Camping near Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

100% (17 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Black Canyon adventure.

A dramatic vertical wilderness ideal for hikers, rock climbers, and sightseers.

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Community favorites near Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

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South Rim Campground

57 sites · RVs, Tents In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Beautiful riverside camping down at the bottom of Black Canyon.

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East Portal Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

North Rim Campground

13 sites · RVs, Tents In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

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$12

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Top-rated campgrounds near Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

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Tater's Black Canyon Campground

2 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Crawford, CO

Coming soon! Hot showers and toilets will be available end of May. 35 acres of mountain bliss shared with 2 humans, 2 dogs, 2 cats, 3 horses and 5 chickens. Eggs may be available upon request. 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.

Booked 12 times

Oasis RV Resort & Cottages

71 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Gunnison, CO

Oasis RV Resort & Cottages Gunnison Lakeside offers a beautiful location for short and long-term RV vacationers all year round. Our facilities include free Wi-Fi, electric and sewer hookups, pure drinking water, and shaded sites. Take advantage of the coin-operated guest laundry. We also offer RV and boat storage, a dog park, a picnic area with tables, and on-site propane sales. Enjoy the convenience of our general store selling such items as groceries, toiletries, fishing tackle, RV supplies, as well as souvenirs. We are conveniently located right across from beautiful Blue Mesa Reservoir, Colorado’s largest body of water, and Kokanee salmon fishery, and just 12 miles west of Gunnison on Highway 50 between mm 146 and 145. Our park’s location offers lake views and high country scenery being only a few miles away from Gunnison River, and Dos Rios Golf Club, and we share a border with Curecanti National Recreation Area. So you are only a short drive away from a boat ramp and marina. Local dining establishments include Garlic Mikes, Mario's, OL' Miners Steakhouse, 5 B's BBQ, Gunnison Pizza Co., and The W Cafe! We offer great rates to make your RV Park camping experience more affordable and enjoyable.

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(47)

Coworking Space with Mountain Views

5 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Montrose, CO

We bought a school house! Our long-term plan is to build out a full campground on the property, but in the interim we will be offering boondocking. While we are under construction on the outdoor space, the main building that we have converted into a coworking space is available for our guests to use from the hours of 9AM - 6PM. Unfortunately, we are on old agricultural land so the sites are in the direct sun during the day. Please be aware that it gets hot out here in the summer and take this into consideration when booking your stay with us. Please note that there is only one camping structure allowed per site (one tent, one rv, one van, etc.). Since we are under construction we ask that you use caution when pulling into the lot. Our property is also on a bike trail that connects to 70 miles of (mostly paved) bike trails across the town of Montrose. Please reach out with any questions. We look forward to hosting you!

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(271)

Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents35 acres · Hotchkiss, CO

The House where we live is the corner stone of the Bruce Property and is on the Colorado Register of Historic Houses.The residence was constructed between 1905 and 1912, using red bricks made on the site. John and Sophia Bruce, early pioneers in the North Fork Valley, were first involved in cattle raising. The family later became successful fruit growers. Located along the West Elk Loop, a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway, the large two-story residence features a steeply pitched hipped roof with prominent attic dormers.As a guest of Riverwalk you will have full access to the river during your stay. In addition, there is the Riverwalk Trail System that skirts the North Fork of the Gunnison River from the top of the property, by the Riverwalk Yurt, (available on this site) meandering downstream past the Riverwalk TIPI (available on the site) passing the Grove Yurt (available on this site) and terminating at the bottom of the property with the sandy Riverwalk Beach. There is a trial that zigs through the Cottonwood Grove and zags back along the gentle Monitor Ditch skirting a newly planted grove of young trees.For RV Campers we provide 2- 30amp,1-50 amp and 1- 110-amp electrical services and potable water. There is a dump station available. There is also access to our heated shower house with running water and bathroom amenities (<3 min. walk, may be shared with other guests). The property is perfectly geared to groups of friends gathering in a central location between the onset of the Rockies and the termination high desert to the west. Friends or family will reserve both Yurts and the RV Site for a perfect reunion setting!

