Searching for a dispersed camping spot near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park? Here you'll find a diverse selection of places to camp, including remote dispersed camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.
Black Canyon Dispersed Camping near Montrose, CO, is a no-frills spot perfect for those who love the raw beauty of nature without the fuss of amenities. This area is open year-round and offers a simple, scenic escape just a stone's throw from the entrance to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
The sites here are all dirt and nestled among the trees, providing a quiet and secluded atmosphere. You won't find any toilets, showers, or drinking water, so come prepared. Fires are allowed, but you'll need to bring your own firewood. Pets are welcome, and there's no need for a permit, making it a hassle-free option for a spontaneous getaway.
Visitors have praised the stunning views and the abundance of wildlife. You might hear turkeys, chickadees, and woodpeckers during your stay. Some campers have even spotted deer and, on rare occasions, bears. The area is also known for its beautiful sunrises and sunsets, with panoramic views that are hard to beat.
Access can be a bit tricky, especially if it rains, as the dirt roads can become rutted. Low-clearance vehicles might struggle, so it's best to have a high-clearance vehicle if you plan to venture beyond the first few sites. Despite the rough roads, many campers have found the effort worthwhile for the peace and beauty of the location.
If you're looking for a quiet, scenic spot to pitch a tent and enjoy the great outdoors, Black Canyon Dispersed Camping is a solid choice. Just remember to pack out what you pack in and leave no trace to keep this beautiful area pristine for future visitors.
All roadside vehicle and tent campers are required to camp ONLY in designated sites. Accessibility is not guaranteed. Please use caution when venturing down forest roads.
Sites are designated by the presence of a 6in X 6in wooden post with a site number and camping symbol along with a permanent metal fire ring. All sites are first come first serve, if a site is occupied please look for another site.
Fires are only permitted in the established metal fire rings. Extinguish all fires so they are cold to the touch.
Sites are limited to two vehicles only per site.
Finding a site to camp and enjoy dispersed recreation activities in remote areas or in relative solitude has become a popular form of camping throughout the Forest. At some more popular areas,toilet facilities may be provided. Contact the local Forest Service office for current information and refer to the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for each forest (Grand Mesa, Gunnison, and Uncompahgre National Forests). Dispersed camping is permitted in most areas of the Forest. Some caution should be used in selecting a site because of intermingled private lands within the National Forest. Recreation maps are available at all local Forest Service offices. Personnel at each office can answer questions on specific sites. Unlike developed campgrounds which are designed and maintained to protect the vegetation, soils, and natural setting, camping in undeveloped areas require more from the camper to help keep the site in the condition in which it was found. Dispersed camping must not occur within 100 feet of water sources (rivers, streams, ponds, or wetlands) or within 100 feet of any road or system trail. In some areas, dispersed camping is restricted to specific sites, contact the local Forest Service office for current information. Campsites can be occupied for no more than 14 days, then the site must be moved at least 3 miles away. Camping is also limited to a total of 28 days in a 60 day period.
In areas closed to the use of vehicles off forest roads, where developed parking sites are not provided, and where not otherwise prohibited, direct access to a suitable parking site within 300 feet of the road is permitted. Such travel must not damage the land or streams. Please select your route carefully, and do not cut live timber. Off road travel should be limited to when the ground is dry. The public is encouraged to camp in locations where others have previously camped and utilized existing routes to those camp areas. Campers are required to leave a clean camp, not to damage vegetation or pollute streams and lakes on the National Forest and implement “Leave No Trace” practices.
Alta Lakes is a popular dispersed camping area that offers fishing and camping in a spectacular alpine setting. There are 20 designated campsites that are completely undeveloped. The access road to the area is narrow and rough, requiring a high clearance vehicle. Trailers and RV's are not reccomended.
Please note that 4wd may be necessary.
In areas closed to the use of vehicles off forest roads, where developed parking sites are not provided, and where not otherwise prohibited, direct access to a suitable parking site within 300 feet of the road is permitted. Such travel must not damage the land or streams. Please select your route carefully, and do not cut live timber. Off road travel should be limited to when the ground is dry. The public is encouraged to camp in locations where others have previously camped and utilized existing routes to those camp areas. Campers are required to leave a clean camp, not to damage vegetation or pollute streams and lakes on the National Forest and implement “Leave No Trace” practices
Finding a site to camp and enjoy dispersed recreation activities in remote areas or in relative solitude has become a popular form of camping throughout the Forest. At some more popular areas,toilet facilities may be provided. Contact the local Forest Service office for current information and refer to the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for each forest (Grand Mesa, Gunnison, and Uncompahgre National Forests). Dispersed camping is permitted in most areas of the Forest. Some caution should be used in selecting a site because of intermingled private lands within the National Forest. Recreation maps are available at all local Forest Service offices. Personnel at each office can answer questions on specific sites. Unlike developed campgrounds which are designed and maintained to protect the vegetation, soils, and natural setting, camping in undeveloped areas require more from the camper to help keep the site in the condition in which it was found. Dispersed camping must not occur within 100 feet of water sources (rivers, streams, ponds, or wetlands) or within 100 feet of any road or system trail. In some areas, dispersed camping is restricted to specific sites, contact the local Forest Service office for current information. Campsites can be occupied for no more than 14 days, then the site must be moved at least 3 miles away. Camping is also limited to a total of 28 days in a 60 day period.
Hartman Rocks Recreation Area is dominated by the "Ring Dike," a spectacular monzogranite rock formation about six miles in diameter. This multi-use area features high quality single-track trails and rugged dirt roads. Visitors will enjoy fantastic mountain biking, rock climbing, bouldering and more. During the winter months, much of the road system is groomed for cross-country skiing. Activities: Camping Hiking Horseback riding Mountain biking Off-highway vehicles Rock climbing Winter sports 4x4 and jeep touring
Dispersed Vehicle Camping is allowed in the remainder of the NCA for up to six consecutive nights, unless otherwise posted. Check BLM maps, signs and website for camping information.
Camping is allowed only at the Cottonwood Grove campground and designated river campsites identified on BLM maps and signs. Use of portable toilet system is required in all river sites without restrooms. Maximum stay length is six nights/seven days for sites downstream of Gunnison Forks.
The Washington Gulch Trail #403 begins a quarter mile north of the Gothic Campground and ends when it intersects the Washington Gulch Road, FSR #811. The heads southeast with a few switchbacks and then parallels Rock Creek for approximately 1.5 miles. It then crosses the creek, turns south, and begins to climb in elevation. It comes to an end at Washington Gulch Road. This is a very scenic trail and makes a great day hike. It is also very popular with mountain bikers and campers.
All roadside vehicle and tent campers are required to camp ONLY in designated sites:
Sites are designated by the presence of a 6in X 6in wooden post with a site number and camping symbol along with a permanent metal fire ring. All sites are first come first serve, if a site is occupied please look for another site.
Fires are only permitted in the established metal fire rings. Extinguish all fires so they are cold to the touch.
Sites are limited to two vehicles only per site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is Black Canyon Dispersed Camping with a 4.2-star rating from 39 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?
TheDyrt.com has all 66 dispersed camping locations near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.
