About Mill Creek Campground (CO)
Overview Mill Creek Campground is located 14 miles southwest of Lake City, Colorado at 9,500 feet above sea level. Nestled along the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River, the campground offers a fishing access trail for anglers and river access (though boating is not recommended from this location). The campground is surrounded by the Redcloud Peak and Handies Peak Wilderness Study Areas with world class hiking opportunities just a short drive away, including trails to three 14,000-foot peaks. From the campground, licensed OHV's and high clearance 4-wheel-drive vehicles can access the legendary Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway; a rugged 65 mile road system that connects the towns of Lake City, Silverton, and Ouray through the spectacular mountain scenery of the San Juan Mountains. The campground is accessible June through September. Recreation Mill Creek Campground is an ideal base camp for exploring the Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway and the majestic San Juan Mountains. Whether you like to ride an off-highway vehicle, fly fish the Lake Fork, learn about the area's hardrock mining history, or challenge yourself to hike one of the 14,000-foot peaks, this area has something for everyone. There are also opportunities for viewing wildlife, seasonal wildflowers, and fishing the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River or nearby Lake San Cristobal. Facilities Mill Creek Campground has 22 campsites suitable for tent camping and medium sized RV's. Each campsite is limited to eight people and two vehicles. Each campsite features a metal fire ring with a cooking grate, a picnic table, and a bear-proof food storage box. Mill Creek Campground has vault restrooms, hand pumps for potable water, and bear-proof trash dumpsters on site. No electric or hookups are available at Mill Creek Campground. Campground hosts are available from June through early September. Natural Features Mill Creek offers shaded campsites among a mixed spruce/fir and aspen forest with magnificent mountain views of some of th
How to Get There
From Lake Highway, take highway 149 south for about 2 miles. Turn right onto County Road 30 and continue for about 10.5 miles. Mill Creek Campground is on the left, over the bridge.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Mill Creek Campground (CO)
Heading to Mill Creek Campground (CO)? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Mill Creek Campground (CO)?
No central reservation system listed for Mill Creek Campground (CO). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/271727) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Mill Creek Campground (CO)?
From Lake Highway, take highway 149 south for about 2 miles. Turn right onto County Road 30 and continue for about 10.5 miles. Mill Creek Campground is on the left, over the bridge.
How do I contact Mill Creek Campground (CO)?
You can reach the park at phone: (970) 642-4953 or email: kacarson@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