95%

(62)

The Farm...

7 sites · RVs10 acres · Montrose, CO

Statigicly located in the heart of Base Camp Montrose Valley, Close to Tulluride ,Million DollarHighway, Black Canyon, and San Juan Mountains. Horse Country & ATV country. Ride to BLM land on county roads.Learn more about this land:Great location, near trail head, Small Working horse farm in rural setting, Gateway to the San Juans, creek side camping, Black Canyon nearby, Farm Community, Historic Montrose and surrounding area. 420 freindly. ADD $5.00 ELECTRIC per night

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(9)

Meadows of San Juan RV Resort

112 sites · RVs30 acres · Colona, CO

Meadows of San Juan is located in Colorado's high desert region and is conveniently situated near some of the area's most popular attractions, including Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Ouray Hot Springs, and Colorado National Monument. Our RV park is family, pet, and big rig-friendly, with 120 spacious Full Hook-Up Pull-thru or Back-in Sites equipped with 30 amp and 50 amp service. Each site features a picnic table, complimentary Wi-Fi, and stunning Colorado views. You can even stay hooked up if you're only staying for one night. Our vacation cabins are cozy and comfortable, featuring wooden decks, a full bed, and a set of twin bunks that can accommodate up to four people. Each cabin comes with a small kitchenette equipped with a cooktop and refrigerator, and a charcoal grill and picnic table are available outside. The cabins also have a full bathroom with a shower, sink, and toilet. For a more rustic camping experience, we offer primitive cabins that sleep four comfortably with two bunk beds and an air mattress, but no heat, electricity, kitchen, or bathroom. We offer a range of amenities and activities for guests to enjoy, including a seasonal indoor/outdoor pool, billiards, horseshoes, shuffleboard, and pedal karts. Other amenities include WiFi, propane, a general store where firewood is sold, and access to communal fire rings for campfire nights. For families with children and pets, there is a playground and a "Bark Park" for off-leash exercise. The resort also has an event center available for groups, reunions, weddings, and other celebrations. The scenic views and beauty of Montrose, CO enhance your camping experience with added value. Discover and explore the authentic Colorado experience with Meadows of San Juan RV Resort as your ideal "home base".

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(5)

WESTERN Skies - Guest Ranch -

6 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Crawford, CO

Learn more about this land:We have 4 RV Slips available and a couple of camp areas available in our Juniper trees or out in the open field. We also have a walk out basement apartment with 2 bedrooms, shared bathroom and kitchenette and living room with pool table and darts. NO CAMPFIRES OF ANY KIND as we are in Stage 1 fire bans due to drought conditions. Smoking in designated areas only for the same reason. No exceptions!We are a short drive from the Black Canyon National Park, Crawford Reservoir, and multiple wineries. Tours to these are available for a nominal fee and by appointment.Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash at all times while out and about on the property. Please clean up after your pets.

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Sage View Ranch

24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Paonia, CO

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 :)

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Wild Abandon Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent50 acres · Paonia, CO

Wild Abandon Ranch is a gorgeous 50 acre property that we just acquired in March of 2023. Sadly, the property had been abandoned and neglected for over 20 years and we are doing our best to breath some new life into her. We are chasing those land dreams! This property has a wild amount of potential and an endless story of labor and we hope to bring a new vision and purpose to this very special place. The Hipcamp site is located down by the creek (on the SOUTH side of Minnesota Creek Rd) where you'll have total privacy and room to relax and explore. The deer trails are a great way to get lost amongst the trees and the rhythm of the creek. Just down the road further on Minnesota Creek Road is direct access to National Forest. Our property is only 3.5 miles from the town of Paonia so you're oh-so-close yet so far away from it all. Paonia is central to the abundant North Fork Valley and there is so much to experience in this area. From hiking, biking, camping, or swimming to touring the many vibrant vineyards or galleries. Your visit is directly contributing to this land's second chance. We hope you'll visit again and follow along in the evolution of Wild Abandon Ranch. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you!

