Look: Two Popular Campgrounds Close on Colorado's Grand Mesa

Say it ain't so, Grand Mesa. First, you left the visitors center empty all summer in 2024—now you're planning to take away one of our favorite day-use areas and campgrounds in 2025?

The Grand Mesa's Island Lake is one of the most popular destinations for Western Colorado residents trying to escape the summer heat. According to the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests’ Grand Valley Ranger District, options around Island Lake will be limited this year.

Temporary Closures On Grand Mesa: Island Lake Campground

The Forest Service and the U.S. Department of Agriculture have announced the temporary closure of both the Island Lake Campground and Little Bear Campgrounds. The closure will also include the Island Lake day use area, as well as a portion of the Island Lake Trail within the day use area. The boat ramp will also be closed for the summer. Parts of the shoreline will remain open for fishing.

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Temporary Closure on Grand Mesa: Little Bear Campground

According to the closure, Little Bear Campground will stay closed through the summer. of 2026.

The Island Lake Trail around the lake is one of my favorite places to hike on the Grand Mesa. It's fun to see who is fishing around the lake, to watch the people out on the water, and to see who is in the campground.

While I will miss having access this summer, it is nice to know that the closure is for reconstruction and rehabilitation. New picnic tables, fire circles, bathrooms, kiosks, and improvements to roads and trails will all be part of the project.

Grand Mesa Campgrounds You Might Like Better

If you had your heart set on camping at Island Lake or Little Bear, you may find yourself quickly falling in love with some of the other campgrounds nearby. I would suggest that Ward Lake, Cobbett Lake, Cottonwood Lake, and Jumbo Lake Campgrounds all offer a very similar setting to Island Lake.

LOOK: These Are Colorado’s Five Biggest Inland Lakes

Colorado's largest lakes are also home to some of our state's best fishing, hiking, and camping destinations. Let's take a closer look at the biggest inland lakes in Colorado by scrolling through the top five in the photo gallery below.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

MORE: The Best Places to Go Camping this Summer in Colorado

Camping in Colorado could mean an RV, a camper, a car, or a tent. Some people sleep right out under the stars. It's time to pack up our gear and start planning for another great season outdoors with a look at the best places to camp in the Centennial State.

Gallery Credit: Wes Adams

NEXT: 10 Colorado Hiking Safety Warnings & Expert Tips

Colorado's outdoor hiking season is here, and locals and tourists will step into the backcountry to seek out some of our state's legendary hikes. Before heading out on your next big adventure, take a moment to remind yourself of the following safety warnings that apply across the board in the Centennial State.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams