Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area

Star0
3 reviews

Quick Facts

8,830 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open in June

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest site

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Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are charged for camping at Needle Creek Reservoir.
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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 3 reviews

8 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peaceful

"User reviews for the Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area generally highlight its secluded nature, suitability for families and pets, and the quality of the fishing experience. However, some reviewers noted that the water level in the reservoir can be significantly low."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area

38.3534, -106.5597

Driving directionsDrive east on Highway 50 to Doyleville. Turn right at Doyleville and then left at the next T-intersection. Follow the main road and signs to Needle Creek Reservoir. Please close all gates (they are there to keep livestock in, not humans out).
Easy access; the site is reachable via highways and a main road. Livestock gates need to be closed during passage.

Best Time to Camp at Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

Open in June; fishing and boating are active summer draws.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Groves of quaking aspen suggest excellent fall color viewing.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Fishing may be available in spring, but reviewers note variable/low reservoir levels at times.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

High elevation and 'open in June' imply limited or uncertain winter access/operations.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: Open in June

About Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area

Perched at an impressive 8,830 feet in the Colorado high country, Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area beckons anglers and nature enthusiasts to its pristine waters. This hidden gem, born from irrigation needs in 1962, has evolved into a beloved destination where rainbow and brook trout dance beneath the surface and camping under star-filled skies becomes an unforgettable experience. Easy access roads lead you to this alpine sanctuary, where the thin mountain air carries the promise of adventure and the gentle lap of reservoir waters provides the perfect soundtrack for your outdoor escape.
The Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area caters to campers seeking a primitive camping experience. RV camping may be possible, but hookups are not available.
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Amenities available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area offers several outdoor activities, focusing heavily on fishing and boating. The reservoir is a popular fishing spot with rainbow and brook trout averaging 10-11 inches. Boating is allowed, but most visitors fish from the shore.
FishingFishing is described as excellent, with rainbow and brook trout averaging 10-11 inches. Most visitors fish from the shore with good success.
BoatingBoating is allowed in the reservoir, but most visitors prefer shoreline fishing.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area

Reviews

0.0
3 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for the Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area generally highlight its secluded nature, suitability for families and pets, and the quality of the fishing experience. However, some reviewers noted that the water level in the reservoir can be significantly low.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects mentioned by users include its seclusion, the peaceful environment, the surrounding Aspen trees, and good fishing opportunities. One reviewer remarked, 'Nice place to camp and...
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Based on 3 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include significantly low water levels in the reservoir, which detracted from the overall experience for some visitors.
Based on 3 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

User tips include bringing potable water and considering the seclusion of the area as an advantage for those seeking tranquility.
Based on 3 reviews

Seasonal Insights

No specific seasonal trends are mentioned, although fishing appears to be a year-round highlight.
Based on 3 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Beautiful reservoir, and pretty secluded from the main beating path.' 2. 'It is surrounded by Aspen trees, but sadly like most other reservoirs, the water level is down significantly.' 3. 'Nice...
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Based on 3 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No reviews specify particular campsites or areas within the campground.
Based on 3 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews provide information on accessibility features.
Based on 3 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are acknowledged as welcome based on one review stating, 'Good place to take the family or pets.'
Based on 3 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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