Notable Campgrounds
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- Reservations are only available for the South Rim Campground. North Rim and East Portal campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis only.
- Campground reservations open six months in advance on a rolling basis.
- Make sure to check the campsite details before booking. Only Loop B of the South Rim Campground offers electric sites and many sites have limits on RV length.
When to Go
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is open year-round, but sights and services are limited during the winter months. The best time to visit is May through mid-November when the South Rim Road, the North Rim, and all campgrounds are open. The park is busiest in summer, so visit in May, September, or October if you wish to avoid the crowds. In winter, only one loop of the South Rim Campground remains open, and much of the South Rim is only accessible by skis or snowshoes.
Know Before You Go
- Electric hookups are only available at the South Rim Campground.
- The East Portal Campground is for tents only. It’s located at the bottom of the canyon and although the road to the campground is paved, it’s windy and steep. Vehicles exceeding 22 feet in length are not allowed on the East Portal Road.
- Dogs are allowed at the South Rim Campground, but from early June through early August, dogs may not be walked around the campground (even on a leash) to prevent deer conflicts.
- Drinking water is not always available in the campgrounds. Come prepared with your own water.
- Temperatures can vary greatly between the rim and the bottom of the canyon. Bring layers and be prepared for wind if camping on the rim.
Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park
A dramatic vertical wilderness ideal for hikers, rock climbers, and sightseers.
Carved over millions of years by the Gunnison River winding its way through metamorphic rock, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is so narrow in spots that the sun barely touches it, making it appear black in the middle of the day. The canyon’s sheer vertical cliffs make a challenging playground for rock climbers, while expert kayakers will find technical whitewater down below. Scenic drives offer stellar views of the canyon, where hiking trails meander along the rim. Campers will find sites perched on both the south and north rims, and at the bottom of the canyon.
Carved over millions of years by the Gunnison River winding its way through metamorphic rock, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is so narrow in spots that the sun barely touches it, making it appear black in the middle of the day. The canyon’s sheer vertical cliffs make a challenging playground for rock climbers, while expert kayakers will find technical whitewater down below. Scenic drives offer stellar views of the canyon, where hiking trails meander along the rim. Campers will find sites perched on both the south and north rims, and at the bottom of the canyon.
Activities in the park
3 campgrounds in Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park
Located two miles downstream of Crystal Dam at the bottom of Black Canyon, East Portal Campground is shaded by box elder trees. Steep canyon walls define the landscape and rock climbing is only to be attempted by expert climbers. Also of note is the nearby Gunnison River Diversion Tunnel. When first constructed it was an engineering marvel and the Read more...
The South Rim Campground is going to make you feel like you just moved right into the canyon! Nicely shaded sites have lots of privacy, so you won’t feel like you’re on top of your neighbors. The Rim Rock Nature trail is right within the grounds and if you want to brush up on your canyon knowledge, walk to the amphitheatre just steps away for even Read more...
Breathe in some crisp morning air and brew yourself a cup o’ joe on the campfire, North Rim Campground beckons an early start! You’re just steps away from a scenic overlook with amazing canyon views when you stay here. And when you head back to camp there’s lots of shade underneath the Pinyon trees, lots of privacy and a place to hang your hammock Read more...
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Notable Campgrounds
Notable Campgrounds
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
When to Go
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is open year-round, but sights and services are limited during the winter months. The best time to visit is May through mid-November when the South Rim Road, the North Rim, and all campgrounds are open. The park is busiest in summer, so visit in May, September, or October if you wish to avoid the crowds. In winter, only one loop of the South Rim Campground remains open, and much of the South Rim is only accessible by skis or snowshoes.
Know Before You Go
Public campgrounds (book externally) —