Lake Irwin
4.2947 reviewsGUNNISON, GRAND MESA, AND UNCO
Quick Facts
10,200 ftPrice
$24/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
32 campsites
Season
Open June 13th, 2025...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
10,200 ftPrice
$24/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
32 campsites
Season
Open June 13th, 2025...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsLake Irwin
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rate for all site types (Standard Nonelectric, Tent Only Nonelectric, RV Nonelectric) is fixed at $24 per night. Rates do not reflect...
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Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$24.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider928-537-8888camping@rrmofa.com
What Campers Say
4.29
Satisfactory
Based on 47 reviews
50 Google reviews
Most mentioned
privacypeacefulhikingfriendly
Some mention
small
"User reviews for Lake Irwin are mixed. Positive reviews highlight the scenic beauty, abundance of activities, and helpful camp hosts. Negative reviews focus on the lack of water, poor maintenance of facilities, and issues with the reservation system."
Fees & Passes at Lake Irwin
$24/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Cancellations can be made ahead of arrival through My Reservations. A $10 cancellation fee applies a...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Recreation Resource Management of America website.
Best Time to Camp at Lake Irwin
Here in the high country, summer arrives like a gentle friend, bringing pleasantly cool days that peak around 66°F—perfect for outdoor adventures without the sweltering heat of lower elevations. Afternoon thunderstorms often roll through, painting dramatic skies and refreshing the landscape with brief, invigorating showers. As evening falls, temperatures dip to a crisp 40°F, making that campfire glow all the more inviting and your sleeping bag a cozy retreat under the star-studded sky.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: July 18th, 2025 through September 13th, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open June 13th, 2025 through September 13th, 2025.
- Current Alerts: None currently stated.
About Lake Irwin
Perched beside the crystal-clear waters of its namesake lake, Lake Irwin Campground beckons adventurers to experience the raw beauty of Colorado's high country. At 10,200 feet, this alpine sanctuary invites you to cast a line into pristine waters, explore winding mountain bike trails, or paddle silently across the mirror-like lake in your kayak or canoe. Towering Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir create a natural cathedral overhead, their ancient branches whispering stories of the wilderness that surrounds you.
Lake Irwin Campground caters to a range of camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and some sites designed for group use. Primitive camping elements are prominent due to limited amenities.
Historical SignificanceJust down the mountain, the storied town of Crested Butte stands as a living testament to Colorado's mining heritage. Once alive with the sounds of coal miners and their families, this charming mountain town has transformed into a vibrant cultural hub where Victorian-era buildings house galleries, restaurants, and shops. Throughout the summer, festivals celebrate everything from wildflowers to music, offering visitors a chance to experience the enduring spirit of the Old West alongside modern mountain culture.
Weather and SeasonsHere in the high country, summer arrives like a gentle friend, bringing pleasantly cool days that peak around 66°F—perfect for outdoor adventures without the sweltering heat of lower elevations. Afternoon thunderstorms often roll through, painting dramatic skies and refreshing the landscape with brief, invigorating showers. As evening falls, temperatures dip to a crisp 40°F, making that campfire glow all the more inviting and your sleeping bag a cozy retreat under the star-studded sky.
ElevationAt 10,200 feet above sea level, Lake Irwin Campground places you firmly in the realm of eagles and alpine meadows. The thin mountain air carries a crystalline quality that sharpens every view and makes colors seem impossibly vivid. While the elevation gifts visitors with breathtaking vistas and refreshing temperatures, it demands respect—take time to acclimate, stay hydrated, and embrace the slower pace that allows you to truly savor this high-altitude paradise. Pack warm layers for those crisp mountain nights when the Milky Way blazes overhead.
Natural Features and SceneryThe majestic Ruby Mountain Range rises like ancient sentinels around the campground, their peaks catching the first light of dawn and the last glow of sunset. To the east, Lake Irwin stretches like a sapphire jewel, its surface reflecting the ever-changing mountain sky. Come July and August, the surrounding meadows explode in a painter's palette of wildflowers—Indian paintbrush, columbine, and lupine create natural tapestries that draw photographers and nature lovers from around the world. This is nature's amphitheater, where every view deserves a moment of quiet appreciation.
Geological RegionLake Irwin Campground sits within the vast wilderness tapestry of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests—a staggering 2.9 million acres of protected lands on the western slope of the mighty Rocky Mountains. South of the Colorado River and west of the Continental Divide, this geological wonderland tells the story of ancient seas, volcanic upheavals, and glacial sculpting that created today's dramatic landscape. Here, in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, millions of years of Earth's history lie exposed in every rocky outcrop and mountain vista.
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Campsite details
AccessibilitySome campsites are accessible but specific details about accessibility features are limited.
Sites SizeSites are reportedly small and not very level, making them less suitable for larger RVs or trailers.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some offering good separation and others being more exposed.
Total Campsites32 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites close to the lake for scenic views and proximity to water activities. "Site #4 was close to the restrooms and a wildflower field leading to the lake."
