Places to Camp near Paonia, CO

Searching for the best camping near Paonia, CO? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Paonia. Discover great camping spots near Paonia, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Paonia, CO (234)

    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

    1.

    South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

    59 Reviews
    231 Photos
    251 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 Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping

    2.

    Black Canyon Dispersed Camping

    39 Reviews
    110 Photos
    1101 Saves
    Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    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

    3.

    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 North Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from North Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from North Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from North Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from North Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from North Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

    4.

    North Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

    18 Reviews
    59 Photos
    409 Saves
    Crawford, Colorado

    Overview

    Official NPS North Rim Website__ The North Rim campground is remote and has 13 sites dispersed among pinyon and juniper trees. Sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Elevation: 7767 ft (2367.4 m). The ranger station is open intermittently in the summer and closed in the winter. In the summer, maps and newspapers are available on the ranger station porch. The ranger station also has a self-pay station for the park entrance fee and a self-registration kiosk for wilderness permits.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Iron Creek Campground — Crawford State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron Creek Campground — Crawford State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron Creek Campground — Crawford State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron Creek Campground — Crawford State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron Creek Campground — Crawford State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron Creek Campground — Crawford State Park

    5.

    Iron Creek Campground — Crawford State Park

    13 Reviews
    53 Photos
    64 Saves
    Crawford, Colorado

    Welcome to Iron Creek Campground at Crawford State Park! This spot is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors with some solid amenities. The campground is open all year, so you can plan your visit whenever it suits you best.

    One of the standout features here is the availability of electric hookups, making it a great choice for RV campers. If you're bringing your furry friends along, you'll be happy to know that pets are allowed. And for those who enjoy a good campfire, fires are permitted, and there's firewood available on-site.

    Visitors have praised the cleanliness of the campground, especially the bathrooms and showers. The camp hosts are known for their friendliness and dedication, often going the extra mile to ensure the sites are well-maintained. You might even get a chance to chat with the rangers, who are great with kids and always up for a friendly conversation.

    The campground is near the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, which is a must-see if you're in the area. The reservoir nearby offers plenty of opportunities for water activities, and there are some great trails for biking and walking between the camp loops. Just be prepared for the sun, as it can get pretty intense during the day. A sunshade or tarp can make a big difference.

    Whether you're here for a weekend or an extended stay, Iron Creek Campground offers a peaceful and enjoyable experience with plenty to see and do. So pack your gear, bring some cash for the self-serve pay station, and get ready to enjoy a fantastic camping trip!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $15 - $32 / 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

    6.

    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 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

    7.

    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 Elk Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Creek Campground

    8.

    Elk Creek Campground

    28 Reviews
    72 Photos
    261 Saves
    Powderhorn, Colorado

    Overview

    Elk Creek Campground is on the north shore of Blue Mesa Reservoir. The lake is Colorado's largest body of water with 96 miles of shoreline and the largest Kokanee Salmon fishery in the United States. Elk Creek Campground is located off of US HWY 50 -15 miles west of Gunnison Co. at Mile Marker 142. The campground is part of the Curecanti National Recreation Area, which was named after a Ute Indian chief of the mid-19th century.__ The Elk Creek area is a hub for water based activities year round.

    Recreation

    Anglers delight in catching salmon and rainbow trout, while water sports fans find excitement in windsurfing and water skiing. Swimming is permitted throughout the 20-mile long reservoir and birders can find bald eagles here year round.

    Facilities

    Anglers delight in catching salmon and rainbow trout, while water sports fans find excitement in windsurfing and water skiing. Swimming is permitted throughout the 20-mile long reservoir and birders can find bald eagles here year round.

    Natural Features

    At an altitude of 7,540 feet, Elk Creek is surrounded by a vast expanse of sagebrush. Trees are minimal because the reservoir gets less than 12 inches of rain a year. Curecanti National Recreation Area is sandwiched between the towns of Montrose and Gunnison, Colorado. It spans three reservoirs, named for corresponding dams on the Gunnison River. These include the Crystal Reservoir, Morrow Point Reservoir and Blue Mesa.

    Nearby Attractions

    Visit the Cimarron Rail Exhibit to see railcars and the last remaining railroad trestle on the Black Canyon of the Gunnison route.

    Charges & Cancellations

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Lake Campground

    9.

    Lost Lake Campground

    8 Reviews
    49 Photos
    749 Saves
    Crested Butte, Colorado

    photo of new cement accessible fishing deck Lost Lake Campground is a great place for families to camp. Kids and parents alike will enjoy fishing and hiking around Lost Lake, Dollar Lake and Lost Lake Slough. Beckwith Pass provides breathtaking vistas of the Ruby Mountain Range. The wildflowers in this region are phenomenal during mid-July and early August. Campgound Brochure Moreon Lost Lake Campground

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

    10.

    East Portal Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

    9 Reviews
    45 Photos
    277 Saves
    Montrose, Colorado

    Overview

    The East Portal Campground is located within Curecanti National Recreation Area, but is adjacent to and only accessible from Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The campground is located at the bottom of the canyon, along the Gunnison River. It is a small campground of 15 sites (10 are tent-only), shaded by box elder trees. East Portal is closed in winter, when the Bureau of Reclamation closes the East Portal Road. Elevation: 6526 feet (1990 m). NOTE: Black Canyon of the Gunnison charges a $30 per vehicle entrance fee which you will pay upon arrival (or purchase in advance ). The park also honors interagency passes for entry (e.g., senior, access, Golden Age, 4th grade, etc.).__

    Natural Features

    East Portal offers plentiful shade and nearby access to the Gunnison River. Spectacular views of Black Canyon of the Gunnison and Curecanti are abundant.

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

    $20 / night

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Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Paonia, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, Paonia, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 234 campgrounds and RV parks near Paonia, CO and 54 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Paonia, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Paonia, CO is South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 59 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Paonia, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 54 free dispersed camping spots near Paonia, CO.

What parks are near Paonia, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Paonia, CO that allow camping, notably Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Gunnison National Forest.