Places to Camp near Gunnison National Forest

Looking for the best campgrounds near Gunnison National Forest, CO? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Gunnison National Forest campgrounds just for you. Discover great camping spots near Gunnison National Forest, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Gunnison National Forest, CO (267)

    Camper-submitted photo from Bogan Flats Campground Grp S
    Camper-submitted photo from Bogan Flats Campground Grp S
    Camper-submitted photo from Bogan Flats Campground Grp S
    Camper-submitted photo from Bogan Flats Campground Grp S
    Camper-submitted photo from Bogan Flats Campground Grp S
    Camper-submitted photo from Bogan Flats Campground Grp S

    1.

    Bogan Flats Campground Grp S

    27 Reviews
    83 Photos
    370 Saves
    Marble, Colorado

    Overview

    Bogan Flats Campground stretches along the Crystal River in a valley of aspen groves, towering Ponderosa Pine, spruce, and willow. The setting is ideal for larger groups seeking recreation and relaxation in White River National Forest. Sites in the campground are widely spaced and offer a nice mixture of open and shaded spots, with several sites at the river's edge. The group site is located away from the main campground, offering a more private location.

    Recreation

    Crystal River, a tributary of Roaring Fork River, is renowned for its fly fishing. Rainbow, cutthroat and brown trout are plentiful in this waterway. A hike up Mt. Sopris offers spectacular panoramic views. This 12,953-foot mountain dominates the surrounding landscape. The hike is 14.8 miles with a 4,600-foot. elevation gain. In summer, wildflowers carpet the trail through aspen groves and mixed conifer forest, climbing up to talus slopes. Other popular activities in the area include jeep tours, biking, and historic sightseeing.

    Facilities

    Crystal River, a tributary of Roaring Fork River, is renowned for its fly fishing. Rainbow, cutthroat and brown trout are plentiful in this waterway. A hike up Mt. Sopris offers spectacular panoramic views. This 12,953-foot mountain dominates the surrounding landscape. The hike is 14.8 miles with a 4,600-foot. elevation gain. In summer, wildflowers carpet the trail through aspen groves and mixed conifer forest, climbing up to talus slopes. Other popular activities in the area include jeep tours, biking, and historic sightseeing.

    Natural Features

    In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the 2.3 million acre White River National Forest is a place of serenity and adventure, boasting 8 wilderness areas, 4 defined seasons, and 10 peaks surpassing 14,000 feet in elevation. The Crystal River flows near the campground and drains the Valley of the Coal Miners, a glacial valley that was once a center of coal mining in southwestern Colorado. Wildlife in the area abounds. Bighorn sheep navigate rocky ridges and bull elk bugle at dusk. Scenic rivers sustain populations of cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout. Alpine regions provide habitat for pika and ptarmigan. These species, along with many others, depend on surrounding undeveloped wilderness, clean streams, and diverse forests to live.

    Nearby Attractions

    The quaint mountain town of Redstone is a hidden gem, located south of Carbondale. In addition to shops, galleries, and restaurants, the town boasts a castle that was built by industrialist John Osgood at the turn of the 20th century.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (801) 226-3564.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $151 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Difficult Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Difficult Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Difficult Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Difficult Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Difficult Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Difficult Campground

    2.

    Difficult Campground

    32 Reviews
    131 Photos
    550 Saves
    Aspen, Colorado

    Overview

    Located 5 miles southeast of Aspen, Colorado, Difficult Campground sits on the banks of the Roaring Fork River on the western slope of the Colorado Rockies. Campsites are nestled in a mixed forest of aspen, cottonwood, pine, fir, scrub oak, and spruce, and several are at the river's edge, offering an ideal setting for guests seeking recreation and relaxation.

    Recreation

    Renowned for its fly fishing, the Roaring Fork River sustains populations of large rainbow, brown, cutthroat and brook trout. The nearby peaks and soothing sounds from the river offer anglers a perfect backdrop for an afternoon of fishing. Whitewater adventure seekers may want to raft portions of the Roaring Fork, as it is navigable by small craft throughout most of its length to its confluence with the Colorado. Hikers can access trails near the campground.

