- Gunnison National Forest
The best camping in Gunnison National Forest, CO
96% (37)
Venture into the wild mountain wilderness of western Colorado.
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Gunnison National Forest
Hoskin’s Crested Butte Place
Hoskin’s Crested Butte Place
100%
(10)
14mi from Gunnison National Forest · 1 site · RV
A lovely flat spot alongside our residential garage for a van, small RV, small trailer, teardrop or truck camper. Electric and water. No available bathroom. This option is especially great since van/rv/trailer camping is not allowed on public streets or in public parking lots in the Town of Crested Butte. (Our spot is a great way to avoid the Marshal knocking on your window at 11 PM and asking you to move on. Yes it happens because we know the officers.). This is a great way to be in town and walk or bike everywhere. Trailers must back in and detach.
Gorgeous views, easy dog walks and a recreation path right nearby. Walking distance to downtown Crested Butte. Bikable to some of the best mountain biking in the USA. Available year-round, even in the deep snow. Nordic skiing right outside your door. Public transit nearby so you can get settled and leave your van/camper without all the pack up, unpack, leveling process. Local public transportation is great!
Quiet dog-friendly neighborhood of locals. Sustainable! (Power is photovoltaic solar. 20 Amp. Not so well suited to AC units or electric heat) Trash, compost, recycling and potable water are available on site. Two blocks away is the CB dump station for sewer and non-potable/potable water except in winter months.
A great spot to support evening and late night arrivals to avoid driving all over the backcountry looking for a dispersed spot during busy times. Worry free!
Easy walking distance to the Crested Butte Center for the Arts, Alpenglow concerts (Mondays in summer), Music on the Mountain (Wednesdays in summer), Public House (music venue), wedding venues and other music venues, bars and nightlife.
1/2 a block from the Slate River and paddleboarding put-in. 1 block from Rainbow Park and playgrounds, soccer fields, etc. 2 blocks from the public/ski bus.
Reliable high speed internet. Please note! This is a relatively small site in town, not a spacious farm/acreage type of site or a campground. Gunnison County has a lot of dispersed camping available outside of town so this is ideal for vans and campers that have their own bathroom, who want to camp within town limits and be able to walk/bike everywhere year round.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$55
/ night
Double Rose Ranch
Double Rose Ranch
98%
(24)
20mi from Gunnison National Forest · 5 sites · Tents
The only and closest Hipcamp under the steady majesty of Needlerock! You need to arrive in daylight! This area was Ute land first and Needlerock was ceremonial ground. We have lots of large fields (110 acres) A river running through to dip into and secluded areas to be at one with the magical beauty here. Once a working sheep ranch we are now taking time to dream into this magical place and it’s next incarnation. Come pitch a tent or there are a couple spots to car camp and share in this ranch paradise. We limit each camping spot to two adults or a family with children are fine. Please do not come with 4+ people and one tent. Book accordingly and respectfully. There are mosquitos down by the creek at certain times in the summer in the evening, so we recommend bringing some bug spray. There is a fridge in the barn to keep small things cold and tables to use to sit and enjoy the rustic lux surroundings. We provide a porta potty so please only #1 (pee) outdoors. The land is big although we have 7 camping spots listed, and they are mowed all summer, there is plenty of room to usually be able to choose your own exact spot. This is a cut above basic camping with some nice amenities! We have very friendly dogs, horses and goats. The dogs are out and about and will want to greet you and possible hang out a little. It’s their home too:) We often have a friends yaks grazing here and the next door neighbors cows are always there.
Potable water
Picnic table
from
$50
/ night
Gunnison Glamping @ Blue Bear Ranch
Gunnison Glamping @ Blue Bear Ranch
100%
(14)
20mi from Gunnison National Forest · 1 site · Lodging
Take advantage of this private glamping tent on an acre between Gunnison and Almont, CO and forget trying to find a spot in nearby campgrounds or dispersed camp sites!
The entrance is right off of highway 135, 8 miles north of Gunnison. Come down the driveway and take a right into the field. The tent is nestled against the cottonwoods far enough away from the main house for complete privacy.
Relax on the property or use it as your adventure base camp. Less than a mile from Gunnison river access, National Forest access in hunting units 54 and 55. Not far from units 66 and 67. Almont is a 2 minute drive, Gunnison is about 10 minutes away and Crested Butte is about 20 minutes from the property.
