Rifle Gap State Park
00 review5775 Highway 325, Rifle, Colorado, 81650, United States
Rifle Gap State Park
$28.00 - $41.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$41.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard campsite fees start at $28 per night, with premium sites costing up to $41 per night. Additionally, there is a required day-use fee of $9 per vehicle, and showers are coin-operated with a fee of $1 for 4 minutes.
About this campground
Nestled in Colorado's rugged northwest, Rifle Gap State Park unfolds across 1,305 pristine acres where adventure seekers discover their perfect outdoor playground. At its heart lies a sparkling 350-acre reservoir that beckons water enthusiasts from dawn to dusk. Whether you're descending into crystal-clear depths with scuba gear, carving wake patterns behind a speedboat, or casting a line from peaceful shores, this aquatic wonderland delivers year-round thrills. The park's well-appointed campsites stretch along the northern shoreline, welcoming everything from backpacking tents to luxury RVs, each offering front-row seats to Colorado's natural theater.
Rifle Gap State Park accommodates a variety of camping types, including tent, RV, and group camping. Primitive sites are available for tents, and RV spots offer full hookups.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic personality of Colorado's changing seasons at Rifle Gap. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland where hardy anglers drill through ice and cross-country skiers glide across snow-dusted trails. As spring melts into summer, the park awakens with warm, sun-drenched days perfect for diving into refreshing waters or lounging lakeside. The dry mountain air and reliable sunshine create ideal conditions for those long summer adventures that stretch well past sunset.
ElevationPerched at Colorado's distinctive high-country elevation, the park offers that quintessential thin-air experience where the sky seems impossibly blue and the stars shine with exceptional clarity.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by dramatic mountain peaks that frame every sunrise and sunset, Rifle Gap's centerpiece reservoir mirrors the sky in its pristine waters. The landscape tells a story of ancient geological forces, where rugged cliffs meet gentle shorelines and native grasses sway in mountain breezes. Wildlife thrives in this protected haven - don't be surprised when curious deer wander through your campsite at dusk, or when you spot eagles soaring overhead, riding the thermals that rise from sun-warmed canyon walls.
Geological RegionSet within Colorado's spectacular Northwest Region, Rifle Gap showcases the raw beauty of high desert meeting mountain majesty. This semi-arid landscape, carved by millennia of wind and water, creates a unique ecosystem where sagebrush-covered hills give way to cool reservoir waters. The surrounding mountainous terrain stands as a testament to the powerful geological forces that shaped the American West, offering visitors a chance to camp amidst some of Colorado's most striking natural architecture.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA features are explicitly mentioned, ensuring accessibility for disabled visitors.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with full hookups and pull-through pads. One review highlights a 'huge and clean site' while another mentions 'spacious for RVs.'
Sites PrivacySites provide ample privacy due to spacing and covered picnic tables ('spacious RV sites,' 'privacy ensured').
Total Campsites89 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with covered picnic tables for shade and convenience. Primitive sites are recommended for a quiet camping experience, while Cedar Loop offers elevated views.
Best CampsitesSite 69 in Cedar Loop is highly recommended for its elevated views and relative privacy. Lakeview primitive campsites are noted for their quiet and private ambiance.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Campers may not stay for more than 14 nights in any 28-day period at a single park.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Information not explicitly provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features multiple loops with both primitive and full-hookup sites. Campsites are spread along the reservoir's northern shore.
Open and Closed SeasonRifle Gap State Park operates year-round; however, certain facilities such as water access may be seasonally restricted.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through www.cpwshop.com or by calling 1-800-244-5613.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability is mentioned in reviews, but details are not explicitly stated in authoritative sources.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made 28 or more days prior to arrival will forfeit 25% of the fee for one day. Cancellations made 8-27 days prior to arrival will forfeit 50%, while cancellations within 7 days or less will forfeit 100%. Fees for nights already passed are non-refundable. Reservation changes may also incur penalties ranging from 10% to 20% of one day's fee, depending on timing.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
WiFi
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Rifle Gap State Park offers diverse recreational opportunities. Official sources emphasize water-based activities such as scuba diving, boating, water skiing, and fishing in the reservoir. User reviews confirm these activities ('Fishing the reservoir was great,' 'Rifle Gap is great for kayaking'). Hiking trails are available but limited around the lake, and users recommend nearby Rifle Falls for more scenic trails ('Check out Rifle Falls'). Hunting and wildlife watching are additional options ('Pretty sure everyone was celebrating hunting season'). Winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing are noted in official descriptions, affirming year-round usability.
