Best Tent Camping near Gunnison National Forest
Tent campsites in Gunnison National Forest offer a range of primitive and established options amid Colorado's stunning mountain terrain. From the high-altitude sites at Four Pass Loop to the streamside spots at Thompson Creek Campground, tent camping opportunities vary from developed sites with basic amenities to remote backcountry areas. The Portal Campground provides designated tent sites with fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, though it fills quickly during peak summer months.
Most primitive tent sites require visitors to pack in all supplies including water, as drinking water is rarely available at backcountry locations. Access varies significantly, with some areas requiring high-clearance vehicles or substantial hikes to reach tent sites. Fire restrictions are common during dry summer months, particularly at higher elevations. Many campgrounds, including those near Maroon Bells and Crater Lake, require bear canisters for food storage. Sites at Portal Campground feature established tent pads and fire rings, while dispersed areas like Horse Ranch Park offer more rugged, unmarked tent spots on natural surfaces.
The backcountry tent camping experience often provides exceptional solitude and scenery, especially at sites that require effort to reach. Areas along Castle Creek and near Maroon Bells showcase alpine terrain ideal for tent setups with mountain views. Tent campers at higher elevations should prepare for dramatic temperature changes between day and night. A review described Horse Ranch Park as "stunning and secluded" with beautiful spots near Lost Lake. At Four Pass Loop, backpackers can find private tent sites along the trail, though a camper noted that "good spots fill up quick" and recommended setting up early. Winter camping is possible at some lower-elevation sites, though most tent areas remain inaccessible until snowmelt in late spring.