The queen size bed will be made (additional cots can be added with advance notice) and the kitchen has a two burner propane camp stove, tea pot, pots, pans, plates, bowls, cups, mugs, and utensils. It is stocked with drinking water, oil, S&P, coffee, tea, marshmallows and fresh eggs from our chickens will be provided daily.
The tent is equipped with a wood burning stove and stocked with firewood. Additional firewood can be purchased. Kindling and fire starters are also available at no charge- let us do the hard work - you RELAX! Electricity is provided, so you can charge your phone or whatever else you need.
Enjoy your private fire pit, chill in the rocking camping chairs, or walk across the field to the main house and enjoy the hot tub on the deck. You may spot our horse "Sassy" or some of our chickens roaming around.
A porta potty is situated near (but not too near) the tent for your convenience. Towels and wash cloths are also provided.
Toilets
Campfires
Hot Tub
from
$90
/ night
Marble Mountain Yurt
Marble Mountain Yurt
100%
(131)
21mi from Gunnison National Forest · 1 site · Lodging
Enjoy hut-style glamping at its finest in our modern mountain yurt. Bask in the sun and take in the stunning panoramic mountain views on our one-acre property above the quirky town of Marble, CO. With immediate access to public lands and some of the best backcountry skiing, hiking, biking, lakes, rivers, and BBQ in Colorado, there is truly something for everyone to love!
The heated bathhouse features a toilet and foot pump sink.
Purified drinking water is available from May - September.
You must bring your own water from October - April.
The kitchen features an oven/range and basic cooking and serving supplies. There is no refrigerator, so please bring your own cooler and ice.
Campfires are allowed, but it is your responsibility to determine if there is a fire ban in effect. Firewood may be available or dead wood can be collected on the property. There is a picnic table nestled in the scrub oaks. We only rent one side and the entire property is private to you!
We do have neighbors, but the property is pretty well tucked away. You may see the occasional vehicle or hiker on the road or hear someone doing some yard work, but it is generally very quiet and secluded at the yurt.
Our neighbors have chosen to live in Marble for its privacy and tranquillity. Please show them respect by keeping the noise down and leaving them be.
If you have questions or need help, call us from the yurt landline.
Winter camping experience/equipment and a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle with severe snow-rated tires and chains may be required to access the yurt Oct-April. During large snow events, driving to the yurt may be impossible in any vehicle. Skiing to the yurt may be an option Dec - Feb. Gear sleds are available at the yurt for your use.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$220
/ night
Secluded Property Just Out of Town
Secluded Property Just Out of Town
97%
(18)
21mi from Gunnison National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
We have a lovely, shady, and quiet property about a mile outside of Paonia- just a 20 minute walk, or a few minutes bike ride into town. The camping spot is shaded and secluded with hookups on site, as well as a flush toilet and sink in rustic out house and is about 150 feet from the main house. There are a lot of birds, squirrels, chipmunks, and foxes around, and we do our best to respect them!
The Entrance has been widened substantially to improve backing in and a deck,
flushing toilet and sink have been added to the sight
You can relax on the deck of the Dry Gulch Saloon mockup, or soak in one of the cool tubs while enjoying the serenity.
Bathroom on site. Pets are welcome as long as they are well behaved and diligently picked up after :)
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Sage View Ranch
Sage View Ranch
98%
(220)
23mi from Gunnison National Forest · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
After traveling the US in our motorhome for almost 5 years my husband Scott and I know the value of a smiling face and a helping hand after a day (or week) of travel. Exploring and experiencing this amazing country, its diversity and incredible people enhanced our lives in so many ways.
In mid 2017 we found out our first grandchild was on the way. Long story short we parked the RV and parked ourselves here in Paonia, CO. In December of that year, we moved onto this amazing property full time and started the long list of fix ups (the list is still long). lol
We are blessed to have our two adult sons and (aforementioned) grandson living on this property with us. Our philosophy is to live in the moment as the present is the gift. Whether enjoying a sunrise or a sunset or anytime in between you’ll likely find us outside most days.
In that, we love all that nature has to offer including fresh fruits and veggies, animals, beauty and fragrances.
Sage View Ranch is being created with the desire to have people experience the natural rustic beauty and magic of Paonia.
Scott and I look forward to meeting you :)
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Tater's Black Canyon Campground
Tater's Black Canyon Campground
97%
(281)
23mi from Gunnison National Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
North Rim of Black Canyon National Park has re-opened. Hot showers and toilets! Tater's was voted a 2024 top runner up as 'Best Hipcamp in Colorado'. 35 acres of bliss shared with 2 humans, 2 dogs, 2 cats, 3 horses and 4 chickens [Eggs may be available upon request]. Black Canyon National Park is a short drive to the west. Conveniently located to Crawford and the North Fork Valley to wineries, music fests and local eateries.
