If you think the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is breathtaking, wait until you see what’s waiting just down the road.
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Getting to Reed Reservoir from Black Canyon
From Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Reed Reservoir is about a 40-minute drive through Colorado’s rugged and scenic ranch country. Head west on U.S. Highway 50 toward Cimarron, then turn onto County Road 864. The drive is a mix of smooth pavement and graded dirt roads, so take it slow, especially after rain. As you get closer, the road narrows, the air cools, and you’ll see the tree line thicken—your sign you’re close to this tucked-away slice of wild camping heaven.
June 2025
We visited in June 2025—midweek—which meant fewer crowds. There were about ten wild camping spots available, a mix of pull-in sites for RVs and car parking with nearby tent spots. Unfortunately, a few spaces were occupied by unattended trailers for several days, limiting space for new arrivals. It’s a shame, as this is the kind of spot that should be enjoyed in the moment, not “saved” for later.
Wild Flowers
When we arrived, a steady wind greeted us, carrying with it the scent of blooming meadows. The hillsides were alive with wildflowers—purples, yellows, whites, and vibrant reds swaying in the breeze. We couldn’t resist photographing them from every angle (check our Instagram for the floral overload). It felt like nature’s confetti, scattered across the landscape.
Strawberries and a Colored Pencil
One morning, curiosity pulled us down the trail to Donnely Reservoir. From atop the dam, we discovered tiny wild strawberries peeking out from the grass. Not enough to fill a handful, but each was sweet enough to make me stop and savor. I have a soft spot for finding food on the trail—it feels like a gift. Just when I thought the surprises were over, we spotted a red colored pencil lying on the ground. Not quite edible, but still oddly delightful.
Mosquitos
The wind on arrival kept the mosquitoes at bay, but as soon as evening fell and the air stilled, they arrived in force. I highly recommend bringing mosquito-fighting tools such as Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Dodger Zone Repellent and the STUCK Pro AGO Mosquito Trap. Trust me—without them, you’ll spend more time swatting than stargazing.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Reed Reservoir’s calm waters make it a lovely spot for SUP boarding—until you meet its hidden hazards. While paddling, I became lost in the rhythm of the trees swaying in the wind and the cheerful songs of the birds. Then—bam!—I smacked into a submerged rock and nearly toppled over. Laughing at myself, I switched to sitting and spotted even more lurking rocks below the murky surface. Judging from the shoreline plant line, the water level was low; perhaps when it’s higher, these hazards hide. Either way, keep your eyes ahead—it’s worth avoiding another “rocky” surprise.
Stream Walks
At the point where the stream feeds into the reservoir, anglers cast their lines into the cool water. We decided to wander upstream, enjoying the crisp air and soft trickle of water over stones. The peace was nearly perfect—until we paused too long and the mosquitoes found us. Still, the walk was refreshing and worth the risk of a bite or two.
Reed Reservoir Boondocking
For campers seeking peace, Reed Reservoir delivers. Our fellow campers were quiet—no late-night music, no roaring generators—just the sounds of the forest. If it weren’t for the mosquitoes, we would have lingered much longer. Even with the bug battles, this was one of the most serene camping experiences of the summer.
Planning to explore nearby? Don’t miss our Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park blog (Click here) for insider tips, breathtaking photos, and the answers to questions every first-time visitor asks.
