Aaron B.
Traveler
TravelerRed Creek Rd Dispersed Camping
Overnight camped
Was a nice little spot 6 or 7 spots along the road. Saw a bear cruising across the mountain. Nice little creek running
Camping near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Near the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests in western Colorado, campers have access to both established campgrounds and dispersed camping areas. The region includes options like Black Canyon Dispersed Camping near Montrose, which allows year-round tent and RV camping on Bureau of Land Management land. Established facilities such as South Rim Campground in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Iron Springs Campground provide developed sites with amenities including picnic tables and fire rings. Several RV parks in the area, including Riverbend RV Park & Cabins and Uncompaghre River Resort, offer full hookups and cabin rentals for visitors seeking more comfortable accommodations.
Rough roads and steep terrain limit access to some dispersed camping areas, particularly at higher elevations. "This camp is dispersed, with beautiful views of Montrose, gorgeous sunrise, and is daily level. We took showers at Ridgeway state park campground. It was 52 at night in late September, 80 for a high," notes one visitor about 90 Rd Dispersed camping area. Many forest service roads require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain when mud can create hazardous conditions. Seasonal closures affect higher elevation sites, with many forest campgrounds operating only from May through October. The region experiences significant temperature variations between day and night, especially at altitude where freezing temperatures can occur even in summer months.
Campgrounds along water features receive consistently positive reviews, with the Uncompaghre River Resort described by one camper as having "great places with lots of shade, grassy areas and concrete pads." Visitors to the area frequently mention the mountain views and wildlife viewing opportunities as highlights of their stay. Dispersed sites offer greater solitude but fewer amenities, with several reviewers noting issues with trash and broken glass at some locations. Public lands near Montrose provide free camping options with varying levels of accessibility. The Iron Springs Campground receives praise for its secluded sites "surrounded by giant trees" that provide shade and privacy. Weather conditions can change rapidly in this mountainous region, requiring campers to prepare for temperature swings and possible precipitation regardless of season.
Best Camping Sites Near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests (245)
1. Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
67 ReviewsBlack Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, CO24 milesWebsite"Great location right next to the park! There are plenty of sites and the views are beautiful. Entrance was slightly rutted so make sure you can off-road just a bit!"
"A few minutes outside the south gate of the park. Multiple sites, most of which are on dirt. Paths to and from can be a bit rough for most passenger vehicles. But it’s quite and close to the park."
2. South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
68 ReviewsMontrose, CO26 milesWebsite+1 (970) 249-1914$20 - $34 / night
"The South Rim Campground is similar to other national park campground in that it provides convenient access to park activities and trails, but it stands apart due to the fact that the camping fees are"
"Most of the outer sites are tucked into the forest so there is a decent level of privacy. Lots of deer frequent the area, we saw several on each trip."
3. Cedar Creek RV Park
13 ReviewsMontrose, CO16 milesWebsite+1 (970) 249-3884"The RV sites are all on gravel but there is a large grassy area near the office. The site is on the edge of town but was fairly quiet. Nice clean laundry and restrooms."
"Bathrooms and showers are clean Wifi available and cellphone service are good Close to Black Canyon of the Gunnison"
4. 90 Rd Dispersed
4 ReviewsMontrose, CO8 miles"Our site was a little close to the road so we did her some road noise but not enough to bother us. dog loved chasing the lizards around the camp site ."
"This is 20 mins from the highway in Montrose. It was 52 at night in late September. 80 for a high."
5. Uncompaghre River Resort
6 ReviewsOlathe, CO14 milesWebsite+1 (970) 323-8706"It is quiet even though away from the highway but just minutes through town to Highway 50. Several trail options to walk the dog along the river from the park. "
"The Uncompaghre River was about 30 yards behind the camp site - a short walk through the tall tree line. The North Section of the campground are pull-through sits with great shade. "
6. Riverbend RV Park & Cabins
7 ReviewsMontrose, CO15 milesWebsite+1 (970) 249-8235$42 - $149 / night
"Do hear a bit of traffic noise from highway when close to front gate. River sights look nicer. I would stay here again without hesitation"
"We camped next to the pond. Staff very welcoming. Propane on site and they fill. Laundry facilities a bit small."