Incredible views and dark skies make the perfect respite for just hanging out, climbing in the Black, foodie time in the North Fork Valley or pretty much whatever you like to do. Hunters are welcome as this is a perfect base camp to Unit 63.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$55
/ night
Rain Crow Farm
Rain Crow Farm
95%
(10)
24mi from Gunnison National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Rain Crow Farm is a small, organic farm located in the pristine North Fork Valley on Colorado’s Western Slope. The campsites here are right along the river, surrounded by tall cottonwoods and stunning Mountain View’s. There is a shallow swimming hole and plenty of riverbank hangout spots. The farm is walking distance from Paonia. Campers who stay with us with have access to produce from the farm, including eggs, goat milk, and loads of fresh salad greens. Wake up to sound of birds and rivers’ flow.
Because of our diverse livestock, we generally do not allow dogs.
The camp sites are tucked deep within our farm, so we kindly ask that all campers arrive in the daylight in order to get situated. Thank you!
Potable water
Picnic table
from
$30
/ night
Zenzen Gardens
Zenzen Gardens
95%
(220)
25mi from Gunnison National Forest · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Zenzen Gardens is now the official tasting room for Alfred Eames Cellars, a local winery located 3 miles south of Paonia. Come enjoy some local wines in the garden with a beautiful mountain view. Our tasting room is open May 1st to November 1st from 12 PM - 6 PM.
We will be hosting several Farm to Table Dinners along with a Summer Concert Series, Water Lantern Festival and Masquerade.
There is veranda seating to enjoy the beautiful flower gardens and where you can access the internet. Wine tastings are offered daily 12pm-6pm. The veranda is open until 8pm.
At the turn of the century, this farm was a dairy operation with its huge old red barn built in the 1880's. The property is pastoral, relaxing, rural and beautiful! It is surrounded by hay and alfalfa fields. It is very quiet with wide open spaces. You might see deer, fox, Golden Eagles, Bald Eagles, Red Tail Hawks and Red Wing Blackbirds, just to name a few.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven
Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven
97%
(487)
25mi from Gunnison National Forest · 7 sites · Lodging
Formerly known as the North Fork Tipi Haven, this 22 acres is now home to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven. This property offers spectacular views, a large grass field for activities and games, a short hike up Mandala Mountain (behind the solar panels), and relaxion by Love Gulch in the many hammocks. Two mile drive from Big B's and even closer to the nearest winery (Storm Cellar). Tipi camping offers an authentic camping experience, complete with possible bugs and other critters one would expect to find in nature.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$65
/ night
Arrowhead Getaway
Arrowhead Getaway
90%
(21)
32mi from Gunnison National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Come to a private camping space with great scenery and access to lakes. This space provides access to water, a tent, fire pit/grill with an additional tent pad and rv pad. There is also an additional shower and bathroom tent on the premise. Arrowhead lodge has live entertainment throughout the summer as well as dining and additional housing if needed.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Darbywoods RV Mountain Lot
Darbywoods RV Mountain Lot
98%
(28)
32mi from Gunnison National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
This is a one acre lot for just one RV located at 9500ft in the Colorado mountains between Montrose and Gunnison. Located half way between and six miles up the Alpine Plateau road this area is surrounded by BLM land and National Forest. The lot is located with full hook ups and wifi in a neighborhood with cabins and rv lots. Please ask about deep discounts for long term rentals.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$59
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
N
Nancy
November 2025
With kids
We love the yurt! It is a wonderful get-away. Comfortable and clean. Amazing views. Evan and Meg are helpful and communicate clearly.
See more
J
Jerry
October 2025
Tent
It was good. I needed a place last minute and it was easy to book and find. Left first thing.
See more
D
David
October 2025
Group trip
We had an absolute blast with Cindie! the yurts were so nice, Cindie was so attentive and always had great reccs for what to do/eat in town. The wine tasting was stellar. Zen Zen gardens is a paonia gem and we hope this becomes a landmark for the community. By far the most fun we’ve had in a while
See more
Diana
October 2025
2 nights at Marble Mountain Yurt
The yurt was beautiful and comfortable. The outhouse was very clean as well.
See more
Christina
October 2025
1 night at Zenzen Gardens
We enjoyed ZenZen Gardens so much that we stayed two extra nights! Lovely garden and spectacular scenery. We enjoyed sipping wine from the terrace in the afternoons. Comfy and very clean. We definitely hope to return!
