North of Montrose and about 23 miles from Lazear, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park offers pet-friendly camping with elevation ranging from 5,800 to 8,200 feet. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures frequently reaching the 90s, while spring and fall bring milder weather with cooler nights. Access to camping areas varies seasonally with many high-elevation sites closed during winter months.
What to do
River activities: Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area provides river access with several dispersed sites right on the Gunnison River. "Dirt road is long and occasionally bumpy. Surprisingly good Verizon signal at the spot we stayed, the ones more west were significantly slower," notes Nathan M., who found reliable connectivity despite the remote setting.
Explore the canyon: North Rim Campground offers trails directly from the campsite. "There is also the trail to exclamation point and the top of Green mountain that begins at the ranger station just down the road if you are into hiking or trail running," explains Jon H., who preferred the North Rim to other areas of the park.
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently spot deer, birds, and occasionally evidence of larger predators. "We did find a few deer legs left behind, so keep an eye out for Mountain Lion," warns Grace S., emphasizing the importance of wildlife awareness when camping in dispersed areas near Black Canyon.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campsites provide natural barriers for seclusion. "Thick oak brush and other vegetation makes the sites feel private," reports Sarah, who appreciated the separation despite smaller-than-average sites at South Rim Campground.
Riverside camping: Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area offers waterfront sites with accessibility. "I found a turn off just before the coordinates and stayed there. Large space with lots of room for cars at this site. Right along the river, absolutely beautiful," describes B S., who navigated the area in a Honda HR-V despite challenging road conditions.
Night sky viewing: The lack of light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "Absence of light pollution means awesome night skies!" notes Deborah D., who camped at 8,200 feet elevation and experienced dramatic weather including thunder and lightning storms typical of the region.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations. "Be prepared for any type of weather. We had a wild thunder, lightning and wind storm with violent downdrafts—typical for this country," warns Deborah D., highlighting the unpredictable climate.
Seasonal water availability: Black Canyon Dispersed Camping requires bringing your own water. "Campsites are open year round, but drinking water is only available mid-May through mid-October," advises Chris P., who stayed at South Rim Campground during the off-season.
Road conditions: Access to many camping areas requires navigating unpaved roads. "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," shares Grace S., describing how road conditions can limit access to more remote camping spots.
Site availability: First-come, first-served sites fill quickly during peak season. "I arrived right at 1 to make sure I could get a spot the Friday of Father's Day weekend. By 5:30, all the spots were full," reports Jordan L., recommending early arrival to secure pet-friendly camping spots.
Tips for camping with families
Early morning wildlife viewing: Dawn offers opportunities to see animals. "Deer roaming through the campground and one hung out by my site for awhile," shares Tori K., describing wildlife encounters from South Rim Campground.
Water activities: Crawford State Park offers kid-friendly water features. "Great loops for biking with kids, very clean campsites and nice bathrooms, great trails for biking or walking between the camp loops, nice reservoir for water activities," recommends Carrie R., though she cautions about limited shade.
Bring shade structures: Many campsites lack natural cover. "We used a sun shade with a tarp on one side that we would keep rotating during the day to create shade. The sun is unbearable here for a whole weekend without some shade!" advises Carrie R., sharing an essential strategy for family camping comfort.
Tips from RVers
Elevation considerations: Higher elevation campgrounds offer cooler temperatures. "Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Outside of Montrose Colo a few miles. South Rim CG is at 8200 elv," notes Greg L., providing context about the significant elevation that affects RV performance and comfort.
Site selection: Uncompahgre River Resort provides level sites for larger rigs. "Stayed for a week in one of the back-in sites in the South section of the campground. The Uncompaghre River was about 30 yards behind the camp site - a short walk through the tall tree line," describes Gordon D., who had no issues fitting his 43-foot fifth wheel and truck.
Power options: RVers should note varying electrical hookup availability. "Electric sites (22 of them for $34/night) have brand new 20/30/50 amp service. Everything is working great! All other sites are $20," explains Sky B., detailing options available for power-dependent campers.
Traveler
