Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area
USFS · Camping Area · Free
Fast facts
- Cost
- Free
- Managed by
- USFS
- Type
- Camping Area
- Hours
- Quite hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
- Reservations
- fs.usda.gov
- Nearest dump station
- Taylor Lagoons Dump Station · 31.6 mi
- Coordinates
- 38.3535, -106.5574
- Last verified
- September 18, 2026
About this place
Elevation: 8830' Needle Creek Reservoir lies between Highways 50 and 114 in the Cochetopa Hills along the headwaters of Needle Creek. This reservoir was constructed in 1962 for irrigation water storage. Its low elevation, 8,830 feet, and easy access make it a favorite fishing area for many. Fishing is usually good at this site, where rainbow and brook trout average ten to eleven inches. Boats are allowed in the reservoir, but most people fish from shore with good success.
From the USFS.
Is this site free?
Yes. this site is free to use. It is managed by the USFS.
How do I get to this site?
Directions from Gunnison: Drive east on Highway 50 to Doyleville. Turn right at Doyleville and then left at the next T-intersection. Follow the main road and signs to Needle Creek Reservoir. Please close all gates (they are there to keep livestock in, not humans out).
What are the rules at this site?
This is bear country: campers must properly store food and other attractants.
Nearby
SourceData from the USFS. Last synced September 18, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.