See more
Michael
October 2025
16 ft car
With pets
Quiet, peaceful and a perfect spot for a quick overnighter. Super clean restrooms with a hot shower! Would definitely recommend this place!
See more
N
Nicole
October 2025
24 ft campervan
Perfect place to park overnight in Crested Butte! Close proximity to town. Thanks : )
See more
S
Samuel
October 2025
4 nights at Tongue Creek Ranch
Very hospitable and welcoming. Beautiful location and quiet. Will be back!
See more
K
Kristen
October 2025
22 ft travel trailer
With kids
Beautiful area. Tricky to back into the spot and wish it was more level. Thanks for the firewood.
See more
K
Katie
October 2025
Tent
I thoroughly enjoyed camping on this land!! Very quiet, the two farm dogs are beautiful and friendly. I also greatly appreciated the clean bathroom facilities. Lovely space, I’d love to return!!
See more
E
Elizabeth
October 2025
1 night at Gunnison Glamping @ Blue Bear Ranch
Had a great stay! The hosts were lovely and the accommodations were fantastic for a chilly evening.
See moreB
Brian
October 2025
Tent
It was pretty close to perfect experience. The bathrooms and showers were clean, heated and private. The tent sites were flat. The location was about a 30 minute drive to Ouray, CO and Black Canyon Gunnison. The location was also 8 minutes to downtown Montrose which had every store you would want. The host Audrey was friendly. The cost was reasonable.
See more
C
Catherine
October 2025
Tent
Lovely stay! Beautiful view. Quiet. Bathhouse terrific. Only sad that Tater didn’t visit. 😹. Highly recommend.
See moreA
Ashley
October 2025
22 ft campervan
With pets
Great little spot to stop for the night. Would definitely stay again.
See more
J
Joey
October 2025
Tent
Great scenic spot with nice full bathrooms. Great for a weekend getaway to enjoy the beautiful mountains.
See more
K
Kerry
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Such an incredible spot! The leaves were turning and it was the perfect place for peeping. Unexpected, there’s a lodge nearby that serves delicious food. Overall, such a wonderful stay. Would stay here again hands down!
See more
L
Lindsay
October 2025
28 ft travel trailer
Fantastic as always. Private, beautiful, quiet, and close to loads of adventure.
See moreT
Tori
October 2025
20 ft campervan
We loved staying at Ren’s place! It was super easy to pull in and had convenient hook ups for water and electric. We loved the proximity to town too. It was only a short walk to the main strip of restaurants. Would definitely stay again!
See more
R
Richard
October 2025
28 ft Class C
With pets
Great hospitality, great vibe, great beer, great music, can’t wait to go back.
See moreA
Alfred
October 2025
22 ft campervan
With pets
Fantastic location, easy walk to town and right on the Rec path. We will definitely be back next time we are in Crested Butte
See moreThe best camping in Gunnison National Forest, CO guide
Overview
About
Located in western Colorado, the co-managed Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests come together to create a three-million acre natural playground with 56 designated campgrounds, 3,000 miles of trails, and endless peaks and pines. Enjoy views of the picturesque Collegiate Peaks, fish for trout and salmon in pristine lakes, or hit the waters for thrilling whitewater adventures or serene paddling. Camping opportunities are extensive and vary greatly, with options ranging from off-grid dispersed camping to campgrounds with basic amenities, suitable for RVs. No matter where you stay, scenic views are practically guaranteed in this grand national forest.
Notable campgrounds
- Best for RV camping: One Mile Campground has some electric hookups, large sites, accessible roads, and river access, making it a good choice for RVs.
- Best for lake lovers: Some sites at Lake Irwin Campground have lake views, but the ones without are also notable for stunning views of ponds, peaks, and meadows.
- Best for off-grid camping: The Soap Creek Dispersed Camping area earns hike marks for its views of granite outcroppings and open camping amid a wildflower-filled meadow.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Not all campgrounds offer reservable sites. Check Recreation.gov to see which campgrounds offer reservations.
- For reservable sites, reservations may be made online at Recreation.gov or by phone at 1-877-444-6777.
- Many sites and campgrounds are first-come, first-served.
- Reservations open on a six-month rolling basis and may be necessary for weekends and holidays, especially during the summer season.
- Many campgrounds close for the off season, which runs from October through mid-May.
