How much does camping cost at Island Lake Campground?

Camping fees at Island Lake Campground range from $26-$190/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Island Lake Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Island Lake Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Island Lake Campground before I book?

Yes! Island Lake Campground has 6 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Island Lake Campground?

Island Lake Campground is open Peak season: June 27 - September 13.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Island Lake Campground?

Island Lake Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Island Lake Campground?

Fire policies at Island Lake Campground: Campfire rings are provided at each site, and fire safety practices are encouraged.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Island Lake Campground have?

Island Lake Campground has 39 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Island Lake Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Island Lake Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Island Lake Campground?

Island Lake Campground offers: Restrooms, Electrical Hookups. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Island Lake Campground?

Popular activities at Island Lake Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Climbing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Island Lake Campground

4.58

184 reviews

Forest Service Road 116, Delta, CO, 81416, USA

Great HikingFishingSummer Destination

Featured in:Boating Camping Colorado

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Compare availability across multiple campgrounds

Quick Facts

10,000 ft

Price

$26 - $190/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

39 campsites

Season

Open from June 18 to...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectric

Book on Recreation Resource Management of America Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Compare availability across multiple campgrounds

Quick Facts

10,000 ft

Price

$26 - $190/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

39 campsites

Season

Open from June 18 to...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectric

Book on Recreation Resource Management of America Official Website

Get Directions

Island Lake Campground

$26.00 - $190.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees range based on site type and season. Standard non-electric sites are $26, electric sites are $36, and group sites vary between $160 to $190 per...

Standard Site Fee$26.00

Hookup Site Fee$36.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$190.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

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150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

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Provider

(928) 537-8888camping@rrmofa.com

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What Campers Say

4.58

Top-Rated

Based on 184 reviews

61 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanlakesites

Some mention

noisemosquitoes

"Generally positive, with campers praising the natural beauty, clean facilities, and helpful camp hosts. Common issues include mosquitoes, limited cell service, and generator noise."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Forest Service Road 116, Delta, CO, 81416, USA

Island Lake Campground

Forest Service Road 116, Delta, CO, 81416, USA

Nearby places

Cedaredge: 15.7 miles, Delta: null

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies such as groceries, camping essentials, and fuel can be found in Cedaredge and Delta. Additional basic supplies may be available at nearby Mesa Lakes Lodge.

Driving directionsFrom Cedaredge, Colorado, take State Route 65 north for 15.7 miles to campground sign (Forest Route 116). Turn left at sign onto Route 116 (gravel) and go 1.4 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign into campground.

The campground is accessed via State Route 65, followed by a gravel road (Forest Route 116) for approximately 1.4 miles. The gravel road may pose challenges during inclement weather, but otherwise is manageable for most vehicles.

Best Time to Camp at Island Lake Campground

Fall delivers the best combination of light crowds, brilliant aspen color, and stable weather. September daytime highs commonly sit in the 50s to 60s, with nights near or below freezing. The cold reduces bugs and afternoon thunderstorm risk. Many alpine lakes hold healthy trout populations into early fall, and trails are quieter for wildlife viewing. Summer temperatures reach the 60s and 70s during the day with cool nights, but mosquitoes are heavy. Bring repellent and citronella candles.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Quieter season with changing foliage and good views; reviewers highlight peaceful fall visits.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season: June 27 - September 13.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from June 18 to September 30. Reservable from June 27 to September 13.
Current Alerts: No current alerts.

About Island Lake Campground

Island Lake Campground sits at 10,000 feet on Colorado's Grand Mesa, one of the world's largest flat-topped mountains. The campground has 39 sites. Tent, RV, and group. With fees ranging from $26 to $190 per night. Dense spruce forest covers most of the campground, while exposed ridge sites trade shade for panoramic views of the Grand Valley.

Island Lake Campground offers a variety of camping options, including sites for tent and RV camping, as well as group sites. Primitive camping and cabin lodging are not available.

Historical Significance

Indigenous peoples first carved trails across the mesa, followed by explorers and miners who pushed through the rugged terrain. The pathways visitors hike today trace routes used for centuries, connecting prehistoric travel corridors to frontier-era mining camps.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the best combination of light crowds, brilliant aspen color, and stable weather. September daytime highs commonly sit in the 50s to 60s, with nights near or below freezing. The cold reduces bugs and afternoon thunderstorm risk. Many alpine lakes hold healthy trout populations into early fall, and trails are quieter for wildlife viewing. Summer temperatures reach the 60s and 70s during the day with cool nights, but mosquitoes are heavy. Bring repellent and citronella candles.

