Elk Creek Campground

Elk Creek Campground is set on open ground, with no trees for shade, on the Curecanti National Recreation Area by the northern end of the Blue Mesa Reservoir.

Grounds are a combination of paved dirt and gravel with a sparse ambiance. It doesn't rain much in these parts, so the camp has a distinct desert appeal. Picnic tables and fire-rings are on hand, as is a friendly attitude that makes camping here a delight. There is an abundance of the sage bush with a scenic mecca for relaxing and finding your inner Zen.

There are around 160 campsites available for tents and RVs, with drinking water, restrooms, showers run by the concessionaire, and D-loop electricity hook-ups. There is also a dump station and the elevated vibe makes you feel as though you are on top of the world with an expanse of blue water bordered by hills and mountains as your own personal view.

Dogs are more than welcome at Elk Creek Campground - with a few rules that need to be followed. All pooches must be on a leash no longer than six feet and be well behaved. Owners are expected to bring their own litter bags and pick up their dog's waste.

Your pooch will love swimming in the reservoir with a sandy shore that is perfect for sunbathing. It would pay to pack the sun umbrella and a pop-up tent to protect your fur-baby from the summer rays. Windsurfing, boating, and sailing are popular lake pursuits with fishing fans hoping to score a salmon for the next campfire meal.

The busiest time at this camp is May through to September and it's open all year. A sixteen-mile drive will find you in the neighboring city of Gunnison where the past is superbly preserved. Spend time checking out the Gunnison Pioneer Museum run by locals to educate visitors about the history of this area.

Return to the Elk Creek Campground in time for a phenomenal sunset over the Blue Mesa Lake and swap holiday stories with like-minded folks who have road-tripping in their genes.