When to go
Is this the wildflower capital of Colorado? Some say so, and this annual cascade of color begins in late spring. Summer is a popular time to camp and hike in the Gunnison National Forest, as temperatures are significantly cooler in high elevations and in the shaded forests. Fall is also popular, especially when the aspens turn gold in September and October. Higher elevation areas may have freezing temperatures and precip even in fall, so prepare accordingly. Camping is limited in winter due to heavy snows, which may persist through early spring.
Know before you go
- Amenities vary greatly across campgrounds. You may find electric hookups, vault toilets, potable water, designated camping pads, and more. Or, you may have no onsite amenities. Check the U.S. Forest Service and Recreation.gov websites for full details.
- This area is bear country. Plan ahead to ensure proper storage of food and scented items.
- Cell signals may be limited, especially in remote or mountainous areas.
- Campgrounds and camping areas vary greatly in elevation. Check online to find the elevation and prepare for varying conditions.
96%
37 ratings · 10 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
Tent · With pets ·
Big Blue Campground
Awesome clean camp
A
A C.
6 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
With pets ·
Big Blue Campground
Very beautiful, clean and well maintained
A
Ajcook
2 years on Hipcamp
Not recommend
· June 2020
This was my worst experience up in Taylor canyon in 20 plus years of camping in Taylor Park. I was charged double with having a disability pass. The host has no clue about regs. Besides never being around except at night when she is done running around. I will never camp there again.
Dean M.
5 years on Hipcamp
January 2020
This was a FREE and beautiful campground (which also takes donations) that have the sweetest campground hosts. They stay in the cabin in front to greet, watch over everything, and are super helpful/knowledgeable if you need it. It was comforting to know there was someone else out there too since we were the only ones camping at the time, given its isolation. Its the furthest campground so there's no noise traffic, light pollution, and not very many people, or at least when we went. Our site had bear and moose track marks so that was kinda cool, just remember to lock up your food so they don't get too close! The night sky is also a must see! Overall was a great experience, will be back again soon. :-)
Katie U.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2018
Any vehicle can make it to this campground. Depending on weather it can be a big rough, but nothing major. I’ve driven it with my Ford Transit cargo van and a Prius quite easily. Different types of sites depending on if you want to be by the water or not. Clean sites, beautiful area, close to Crested Butte. No water, so be sure to pack in all you need. No bear vaults so take your own or store your food in a hardtop vehicle. Brush up on bear safety, which goes without saying throughout CO!
E
Erica E.
2 reviews
Recommends
· April 2018
Gunnison and Chaffee counties have my heart! This campground wax so peaceful and gorgeous. Lots of wildlife crossed our paths during the two days we spent here to recharge before a multi-day hiking trip. You can’t go wrong with any area in the Gunnison National Forest. Be sure to hit Uncompahgre, San Isabel, San Juan, Rio Grande, Black Canyon, and Arapaho as well! Each year I circle through all the National Forests in CO because, well, why not? It’s the most wonderful and magical place for me to work remotely.
E
Erica E.
2 reviews
Recommends
· April 2018
Love this campground and the entire Sawatch area! Busy ATV area year round so be on the lookout if you’re traveling by foot. The views are to die for and never get old. Site was clean. Campground was very busy when we visited in the summer, spring, and fall. As long as you’re prepared for the noise, you’ll love it!
E
Erica E.
2 reviews
July 2017
This is one of the best places I have camped! The perfect site for a tent is right across from the campground host, as there is an elevated tent pad shrouded by shrubs almost completely blocking the view of the tent from the road. The star gazing at night is incredible, so ask the campground host, Timothy what he thinks of the weather will do, as there is no service in the area to check. Timothy is engaged and helpful. There is a bear cage in the campground, but he said the bear hasn't been seen in camp this year. Proper food storage is essential for keeping it that way. The bathrooms are vault toilets and clean. There are lots of birds including hummingbirds in camp. Stay here while you prepare to go over Kebler Pass to Crested Butte.
Amanda A.
2 reviews
Recommends
· March 2017
We tent camped here. This is a beautiful site across a quiet street from the Taylor River. Most of the river within walking distance is private. The sites are roomy and feel private. Most have fire rings.
M
Mj S.
8 years on Hipcamp
August 2016
Mirror lake is gorgeous. And...it is chock full of ATVs which arrive there on the longest, roughest three mile boulder strewn road I've been on in years. The nearby trails are intended for ATVs so plan on jumping off the trail when you hear them coming. It's great that there's a place that's intended for this kind of outdoor pursuit, but if that's not your thing, you may feel a bit overrun.
K
Kim J.
9 years on Hipcamp