By:
Submission
Lake Irwin Campground is situated on the western banks of its picturesque namesake lake, approximately 9 miles from Crested Butte, Colorado. Visitors enjoy the area for its abundant trail opportunities, fishing and beautiful scenery.
Mountain biking and hiking are popular activities in this challenging, rugged terrain. Canoeing and fishing are favorite pastimes as well. The lake is usually so full of fish, one can see them rise to the calm surface.
The campground offers several single-family campsites, some of which are accessible. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Drinking water is provided.
The campground is set high in the Colorado Rockies at an elevation of 10,200 feet. Summer days are cool and afternoon showers are common. Nights can be chilly.
Lake Irwin borders the campground on the east, and the Ruby Mountain Range lies to the west. Vivid wildflowers fill the landscape during July and August. Most campsites are shaded by mature Englemann spruce and subalpine fir trees.
The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests are located on the western slope of the Rocky Mountains. Together, the three forests cover 2.9 million acres in the central and southern Rocky Mountains, south of the Colorado River and west of the Continental Divide.
The charming town of Crested Butte is a short drive from the campground. The former coal mining town offers a variety of outdoor activities, dining and shopping options and annual festivals, like the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival.
From Gunnison, take Colorado Highway 135 north 28 miles to Crested Butte. Turn left on Gunnison County Road 12. Proceed 7 miles. Turn right on Forest Road 826 and follow signs to the campground.
Beautiful mountain lake. My dog loved splashing around. Would definitely go again!
Beautiful lake with beautiful views! Easy to get to and great for any water activities.
We had a fantastic time hiking around in the snow. It was actually really fantastic because I could kind of let my kiddo dillydally behind us as we hiked on ahead. Of course we kept him within sight, but he got to feel the freedom that he doesn’t in the city. He could go up and down the hills on the road or off and have his own little side adventure. The sun was shining bright and the snow was glittering like Swarovski crystals. I love this place and the peace, and adventure that brings me.
This has got to be one of the most beautiful places in America. The mountains are amazing! The lake is amazing! The fishing is Amazing! It can be a little crowded in the summer and the off season it’s really peaceful and quiet. If you go to the top of near the lodge there is the fantastic Scarp Ridge trail.