Hiking
Limited hiking trails are available at Rifle Gap; users suggest exploring nearby Harvey Gap and Rifle Falls for better hiking options ('Rifle Falls right up the road,' 'no hiking trail at the lake').Fishing
Fishing is popular within the reservoir, with users consistently highlighting its quality ('Fishing the reservoir was great,' 'Many people were fishing').Swimming
Swimming is facilitated through a designated beach area, noted for cleanliness and shaded picnic tables ('Beach available,' 'covered seating and picnic tables').Biking
Biking is possible within parts of the park, with paved roads making it convenient ('roads paved; electric bike fun').Boating
Boating options include a launch ramp; however, water levels vary. Some users report closures ('Boat ramp was closed,' 'Beautiful lake for SUPs').Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highlighted, with common encounters including deer ('Doe and fawn spotted,' 'wildlife watching opportunities').Beach activities
Beach-related activities like picnicking and swimming are supported. Users note shaded picnic tables and clean water ('Nice beach area with picnic tables and fire pits').Cultural and Educational Programs
Informative programs are available through the ranger station, with visitors praising staff helpfulness ('Rangers provided great local information').Winter Activities
Winter recreation includes ice fishing and cross-country skiing, per official descriptions.Water Sports
Scuba diving, water skiing, and SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) are available, per both official sources and user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted, but seasonal bans may be in place depending on fire risks.
- Quiet hours are Nightly quiet hours are not explicitly stated in the sources.
Hazards
General hazardsWater levels in the reservoir fluctuate, sometimes affecting boating and swimming access. Wildlife like deer may roam the campsites, and some reviews mention issues with muddy or polluted shorelines.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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 located in Rifle, including medical facilities and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season typically spans summer months, though exact dates are not provided.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available and well-maintained, with trash cans provided at picnic sites. Recycling options are unspecified.
Proximity to water featuresCampsites are located along the northern shore of a 350-acre reservoir, suitable for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include fluctuating water levels, additional fees for amenities like showers, and limited cell service throughout the park.
HostCamp hosts are mentioned frequently in reviews as being friendly and helpful.
Campground Map
5775 Highway 325, Rifle, Colorado, 81650, United States
Driving directionsTake I-70 to the Rifle exchange, then proceed north on Hwy 13. Go through Rifle and continue for 3 miles before taking State Hwy 325 for 6 miles.
The park is accessible via paved roads, though it is located 6 miles off State Hwy 325. Seasonal conditions may affect road accessibility, particularly in winter.Nearby places
Rifle (approx. 10 miles), Glenwood Springs (approx. 30 miles), Grand Junction (approx. 65 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Rifle, approximately 10 miles from the park.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Rifle Gap State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently praise Rifle Gap for its cleanliness, scenic views, and well-maintained facilities. Complaints include high fees and unreliable showers.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, spacious sites, friendly staff, and diverse activities ('Hosts were great,' 'Beautiful place to camp').
Common Concerns
High camping fees, inconsistent WiFi, and occasional issues with coin-operated showers ('Showers require payment,' 'Internet requires password').
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend exploring nearby Rifle Falls, bringing water shoes for better beach comfort, and planning a star-gazing trip during meteor showers ('Pinion loop great for gazing').
Seasonal Insights
Summer sees peak activity with boating, fishing, and water sports, while winter offers ice fishing and skiing opportunities. Spring and fall provide a quieter camping experience.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Hot showers are available, but coin-operated systems can fail.' 2. 'Covered picnic tables are a great feature.' 3. 'Lake water looked like ocean water, very colorful and stunning.'
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 69 in Cedar Loop praised for privacy and wildlife sightings ('Doe and fawn spotted'). Lakeview campsites receive high marks for views ('Stayed at site 28 with incredible views').
Accessibility Features
ADA features noted but reviews lack detailed insights on accessibility.
Pet-Friendly Features
Park is dog-friendly, with poo bag stations provided ('Multiple poo-bag stations available').
Last updated August 10, 2025