Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Gunnison, CO

Gunnison KOA's pet-friendly accommodations welcome campers with dogs and include a dedicated dog park on the property. The grassy, well-maintained campground sits approximately 75 yards from the river and offers tent sites, RV spaces with full hookups, and pet-friendly cabins. Friendly staff enforce leash requirements throughout the common areas, though pets can run freely in the designated dog area. Mosquitoes can be problematic near the river sections, especially during early summer months. The campground features resident donkeys and goats that roam the property, so campers should ensure their dogs are comfortable around larger animals before letting them approach. Clean bathroom facilities and spacious, grassy sites make this an ideal base for pet owners exploring the Gunnison area.

Mountain Time RV Park & Cabins provides shaded sites nestled among giant cottonwood trees, creating a forest-like environment for dogs and their owners. Located just 2 miles north of downtown Gunnison, the campground spans 10 acres with 103 RV sites, 5 cabins, and 6 tent sites where pets are permitted. Most campsites offer ample shade from the mature trees, though visitors with allergies should note the abundant cottonwood fluff during shedding season. Dogs enjoy walking paths around the small pond on the property and along the nearby Gunnison River trail. Hikers with dogs frequently use the campground as a base to explore Hartman's Rocks trails, while those seeking additional recreation can access the bike path into town or toward Crested Butte. The campground's location also provides easy access to the free bus service into Gunnison for campers who want to explore town with smaller pets.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Gunnison, Colorado (191)

    1. Elk Creek Campground

    34 Reviews
    Powderhorn, CO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 641-2337

    $24 - $34 / night

    "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."

    2. Gunnison KOA

    14 Reviews
    Gunnison, CO
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 641-1358

    "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."

    3. Mountain Time RV Park & Cabins (Formerly Tall Texan)

    13 Reviews
    Gunnison, CO
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 641-2927

    "This is the most beautiful RV Camp in Colorado. We come every year."

    "Easy access to downtown Gunnison."

    4. Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch

    12 Reviews
    Gunnison, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 642-4150

    $30 / night

    "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."

    5. Hartman’s Rocks Dispersed Site

    8 Reviews
    Gunnison, CO
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 642-4940

    "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"

    "So many off road paths, plenty of camping even for my 20ft camper and lots of rock climbing! So excited to come back!"

    6. Stevens Creek Campground

    7 Reviews
    Gunnison, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 641-2337

    $20 / night

    "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."

    7. Mesa Campground

    5 Reviews
    Gunnison, CO
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 641-3186

    "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."

    8. Campfire Ranch on the Taylor

    4 Reviews
    Almont, CO
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (833) 226-7227

    $70 / night

    "We went into Crested Butte to eat one night and we drove over to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison as well.  Both were suggestions from our host.  We also went boating on Taylor lake."

    "Climbing routes all around and Doctor Park is right there! Can’t beat it!"

    9. BLM Almont Campground

    3 Reviews
    Almont, CO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 642-4940

    "We stayed here on a Monday night in June and saw two other campers there, but no one close to us. There is a little road noise that died off in the evening and was replaced by the sound of the river."

    10. Rosy Lane

    7 Reviews
    Almont, CO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 642-0566

    $28 - $58 / night

    "This campground is in the Gunnison National Forest along the Taylor river. It does have a highway next to it so there is road noise. The camp sites are fairly secluded from each other."

    "Small campground in the Gunnison National Forest, closest to Gunnison and Crested Butte, spelled Rosy and Rosey, depending on what sign or website you see!"

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Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Gunnison, CO

1733 Reviews of 191 Gunnison Campgrounds


  • Mechel M.
    May. 22, 2018

    Gunnison KOA

    Beautiful Setting and Family Friendly

    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. They are very kid and pet friendly; and have a dog park. There is a friendly donkey who roams the grounds, so make sure your 4 legged friends are okay around bigger animals. The bathrooms are clean and functional. The same could not be said for the dishwashing station that is outdoors. It is in horrible condition, including a dripping faucet. Also, be aware that you are very close to the river and there is a mosquito and moisture problem. Even with these minor problems, this is still a great place to stay.

