Stevens Creek Campground

If you’re looking for a Fido-friendly place to pitch your tent near Colorado’s largest reservoir, you’d be barking mad not to consider camping at Steven’s Creek Campground! Located in the Curecanti National Recreation Area, facilities at Curecanti are on par with most Colorado National Park Campgrounds -- that is to say, rather rustic. You won’t find any showers, electricity, or RV hookups here.

But with such a gorgeous location, who can complain? Steven’s Creek is perched on the shores of Blue Mesa Reservoir, and almost all sites have waterside views. The striking rock and desert landscape doesn’t provide any tree cover, but at an elevation of over 7,500 feet, you and your buddy should have no trouble keeping cool even in the height of summer!

Though there are some first-come, first-served sites at Steven’s Creek, it still pays to make your reservation early, particularly if you’re planning to stay on a holiday weekend or at one of the campground’s accessible sites. There’s no entrance fee to the area, and sites start at a very reasonable $16.

You and your furry friend are sure to sniff out something to do during your stay! Keen anglers will be glad to know that Blue Mesa Reservoir is well stocked with trout and salmon, and you can cook your catch on one of the grills provided with each site. The campground even has its own fish-cleaning station! Non-furry family members looking to enjoy the water can take part in a whole host of activities including waterskiing and canoeing.

If your pooch likes to hike, you’re in luck! The area around the reservoir boasts a trail for each and every ability. The nearby Neversink Trail is a furrific option for laid-back lapdogs seeking a sedate stroll and meanders for 1.5 miles through cottonwoods along the Gunnison River. Athletic animals looking for a route they can really get their teeth into might enjoy a trek on the Curecanti Creek Trail. Though the trail is only four miles long, its inclines range from the steep to the truly punishing.

WiFi isn’t available at Stevens Creek, and cellular coverage varies from network to network. Fires are permitted, and drinking water is available on-site. Remember to bring waste bags for your canine companion, and have a pawesome trip!