7. The Potholes Recreation Site
11 ReviewsDelta, CO18 milesWebsite+1 (970) 240-5300"Never anyone around. Very quiet. Long drive in but worth it. My biggest piece of advice is leave the official campground and go slightly off road further up the road away from the campground."
"It was like we were the only people in Colorado. Great dispersed camping spots."
8. Dry Creek Ditch Camp off Forest Road 90
3 ReviewsMontrose, CO9 milesWebsite+1 (970) 240-5300"Wide open flat area right at the start of the Trailhead for the RimRocker trail to Moab."
9. Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park
33 ReviewsRidgway, CO27 milesWebsite+1 (970) 626-5822$28 - $36 / night
"The site was big and a real short walk from the car. It was nice that the road didn't go next to the campsite like usual so it cut down on noise."
"Water access nearby. Bathrooms were super clean and the showers were nice and hot. Laundry facilities available. We stayed on D-183 and had a nice view of the mountains and the lake."
10. Iron Springs Campground
2 ReviewsGrand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests, CO9 milesWebsite+1 (970) 240-5300"The sites are surrounded by giant trees and are kept groomed providing shade and seclusion. It also has picnic tables and fire pits. It’s a ways away from any kind of grocery stores or provisions."
"The next morning I awoke to snow all around and was able to see what a gorgeous place this is."
Recent Camping Photos near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests
410 Photos of 245 Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests Campgrounds
Philippe M.
90 Rd Dispersed
mary F.
Riverbend RV Park & Cabins
Lucas G.
4R FREEDOM RANCH CAMPGROUND
Audrey G.
The Hop Yard Hideaway
Hannah R.
Sanborn Rd Powerline Dispersed Camping
Hannah R.
The Potholes Recreation Site
Melissa K.
Ledges Cottonwood Campground
Melissa K.
Ledges Rockhouse Campground
Janine F.
Meadows of San Juan Resort
The Dyrt
Four Seasons River Inn & RV Park
Melissa K.
BLM Lower Beaver Campground
Ashley T.
Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)
Recent Reviews near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests
1219 Reviews of 245 Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests Campgrounds
- MMerrily J.
GuideKendall Campground
Beautiful and popular
First, I want to admit that I have vertigo and mountain highways are challenging. 550 is the only way in and out and is called “The Million Dollar Highway” for its dramatic scenery. I had shaky knees and clenched teeth after the drive from Durango to Silverton. Our 41’ fifth wheel pulled by our 3500 Chevy dually handled the road but we were advised against traveling north of Silverton as the road got narrower, had even sharper drop offs and the elevation changes were steeper. We went back down to Durango both because of the warning and because the highway north was closed at Ouray due to a major Forest fire.
This dispersed campground is only 3 miles out of Silverton on a county road. It provides access to one other large dispersed area up the canyon a couple of miles and two official Forest Service campgrounds (Anvil and Mineral Springs). There is a sign to “Bear Campground” and a two rut road, but it probably needs 4 wheel drive to get there. I suspect its name tells a story. The road itself is washboard and rocky, narrow and with some blind curves as it follows Mineral River. Shake, rattle and roll at your own risk. There are multiple pull offs that fit a van, small bumper pull, or car camper and/or serve walk-in tent camping spots on the riverbank.
Our campground was pretty full and got crammed as the 4th of July approached. Most of the larger spots along the river bank and in open parking areas had already been claimed. The rest of the sites were tucked into the pines. Lots of fire rings. We were able to set up after some creative backing and had to work at getting the rig level. Our views were gorgeous. We walked a few hundred feet to dip toes into the shallows but the river runs fast and ice cold and we watched in awe as some hardy youngsters splashed about. I saw kayaks on some vehicles but did not see any actually in the river. A few anglers were spotted and many hikers were taking advantage of established trails.
