360 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campers using Gunnison as a base get easy access to Curecanti National Recreation Area and the Blue Mesa Reservoir, which holds a string of developed campgrounds with water and hookups along the north shore. The town sits at about 7,700 feet, which means cooler nights even in July and a shorter seasonal window than lower-elevation destinations along the Front Range. Developed sites around the reservoir take RVs up to 35 feet at most locations, and some loops are tent-only. Gunnison-area dispersed camping covers the no-fee national forest options for those who want to get further from the reservoir crowds.
Crested Butte is 28 miles north and typically runs higher nightly rates for comparable developed sites. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is about 55 miles west if you're adding a park visit to the itinerary. Cell service drops off quickly once you leave the valley floor.
"Close to town. Stop by the Gunnison Observatory when you visit."
"It’s about 10 minutes from downtown Gunnison. You can get to most of the sites without a 4WD. The sites are dispersed enough so each site has pretty good privacy."
"The Gunnison KOA is in a beautiful setting with large trees that is about 75 yards from the river. The spaces are generously sized, although the camping sites could use power outlets."
"Great location for area activities, nice pretty green grass for dogs, bathroom and showers are clean but definitely need an over haul."
"You are in close proximity to other campers as is usual in a BLM or NFS campground. Not an issue really. There is a rodent issue at the camp."
"Most sites are close enough to the water to walk down to the reservoir but there was also plenty of parking spaces. I had consistent cell service for both phone service and 4g."
from $24 - $34 / night
Check Availability"This is the most beautiful RV Camp in Colorado. We come every year."
"Easy access to downtown Gunnison."
from $39 - $269 / night
Check Availability"Near a clean vault toilet. If you are coming from Gunnison heading west take the second Hartman Rocks turn off. Not the one by the airport."
"I got out here around 7:30 and got the first one I could find, there’s a bunch of roads so it’s kind of a pick your own adventure deal. ended up about 200 yards from the next site but that didn’t bother"
"This campground is west of Gunnison, Colorado across from Blue Mesa Reservoir. No cell service, but they have free wifi. The wifi is slow and when it's busy doesn't work well."
"It is a great place to explore from into the many surrounding popular locations."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"Only downside was that it was very close to the road but that’s not enough for me to take down a star!"
"Yes it's near the highway, but I don't think I ever even noticed that. The noise is not bad. Most of the noise comes from the river, which is relaxing."
"Very close to the lake and was beautiful. Liked that they take reservations."
"I realized while driving to Telluride that I wasn’t going to make it to my next camp by dark and that I needed to find some place asap to set up for the night."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"Private RV park sits right on Hwy50 2.5 miles west of Gunnison. Mixed overnight and seasonal campers. Fairly clean but nothing fancy. Staff is nice and helpful. Paid $58/nt."
"Rosy campground is between the highway and river so it's also a quieter option.) Creekside sites are sloped but with some flat tent spots at the creek."
"stayed here over the 3rd and 4th of July. big shady site, plenty of trees for hammocks and flat spots for tents. nice little river with trail running along the edge of the campground. also start of doctor"
TravelerStayed up here is our van. Roads weren’t too bad. Lots a spots with beautiful yellow aspen trees and some lovely views of mount elbert. Short drive to twin lakes and short walk to mount elbert forebay.
ScoutGreat campground. Two hosts, both very friendly. Stayed over Labor Day weekend, fairly full but still some spots open. Site 005 was very private and secluded. Not a great spot for a tent but we were able to make it work. Not the best water view but plenty of shade. Close to fence so plenty of cattle nearby, but they were quiet at night. Would come back!
ScoutIncredible views, well maintained facilities, and lake access nearby.
GuideI've was the Camp Host at Hecla Junction for the summer of 2026. Here is what you should know...
The 3 mile dirt road to get here is pretty well maintained but has some very sharp turns. If you are over 40ft in length it is doable but tough.
All sites are by reservation only. There are no first come first serve sites. Plan ahead because cell service is not great. You will get one bar if you are lucky.
There are pit toilets available but there is no water, electricity or sewer. You have to pack your trash out.
All sites have a picnic table, fire ring and a spacious place for tents.
The sites are a reasonable distance from each other. The sites on the side by the river are pretty flat but the sites 1108, 1113, 1116, 1117 have a pretty steep parking area so if you plan on putting your RV there be ready to spend some time leveling.
If you have a large RV (over 35ft) you might want to avoid sites 1110-1114 because the loop has a pretty tight corner. Site 1114 is a pull-through site.
My favorite sites are 1103 (nice tree for shade), 1102-1111 (river views) and 1112 (nice view, good shade from the hill and a trail that goes to the river), 1113 and 1114 back up against the hillside and get shade earlier. 1116 and 1117 are good for really large groups (extra tables)
There is a good hiking trail that runs along the river (1.5 miles out and back). It starts from the day use area.
Quiet hours are 10:00pm to 6:00am and most people are pretty good about following that.
Hecla Junction is also a Dark Skies designated park so the view of the stars is amazing!
GuideThe drive takes longer than you might think unsaved and twisty road. Lake is very nice and hiking trails all atound
GuideNot very crowded easy in and out. Fresh water bathrooms were closed for renovations
GuideVery nice campsite I enjoyed so much more than south rim, but a long drive on unsaved road
ScoutThe road up is rocky but nothing crazy. Distant views of foothills and mountains. Lotsss of designated sites but also seems to be a well known favorite for dispersed camping.
ScoutGreat spot by creek, far enough from road and can hear creek all day and night.
Dispersed camping near Gunnison, Colorado offers access to several wilderness areas within the Gunnison National Forest with elevations ranging from 7,700 to over 9,000 feet. The region experiences rapid afternoon thunderstorms during summer months, typically between 2-4pm, with clear mornings ideal for outdoor activities. Winter camping is limited with temperatures regularly dropping below 10°F from November through March.
Mountain biking at Hartman Rocks: Over 40 miles of single-track trails across 8,000 acres of high desert terrain, located 3 miles southwest of Gunnison. "This area has some cool rock formations and an interesting landscape. It also offers free camping anywhere you see a fire pit, and has restrooms at the entrance," notes one Hartman Rocks Recreation Area visitor.
Rock climbing and bouldering: Multiple rock formations suitable for various skill levels. "Plenty of camping spots with amazing rock outcrops perfect for exploring!" reports a camper who visited Hartman's Rocks Dispersed Site.
Fishing access: The Taylor River provides trout fishing opportunities with multiple access points. A visitor at North Bank Campground shared, "Great location right on the river. The river access was wonderful and the shade was great for the July heat."
Hiking Doctor Park Trail: 23-mile loop trail accessible directly from North Bank Campground. "Start of doctor park bike trail (23 mile loop) so lots of bike traffic. Fun trail to hike or trail run as well. HUGE rocks to climb and work your way to the top of a mountain if you wanted."
Proximity to Blue Mesa Reservoir: The largest body of water in Colorado offers boating, fishing, and swimming. "If you are tent camping I would try and get a site that is next to the reservoir. Makes for a great sunset view!" advises a visitor at Elk Creek Campground.
Shade access: Important due to high elevation sun exposure. "This campground is nestled among giant cottonwood trees and small pond. Easy access to downtown Gunnison," notes a camper at Mountain Time RV Park & Cabins.
River sound benefits: Campgrounds near moving water offer natural white noise. "The sound of the river drowns out any noise. Great river access! Overall wonderful place!" writes a North Bank Campground visitor.
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "Beautiful sunsets and starry nights. Close to town. Stop by the Gunnison Observatory when you visit," recommends a Hartman Rocks visitor.
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed camping areas require higher clearance vehicles. "This area is large and has tons of dispersed campsites, but they're connected by a network of bumpy and rocky roads. You'll need a high-clearance vehicle with 4WD (like a Jeep Wrangler) - otherwise, don't even attempt," warns a visitor at Hartman Rocks Recreation Area.
Afternoon wind conditions: Consistent afternoon winds affect tent camping, especially in exposed areas. "If you have a canopy just drop it at night. You have to walk into the camp spots but it's not bad," advises a camper at Elk Creek.
Cell service limitations: Variable connectivity throughout the area with specific carrier differences. "No cell service with Verizon and T-Mobile is non-existent. Park has wifi but it is very slow and not reliable," reports a camper at Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch.
Early arrival recommended: Many first-come, first-served sites fill quickly. "Centrally located and great for fishermen. It is all first come first serve so make sure to get there early. There are only 5 trailer spots and 5 hike in only spots."
Kid-friendly fishing options: Designated areas for younger anglers with catch limits. "This is also a fishing pond for kids under 12. They can keep 2 fish," notes a visitor at Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch.
Wildlife encounter opportunities: Farm animals at some private campgrounds. "The highlight of the stay was our visit by the resident goats– only two of the three like cauliflower. There's also donkeys in a corral that get constant attention from guests," shared a camper at Gunnison KOA.
Swimming options: Both indoor and outdoor pools available at some locations. "We loved our stay here! There is an indoor and outdoor pool, playground, cool mini golf set up, horses, and a lake for kids to fish in!"
Playground alternatives: Natural play areas with rocks and streams. "Fun and enjoyable trip to this campground, but be aware there are little to no trees or shade. Summer trips get hot, so a canopy is needed for shade."
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in privacy levels. "The spots are a little tight for the tents so I felt like I was right next to the neighbors. The highest was also right next to it so you could hear the cars go by all night."
Elevation-related systems impacts: High altitude affects propane efficiency and water systems. "Elv is 7600 so does not get super hot."
Seasonal resident awareness: Many campgrounds have long-term occupants. "This park is beautiful, covered in trees, almost all sites are shaded. We have 103 RV Sites, 5 cabins and 6 tent sites. Facilities include a clubhouse/office, pavillion, laundry facilities and a great bathroom/shower facility."
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there free camping options near Gunnison?
Yes, the Gunnison area offers several excellent free camping options. Road 240 - Dispersed is considered one of the best-kept secrets for dispersed camping, featuring numerous wooded spots that provide ample shade all the way up to the lake, with some prime locations along the river. Twin Peaks Dispersed Campground is another fantastic free option with killer views, great hiking trails, and beach access in a peaceful setting. Hartman Rocks Recreation Area also offers free dispersed camping with basic toilet facilities and is suitable for various vehicle types. For those seeking less crowded experiences, Buffalo Pass Campground provides wide-open spaces that are perfect for avoiding weekend crowds while still enjoying the Colorado wilderness.
When is the best season for camping in Gunnison?
The prime camping season in Gunnison runs from late spring through early fall (May to October), with each period offering unique experiences. Summer (June-August) delivers warm days perfect for water activities at Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch and other lakeside campgrounds. Early fall brings spectacular colors, especially at Owl Creek Pass where aspens create a stunning golden landscape amid flowing rivers and mountain backdrops. October marks the beginning of off-season at locations like South Rim Campground, offering exceptionally quiet camping with fewer crowds but chillier temperatures. For wildflower enthusiasts, late June through July showcases meadows bursting with color around Lost Lake and Oh Be Joyful. Most high-elevation campgrounds close by mid-October, while some lower elevation sites remain accessible into November, weather permitting.
Where are the best campgrounds in Gunnison, Colorado?
Gunnison offers exceptional camping options for every preference. Oh Be Joyful Campground stands out with stunning mountain views and basic amenities including fire pits and bathrooms, operating on an honor system for fees. For RV enthusiasts, Mountain Time RV Park & Cabins is considered one of the most beautiful RV camps in the area with full hookups. Other notable options include Lost Lake Campground in Gunnison National Forest, featuring alpine beauty and peaceful surroundings, and South Rim Campground at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, which offers an especially quiet experience during the off-season (early October). Elk Creek Campground provides water and electric hookups with clean facilities, while Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch offers sites near the reservoir with free WiFi.
What activities can I enjoy while camping around Gunnison?
The Gunnison area offers a wealth of outdoor activities for campers. At Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, you can explore dramatic canyon views, hiking trails, and stargazing opportunities. Water enthusiasts will enjoy boating, fishing, and beach days at Blue Mesa Reservoir. The region surrounding Iron Creek Campground provides access to numerous vineyards for wine tasting excursions. Four-wheeling and off-roading are popular in the Cascade area, while Hartman Rocks Recreation Area offers exceptional mountain biking trails. Hikers can find everything from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry routes throughout Gunnison National Forest. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, particularly for elk, deer, and various bird species. During summer months, the wildflower displays around Crested Butte create spectacular photography opportunities.
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