Grand Mesa National Forest

Visiting the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre & Gunnison National Forests doesn’t require an entrance fee, and the forest stays open year-round for everything from scenic drives to hiking, fishing, paddling, and winter fun. What you may encounter are site-specific charges at developed places such as campgrounds and certain day-use areas, especially at locations operated by concessionaires during the summer season (roughly May through September). Fee amounts and what they include vary by site, and some concessionaire-managed locations set their own acceptance rules for national interagency passes.

The America the Beautiful, National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Pass series is widely accepted across federal lands for standard amenity (day-use) fees, including many U.S. Forest Service sites. These passes don’t cover expanded amenities such as camping, special tours, or other add-ons, and the pass holder needs to be present with photo ID when using the pass. Because some concessionaire-operated sites on the forest may not participate, it’s wise to confirm pass acceptance for your exact destination before you go. Holders of Senior or Access passes often receive discounts on certain expanded amenities where those discounts are offered.

If you prefer to plan in person, the Grand Mesa Visitor Center (near Cedaredge along Highway 65) operates seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through the last Sunday of September. Staff can help with trip questions, and the center sells recreation passes as well as forest product permits during its open season.

For overnight stays, many Grand Mesa campgrounds offer reservable sites; availability, services, and prices differ by location and can change with the season. Some activities require permits beyond ordinary recreation. Collecting forest products (such as mushrooms, transplants, posts and poles) generally requires a forest products permit, and certain activities, like commercial road use or specific special uses, have their own permit steps. Always check the GMUG permits pages or contact the appropriate ranger district to confirm requirements and designated collection areas before you gather or transport anything.

A quick planning tip: summer and fall weekends are popular on the Mesa. Reserve campsites early, confirm whether your destination honors interagency passes for day-use fees, and review the specific page for your site so there are no surprises at the kiosk, then relax and enjoy those mirror-bright lakes and cool, high-altitude air.