ElevationAt 10,000 feet above sea level, Island Lake Campground offers a true high-altitude escape where the air is crisp, the views stretch endlessly, and summer's heat becomes a distant memory. This lofty perch provides natural air conditioning and serves as a launching pad for adventures among the clouds, where every breath of thin mountain air reminds you just how far you've climbed from the valley floor.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a forested plateau shaped by ancient volcanic activity and glacial forces. Thick spruce trees create natural shade and privacy across most sites, while select ridge locations open to views of the valley below and nearby alpine lakes. The mesa holds over 300 fishing lakes within reach of the campground. Deer commonly wander through in the morning, and elk bugles echo through the trees at dusk.

Geological RegionIsland Lake Campground crowns Colorado's magnificent Grand Mesa, a geological marvel rising 10,000 feet into the sky. This massive plateau, sculpted by ancient volcanic activity and glacial forces, creates a unique high-altitude ecosystem where rugged terrain gives way to gentle meadows and over 300 fishing lakes sparkle like nature's own constellation. The mesa stands as one of the world's largest flat-topped mountains, offering visitors a chance to explore a landscape that seems to touch the sky.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

11:00 AM

Check-out

1:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Specific rules for single-family and double/group sites.

Groups

Group site options include spacious areas like sites 32-35 and 18-20, catering to multiple tents or RVs. Descriptions highlight their suitability for events like family reunions.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground spreads across loops with significant tree cover. Sites are described as extra-large, with room for multiple tents and vehicles. Some double sites, including site 15, run smaller than advertised. Electric hookups are available at select sites.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or through the contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites are available from June 18 to June 26 and September 14 to September 30. Availability must be checked in person.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations made one day before arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.

AccessibilitySpecific accessibility features are not outlined. Some sites are noted to be spacious with flat areas suitable for RVs. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities was not highlighted.

Site SizeCampers describe sites as 'extra large,' with some being able to accommodate multiple tents and vehicles. Specific sizes for group and double sites are mentioned, but some double sites, such as site 15, were noted as undersized for advertised capacities.

PrivacySites vary in privacy, with inner sites offering ample shade and natural seclusion due to dense spruce trees. Sites on exposed ridges, like 32-35, provide panoramic views but less privacy.

Total Campsites39 campsites

Recommended SitesFor privacy and panoramic views, choose sites on the upper ridge. Mosquito deterrents are essential during summer months.

Need help booking Island Lake Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Electricity hookups

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Island Lake Campground offers a wide range of activities, catering to both adventure seekers and those looking for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and boating. The proximity to Island Lake and the surrounding trails ensures plenty of recreational options.

Hiking

Climbing

Fishing

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes are prevalent during summer. Bears may roam the area, so proper food storage is critical.

Active AlertsNo current alerts.

Fire PolicyCampfire rings are provided at each site, and fire safety practices are encouraged.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services are available in Delta, CO, which is approximately 15.7 miles away. This includes hospitals, police stations, and ranger services.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but overflowing dumpsters have been mentioned during peak times. Campers are advised to manage waste responsibly, especially due to bear activity in the area.

Water FeaturesIsland Lake is located just 0.10 miles from the campground.

Camp HostHosts are frequently praised for their helpfulness and cleanliness, although some reviews note they can be overly involved.

Weather at Island Lake Campground

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.6

184 reviews

Top-Rated

Island Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Generally positive, with campers praising the natural beauty, clean facilities, and helpful camp hosts. Common issues include mosquitoes, limited cell service, and generator noise.

Review Summaries

Based on 184 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers rave about the campground's cleanliness, helpful hosts, and proximity to Island Lake. The views from elevated sites are described as 'spectacular,' and wildlife sightings enhance the...

Based on 184 reviews

Common Concerns

The most common issues are mosquitoes, noise from generators, and infrequent campground road maintenance. Some group and double sites were undersized for advertised capacities.

Based on 184 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring mosquito repellent and citronella candles, especially during summer. Choose inner sites for shade and privacy, and elevated sites for better cell reception and views.

Based on 184 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight mosquitoes and generator noise. Fall reviews focus on quieter experiences and changing foliage. Winter activities like snowmobiling are noted but not reviewed in detail.

Based on 184 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The cleanest pit toilets we've ever encountered.' 2. 'Camp hosts were very helpful and keep everything spic and span.' 3. 'The views from the upper portion of the campground are spectacular!'

Based on 184 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 1: 'Had electric and was nice.' - Site 32-35: 'Exposed ridge overlooking the lake, less privacy but great views.' - Site 15: 'Undersized for a double site.'

Based on 184 reviews