Camping at Crag Crest Campground
Location and Access
Crag Crest Campground is located within the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests on the Grand Mesa in Colorado. To access the campground, you typically need to travel through the town of Cedaredge along Highway 65, known as the Grand Mesa Scenic and Historic Byway. Detailed directions and road conditions are generally recommended to be checked prior to the trip as they can change due to weather and seasonal closures.
Campsites and Facilities
The campground offers a number of individual campsites suitable for both tent and RV camping. While specific amenities can vary, many sites typically include a picnic table, fire ring, and tent pad. However, availability of hookups such as water, sewer, and electric may be limited or non-existent, so it's advisable to check the latest details on the campground facilities before heading out.
Activities
Crag Crest National Recreation Trail: This is a premier hiking trail within the Grand Mesa that offers spectacular views, and the campground serves as a convenient base camp for those looking to hike it.
Fishing and Boating: The Grand Mesa area is known for its numerous lakes and reservoirs, which are popular for trout fishing as well as boating and paddle sports.
Wildlife Watching: The GMUG National Forests are home to diverse wildlife, including deer, elk, moose, and various bird species, making the area excellent for wildlife viewing.
Reservations and Fees
Campsite availability can be on a first-come-first-served basis, or through reservations depending on the time of year and specific regulations in place. Fees for camping are typically required, and it's important to check for the latest fee structure and reservation system, which could be through a service like Recreation.gov.
Seasonal Access
The campgrounds are generally open seasonally due to the high elevation and snow conditions. The typical season is from late spring to early fall, but always check the current status as this can change from year to year based on weather conditions.
Regulations
Standard national forest regulations apply within the campground. This includes rules related to campfires, noise, pets, garbage, and the use and preservation of natural resources. Campers are usually expected to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on the environment.
Contact Information and Resources
For the most current information, it's advisable to contact the Forest Service directly, or consult the USDA Forest Service website for the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests. Additionally, resources like local visitor centers, maps, and online national forest information can provide up-to-date news and alerts for the Crag Crest Campground and surrounding areas.
Remember to check all rules, regulations, and access details before planning your trip, as they are subject to change and can be impacted by local conditions or policy adjustments.
