confirm the maximum group size is 20 people.

PrivacyThe group site is described as private, tucked away from the main road, with minimal traffic. One reviewer noted: 'Loved the privacy of the group site. No traffic coming into site, except for occasional ranger.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesRecommended for smaller groups as the site can hold up to 3-4 tents and a couple of campers due to limited space. Morning shade is available but afternoons can be warm. Vault toilets are cleaned daily.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Red Creek Group Site offers access to a variety of recreational activities including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, boating, and camping. The site is known for its proximity to the Dillon Pinnacles Trail, opportunities for fishing in Blue Mesa Reservoir, and the chance to observe local wildlife such as bald eagles, mule deer, and even mountain lions. User reviews often highlight the stargazing opportunities, with one reviewer noting: 'Beautiful campsite, so quiet and a great place to watch the stars.'

HikingThe Dillon Pinnacles Trail is nearby, offering a 4-mile lollipop loop with stunning views of volcanic spires shaped by erosional forces.

FishingAnglers can fish for brown, rainbow, and Mackinaw trout as well as Kokanee salmon at Blue Mesa Reservoir, which is noted to have the densest population of Kokanee salmon in the country.

BoatingBoating is available at Blue Mesa Reservoir with mandatory inspections to prevent the spread of invasive species such as Zebra and Quagga Mussels.

Wildlife viewingCampers can observe a variety of wildlife including mule deer, black bears, prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, and bald eagles. Seasonal sightings may include elk and the occasional moose.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsNearby attractions include the Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit, which features an old-fashioned locomotive and provides access to the tallest cliffs in the Black Canyon.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsLimited cell phone coverage and no potable water after September 19 each year. Altitude illness may occur due to the 7542 ft elevation. Vault toilet doors may not lock.

Active AlertsWater shut off occurs annually around September 19. Pit toilets remain available. Vault toilet locks have been non-functional.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Food Storage RequiredSeasonally available, no lock fees mentioned.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed in designated grates or fire pits. Camp stoves are permitted.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours not explicitly stated in the source.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services are likely in Gunnison, including hospitals and police stations. Detailed emergency service location not explicitly listed.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling collection is available seasonally on-site.

Water FeaturesRed Creek flows through the campground and connects to Blue Mesa Reservoir, offering wading opportunities during late summer.

Camp HostOccasional ranger presence reported; no full-time staff on-site.

Weather at Red Creek Group Site

Reviews

4.7

13 reviews

Top-Rated

Red Creek Group Site is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, users rate the Red Creek Group Site positively, citing its privacy, stargazing opportunities, and proximity to recreational activities as key highlights. Common complaints include maintenance issues such as broken vault toilet locks and lack of shade during the afternoon.

Review Summaries

Based on 13 reviews

What Campers Love

Privacy of the site, ample parking, clean vault toilets, potable water pump, and proximity to hiking trails and fishing areas.

Based on 13 reviews

Common Concerns

Broken locks on vault toilet doors, limited shade during warm afternoons, and occasional traffic from visitors unaware of the reserved status of the group site.

Based on 13 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring extra shade structures for hot afternoons and plan group bathroom usage due to broken vault toilet locks. Consider placing a reserved sign at the entrance to prevent unauthorized entry.

Based on 13 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight warm afternoons and minimal shade, while winter closures limit usability.

Based on 13 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Beautiful campsite, so quiet and a great place to watch the stars.' 2. 'The lock on the toilet has been broken for a few years so I recommend devising a plan when going with a group to alert them...

Based on 13 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

All reviews specifically pertain to campsite 001 in the Red Creek Group Site loop. Positive feedback includes privacy and stargazing; complaints center on broken toilet locks and limited shade.

Based on 13 reviews