    Facilities

    Renowned for its fly fishing, the Roaring Fork River sustains populations of large rainbow, brown, cutthroat and brook trout. The nearby peaks and soothing sounds from the river offer anglers a perfect backdrop for an afternoon of fishing. Whitewater adventure seekers may want to raft portions of the Roaring Fork, as it is navigable by small craft throughout most of its length to its confluence with the Colorado. Hikers can access trails near the campground.

    Natural Features

    In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the 2.3 million acre White River National Forest is a place of serenity and adventure, boasting 8 wilderness areas, 4 defined seasons, and 10 peaks surpassing 14,000 feet in elevation. Wildlife in the area abounds. Bighorn sheep navigate rocky ridges and bull elk bugle at dusk. Scenic rivers sustain populations of cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout. Alpine regions provide habitat for pika and ptarmigan. These species, along with many others, depend on surrounding undeveloped wilderness, clean streams, and diverse forests to live. The Roaring Fork River flows by the campground, a tributary of the mighty Colorado. Deep, swift and clear, the Roaring Fork rises in the Sawatch Range on the west side of the Continental Divide and drains an area of the Colorado Western Slope called the Roaring Fork Valley.

    Nearby Attractions

    The nearby town of Aspen is a popular destination for visitors to the area. From downhill skiing and world-class fly fishing, to dining and resorts, there is a multitude of outdoor and indoor opportunites in this mountain town.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (801) 226-3564.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $108 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Redstone White River National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Redstone White River National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Redstone White River National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Redstone White River National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Redstone White River National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Redstone White River National Forest

    3.

    Redstone White River National Forest

    13 Reviews
    61 Photos
    101 Saves
    Redstone, Colorado

    Overview

    Redstone Campground is set amidst a scattering of aspen groves on a ridge above the Crystal River at 7,800 feet, creating an ideal setting for guests seeking recreation and relaxation in White River National Forest. Sites in the campground are widely spaced and offer wonderful views of red rock outcroppings and cliffs, though an understory of tall grass and a scattered forest provides plenty of privacy.

    Recreation

    Crystal River, a tributary of Roaring Fork River, is renowned for its fly fishing. Rainbow, brown, cutthroat and brook trout are plentiful in this waterway. A hike up Mt. Sopris offers spectacular panoramic views. This 12,953-foot mountain dominates the surrounding landscape. The hike is 14.8 miles with a 4,600-foot. elevation gain. In summer, wildflowers carpet the trail through aspen groves and mixed conifer forest, climbing up to talus slopes.

    Facilities

    Crystal River, a tributary of Roaring Fork River, is renowned for its fly fishing. Rainbow, brown, cutthroat and brook trout are plentiful in this waterway. A hike up Mt. Sopris offers spectacular panoramic views. This 12,953-foot mountain dominates the surrounding landscape. The hike is 14.8 miles with a 4,600-foot. elevation gain. In summer, wildflowers carpet the trail through aspen groves and mixed conifer forest, climbing up to talus slopes.

    Natural Features

    In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the 2.3 million acre White River National Forest is a place of serenity and adventure, boasting 8 wilderness areas, 4 defined seasons, and 10 peaks surpassing 14,000 feet in elevation. The Crystal River flows near the campground and drains the Valley of the Coal Miners, a glacial valley that was once a center of coal mining in southwestern Colorado. Wildlife in the area abounds. Bighorn sheep navigate rocky ridges and bull elk bugle at dusk. Scenic rivers sustain populations of cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout. Alpine regions provide habitat for pika and ptarmigan. These species, along with many others, depend on surrounding undeveloped wilderness, clean streams, and diverse forests to live.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (801) 226-3564.

    Nearby Attractions

    The quaint mountain town of Redstone is a hidden gem located south of Carbondale. In addition to shops, galleries, and restaurants, the town boasts a castle that was built by industrialist John Osgood at the turn of the century.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $74 - $78 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area

    4.

    Oh Be Joyful Recreation Area

    19 Reviews
    54 Photos
    574 Saves
    Crested Butte, Colorado

    Overview

    Approximately 5 miles from Crested Butte, Colorado, Oh Be Joyful Campground is a 30-unit campground along the Slate River. The campground itself gets its name from nearby Oh Be Joyful Creek that features massive waterfalls and colorful wildflowers in the summer months. The campground is located at approximately 9,000 feet in elevation and the views are spectacular.____

    Recreation

    This premier area is known for camping, fishing, horseback riding, sight-seeing, hiking/walking, water play, kayaking, mountain biking, wildflower viewing, and motorized recreational uses. A foot bridge allows visitors to access the west side of the Slate River to hike along Oh Be Joyful Creek and into the Raggeds Wilderness.

