Black Canyon dispersed camping areas near Montrose provide access to outdoor recreational activities while accommodating pets. Located approximately 9 miles from town, Dry Creek Ditch Camp offers a 2-acre mesa area with enough space for about five separate sites among juniper trees. This BLM land requires no permits or fees. The surrounding region features both primitive camping options and developed campgrounds with varying levels of amenities, from basic vault toilets to full hookup sites.
What to do
Hiking along rim trails: At South Rim Campground, visitors can access trails with canyon views. "There is a nice trail along the rim and interesting plant community of the high plateau. Be prepared for any type of weather. We had a wild thunder, lightning and wind storm with violent downdrafts—typical for this country," notes camper Deborah D.
Stargazing opportunities: With minimal light pollution, the Black Canyon area offers exceptional night sky viewing. "Absence of light pollution means awesome night skies!" reports Deborah D. from South Rim Campground. Another camper at The Potholes Recreation Site mentioned, "It's quite pretty and you can make out some of the milky way on clearer nights."
Wildlife observation: The natural setting supports diverse wildlife. "We woke up to bunnies and a deer carcus so wild life present," reports Kat P. about the dispersed area. At South Rim Campground, one visitor observed "Deer roaming through the campground and one hung out by my site for awhile."
What campers like
Affordability and access: Free camping areas provide budget-friendly options near premium attractions. "BLM land just outside the south (main) entrance to Black Canyon National Park. Reserved campsites within the National Park can be difficult to get... there's no shortage of sites here, just outside," writes Todd B. about Black Canyon Dispersed Camping.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate spacing between sites. At Cedar Creek RV Park, "most sites have decent privacy from other sites," according to Alex F. Similarly, at South Rim Campground, "Each site has a picnic table, fire ring and bear-proof lockers," with Mary S. noting sites are "very spread out and quiet."
Cell service availability: Connectivity varies significantly between locations. At Black Canyon Dispersed Camping, Sasha M. reported, "I have Verizon & had decent cell service." In contrast, Sky B. noted at South Rim Campground, "No cell connectivity," while Ridgway State Park campers mentioned reliable service due to an on-site tower.
What you should know
Road conditions to dispersed sites: Many access roads require caution. At Black Canyon Dispersed Camping, "Road can be rough, especially slippery mud after rain," warns Todd B. Another camper advised, "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."
Seasonal considerations: Water availability changes throughout the year. "Campsites are open year round, but drinking water is only available mid-May through mid-October," explains Chris P. about South Rim Campground. The North Rim Campground operates from April through mid-November only.
Trash management requirements: "While most established campgrounds in the region provide waste stations, dispersed camping areas require packing out all waste," notes Brooks G. at North Rim Campground: "There are bear boxes for each site as well as two clean vault toilets and a dumpster."
Tips for camping with families
Safety awareness: Take precautions with children near canyon edges. "If you have a large RV or camper, there may not be a lot of sites that work for you, check the photos and use the length filter when looking at sites!" advises Tori K. about South Rim Campground. At North Rim, families should note the campground is "down a long dirt road...be prepared to be in a remote location."
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated spaces for children. At Riverbend RV Park & Cabins, there's "an off-leash dog park that receives positive mentions from visitors, along with riverside walking paths suitable for pet exercise." Another visitor mentioned Ridgway State Park is "a great park for kids...I loved the activities, Hikes, swimming and absolutely stunning views!"
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations can be significant. At higher elevations like Ridgway State Park (8,200 feet), one camper noted, "This is high desert so it does get hot during the day and cold at night." Proper clothing layers and shelter are essential for family comfort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Many dispersed areas have limitations. "Some paths are also very muddy and shouldn't be challenged unless you have AWD or 4WD," warns Brooks G. about Black Canyon Dispersed Camping. For larger rigs, Uncompaghre River Resort offers "large cement pads for the trailer and large concrete patios off each pad...Sites are large, no issues to fit my 43' 5th wheel and Truck."
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary widely. At Riverbend RV Park, "Nice size sights. Gravel lots...River sights look nicer," notes Rodney B., while Uncompaghre River Resort provides "full hook up" sites according to Lisa A.
Parking considerations: Many dog-friendly campgrounds have specific parking restrictions. At Cedar Creek RV Park, spaces can feel confined as "they can be tight" and one visitor noted it was "completely full by the evening." Check maximum vehicle length restrictions before arrival.
Ranger
