Curecanti National Recreation Area — Attraction in Gunnison

Well, howdy, folks! I reckon I've got a tale to spin about a mighty fine camping experience at Curecanti National Recreation Area, specifically at Elk Creek Campground. Let me tell ya, it's a real gem of the wild west!

First things first, the campground itself is like a cozy little homestead nestled right by the waters of Curecanti Reservoir. The views are as vast and breathtaking as the open prairie, with the rugged mountains in the distance and the shimmering stars above at night. The campfire sites are perfect for gatherin' 'round with friends and family, just like cowpokes sittin' 'round a campfire after a long day on the trail.

Now, let me tell ya 'bout the nighttime ranger presentation. It's a hoot and a holler, alright! When the sun starts to set, and the sky turns into a tapestry of stars, the friendly ranger shows up, just like a lone rider on the horizon. They've got a wealth of knowledge about the area (or at least about coyotes which was the presentation I saw), and they share it with humor and a passion that's contagious.

Gathered 'round the campfire, the ranger spins tales about the critters that roam the night. They make it fun and educational, like a good ol' campfire story that keeps you on the edge of your saddle.

During the day, there's plenty to do as well. Whether it's fishin' in the reservoir, boating on the lake, takin' a hike through the wilderness like a lone ranger, visiting nearby sites, or simply sittin' back and takin' in the beauty of nature, there's somethin' for every cowpoke to enjoy.

So, if you find yourself yearnin' for a cowboy-style campin' adventure under the starlit sky, head on down to Curecanti National Recreation Area and pitch your tent at Elk Creek Campground. With its breathtaking scenery, a warm and knowledgeable ranger, and a community of friendly folks, it's a cowboy's dream come true. Saddle up, pardner, and let the wilderness embrace ya like a...

Really enjoyed our stay. 4 stars only because the reservoir is 60 feet low and they were about to drain it even more.

Something about keeping the hydroelectric dam in production. We had bad timing too as the fires in California have dumped a massive smoke plume over the Rockies.

As for where exactly we were: we were at Elk creek road west where the park headquarters are located. The camping spot we had pointed our picture windows facing the lake. Some locals told me many are staying away due to the dramatic drop in water elevation. I personally chose not to fish and left two days early. The site was concrete and level. The 30 amp service is all that we needed. The park has these tiny cabins (really tiny) that were full over the weekend. Young folks like them and they come with paddle boards for them.

ATT LTE worked only at the big signed entrance to elk creek. Verizon with a small booster didn’t work. They do have a loop for no utilities. Our spot accommodated our 20 feet long camper no problem. There were some smaller class A’s there. I’d say call to make sure which spots accommodate some of the huge 5th wheel and class A’s. Gunnison is a short drive away. Walmart is tiny- —someone told me that Gunnison voted to make it that way. No cold foods, refrigerated foods. There is a grocer next door. Hwy 50 construction was stopped indefinitely until I 70 could be repaired so we had no problems going...

Didn't do a ton here - we were mainly in the area to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison, but saw we could do some kayaking here. Which we did, successfully, with rentals from Lake Fork Marina.

We also stopped at the Elk Creek Visitor Center to learn a little about the area. Our kids were able to complete the junior ranger program (which they've enjoyed immensely at other NPS-operated properties over the past year) and earned a badge, plus a couple others the rangers working here gave them for other programs offered.

Another stop worth making is the East Portal. This is accessible only by entering through the National Park's entrance, which is a pretty substantial drive away from Cimarron and points east (especially if you have to wait in construction traffic on 50), then taking a steep and winding road down to the river's level. But also a really cool canyon experience without having to hike down into it (and the permitting required for that).

Also, the area's official map notes the Cimarron Visitor Center is open seasonally, but I'm not sure what season that is. The official website only mentions the Elk Creek VC. And when we stopped by on our way to check out the Mesa Creek Trail, it was a ghost town, and while the building appeared occupied-ish, the grounds weren't as pristinely maintained as you usually find at...