Camping near Montrose, Colorado offers unique advantages with its location at 5,800 feet elevation, placing it between the high mountains and lower desert terrain. The area serves as an ideal base camp for exploring western Colorado's diverse landscapes while avoiding extreme temperatures. Montrose camping provides access to both developed campgrounds and remote dispersed sites with variable amenities.
What to Do
Fishing below the dam: At Pa-Co-Chu-Puk Campground, anglers find excellent opportunities in the tailwaters. "Great fishing in the tailwaters below the dam, 5 minute walk from campground to the river or two stocked ponds. River is catch and release," notes John D.
Canyon bottom exploration: Access the Gunnison River at East Portal Campground for a unique perspective from below. "The East Portal, this camping ground, offers the only easy access to the river, since most of the roads and whatnot are a couple thousand feet up along the rim. The Gunnison here is gold medal trout water," explains Joe J.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. "I've always loved this place ever since I got to bear watch here for hours. My girlfriend and I got extremely lucky while sitting on the river. We saw 5-6 different bears come down to take a drink!" shares Cody W. about East Portal Campground.
What Campers Like
Remote North Rim sites: North Rim Campground offers a quieter alternative to the busier South Rim. "The North Rim campground was pretty and quiet... by 5:30, all the spots were full and were full earlier the following night, so be sure to arrive early," advises Jordan L.
Dispersed camping convenience: The BLM land outside Black Canyon provides free camping close to the national park. "BLM land just outside the south (main) entrance to Black Canyon National Park. Road can be rough, especially slippery mud after rain. Many dispersed sites with cleared space and fire rings along the road, which goes for miles," explains Todd B.
Tent-specific areas: Some campgrounds offer dedicated tent sections with added privacy. "Loop H is part of Pa-Co-Chu-Puk site at Ridgeway State Park. This loop deserves a special review since it is a totally different place than the other camp sites at the park. This is a Walk-in camp site for tents only," notes Fabio O.
What You Should Know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by campground and carrier. "No cell connectivity, extremely limited water (best to bring what you need) and well-maintained vault toilets," reports Sarah about South Rim Campground.
Road conditions to remote areas: Access to some campgrounds requires navigating challenging roads. At Black Canyon Dispersed Camping, "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. There are some spots at the beginning of the property but there are more if you follow the dirt road back another two miles or so," advises Grace S.
Elevation changes: Moving between campgrounds means significant elevation shifts. "This campground is right at the edge of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, but because you take a steep, twisty ride down to the river, the elevation went from over 9000 to under 7000, a welcome change if you aren't acclimated to the altitude," explains Shelley K. about East Portal.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water activities: Dakota Terraces Campground offers water recreation options for families. "This park is a great place for families because there is so much to do, from the endless bike trails to fishing and water access. All of the sites are large and have plenty of space from the next site," shares Jason S.
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Look for stocked ponds that provide reliable catches for young anglers. "There are a couple ponds nearby that are heavily stocked with hungry rainbow trout. We saw quite a few kids leave with their limit of 9-11" stockers," notes Zachary K. about Pa-Co-Chu-Puk Campground.
Consider campground patrols: Some sites have better security oversight. "The park was well maintained, and patrolled by park staff. The sites were well spaced and generally level," mentions Ricky R. about Pa-Co-Chu-Puk.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites in the Montrose area require leveling equipment. "Stayed for just one night at site 55. Needed all our levelers as the site is sloped downhill," shares Ursula about Dakota Terraces Campground.
Size restrictions: Not all roads to campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. "Well, very steep twisty road to access. CG is small and very limited for anything larger than van, trucks, tenters and small Class Cs. Signs at top note vehicles over 22ft prohibited," warns Greg L. about East Portal.
In-town alternative: Cedar Creek RV Park provides easier access to services. "This RV park is close to a bowling alley and several restaurants. It's great for a quick stay. There does appear to be many long-term residents, but they are separate from the retro campers. Friendly staff, reasonable prices," notes Sarah S.
