How much does camping cost at Rifle Gap State Park?

Camping fees at Rifle Gap State Park range from $28-$41/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Rifle Gap State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Rifle Gap State Park accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Rifle Gap State Park before I book?

Yes! Rifle Gap State Park has 8 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Rifle Gap State Park?

Rifle Gap State Park is open Peak season typically spans summer months, though exact dates are not provided.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Rifle Gap State Park?

Yes, Rifle Gap State Park has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Rifle Gap State Park?

Fire policies at Rifle Gap State Park: Campfires are permitted, but seasonal bans may be in place depending on fire risks.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Rifle Gap State Park have?

Rifle Gap State Park has 89 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Rifle Gap State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Rifle Gap State Park. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Rifle Gap State Park?

Rifle Gap State Park offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Sewer Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Rifle Gap State Park?

Popular activities at Rifle Gap State Park include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Rifle Gap State Park

4.30

91 reviews

5775 Highway 325, Rifle, Colorado, 81650, United States

A-Report Card

SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

5,791 ft

Price

$28 - $41/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

89 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Full HookupsShowersWiFi

Book on Colorado Parks and Wildlife Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

5,791 ft

Price

$28 - $41/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

89 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Full HookupsShowersWiFi

Book on Colorado Parks and Wildlife Official Website

Get Directions

Rifle Gap State Park

$28.00 - $41.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsite Description Single campsite (max 6 occupants) Duration 1 Night Cost $20 - $41

Standard Site Fee$28.00

Hookup Site Fee$41.00

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Provider

9706251607

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Campground Map

5775 Highway 325, Rifle, Colorado, 81650, United States

Rifle Gap State Park

5775 Highway 325, Rifle, Colorado, 81650, United States

Nearby places

Rifle (approx. 10 miles), Glenwood Springs (approx. 30 miles), Grand Junction (approx. 65 miles)

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Rifle, approximately 10 miles from the park.

Weather at Rifle Gap State Park

Best Time to Camp at Rifle Gap State Park

Summer delivers the best conditions for water recreation, with daytime highs between 75 and 90°F and nights cooling to 45-60°F. The reservoir is fully accessible for boating, swimming, scuba, and wake sports. Late-afternoon thunderstorms arrive occasionally in July and August. Strong sun at elevation is consistent. Winter transforms the park for ice fishing and cross-country skiing, though the campground sees far fewer visitors.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Best season for water recreation, peak activity, full access for boating, swimming and wake sports.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season typically spans summer months, though exact dates are not provided.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Rifle Gap State Park operates year-round; however, certain facilities such as water access may be seasonally restricted.

About Rifle Gap State Park

Rifle Gap State Park sits at 5,791 feet in Colorado's northwest, centered on a 350-acre reservoir. The park offers 89 campsites ranging from primitive to full hookups, with fees between $28 and $41 per night. Spacious RV sites with pull-through pads line the northern shoreline, while primitive sites offer quieter options away from the main loops.

Rifle Gap State Park accommodates a variety of camping types, including tent, RV, and group camping. Primitive sites are available for tents, and RV spots offer full hookups.

Weather and SeasonsSummer delivers the best conditions for water recreation, with daytime highs between 75 and 90°F and nights cooling to 45-60°F. The reservoir is fully accessible for boating, swimming, scuba, and wake sports. Late-afternoon thunderstorms arrive occasionally in July and August. Strong sun at elevation is consistent. Winter transforms the park for ice fishing and cross-country skiing, though the campground sees far fewer visitors.

ElevationPerched at Colorado's distinctive high-country elevation, the park offers that quintessential thin-air experience where the sky seems impossibly blue and the stars shine with exceptional clarity.

Natural Features and SceneryHigh desert meets reservoir at Rifle Gap, where sagebrush-covered hills descend to cool water. Mountain peaks frame the 350-acre lake, and rugged cliffs rise from the shoreline. The semi-arid landscape supports native grasses and provides habitat for deer and eagles. At nearly 6,000 feet elevation, the terrain shows the results of wind and water carving through rock over millennia.

