Cutthroat Bay Group
03 reviewsCOUNTY ROAD 64, GRANBY, CO, 80446, USA
Cutthroat Bay Group
$147.00 - $147.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$147.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The group standard non-electric sites are charged at $147 per night during the peak season from May 16 to September 20. Rates include the use of facilities such as picnic shelters, fire rings, and tent pads. Extra vehicle fees of $8 per vehicle per night apply.
About this campground
Perched on the pristine northern shore of Lake Granby, Cutthroat Bay Group Campground beckons families and friends seeking unforgettable mountain gatherings. Two spacious group sites, each accommodating up to 30 adventurers, come thoughtfully equipped with covered picnic shelters, ample tables, inviting campfire circles, and level tent pads perfect for starlit nights. While the landscape tells a story of ecological change—pine beetle impacts have opened the canopy—this transformation gifts visitors with unobstructed, breathtaking vistas across Lake Granby's sapphire waters and the dramatic peaks beyond.
Cutthroat Bay Group Campground is tailored primarily for group camping. It does not support RV camping or offer individual tent or primitive camping options.
Historical SignificanceCutthroat Bay sits at the crossroads of adventure and heritage, where modern explorers follow in the footsteps of countless journeys past. The legendary East Shore Trail winds through the area, forming a vital link in the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail—a ribbon of pathway that has connected communities, ecosystems, and adventurers for generations. This intersection of trails speaks to the region's enduring importance as both a natural corridor and a testament to the American wilderness experience.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather paints dramatic scenes at Cutthroat Bay, where summer afternoons often crescendo with nature's percussion of thunderstorms rolling across the lake. These refreshing interludes punctuate warm days perfect for water activities and hiking. As seasons shift, the campground transforms—autumn brings crisp, dry conditions with moderate breezes that whisper through the open landscape, while early winter ushers in crystalline air and temperatures that plunge into truly frigid territory, creating a stark but beautiful alpine environment.
ElevationAt 8,300 feet above sea level, Cutthroat Bay delivers the authentic Colorado high-country experience. Here, the thin mountain air carries a crispness that invigorates the senses and reminds visitors they've entered a realm where eagles soar at eye level. Summer afternoons often bring nature's own light show, as thunderstorms build over the surrounding peaks before sweeping across the landscape—a spectacular reminder of the raw power and beauty found at this lofty elevation.
Natural Features and SceneryRising 8,300 feet into Colorado's azure sky, Cutthroat Bay presents a landscape both transformed and transcendent. Where once dense pine forests cast deep shadows, nature has carved out panoramic windows to showcase Lake Granby's vast expanse and the surrounding mountain amphitheater. This elevated perch offers front-row seats to some of Colorado's most spectacular scenery—rugged peaks reflected in pristine waters, alpine meadows dotting distant slopes, and skies that shift from brilliant blue to storm-darkened drama in moments.
Geological RegionNestled within the majestic Arapaho National Recreation Area in north central Colorado, Cutthroat Bay occupies a privileged position in one of the state's most geologically fascinating regions. This mountainous wonderland showcases the powerful forces that shaped the Rockies—ancient uplift, glacial carving, and ongoing erosion that created the spectacular basin now filled by Lake Granby. The surrounding landscape tells a story written in stone and forest, where resilient pine communities frame distant peaks and the lake's 40-mile shoreline creates countless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe two group campsites are accessible, and vault toilets support accessibility needs. However, additional features such as ramps or trails designed for disabled individuals are not explicitly listed.
Sites SizeEach group site accommodates up to 30 people and includes 12 tent pads.
Sites PrivacySites provide privacy within the group setup but lack natural shade due to tree removal resulting from pine beetle infestation.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor optimal access to Lake Granby, site B01 is highly recommended, especially for water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
Best CampsitesGroup campsites A01 and B01 are popular for their proximity to Lake Granby.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each group site accommodates up to 30 people.
