Ponderosa Campground is a charming Forest Service campground located along Co Rd 721 in Gunnison, Colorado. Nestled near the picturesque Blue Mesa Reservoir, this campground offers a serene retreat for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a connection with nature. With 29 well-maintained campsites, Ponderosa provides a mix of pull-in and walk-in tent sites, catering to various camping preferences.
The surrounding landscape is dotted with other campgrounds and numerous dispersed camping sites, many of which are free. These nearby options provide flexibility for campers looking for alternative experiences in the area.
While exploring the trails can be challenging due to limited signage, the breathtaking views and potential for adventure make the effort worthwhile. The area's maps highlight more established trails that visitors can explore for a more immersive experience.
Ponderosa Campground is a budget-friendly option at $16 per night, though visitors have noted that there are more luxurious options nearby. Despite this, the campground's tranquil setting and proximity to nature make it a favorite among those who value simplicity and outdoor exploration.
Picnic tables
Public restroom
Restroom
Running water
Tent sites
Camping fee
Good for kids
On-site parking
Dogs allowed
This is a forest service campground with 29 sites. The fee is $16. There is no electric hookup. There are vault toilets and potable water from a tank filled by a solar pump. The campground is near a branch of the Blue Mesa reservoir, with the campground road leading to the boat ramp (closed for the season) and a beach. There are sites suitable for pull-ins, as well as walk-in tent sites. There are other campgrounds north along 721 and numerous dispersed camping sites (free!). It's a beautiful area, so I wish there had been more hiking opportunities. The trails we tried were poorly marked with really no signage. But there are other trails that seem more official (shown on the area maps) that we didn't have time to get to. Overall, a great place to camp on our road trip.
We stayed one night here in August 21'. The camp sites are clean well maintained. Not much shade to be had. Fire rings and picnic tables at the camp sites, as well as toilets and garbage/recycle cans within the area. The water level was super low, so water access was not possible, which was a bummer. Had we arrived earlier we probably would have sought out a different spot. For $16 there are much better sites available nearby. No cell service here (fine with us, but maybe not for everyone). If you go a mile past the ponderosa site there are free disbursed camp sites near the creek. The views here are incredible, and it was quiet. Several other sites were occupied, and sites are relatively close to one another. Not a bad time, but if you're camping at Blue Mesa reservoir there are better spots.
Nice camp area. Sites range widely in stability for tents, particularly if you need a larger pad. The lower loop doesn't have as much shade as the upper loop, but neither are particularly shady. Short walk to the water. Water was low when we were there, so the bank was quite muddy. Bear bins, so use them. Bit of a drive out. 4wd not required, just a long well groomed gravel road. Remote feel without being too remote. Nice of you like more dispersed camping feel, with a walkable toilet. Sites are decently spaced.
Brenda camp host: most excellent assistance finding me a site for extended 3 days. Knowledgeable and kind.
16$? Really?