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Standard Single Family sites allow ONE camping unit ONLY.
Groups
No specific details about group sites are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes a loop layout with steep and rough sections. Sites are described as short and uneven, making them less ideal for large RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 13th, 2025 through September 13th, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov and via the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability begins June 20th, 2025. Walk-up sites must be booked in person.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made ahead of arrival through My Reservations. A $10 cancellation fee applies along with any reservation fees. Late cancellations for individual sites subtract the first night's recreation fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lake Irwin Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and biking. The lake provides opportunities for fishing and non-motorized boating, while nearby trails cater to hikers and mountain bikers. Wildlife viewing, including bald eagles, is a highlight for some visitors. Activities are complemented by the scenic beauty of the surrounding Ruby Mountain Range and summer wildflowers.
Hiking
Hiking is popular at Lake Irwin, with trails such as Scarp Ridge and Dyke nearby. These trails are described as challenging but rewarding. An unofficial fisherman’s trail around the lake is also available.Fishing
Fishing is a favorite pastime at Lake Irwin. The lake is described as being 'full of fish,' and rainbow trout can often be seen rising to the surface. Motorized watercraft are not allowed, preserving the peaceful environment.Biking
The rugged terrain around Lake Irwin is suitable for mountain biking. Visitors have enjoyed biking both within the campground and in the wider area.Boating
Non-motorized boating, such as canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, is allowed on Lake Irwin. The lake’s calm waters make it popular for these activities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is noted as a highlight, with bald eagles mentioned specifically as a draw for visitors.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned as Lake Irwin Campground is generally open during summer months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are popular on Lake Irwin.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rings are provided at each site. Firewood must be sourced locally.
- Quiet hours are None explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsRoads leading to the campground are rough and steep. The high elevation (10,200 feet) may pose challenges for some visitors due to thin air. Drinking water availability is unreliable, with reports of non-functional pumps.
Active alertsNone currently stated.
Weather at Lake Irwin
11
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 84%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 16.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Partly cloudy
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available in Crested Butte, including medical facilities, police stations, and a fire department.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 18th, 2025 through September 13th, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not specifically mentioned in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is bordered by Lake Irwin. Non-motorized boating activities like kayaking and paddleboarding are popular.
Common complaintsFrequent issues with double booking of campsites via Recreation.gov. "When we arrived at our RESERVED site, there were folks already occupying the site..." (User review). Other complaints include lack of reliable drinking water, cleanliness of pit toilets, and small or rocky campsites.
HostMultiple reviews describe the camp host as friendly, helpful, and proactive. "Camp Host was awesome."
Campground Map
GUNNISON, GRAND MESA, AND UNCO
Driving directionsFrom Gunnison, take Colorado Highway 135 north 28 miles to Crested Butte. Turn left on Gunnison County Road 12. Proceed 7 miles. Turn right on Forest Road 826 and follow signs to the campground.
Roads leading to the campground include partially paved sections and dirt roads. The road between Crested Butte and the campground is known for being rough, with washboards, ruts, dust, and potholes. Roads around the campground loop are steep and rough in sections, making access challenging for campers and vehicles over 25 feet.Nearby places
Gunnison (28 miles, approximately 50 minutes), Crested Butte (9 miles, approximately 25 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Crested Butte offers locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel. Campers can also fill water bottles and dump trailers in town.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
47 reviews
Lake Irwin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Lake Irwin are mixed. Positive reviews highlight the scenic beauty, abundance of activities, and helpful camp hosts. Negative reviews focus on the lack of water, poor maintenance of facilities, and issues with the reservation system.
Review Summaries
Based on 47 reviews
What Campers Love
Scenic beauty, fishing, hiking, and non-motorized boating are frequently praised. The camp hosts are often described as friendly and helpful. Privacy at some sites and the peaceful setting are also...
Based on 47 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include a lack of drinking water, poor maintenance of vault toilets, rough access roads, small campsites, and frequent double-booking errors in the reservation system.
Based on 47 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and be prepared for rough roads. Consider visiting during July and August for wildflowers. Smaller camping units are better suited to the campground. The Scarp Ridge trail is a...
Based on 47 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is most popular during summer months when temperatures are moderate, and wildflowers are in bloom. Some complaints about water access and facility maintenance seem consistent across...
Based on 47 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'One of the best family getaways near Gunnison and Crested Butte' - Chris Johnson. 'The lake is usually so full of fish, one can see them rise to the calm surface.' - Official overview. 'The pump...
Based on 47 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 13 is noted for privacy and proximity to the water pump. Site 4 is close to the lake. Sites like 10 and 13 have received complaints about maintenance issues. Site 26 offers dramatic views.
Based on 47 reviewsAccessibility Features
Some sites are accessible, but poor road conditions and small site sizes may limit accessibility for larger vehicles or those with mobility issues.
Based on 47 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific information about pet policies or experiences is provided.
Based on 47 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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