Groups
Each group site accommodates up to 30 people and includes 12 tent pads, a picnic shelter, tables, and a campfire circle.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has a simple layout with two group sites equipped with shelters, tent pads, picnic tables, and fire circles.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 to September 20 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov and its contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites must be occupied within 26 hours of the beginning of the reservation; otherwise, the site will be available for first-come, first-served visitors.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made earlier than 14 days before arrival will incur a $10 cancellation fee plus the reservation fee. Late cancellations (within 14 days of check-in) will forfeit the first night's recreation use fee in addition to these fees.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cutthroat Bay Group Campground provides abundant recreational opportunities leveraging its proximity to Lake Granby. Activities include boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, biking, sailing, and wildlife viewing. The volleyball court and horseshoe pits enhance the on-site experience.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails within the Arapaho National Recreation Area are accessible, such as the East Shore Trail, AA Barn Loop Trail, Roaring Fork Trail, and Monarch Lake Trail. These include varied levels of difficulty and scenic views.Fishing
Fishing opportunities abound at Lake Granby, where anglers target kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, brown trout, mackinaw trout, and cutthroat trout. "National Fishing Week is held annually the first week of June," according to the official description.Swimming
Swimming is permitted in Lake Granby, although safety features like lifeguards are not mentioned.Biking
The nearby trails accommodate biking, with a mix of terrains suitable for different skill levels.Boating
Boating and sailing are popular activities on Lake Granby. The campground offers access to a nearby boat ramp and docking facilities. Boat inspections are required to prevent the spread of zebra and quagga mussels.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities exist both within the campground and in nearby Rocky Mountain National Park, where lush valleys and high-altitude peaks create great habitats.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not discussed in the source content.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding can be enjoyed at Lake Granby, as noted by users who praised "access to the lake for SUP, canoes, kayaks."Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless fire restrictions are in place due to weather conditions.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity requires campers to maintain clean campsites and proper food storage. Afternoon thunderstorms pose weather-related risks.
Active alertsNo active alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 83%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are available in the town of Granby, approximately 9 miles away, including hospitals and police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season runs annually from May 16 to September 20.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresSituated on the northern edge of Lake Granby, which offers boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention unfriendly campground hosts but praise the cleanliness of the bathrooms. Lake levels may vary, affecting water-based activities.
HostOne review notes that the campground host was not very friendly but ensured bathroom cleanliness.
Campground Map
COUNTY ROAD 64, GRANBY, CO, 80446, USA
Driving directionsFrom the intersection of U.S. Highways 40 and 34 in Granby, head north on Highway 34 for approximately 9 miles. Campground is on east side of the highway.
The campground is accessible via paved roads from Granby. Roads were described as easy to navigate, with clear signage leading to the campground.Nearby places
Granby: approximately 9 miles (15 min drive), Grand Lake: approximately 6 miles southeast (10 min drive).
Nearby supplies
Granby, located 9 miles away, offers grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel stations.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Cutthroat Bay Group has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Cutthroat Bay Group Campground are mixed, with positive feedback on cleanliness and lake access but some complaints about staff availability and lake conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean vault toilets and excellent lake access for non-motorized watercraft. "Loved every moment! Beautiful!" exclaimed one camper.
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users noted infrequent appearances by the camp host and variability in lake water levels: "The camp host didn't show up until we were about to leave and he wasn't very friendly," reported one.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest checking Lake Granby water levels before arrival to optimize boating and water sports experiences. "Access to the lake for SUP, canoes, kayaks was excellent because the water in Lake...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Campers report thunderstorms are typical during summer afternoons, and lake water levels may fluctuate based on spring runoff control.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The bathrooms were super clean!" said one reviewer. Another shared, "Access to the lake for SUP, canoes, kayaks was excellent because the water in Lake Granby was very high." "Loved every moment!...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site A01 received positive feedback for clean amenities. Site B01 was praised for proximity to lake access.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews highlighted the clean vault toilets but did not mention specific features for disabled campers.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. No additional comments on pet-friendly features were provided.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025