    Facilities

    This premier area is known for camping, fishing, horseback riding, sight-seeing, hiking/walking, water play, kayaking, mountain biking, wildflower viewing, and motorized recreational uses. A foot bridge allows visitors to access the west side of the Slate River to hike along Oh Be Joyful Creek and into the Raggeds Wilderness.

    Natural Features

    The campground sits directly on the east bank of the Slate River and is nestled in a valley with mountains on either side of the valley. Due to the abundance of moisture in the spring and early summer, wildflowers are abundant. Look for our State flower the Columbine and other species including Indian Paintbrush and Avalanche Lilies.

    Nearby Attractions

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Gunnison National Forest Lake Irwin Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gunnison National Forest Lake Irwin Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gunnison National Forest Lake Irwin Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gunnison National Forest Lake Irwin Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gunnison National Forest Lake Irwin Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gunnison National Forest Lake Irwin Campground

    5.

    Gunnison National Forest Lake Irwin Campground

    18 Reviews
    8 Photos
    158 Saves
    Crested Butte, Colorado

    Overview

    Lake Irwin Campground is situated on the western banks of its picturesque namesake lake, approximately 9 miles from Crested Butte, Colorado. Visitors enjoy the area for its abundant trail opportunities, fishing and beautiful scenery.

    Recreation

    Mountain biking and hiking are popular activities in this challenging, rugged terrain. Canoeing and fishing are favorite pastimes as well. The lake is usually so full of fish, one can see them rise to the calm surface.

    Facilities

    Mountain biking and hiking are popular activities in this challenging, rugged terrain. Canoeing and fishing are favorite pastimes as well. The lake is usually so full of fish, one can see them rise to the calm surface.

    Natural Features

    The campground is set high in the Colorado Rockies at an elevation of 10,200 feet. Summer days are cool and afternoon showers are common. Nights can be chilly. Lake Irwin borders the campground on the east, and the Ruby Mountain Range lies to the west. Vivid wildflowers fill the landscape during July and August. Most campsites are shaded by mature Englemann spruce and subalpine fir trees. The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests are located on the western slope of the Rocky Mountains. Together, the three forests cover 2.9 million acres in the central and southern Rocky Mountains, south of the Colorado River and west of the Continental Divide.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

    Nearby Attractions

    The charming town of Crested Butte is a short drive from the campground. The former coal mining town offers a variety of outdoor activities, dining and shopping options and annual festivals, like the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival.

    • Pets
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    • Toilets

    $24 - $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Four Mile Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Four Mile Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Four Mile Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Four Mile Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Four Mile Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Four Mile Road Dispersed

    6.

    Four Mile Road Dispersed

    18 Reviews
    56 Photos
    769 Saves
    Carbondale, Colorado

    Welcome to Four Mile Road Dispersed Camping Area in the Sopris Ranger District of White River National Forest, Colorado. This spot is a gem for those who crave a true off-the-grid experience. It's open year-round and offers a rugged, no-frills camping adventure.

    This area is perfect for both tent and RV camping, though you'll need to be self-sufficient. There are no amenities like drinking water, toilets, or electric hookups, so come prepared. Fires are allowed, and you'll find plenty of natural firewood around, but remember to follow fire safety guidelines.

    Visitors rave about the stunning views and the sense of seclusion. Whether you're nestled in a dense forest or perched on a hill with panoramic vistas, the scenery here is unbeatable. Some campers have even reported hearing turkeys gobbling in the morning, adding to the wilderness charm.

    The location is also a great base for exploring nearby attractions. Hanging Lake and Iron Mountain Hot Springs are less than an hour away, making for perfect day trips. The roads can get bumpy, so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended, especially if you plan to venture deeper into the area.

    Cell service is spotty to non-existent, which many visitors see as a plus. It's a chance to disconnect and truly immerse yourself in nature. Just be sure to clean up after yourself and leave no trace, as some campers have noted finding trash left behind by others.

    In short, if you're looking for a beautiful, secluded spot to camp without the crowds and conveniences of more developed sites, Four Mile Road Dispersed Camping Area is the place to be. Enjoy the peace, the views, and the adventure!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

    7.

