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Camping near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

1,106 Reviews

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park has several camping options throughout the Colorado wilderness. South Rim Campground gives you quick access to the park's steep cliffs and draws many visitors for its views. The North Rim has a local store where you can get camping supplies and essentials, and it tends to be quieter with good scenery. If you camp at nearby Elk Creek Campground, you can fish and enjoy water activities on the Colorado River. The higher elevation keeps things cool in summer, though you'll want sun protection. Snow covers the park in winter and can block access to certain areas. Be aware that the roads to campgrounds can be rough - you might need a vehicle with higher clearance. You'll likely see deer and rabbits around camp, so store your food properly. The unusual rock formations make for good hiking and photo opportunities. Don't count on cell service, and pack what you need. The Great Sand Dunes are worth a side trip if you have time. With minimal light pollution, the night skies are great for seeing stars. Always check if any areas are closed for the season before you go.

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Best Camping Sites Near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (243)

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Recent Reviews near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

1106 Reviews of 243 Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Campgrounds

Guide to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Camping near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado, offers stunning views and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are beautiful trails nearby, like the one leading to the visitor center from the South Rim Campground. One camper mentioned, "Beautiful 1 mile hike to the visitor center. Super convenient if you’re planning to do anything inner canyon."
  • Stargazing: The area is known for its dark skies. One visitor at the Black Canyon Dispersed Camping said, "This is a really pretty campground... Great spot, simple and scenic with a lot of wildlife heard!"
  • Fishing and Boating: The Elk Creek Campground is close to Blue Mesa Reservoir, perfect for fishing and boating. A reviewer noted, "Fly fishing in the Gunnison as well as great fishing and swimming in Blue Mesa Reservoir is a short walk or drive."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Ridgway State Park remarked, "Bathrooms were super clean and the showers were nice and hot."
  • Scenic Views: Many campgrounds offer breathtaking views. One camper at the Dakota Terraces Campground shared, "Our site had a view of Courthouse Peak. The area feels natural and sites are spaced out."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful campground hosts. A reviewer at the Pa-Co-Chu-Puk Campground said, "The Staff (including the Camp Hosts) are very friendly and helpful."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like the North Rim Campground, have minimal facilities. A camper noted, "Most of the camping sites are placed fairly close together."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. One camper at the Elk Creek Campground mentioned, "We saw moose in the afternoon into evening- they came right into the campsite to graze."
  • First-Come, First-Served: Many sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, like the South Rim Campground. A visitor said, "I got in on a Wednesday around noon and was able to get one of the first come first serve spots."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like the Ouray Riverside Resort. A family shared, "We had an extra wide riverfront side site and had plenty of room."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of family-friendly activities. One camper at the Ridgway State Park said, "There was access to kayak, paddle board, and boat rentals."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring shade tents or canopies, especially in areas with limited tree cover. A visitor at the Black Canyon Dispersed Camping advised, "The dirt road is very rutted... Great spot, simple and scenic."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds have tight spots. A reviewer at the 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park mentioned, "The RVs are squeezed in tightly but it never felt that way."
  • Be Prepared for Wind: Wind can be an issue, especially at places like the Elk Creek Campground. A camper noted, "The wind is pretty bad... like clockwork."
  • Use Mint Oil for Rodents: If you're camping at sites with rodent issues, like the Elk Creek Campground, one camper suggested, "Use cotton balls soaked in mint oil under the hood of vehicles to deter from wires being chewed."

Camping near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado, is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the area. With a little planning and the right campground, you can have a memorable outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park offers a wide range of camping options, with 243 campgrounds and RV parks near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and 58 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 62 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 58 free dispersed camping spots near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

  • What parks are near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 parks near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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