The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
In 1968 Congress established the Wild and Scenic Waters Act. Since then, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has identified over 2,700 miles of rivers in 81 locations to be maintained under the act. The program focuses on improving the environmental aspects and biodiversity of designated rivers and stream systems. The BLM works with other state and federal environmental agencies to preserve the waterways and adjacent land to benefit wildlife and public recreation.
The Cochetopa-Creek Rec-Site is a waterway managed by the BLM for recreational use. The four-mile stretch of the recreation area is renowned for its scenery and fishing opportunities. The nearby town of Gunnison provides services and several points of interest. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area are a short drive west of Cochetopa Creek. The region is rich in natural and historical adventures.
This well-known mountain biking center is located west of Gunnison and is considered one of Colorado's best. The primarily single-track trail is broken into 20 sub-trails of various difficulty levels. The trail climbs from 7,700 to 8,300 feet in elevation. The average grade is 5%, with some short climbs of 20%. While the trail provides spectacular views and is known for its flow, it is considered a challenging ride.
Length: 12 miles
Intensity: Moderate to Difficult
Located in the Powderhorn Wilderness portion of the Gunnison National Forest, this out-and-back trail passes through a variety of scenic Rocky Mountain scenery. An initial steep climb through a heavy stand of pine trees leads to pleasant prairies mixed with trees. Two small lakes and dispersed camping mark the trail's end.
Length: 9.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Cochetopa Creek Rec Site is known mainly as a fishing spot. The four-mile stretch of the stream along State Highway 114 is a prime example of prairie stream fishing. The area is open and easy to access from pullouts along the highway. Plenty of Brown and Rainbow Trout populate the stream.
Finding an area better suited to viewing wildlife than the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is difficult. There are 10 designated viewing sites on South Rim Road of the canyon and seven on North Rim Road. Wildlife ranges from various squirrels and rodents to mule deer, bighorn sheep, and an occasional elk. Bobcats, mountain lions, and black bears are common in the area. Be alert and know how to avoid dangerous animals. Bird-watchers can expect peregrine falcons, Cooper's hawks, and red-tailed hawks. Golden eagles are also common in the area.
Jorgensen Park is located on the southeast side of Gunnison, Colorado. This family-friendly city park has multiple shady picnic sites, restrooms, and trash facilities. The park also includes a BMX track, a skate park, play areas, a pond, and other entertainment. Restaurants, shopping, and other points of interest are nearby.
Red Bridge Campground is located along the Silver Tread National Scenic Byway and abuts the Gunnison River. The BLM RV camping site has seven camping spots appropriate for smaller rigs and tent camping. There are fire rings, picnic tables, trash service, and an ADA-accessible vault toilet. There is a $5 nightly fee.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is available at Cochetopa Creek Rec Site. Fifteen boondocking sites are easily accessed from Highway 114. Turnaround areas can accommodate rigs up to 35 feet. Cochetopa Creek is within walking distance of the camping area. Gunnison and other points of interest are a short drive away. There is a vault toilet but no other facilities, but it is free of charge. To find other camping options in the area, search online for "BLM camping near me."
The Cochetopa Creek Rec Site is a remote, minimally developed nature area. Access to the area is seasonal. Check with the Gunnison BLM Field Office for seasonal access and restrictions. Also, keep abreast of weather conditions in the region.
There is no water or other services at the site. Make sure you have plenty of water before heading to Cochetopa Creek. Always carry items to take care of trash. Trash must be kept indoors or in sealed containers to avoid drawing wildlife to your campsite. Weather can change suddenly in the mountains. Even in summer, bring a set of cold weather gear.
The Rocky Mountains are well known for their beautiful scenery and plentiful wildlife. Sites like Cochetopa Creek are excellent spots to experience nature. With the remoteness required for such an environment comes the necessity to be prepared for every contingency. Check out our BLM camping blog for tips and information before heading into the region.
Cochetopa Creek Rec Site is a sensitive natural habitat. Trash and damage caused by visitors can jeopardize the natural environment. Only use designated roads, trails, and campsites. It is incumbent upon everyone to maintain the pristine wilderness areas they visit. Research the BLM Outdoor Ethics guidelines to learn the steps you can take to avoid causing accidental damage by your activities.
From Gunnison, Colorado, head east on Highway 50. Turn south on Highway 114. The Cochetopa Creek Rec Site is on both sides of the road, beginning at mile marker 113. Bureau of Land Management campgrounds are on the east side of the creek just south of the bridge.
Address: Gunnison Field Office, 210 West Spencer Avenue, Gunnison, CO 81230
Ready to visit Cochetopa Creek Rec Site? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day of exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RV Share.