    South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

    59 Reviews
    231 Photos
    252 Saves
    Montrose, Colorado

    Overview

    A camping trip to the Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park makes for a beautiful getaway for sightseeing, stargazing, and hiking. The park protects the most dramatic section of the Gunnison River Canyon; no other canyon in North America combines the narrow opening, sheer walls, and startling depths of Black Canyon.

    Recreation

    Take one of many spectacular hiking trails such as the Oak Flat Loop Trail and watch for birds like the black-billed magpie. In summer, catch an evening educational program in the campground amphitheater.______ Winter activities include snowshoeing on Rim Rock Trail or go cross country skiing on South Rim Drive (South Rim Campground is first-come, first-served in winter).

    Facilities

    Take one of many spectacular hiking trails such as the Oak Flat Loop Trail and watch for birds like the black-billed magpie. In summer, catch an evening educational program in the campground amphitheater.______ Winter activities include snowshoeing on Rim Rock Trail or go cross country skiing on South Rim Drive (South Rim Campground is first-come, first-served in winter).

    Natural Features

    Perched on the South Rim of the Black Canyon, this campground is surrounded by scrub oak forests and sits atop ancient hard rocks. Deer, grouse, bears, and bobcats are known to frequent the area.

    Nearby Attractions

    Visit the Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit to see railcars and the last remaining railroad trestle on the Black Canyon of the Gunnison route. Head upstream to Curecanti National Recreation Area to enjoy water recreation on Colorado's largest reservoir.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Washington Gulch Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Washington Gulch Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Washington Gulch Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Washington Gulch Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Washington Gulch Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Washington Gulch Dispersed Camping

    8.

    Washington Gulch Dispersed Camping

    14 Reviews
    45 Photos
    1023 Saves
    Crested Butte, Colorado

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Avalanche Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Avalanche Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Avalanche Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Avalanche Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Avalanche Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Avalanche Campground

    9.

    Avalanche Campground

    9 Reviews
    21 Photos
    410 Saves
    Redstone, Colorado

    Avalanche Campground has 6 first-come first-serve campsites. It is located adjacent to Avalanche Creek. Fishing is available in Avalanche Creek and in the Crystal River, which is 3 miles downstream. One of the major trailheads into the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is located adjacent to the campground.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Ami's Acres Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ami's Acres Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ami's Acres Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ami's Acres Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ami's Acres Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ami's Acres Campground

    10.

    Ami's Acres Campground

    24 Reviews
    64 Photos
    192 Saves
    Glenwood Springs, Colorado

    Welcome to Ami's Acres Campground, nestled right near Glenwood Springs, CO. This spot is a mix of pull-thru RV sites, back-in van sites, and walk-in tent sites, making it a versatile choice for different camping setups. The campground is conveniently located close to I-70, which means you'll have easy access to the highway, but be prepared for some road noise.

    One of the standout features here is the clean and well-maintained bath and shower house. Visitors have consistently praised the cleanliness of these facilities. If you're planning to cook, some sites come with picnic tables and there's even a community gas grill available for use. Just check with the office about fire regulations, as they can vary.

    The campground is set on a hillside, offering some great views, especially from certain sites. However, the terrain can be a bit rough, so be ready for a bumpy ride in. The road in is steep and might be challenging for larger RVs to navigate, but once you're settled, the views and the proximity to nature make it worthwhile.

    Pets are welcome here, and you'll find amenities like drinking water, electric and sewer hookups, and trash disposal. It's also a reservable campground, so you can plan ahead and secure your spot.

    For those looking to explore, the campground is a great base for a hike to Hanging Lake or a visit to Glenwood Springs. The friendly staff, particularly Craig, have been noted for their helpfulness and welcoming attitude, making your stay even more pleasant.

    So, if you're looking for a spot with good facilities, beautiful views, and a convenient location, Ami's Acres Campground is worth considering for your next trip.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
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Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Gunnison National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, Gunnison National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 267 campgrounds and RV parks near Gunnison National Forest and 59 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Gunnison National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Gunnison National Forest is Bogan Flats Campground Grp S with a 4.6-star rating from 27 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Gunnison National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 59 free dispersed camping spots near Gunnison National Forest.

What parks are near Gunnison National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Gunnison National Forest that allow camping, notably White River National Forest and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.