Pumphouse Recreation Area

Star3.82
39 reviews
Indigenous Heritage

Quick Facts

6,991 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026
Pumphouse Recreation Area
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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

3.82

Mixed Reviews

Based on 39 reviews

Most mentioned

cleanlocation

"Reviews generally praise the campground's cleanliness, the helpfulness of the camp hosts, and its proximity to recreational activities like rafting and fishing. However, some dissatisfaction was noted about the temporary unavailability of drinking water."

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Campground Map

Pumphouse Recreation Area

39.9873, -106.5085


Best Time to Camp at Pumphouse Recreation Area

Experience the dynamic beauty of changing seasons in this outdoor paradise. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and gentle breezes, while summer brings warm days perfect for exploration and cool nights ideal for stargazing. Fall transforms the landscape into a tapestry of colors, and winter offers its own quiet magic with crisp air and peaceful solitude. Each season reveals new wonders and unique opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer is most popular for water-based activities and pleasant weather, but can be crowded.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Fall offers seasonal color and good hiking; implied fewer crowds than summer.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Spring wildflower blooms and gentle breezes are specifically mentioned.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

No winter activities noted; elevation suggests colder, less accessible season.

Planning Tips

    About Pumphouse Recreation Area

    Discover your perfect outdoor escape at this hidden gem nestled in nature's embrace. Whether you're seeking adventure-filled days or peaceful nights under starlit skies, this campground offers an authentic wilderness experience that brings you closer to the natural world. From sunrise hikes to evening campfire stories, every moment here creates memories that last a lifetime.
    The campground offers tent and RV campsites with designated group camping areas. There are 18 single campsites and 2 group campsites available.
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    Amenities available

    Potable water
    Fire rings
    Picnic tables
    Vault toilets
    Group Sites

    Activities you can enjoy

    Pumphouse Recreation Area offers various recreational opportunities centered around the Colorado River and its scenic surroundings. Activities include floating downriver through calm flat water and Class III whitewater rapids, wade fishing along the riverbank, hiking trails, and water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
    HikingThe campground grants access to multiple hiking trails: 'The Gore Canyon Trail' (1.5 miles upriver), 'The Gore Canyon Ranch Trail' (1.25 miles downriver), and the 'Argentine Trail,' which features steep drop-offs and is described as 'not for the lighthearted.'
    FishingFishing is highlighted as a popular activity along the Colorado River. 'Hiking opportunities accessed from the Pumphouse Recreation Area provide ample access for wade fishing.'
    BoatingBoating is a key activity. There are three developed boat ramps, and the Gore Canyon Whitewater Playpark provides 'a manmade wave that is popular for kayakers, stand-up paddleboarders, and other small watercraft.'
    Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is facilitated through the area's scenic and restored habitats, particularly along the Gore Canyon Ranch Trail.
    Cultural and Educational ProgramsEducational opportunities are available along the Gore Canyon Ranch Trail, focusing on the area's history, wildlife, and responsible recreation.
    Winter Activities
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    Policies & Safety

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

    Weather at Pumphouse Recreation Area

    Reviews

    3.8
    39 reviews
    Mixed Reviews
    Mixed Reviews
    Pumphouse Recreation Area has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
    Reviews generally praise the campground's cleanliness, the helpfulness of the camp hosts, and its proximity to recreational activities like rafting and fishing. However, some dissatisfaction was noted about the temporary unavailability of drinking water.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 39 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Many users commend the campground's cleanliness and the camp hosts' friendliness. For example: 'Camp host Barb was great! She controls the madness!!' and 'Camp host are informative regarding wildlife...
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    Based on 39 reviews

    Common Concerns

    The main complaint is the temporary unavailability of potable water due to construction: 'Not having water and no hope of it getting replaced this season was very disappointing!'
    Based on 39 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Visitors suggest bringing sufficient water supplies due to the unreliable water system. Early reservations are advised for popular dates.
    Based on 39 reviews

    Seasonal Insights

    Summer months seem to be the most popular owing to the availability of water-based activities and pleasant weather. However, reviews during this time also mention crowded conditions, especially on...
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    Based on 39 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    1. 'Great place to camp and put in for rafting.' (Kim N, 7/18/2023) 2. 'We stayed in site #13 with our 27' trailer. Easy and fairly level site that parks along the road (no backing in). Beautiful...
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    Based on 39 reviews

    Site-Specific Reviews

    Site #13 is particularly praised for its level parking and river view. Site #1 is described as being close to the lake and suitable for short stays.
    Based on 39 reviews

    Accessibility Features

    Campground facilities, including accessible parking, boat ramps, and vault toilets, are appreciated for accommodating individuals with mobility challenges.
    Based on 39 reviews

    Pet-Friendly Features

    Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews focused on pet-friendly features.
    Based on 39 reviews

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    Last updated February 17, 2026
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