Geological RegionSet within Colorado's spectacular Northwest Region, Rifle Gap showcases the raw beauty of high desert meeting mountain majesty. This semi-arid landscape, carved by millennia of wind and water, creates a unique ecosystem where sagebrush-covered hills give way to cool reservoir waters. The surrounding mountainous terrain stands as a testament to the powerful geological forces that shaped the American West, offering visitors a chance to camp amidst some of Colorado's most striking natural architecture.

Scenic ViewsMany campsites offer views of the reservoir and surrounding mountains. Some sites are praised for their privacy and vistas, such as Cedar Loop site 69.

Programs & ActivitiesInformative programs are available through the ranger station, with visitors praising staff helpfulness ('Rangers provided great local information').

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in begins at 2 PM.

Check-out

Check-out is at 12 PM.

Stay Limit

Campers may not stay for more than 14 nights in any 28-day period at a single park.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Information not explicitly provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutMultiple loops spread along the northern shore, with a mix of primitive and full-hookup sites. RV pads are pull-through with full hookups. Spacing between sites is generous, and covered picnic tables add to the privacy.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through www.cpwshop.com or by calling 1-800-244-5613.

Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability is mentioned in reviews, but details are not explicitly stated in authoritative sources.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations made 28 or more days prior to arrival will forfeit 25% of the fee for one day. Cancellations made 8-27 days prior to arrival will forfeit 50%, while cancellations within 7 days or less will forfeit 100%. Fees for nights already passed are non-refundable. Reservation changes may also incur penalties ranging from 10% to 20% of one day's fee, depending on timing.

AccessibilityADA features are explicitly mentioned, ensuring accessibility for disabled visitors.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious, with full hookups and pull-through pads. One review highlights a 'huge and clean site' while another mentions 'spacious for RVs.

PrivacySites provide ample privacy due to spacing and covered picnic tables ('spacious RV sites,' 'privacy ensured').

Total Campsites89 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites with covered picnic tables for shade and convenience. Primitive sites are recommended for a quiet camping experience, while Cedar Loop offers elevated views.

Best CampsitesSite 69 in Cedar Loop sits at a higher elevation with better views and more privacy. Lakeview primitive sites offer the quietest camping experience. Pinion Loop gets mentioned for stargazing during meteor showers.

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Amenities available

Rifle Gap State Park offers comprehensive amenities for both primitive and modern camping. Official sources mention ADA access, a beach for swimming, boating facilities, comfort stations, picnic areas, ranger stations, and hiking opportunities. Hot showers are available but coin-operated, with mixed reviews on functionality: 'Hot showers (fee required) are available,' and '... I did put 2 dollars coins in the machine to start the water. But no water.' Bathrooms are described as clean and well-maintained by multiple users ('restrooms are always clean,' 'pleasant view...clean single person restroom'). Firewood is explicitly available, as noted under 'Within Facility Firewood Available.' Picnic tables are covered at most sites, as highlighted in reviews like 'Many sites have covered picnic tables.' The dump station is confirmed by users ('Nice to have a dump station here since Rifle Falls did not'). While WiFi is available near the visitor center, it requires a password and is not broadly accessible ('There is WiFi at the visitor center but you need a password...'). Cell service is reportedly unreliable ('Verizon zero at campsite,' 'Verizon booster at the main office helps'). Fire pits are available across the park.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Sewer hookups

WiFi

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Rifle Gap State Park offers diverse recreational opportunities. Official sources emphasize water-based activities such as scuba diving, boating, water skiing, and fishing in the reservoir. User reviews confirm these activities ('Fishing the reservoir was great,' 'Rifle Gap is great for kayaking'). Hiking trails are available but limited around the lake, and users recommend nearby Rifle Falls for more scenic trails ('Check out Rifle Falls'). Hunting and wildlife watching are additional options ('Pretty sure everyone was celebrating hunting season'). Winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing are noted in official descriptions, affirming year-round usability.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWater levels in the reservoir fluctuate, sometimes affecting boating and swimming access. Wildlife like deer may roam the campsites, and some reviews mention issues with muddy or polluted shorelines.