If it were an easier trip into Silverton we would definitely return—but not on a holiday week.
Amber R.GuideOuray KOA
Glamping
Great location close to Ouray! We arrived on a Thursday at the end of June without a reservation and were glad to find at least 2 electric hookup sites for a camper. This location was very clean and had great amenities. It was pretty quiet at night and morning considering how busy it was! Definitely on the pricier side for camping, but can’t complain when you get WiFi, electric and a shower!!
- BBill M.
ScoutAmphitheater Campground
Beautiful place
Stay at spot 22. It’s got the best view and an open sky for your solar panels and Starlink. But more importantly, the view! Awesome.
- KKaterina G.Guide
90 Rd Dispersed
Messy, but Quiet and Good Views
Lots of spots along this road, some 2WD accessible, some not. Chose a spot I could get to with my small car - a few fire pits around evidenced past campers. Unfortunately there was quite a bit of trash around. Smoky because of fires, but good views and not many other campers around.
Grace O.ScoutPriest Lake Dispersed Camping Area
Over night at Priest
Perfect little spot with really nicely spaced out sites with metal fire rings and nice metal tables. The lake was nice and serene! Great tree coverage incase of wind. Still spaces available at 7:30pm on Saturday. Saving to come back soon!
shelby B.GuideBlue Lake Trailhead
The road to get there
I did not camp here, I went to the hike here that passes the camp sites. Beautiful location BUT the road is very rough. The sites looked awesome though! We made it to & from with our older sprinter van, but we were rocking around the entire way, had to go very slow. It would be cool to camp here & then hike in the morning. The first 4 miles aren’t so bad, but the last 3 felt like a nightmare in the van. Drawers flying open (which hasn’t happened on any road before. & we’ve done lots of dispersed camping.) We had wished we rented a jeep but at the same time… we DID make it!! The hike is worth it & camping there could be cool. Free as of now but it is currently 2026 &; they’re talking about permits in 2027 so double check before coming. Hike is definitely worth the drive!! Oh & if you’re coming just for the hike don’t worry about parking spots people parked where ever on the side of the road if lot was full! Wish we would’ve known that before getting up at 5am to hike.
- shelby B.Guide
Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park
Nice camp ground
Nice campground, but very crowded. Right on the lake though so you can rent a boat, paddle board or kayak. Or of course bring your own. Nice beach to swim at. The showers were cold & then hot & then cold again. I showered there 4 different times & never got a fully hot shower. Some sites had shade, some did not. Also not much privacy at the specific site I was at. Most others seemed to have privacy though. Nice scenic view point to watch the sun set! Also really nice that it’s close to Ouray.
- KKaterina G.Guide
Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area
Busy, But Quiet
I was lucky to get the last official spot, but there were a lot of people who came and pitched tents wherever or slept in their vehicles in the lot. My small car made it to the first little lot, but couldn’t do the bigger lot, so had to walk my stuff into my site. Bugs weren’t bad, weather was beautiful, people were fairly quiet and respectful. Bathrooms were relatively clean, but had no TP. No potable water, showers, etc.
Guide to Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests
Dispersed camping options near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests often require high-clearance vehicles, particularly in spring when seasonal runoff creates muddy conditions. At elevations ranging from 5,000 to over 8,000 feet, temperatures can fluctuate dramatically even in summer months, dropping to the 50s at night while daytime highs reach the 80s. Visitors should pack additional layers regardless of season due to these temperature variations.
What to do
Explore riverside areas: At The Potholes Recreation Site, campers can hike down canyon walls to unique geological formations. "We went back to the official campsite area and hiked down into the potholes. Such an amazing sight down in the canyon," reports one visitor. The site features trails that extend for miles past the main camping area.
