grand lake colorado | camping
Grand Lake, Colorado is a small town located on the shores of the largest natural lake in Colorado, also called Grand Lake.
Whether you crave a comfortable, amenity-rich experience or a secluded adventure under the stars, Grand Lake offers the perfect camping to suit your style.
Camping around Grand Lake allows you to experience the beauty of the area firsthand and there are several campgrounds located near by, catering to many different preferences. Let us help you find your next spot.
Dispersed Adventures
For the explorers, Grand Lake offers the adventures of dispersed camping. Pitch your tent outside of designated campgrounds and explore the Rocky Mountains.
- Stillwater Pass: Venture west of Grand Lake on County Road 4 and discover the dispersed camping haven of Stillwater Pass. This scenic route boasts breathtaking vistas and provides easy access to hiking and fishing adventures. Remember to check road conditions before heading up, particularly during spring and fall.
- Arapaho National Recreation Area: The Arapaho National Recreation Area unveils a treasure trove of dispersed camping opportunities. Look for designated areas along the eastern shores of Lake Granby and other designated roads. A Sulphur Ranger District Motor Vehicle Use Map is your key to unlocking these hidden gems.
- Buffalo Park Dispersed Camping Area: Located near the town of Granby, Buffalo Park offers dispersed camping opportunities in a scenic lodgepole pine forest. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and moose. There are also several lakes and streams in the area that are good for fishing.
- Jones Pass: About 20 miles south of Grand Lake on Highway 40, Jones Pass offers dispersed camping opportunities with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The area is popular for hiking, biking, and fishing. Be aware that the road to Jones Pass can be narrow and winding.
- Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area: Seeking an even more remote experience? Travel 20 miles west of Grand Lake to Gordon Gulch. Dotted with designated campsites along forest roads, this area provides a true escape. Keep in mind that snow and mud can linger here until late summer, so plan accordingly.
Developed spots
For those seeking a convenient and comfortable camping experience, Grand Lake boasts several well-maintained campgrounds. Most of these require a reservation or a fee. They often have a set of rule that might be unique to them.
- Grand Lake KOA: Nestled beside Rocky Mountain National Park’s western entrance, Grand Lake KOA caters to all your needs. Spacious RV sites, charming cabins, and tent sites provide a variety of lodging options. Enjoy amenities like a general store, laundry facilities, a playground, and even a refreshing dip in their swimming pool, perfect for those warm summer days.
- Timber Creek Campground: Immerse yourself in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park at Timber Creek Campground. This first-come, first-served campground offers basic amenities like vault toilets and drinking water, ideal for those seeking a rustic escape. Embrace the serenity under the pines, but be prepared for limited shade and the absence of RV hookups.
- Green Ridge Campground: This campground is located on the shores of Shadow Mountain Lake, about 4 miles south of Grand Lake. It offers tent and RV sites, a boat ramp, and vault toilets. Reservations are required.
- Stillwater Campground: This campground is located on the shores of Lake Granby, about 6 miles south of Grand Lake. It offers a variety of amenities, including tent and RV sites, a boat ramp, a playground, and a swimming beach. Reservations are required.
Lakes, Rivers, and Fishing
This area of the Rockies boasts a diverse range of waterways teeming with prized catches. Whether you prefer casting a line from a scenic lake or battling trout in a rushing river, Grand Lake has something to hook every fishing enthusiast. If you are looking for some added fishing during you next camping trip, we recommended these.
Grand Lake: While shore fishing options are limited due to private property, you can try your luck at Point Park on the north end of the lake. Fishing from a boat is recommended and opens up more opportunities to target species like lake trout, kokanee salmon, brown trout, and rainbow trout.
Shadow Mountain Reservoir: This reservoir is about 4 miles south of Grand Lake offers good fishing for rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon. There’s a boat ramp available for launching your boat. Shore fishing is also possible along the dam.
Lake Granby: A few miles south of Grand Lake, Lake Granby is another great option for fishing for lake trout, kokanee salmon, brown trout, and rainbow trout. There are several boat ramps around the lake for launching your boat. There’s also some shore fishing available.
Colorado River below Shadow Mountain Reservoir: This stretch of the Colorado River offers excellent fly fishing opportunities for brown trout and rainbow trout. The best fishing is typically below the dam where there are good-sized holes perfect for trout. You can also hike further downstream for more fishing spots.
Smaller streams: The Arapaho National Forest surrounding Grand Lake has numerous smaller streams that offer good fishing for brook trout and cutthroat trout. These streams can be a great option for a more secluded fishing experience.
Be sure to obtain a Colorado Fishing License before heading out.
When choosing a campground , be sure to consider the amenities that are important to you, as well as the location. Some campgrounds are located right on the lake, while others are more secluded.
Grand Lake, with its many camping options, offers something for everyone. So, whether you seek developed spot to park your RV or pitch a tent, pack your bags, grab your camping gear, and get ready to experience the magic of the Grand Lake wilderness!
If you need to add some camping gadgets to your gear, check out our recommendations – 8 Camping Gadgets to Maximize the 2024 Season