Booked 1 time

Darbywoods Mountain Lot

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Cimarron, CO

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 in a neighborhood with cabins and rv lots.

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(10)

Poplar Place

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Olathe, CO

Locally owned, this large tree grove with over 100 trees, was planted in 1979 for privacy and shade between 2 homes. Learn more about this land: Pitch a tent, sleep in a hammock or park your RV at the Poplar Place. Several campsites within a large grove of trees which provide privacy & shade. Enjoy the sounds of nature including but not limited to: woodpeckers, owls, hawks, farm animals, frogs, crickets & much more. Hammocks, local area maps & yard games available at our check-in station and don’t forget to carve your initials in the totem pole before you leave. You can enjoy visiting with friends around the fire pit, play a game of tic-tac-toe, have an axe throwing contest or hide out in the Tee-Pee, whatever your heart desires. **Pets are welcome, however, they MUST BE ON LEASHES AT ALL TIMES & PROPER DISPOSAL OF ANIMAL WASTE IS A MUST* Thank you

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Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven

7 sites · Lodging22 acres · Paonia, CO

Formerly known as the North Fork Tipi Haven, this 22 acres was once owned by International sculptor Lincoln Fox, and built by Mr. Wooten in the early 1900's as an apple orchard, Old Moon Acres is now home to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven. The North Fork Valley of the Gunnison River, encompassing Crawford, Hotchkiss and Paonia, was an important fruit orchard area in the late 1800's and well into the early 1900's. The valley's climate is a banana belt, perfect for fruit with the cold air coming down from the mountains at night and the heat from the mesas warming up the valley during the day. Coal mines up the road in Bowie and Somerset paid better, so many of the orchards languished over the years. Since the closing of all the mines but one, today the NFV is home to the largest concentration of organic farms in the state of Colorado as well as becoming a state Creative District serving the multitudes of artist and creatives that call the valley home. There are many pick-your-own peaches, cherries, apples, pears, nectarines and if we are lucky, apricots, in the valley. Delicious Orchards, 1 mile down Hwy 133, is an excellent place to pick your own, drink local hard cider and listen to live music on the weekend over a wonderful brunch. It is all about the farms, cattle, art, music, outdoor adventure, fun and relaxation here in the North Fork Valley. The tipis are custom made by the Colorado Yurt Company in Montrose, Colorado where they have been making yurts, tents and tipis since 1976. The tipis are expertly designed and made with custom paintings invoking the animal spirits that inhabit our land. These are a Sioux design tipi as the Ute's mainly lived in wiki-ups until they were introduced to the tipi in the 1800's. The Ute's appropriated the tipi design from the Sioux or Plains Natives. We have solar showers (solar bags of water heated by the sun during the day) available for free. Showers are also available at the local laundromat in Hotchkiss. Our goal is to awaken your sense of wonder by sleeping out in nature and waking up to the Colorado blue sky in clean, clear air at 5500 ft. You can visit the many high altitude wineries, fruit orchards, organic farms, farm-to-table restaurants, great music, interesting movies at the community owned Paradise Theater, art at the Creamery Arts Center in Hotchkiss, stand-up paddle boarding, WSSUP, at Crawford reservoir, mountain biking in Grand Mesa, hiking in the West Elks, rafting down the Gunnison river in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, fishing up canyon in the coolness of the forest or relaxing in one of many hot springs within an hour of us. Colorado Detours is highly recommended by us to take you and yours on a hiking, farm, wine, or geology tour of the area. Aspen, Crested Butte (over Kebler Pass), Glenwood Springs, Gunnison, Ouray, Grand Junction, Ridgeway and Telluride all are about an hour or two away by car. Welcome to Colorado.

The best camping near Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park guide

Overview

About

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.

Notable campgrounds

Best for RVs: South Rim Campground
Best for solitude seekers: North Rim Campground
Best for river access: East Portal Campground

Tips for snagging a campsite

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.