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

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted, but seasonal bans may be in place depending on fire risks.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Nightly quiet hours are not explicitly stated in the sources.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services are located in Rifle, including medical facilities and police stations.

Trash & RecyclingTrash facilities are available and well-maintained, with trash cans provided at picnic sites. Recycling options are unspecified.

Water FeaturesCampsites are located along the northern shore of a 350-acre reservoir, suitable for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Camp HostCamp hosts are mentioned frequently in reviews as being friendly and helpful.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

91 reviews

Satisfactory

Rifle Gap State Park is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews consistently praise Rifle Gap for its cleanliness, scenic views, and well-maintained facilities. Complaints include high fees and unreliable showers.

Review Summaries

Based on 91 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 91 reviews.

Site 69Loved
Site 69 in Cedar Loop praised for privacy and wildlife sightings ('Doe and fawn spotted').
site 28Mentioned
Lakeview campsites receive high marks for views ('Stayed at site 28 with incredible views').

What Campers Love

Clean facilities, spacious sites, friendly staff, and diverse activities ('Hosts were great,' 'Beautiful place to camp').

Based on 91 reviews

Common Concerns

High camping fees, inconsistent WiFi, and occasional issues with coin-operated showers ('Showers require payment,' 'Internet requires password').

Based on 91 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend exploring nearby Rifle Falls, bringing water shoes for better beach comfort, and planning a star-gazing trip during meteor showers ('Pinion loop great for gazing').

Based on 91 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer sees peak activity with boating, fishing, and water sports, while winter offers ice fishing and skiing opportunities. Spring and fall provide a quieter camping experience.

Based on 91 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Hot showers are available, but coin-operated systems can fail.' 2. 'Covered picnic tables are a great feature.' 3. 'Lake water looked like ocean water, very colorful and stunning.'

Based on 91 reviews

Accessibility Features

ADA features noted but reviews lack detailed insights on accessibility.

Based on 91 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Park is dog-friendly, with poo bag stations provided ('Multiple poo-bag stations available').

Based on 91 reviews

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Rifle Gap State Park

$28.00 - $41.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsite Description Single campsite (max 6 occupants) Duration 1 Night Cost $20 - $41

Standard Site Fee$28.00

Hookup Site Fee$41.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Reserve America

Provider

9706251607

Go if

Reservoir-focused campers will be happy here. Site 28 gets lake views, site 69 in Cedar Loop gets wildlife and privacy, and the hookup loops handle big rigs well. Rifle Falls is a short drive up the road when you want actual trails.

Skip if

Coin-operated showers that sometimes run dry, no reliable cell service at the sites, and a vocal slice of past visitors who made some guests feel unwelcome, campers who fall outside the local cultural mainstream may want to read recent reviews carefully before booking.

Nearby Campgrounds

Nestled along the shimmering northern shore of Rifle Gap Reservoir, this high-desert campground offers front-row seats to stunning water views framed by dramatic sandstone cliffs. With five distinct loops—Cottonwood, Lakeview, Cedar, Sage, and Pinion—spreading across the landscape, it's your perfect launching point for days spent boating across glassy waters, casting lines for trout, or simply soaking in the serene beauty where desert meets reservoir.

Rifle Gap State Park

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Rifle Gap State Park

Campground Map

Weather at Rifle Gap State Park

Best Time to Camp at Rifle Gap State Park

Planning Tips

About Rifle Gap State Park

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Rifle Gap State Park?

Amenities available

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

How campers graded it

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Ask Camp Sage about Rifle Gap State Park

Best Time to Camp at Rifle Gap State Park

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Rifle Gap State Park?

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns