Tent campsites near Gunnison National Forest range from 7,000 to over 10,500 feet in elevation, with dramatic temperature fluctuations common at higher sites. The forest encompasses over 1.6 million acres across western Colorado, with camping conditions varying greatly between lower valley locations and alpine zones. Summer nights remain cool even during July and August, with temperatures regularly dropping into the 40s at higher elevations.
What to do
Explore high-altitude lakes: At Four Pass Loop - West Maroon to Buckskin, backpackers can camp near alpine lakes along the trail. One camper noted, "The last campsite had the most people, which was the one by Snowmass Lake. Even though there were lots of campers and people at this site, it was still incredibly clean."
Hike nearby peaks: Multiple trailheads near tent sites provide access to challenging terrain. At Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness - Crater Lake Campground, one camper used it "as basecamp for summiting 14ers maroon peak and pyramid peak."
Fish mountain streams: Many sites offer streamside camping with access to cold-water fishing. Near Thompson Creek, sites are available "down by the stream, and also up the steep, dirt road to the dispersed sites," providing different fishing access points depending on water conditions.
What campers like
Private tent sites: Portal Campground provides secluded spots that "feel private and separated from each other. Each site has a picnic table and a fire ring." Another camper noted, "There are two vault toilets at this campground. You can camp literally feet away from the water if you get a good spot."
High elevation views: Many tent campers value the mountain vistas. A camper at Horse Ranch Park called it "Stunning & secluded" and mentioned, "Lost Lake was right across the road from where we camped. Found a beautiful spot with a great view!"
Clean facilities: Despite remote locations, some sites maintain good facilities. At Lower Prince Creek Campground, a camper reported "This is a BLM site with five primitive camping sites available. However there is a bathroom. I didn't locate any potable water spigots."
What you should know
Accessibility varies: Many tent sites require capable vehicles. At Portal Campground, "After you turn off of Hwy 82 it's 6.5 miles up a 4x4 road. I made it in a small 'crossover' AWD SUV, but anything lower might have trouble."
Weather changes quickly: At high elevations, come prepared for rapid weather shifts. At Four Pass Loop, a camper advised, "Make sure to get the passes over before noon as your likely to get a lightning storm not much after noon."
Reservation requirements: Some backcountry camping areas need permits or reservations. At Crater Lake Campground, "There are 11 total marked sites and they're pretty far apart. site 1 is very close to crater lake and the first you run into when approaching from maroon lake."
Water filtration needed: Most sites lack potable water sources. A camper at Four Pass Loop noted, "Each of the campsites were clean and well maintained with a stream nearby for water," indicating the need for filtration equipment.
Tips for camping with families
Choose lower elevation sites: Families with young children may find camping at lower elevations more comfortable. Silver Bar offers "Small campground with clean vault toilets. Private and easy access to the creek behind site 4. Site 4 was definitely the best."
Prepare for wildlife encounters: Educate children about proper food storage. At Four Pass Loop, a camper reported, "Thankfully no bears were encountered on our journey, but we did see a fox, a moose from a distance, and a deer."
Arrive early for best sites: Competition for established tent sites intensifies during summer weekends. At Portal Campground, a visitor noted that "if there was at all a 'peak' time, it seemed to be after 2pm on Friday."
Tips from RVers
High-clearance limitations: Many tent camping areas near Gunnison National Forest restrict RV access. At East Maroon Portal Picnic Site, a winter camper noted, "Great little spot, saw a couple coyotes but they were just curious and walked by," but the site only accommodates smaller vehicles and tents.
Length restrictions apply: Highway 82 access to some campgrounds prohibits vehicles over 35 feet. Portal Campground access notes specifically warn that "No vehicles over 35 feet long are allowed on Highway 82."
Consider generator-free camping: Most tent sites prohibit generators, creating a quieter experience. At Lower Prince Creek Campground, campsites are "nestled in scrub oak" and the reviewer noted it "is best set up for tents and camper vans" rather than larger RVs with generators.
