The Pumphouse Recreation Area near Kremmling, Colorado is a popular put-in area for boats that includes the Gore Canyon Whitewater Park as well as the nearby Pumphouse Campground.
This spot is busy throughout the year. The busiest times include weekends, July and August, and every day between Memorial Day and September 30th of each year.
Many of those visiting come for fishing and floating trips, both of which are available privately and with commercial companies who take visitors up and down the river. These trips usually start early in the morning and last full or half days. If you’re considering a trip, be sure to book in advance, as spots fill up fast.
Water Activities
Both commercial and private boat trips are available throughout the season, and the Pumphouse makes it easy to launch. You’ll find:
- 1 rail boat launch
- 2 paved boat launches
Water activities now extend beyond the original Pumphouse Site into Gore Canyon. The Gore Canyon Whitewater Park opened in 2015 and is located within the Pumphouse. Activities at the Pumphouse, including Gore Canyon, include:
- Kayaking
- Rafting
- Fishing
- Stand-up paddleboarders
- Class II/III reach below Pumphouse Recreation Site, suitable for beginners
- Class V reach into Gore Canyon, suitable for advanced rafters
Camping
The campground is adjacent to the boat launches and provides visitors with plenty of amenities for day trips, weekends, or extended vacations.
- 4 vault toilets
- Parking available on-site
- Leashed pets are permitted
- 1 picnic shelter with 4 picnic tables
- The Overlook and Launch 3 are ADA Accessible
- 2 group campsites for up to 30 people per site
- 20 standard campsites with tables and fire grills for up to 10 people per site
Sites are on a first-come first-served basis. Reservations are recommended. All groups require advance notice. Camping is available seasonally, April – November, and is limited to 14 days max.
Getting There
Cruise along the Colorado River Headwaters National Scenic Byway, and you’ll discover the Pumphouse Recreation Site. It’s located on the Colorado River, about 14 miles downstream from Kremmling, close to Gore Canyon.
Admission Fees
From May 1 – October 31 there is a fee for all vehicles entering the Pumphouse Recreation Site. The fee is good at the Pumphouse, Radium, State Bridge, and Two Bridges. Season passes are available. Those with an America the Beautiful pass receive free day entry.
Camping fees differ for individual and group campsites. Seniors receive a discount on individual campsites only.
Details
Address: Co Hwy 106, Kremmling, CO 80459
Phone: 970-724-3000
Season: Year-round