View wildlife: The mountain terrain surrounding Dry Creek Ditch Camp offers juniper forests and mesa views where various wildlife can be spotted. The camp sits on a 2-acre mesa with space for about five camping groups. A reviewer notes it's "the only good legal free camping near town," making it convenient for wildlife viewing while staying close to supplies.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple water features throughout the region provide fishing options. At Elk Ridge Campground, one camper mentioned, "There was a little walk down a hill to fishing in a creek and small pond from our campsite which is optimal for the fishing enthusiast." The nearby reservoir also features amenities for groups including picnic tables and play areas for children.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Iron Springs Campground, visitors appreciate the natural separation between camping areas. "The sites are surrounded by giant trees and are kept groomed providing shade and seclusion," writes one camper. This forested environment creates natural boundaries between sites while providing relief from summer heat.
Clean facilities: South Rim Campground maintains well-serviced amenities despite its remote location. "Vault toilets in the campground and they were actually stocked with hand sanitizer!" notes a visitor who stayed in 2025. The campground has drinking water available mid-May through mid-October, though the supply system uses low-pressure bottle-fill stations only.
Night sky viewing: Reduced light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions across the region. The higher elevation campgrounds offer particularly clear views, with one camper at Elk Ridge Campground noting, "Absence of light pollution means awesome night skies!" Sites away from urban areas provide opportunities to see the Milky Way on clear nights.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to Black Canyon Dispersed Camping requires careful vehicle selection. "Some of the roads were really rutted out, but we were lucky and everything was dry so we were able to get thru in my forester," reports one visitor. Multiple reviews mention difficult road conditions, especially when wet, with one camper stating, "I wouldn't try it in a sedan."
Temperature variations: Pack for significant day-to-night temperature swings. A camper at 90 Rd Dispersed noted, "It was 52 at night in late September, 80 for a high." Higher elevations can see freezing temperatures even during summer months, requiring appropriate sleeping gear and clothing layers.
Seasonal limitations: Many campgrounds operate on restricted schedules. Iron Springs Campground runs only from June to October, and a visitor in October reported, "Finally made it and there was snow both falling and on the picnic table and downed trees." Water availability also follows seasonal patterns, with many facilities shutting off water systems during winter.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible swimming: Riverbend RV Park & Cabins offers water features appropriate for children. "The river and pond were very nice to sit by and observe nature. The Canada geese families were fun to watch," notes one visitor. The maintained grounds provide safer water access than the fast-moving rivers found in canyon areas.
Biking opportunities: Several campgrounds connect to regional trail systems. A reviewer at Riverbend mentioned the "Beautiful location next to the Fort Umcompahgre River with easy access to trails for biking." These paths offer family-friendly recreation options without requiring technical skills or specialized equipment.
Wildlife viewing with kids: Many campgrounds feature regular wildlife visitors that fascinate children. At South Rim Campground, one camper reported, "Deer roaming through the campground and one hung out by my site for awhile." These encounters provide educational opportunities without requiring difficult hikes or extended outings.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Electrical service varies significantly between campgrounds. At South Rim Campground, "Electric sites (22 of them for $34/night) have brand new 20/30/50 amp service." However, these sites fill quickly and should be reserved well in advance through recreation.gov.
Pad dimensions: Verify site measurements before arrival, especially for larger rigs. A reviewer of South Rim Campground advised, "Pay attention to the driveway length figures in rec.gov as they are pretty accurate," noting that not all sites accommodate larger RVs. Cedar Creek RV Park offers concrete pads for stability but some campers report sites being "5 ft from next rv" with "No room for tow behind."
Weather considerations: RV travelers should monitor forecasts for high wind events. One visitor to The Potholes Recreation Site mentioned, "Canyon was a bit windy at night with our RTT [roof top tent]." These wind patterns are common in canyon settings and can be problematic for awnings, pop-ups, and outdoor equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests?
What camping is available near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests?
According to TheDyrt.com, Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests offers a wide range of camping options, with 245 campgrounds and RV parks near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests and 77 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests?
Which is the most popular campground near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests is Black Canyon Dispersed Camping with a 4.2-star rating from 67 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 77 free dispersed camping spots near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests.
What parks are near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests?
What parks are near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 parks near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests that allow camping, notably Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests.
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