Dispersed camping near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park provides access to both the North and South Rim areas with distinct camping experiences. The park sits at elevations between 6,500 and 8,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night regardless of season. Many campsites near the park feature juniper trees that provide modest shade during summer months when daytime temperatures regularly exceed 85°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Gunnison River offers accessible fishing spots at Dispersed River Site - Gunnison Gorge National Conservation where campers can enjoy riverside camping. "The fishing wasn't ideal from the shore but we had a fantastic view of the sunrise & sunset," reports one visitor, noting that windy conditions helped keep bugs away.
Hiking nearby trails: Several dispersed camping areas provide access to hiking trails with distinctive terrain. "One day we biked on the road to reach the Escalante Canyon but we couldn't pass the wide and fairly deep stream of the creek," shared a camper at Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed, describing attempts to cross the creek for hiking on the canyon's opposite side.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife that regularly visit campsites. At Black Canyon Dispersed Camping, visitors mentioned, "In the morning we saw bunnies and a deer carcus so wild life present." Another camper at Red Creek Rd noted, "Some spots with access to the water," which often attracts more wildlife activity during morning and evening hours.
What campers like
Solitude and space: Many campers appreciate the ability to find isolated camping spots away from crowds. At Black Canyon, one visitor stated, "I stayed here 3 days and never saw or heard another person. It's only 5 miles from the North Rim of Black Canyon National Park."
Night sky views: The dark skies around Black Canyon offer excellent stargazing opportunities. One camper at Black Canyon Dispersed Camping noted, "It's quite pretty and you can make out some of the milky way on clearer nights," while another mentioned, "City lights in the valley but dark and peaceful on the hill."
Established sites: Despite being dispersed camping, many areas feature previously used sites with fire rings. A camper at 90 Rd Dispersed reported, "Gravel road with easy switch backs our 30 ft TT and truck had no issues navigating the road once there decently level sites for dispersed camping." Many sites throughout the area include stone fire rings created by previous visitors.
What you should know
Road conditions vary widely: Access to many dispersed sites requires careful navigation, especially in bad weather. A camper at Soap Creek Road advised, "Any of the spots in this area are difficult to get into unless you have a high clearance vehicle and rig. I would suggest that no Class C or A try to camp in this area."
Cell coverage is inconsistent: Mobile service varies significantly between camping areas. One visitor to Gunnison Gorge reported, "Cell coverage for Verizon is good, I was able to stream video here using data," while others found limited or no service in areas closer to canyon walls and deeper ravines.
Temperature fluctuations: The high elevation creates substantial day-to-night temperature changes. A camper at 90 Rd Dispersed shared, "It was 52 at night in late September. 80 for a high." These temperature swings occur throughout the camping season, making appropriate clothing and bedding essential.
Seasonal closures: Some camping areas have restricted seasons. At Alta Lakes, a visitor warned, "Signs say no camping 12/1-7/15," while another reported attempting to camp in June only to find "the road to the lake is closed, the sign said it was due to deteriorating conditions."
Tips for camping with families
Watch for hidden hazards: The natural landscape contains features requiring vigilance with children. One visitor to Escalante Canyon Road warned, "There was a lot of small hidden vicious cacti, we were afraid of letting the dogs out," a concern equally applicable to children exploring the area.
Choose sites based on amenities: Families often benefit from camping near available facilities. A visitor to Black Canyon Dispersed Camping noted, "A ranger came by in the morning, doing rounds so it felt really safe. Would highly recommend," highlighting the enhanced security that comes with proximity to managed areas.
Consider weather protection: The exposed nature of many sites makes weather preparation crucial. One camper reported, "The wind was pretty intense when the skies got grey but we managed to set up camp," suggesting families bring adequate tent reinforcement and wind barriers when camping with children in these exposed areas.
Tips from RVers
Scout before committing: The unpredictable terrain requires advance planning for larger vehicles. A visitor to Flat Tops OHV Area advised, "If you go further up the road, it seems like there's basically no regulations here," indicating flexibility but also caution when navigating with larger rigs.
Stay on established paths: Many reviews emphasize the importance of keeping vehicles on existing roads. One RVer noted, "Some paths are also very muddy and shouldn't be challenged unless you have AWD or 4WD," warning about getting larger vehicles stuck in unfavorable conditions.
Consider parking strategy: Proper positioning maximizes comfort at dispersed sites. A camper shared, "Only room for 4-5 cars max and only 2-3 of them will be able to be on level ground," highlighting the importance of arriving early to secure optimal parking for RVs requiring level ground.