  • Matthew G.
    Aug. 27, 2019

    Cascade (colorado)

    One of our favorites

    This is probably my family's favorite area to camp in Colorado. Off the beaten path enough that traffic is minimal. But nice and close to some great four wheel and off roading areas.

  • Max B.
    Jun. 25, 2018

    Buffalo Pass Campground

    Dispersed camping, solitude

    Great place to camp in Colorado to avoid weekend crowds. Wide open, off the beaten path as far as Colorado goes.

  • Isabelle K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2021

    Road 240 - Dispersed

    A hidden paradise

    This spot is one of the best kept secrets for dispersed camping in Colorado. The road has plenty of camping spots all the way up to the lake. Most spots are wooded and offer plenty of shade. We were lucky enough to end up right along the river. If you keep driving down the road, you will end up at a stunning alpine lake basin that offers plenty of hiking. High clearance vehicle is necessary to get down this road.

  • Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 8, 2021

    Twin Peaks Dispersed Campground- Colorado

    Love love love!

    Easily one of my favorite places to camp in Colorado! It’s a must stay every year for me. Killer views, great hiking, beach days and a peaceful location.

  • Joey B.
    Nov. 13, 2020

    Oh Be Joyful Campground

    Perfect weather in October!

    Drove out with some friends from Kansas in early October this year and the views and weather was Amazing! Campsite has “fees” through an honor system so you no host to worry about you come and camp as you go here. Place has fire pits bathrooms! One of my favorite spots to camp in Colorado so far.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2020

    Owl Creek Pass

    Breathtaking but NO

    This was such a magically beautiful location. The aspens were amazing, the surrounding forest, flowing river and waterfalls, and sweeping mountain scapes were breathtaking. Why only two stars? Well, first off, our campsite seemed too perfect to still be open, and it was. Unbeknownst to us, we were the only place for miles that you can get cell service, so we had 20-30 “visitors” a day drive up to our little round about spot to get a phone call or text out. That’s more people I see a day than even my own neighborhood and far more than I want to see on my outdoor exhursion.

    Ok, so we picked a bad spot.... but every place we hiked and drove was overrun with cattle. Within an hour of our arrival and set up, cows began to wander over, pooping all over the place. Cows were EVERYWHERE- all the way up to Silver Jack reservoir and further. That made the flies worse than normal. They were the only “wildlife” we saw in four days... 15-20 at a time... hundreds overall. In all of my years camping in Colorado, I’ve never experienced this. Every camper we encountered complained about it. I loved the views, but I’ll never be back to camp.

  • S
    May. 22, 2019

    Parry Peak — Psicc

    Great campground, close to the pass and lots of hiking.

    Some spots close to the road but it gets quiet at night as Independence pass is not heavily trafficked after dark.  It is in a great location, close to Twin Lakes but also all the hiking up the pass.  All first come first serve.  Pets are allowed, we had our dog with us.


Guide to Gunnison

Gunnison, Colorado, offers a variety of pet-friendly camping options for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy nature with their furry companions.

Pet owners like the amenities at these campgrounds

  • At Elk Creek Campground, pets are welcome, and the campground features clean facilities, including drinking water and picnic tables.
  • Lottis Creek Campground provides a spacious environment with electric hookups and easy access to hiking trails, making it a great spot for pet owners.
  • The Gunnison KOA is well-reviewed for its grassy areas, allowing pets to roam freely while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

Tips for camping with dogs near Gunnison

  • Keep your pet leashed at Rosy Lane to ensure their safety and the comfort of other campers, as the area can get busy.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog when visiting Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch, as some sites may not have water hookups.
  • Be mindful of wildlife and keep food secured to avoid attracting animals while camping at One Mile Campground.

Dog-friendly activities while camping near Gunnison

  • Enjoy fishing and swimming opportunities at Lake Fork Campground, where pets can join you for a fun day by the water.
  • Explore nearby hiking trails with your dog from Stevens Creek Campground, which offers easy access to scenic routes.
  • Take advantage of the beautiful night skies for stargazing at Hartman’s Rocks Dispersed Site, where you can enjoy the outdoors with your pet by your side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Gunnison, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Gunnison, CO is Elk Creek Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 34 reviews.

What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Gunnison, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 191 dog-friendly camping locations near Gunnison, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.