Gateview Campground
4.636 reviewsQuick Facts
7,538 ftPrice
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
6 campsites
Season
Generally open mid-M...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
7,538 ftPrice
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
6 campsites
Season
Generally open mid-M...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Gateview Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The campground is free to use, as there are no fees associated with camping.
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Provider(970) 641-2337cure_info@nps.gov
What Campers Say
4.63
Top-Rated
Based on 6 reviews
9 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsquietclean
"Gateview Campground is highly regarded for its quiet, private atmosphere and proximity to the Lake Fork River, though some visitors mention limited access due to a washed-out trail. It is best suited for tent campers seeking solitude."
Fees & Passes at Gateview Campground
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Cancellation: All sites are first-come, first-served; reservations are not available, and cancellation policies do...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official reservation website.
Best Time to Camp at Gateview Campground
Summer transforms this high-altitude retreat into a land of dramatic contrasts, where warm days reaching 90°F give way to refreshingly cool nights dipping into the 40s. The afternoon sky often stages nature's most spectacular shows, as thunderclouds build over the canyon walls, bringing brief but intense storms that fill the air with the scent of rain on sun-warmed rock. Strong canyon winds sweep through periodically, adding their voice to the wilderness symphony and reminding visitors of the raw power of this untamed landscape.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
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
- Operating Season: Generally open mid-May through late October.
About Gateview Campground
Tucked away in a dramatic narrow canyon at the southernmost reaches of Blue Mesa Reservoir's Lake Fork Arm, Gateview Campground offers an intimate wilderness escape for adventurous tent campers. The journey here winds along a narrow gravel road that descends into this secluded haven, where towering canyon walls create a natural amphitheater at 7,538 feet above sea level. This hidden gem rewards those seeking solitude and authentic outdoor experiences far from the crowds.
Gateview Campground is a small, primitive camping area featuring six tent-only sites. It is not suitable for RVs or trailers due to the narrow gravel access road.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this high-altitude retreat into a land of dramatic contrasts, where warm days reaching 90°F give way to refreshingly cool nights dipping into the 40s. The afternoon sky often stages nature's most spectacular shows, as thunderclouds build over the canyon walls, bringing brief but intense storms that fill the air with the scent of rain on sun-warmed rock. Strong canyon winds sweep through periodically, adding their voice to the wilderness symphony and reminding visitors of the raw power of this untamed landscape.
ElevationPerched at 7,538 feet in Colorado's high country, Gateview sits in that sweet spot where mountain and desert ecosystems converge. This elevation brings crisp, clear air and noticeably cooler temperatures than the valleys below, creating perfect conditions for stargazing on cloudless nights. The thin mountain air and dramatic temperature swings between day and night add an invigorating edge to every outdoor adventure, while the altitude provides stunning vantage points of the surrounding wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's setting feels like nature's own secret hideaway, where sheer canyon walls rise dramatically on either side, creating an intimate natural sanctuary. The Lake Fork river winds through the canyon floor, its gentle murmur providing a constant soundtrack to your stay. This rugged terrain showcases Colorado's raw beauty at its finest - weathered rock faces painted in desert hues, hardy vegetation clinging to steep slopes, and endless opportunities to explore the kind of unspoiled wilderness that's increasingly rare to find.
Geological RegionGateview Campground occupies one of the most geologically fascinating spots in the region, where ancient forces carved a deep, narrow canyon that now cradles the extreme southern tip of Blue Mesa Reservoir's Lake Fork Arm. This dramatic gorge tells a story millions of years in the making, with exposed rock layers revealing the area's prehistoric past. The canyon's unique formation creates a microclimate and ecosystem distinct from the surrounding high desert plateau, making it a natural wonder worth exploring.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not have accessible sites or paved surfaces, making it unsuitable for visitors with certain mobility challenges. The narrow, unpaved road leading to the campground adds to its inaccessibility.
Sites SizeAll six sites are designated for tent camping; no specific dimensions are provided, but user reviews suggest the area can accommodate standard tents.
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer a sense of privacy and seclusion, as highlighted by user reviews that describe the campground as 'quiet and clean' and 'mostly private.'
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites close to the river for fishing opportunities and scenic views.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours
Groups
There are no group camping sites at Gateview Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground contains six tent-only sites. It is described as dispersed camping with some sites close to the river.
Open and Closed SeasonGenerally open mid-May through late October.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served, which allows walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyAll sites are first-come, first-served; reservations are not available, and cancellation policies do not apply.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Gateview Campground offers limited recreational activities, focusing on the natural solitude and beauty of its surroundings. Activities include fishing in the nearby Lake Fork River and enjoying the remote and quiet environment suitable for wildlife observation or stargazing.
Fishing
Fishing is possible in the Lake Fork River near the campground. User reviews highlight the proximity to the river as a positive feature. No details about fish species or fishing conditions are provided.Wildlife viewing
The quiet and remote nature of the campground makes it suitable for wildlife observation, although specific species are not mentioned.Winter Activities
Gateview Campground is generally open from mid-May to late October and does not appear to offer winter recreation options.Water Sports
No specific non-motorized water sports opportunities are mentioned at this campground.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in grates provided, and camp stoves are permitted.
Hazards
General hazardsThe narrow gravel road may be hazardous for larger vehicles. Afternoon thunderstorms and strong winds are common during summer.
Weather at Gateview Campground
24
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 18.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
Weather History
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Reveal forecast
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNeither trash nor recycling facilities are available on site, and campers must pack out all waste.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is close to the Lake Fork river, offering opportunities for fishing and scenic views.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include the lack of amenities such as potable water and showers. One review mentioned a washed-out trail affecting access.
Campground Map
Driving directionsTake CO Highway 149 7 miles west of Powderhorn, then 6 miles north on the gravel Blue Mesa Cutoff Road.
The campground is accessible via a narrow gravel road, which is not recommended for small RVs or pop-up trailers. The road may be challenging for larger vehicles.Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
6 reviews
Gateview Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Gateview Campground is highly regarded for its quiet, private atmosphere and proximity to the Lake Fork River, though some visitors mention limited access due to a washed-out trail. It is best suited for tent campers seeking solitude.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the campground's tranquility, scenic views, and proximity to the river. Phrases like 'quiet and clean,' 'spectacular views,' and 'hidden gem' frequently appear in reviews.
Based on 6 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users noted the lack of amenities such as potable water, showers, and cell phone service. Access challenges, including a washed-out trail and narrow gravel road, were also mentioned.
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sufficient water and supplies, as no potable water or camp store is available. A user suggests fishing in the river. Be prepared for limited amenities and pack out all trash.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open from mid-May to late October. Summer reviews highlight afternoon thunderstorms and strong winds as weather considerations.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Great and mostly private. Bathroom but no shower or sink. Great river access and a big campsite right by the river.' – Amanda
2. 'Beautiful, not a soul there after passing the full Redbridge...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews suggest that the sites closest to the Lake Fork River are particularly desirable for their scenic views and accessibility to fishing.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviewers did not specifically mention accessibility challenges, though the narrow gravel road and limited development suggest that the campground is not suitable for visitors with mobility issues.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific mentions of pet policies or experiences with pets are provided in the reviews.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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