Best Camping near Powderhorn, CO

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Powderhorn. Powderhorn is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Powderhorn, CO (292)

    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Creek Campground

    1. Elk Creek Campground

    30 Reviews
    74 Photos
    270 Saves
    Powderhorn, Colorado

    Overview

    Elk Creek Campground is on the north shore of Blue Mesa Reservoir. The lake is Colorado's largest body of water with 96 miles of shoreline and the largest Kokanee Salmon fishery in the United States. Elk Creek Campground is located off of US HWY 50 -15 miles west of Gunnison Co. at Mile Marker 142. The campground is part of the Curecanti National Recreation Area, which was named after a Ute Indian chief of the mid-19th century. The Elk Creek area is a hub for water based activities year round.

    Recreation

    Anglers delight in catching salmon and rainbow trout, while water sports fans find excitement in windsurfing and water skiing. Swimming is permitted throughout the 20-mile long reservoir and birders can find bald eagles here year round.

    Natural Features

    At an altitude of 7,540 feet, Elk Creek is surrounded by a vast expanse of sagebrush. Trees are minimal because the reservoir gets less than 12 inches of rain a year. Curecanti National Recreation Area is sandwiched between the towns of Montrose and Gunnison, Colorado. It spans three reservoirs, named for corresponding dams on the Gunnison River. These include the Crystal Reservoir, Morrow Point Reservoir and Blue Mesa.

    Nearby Attractions

    Visit the Cimarron Rail Exhibit to see railcars and the last remaining railroad trestle on the Black Canyon of the Gunnison route.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

    2. South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

    62 Reviews
    234 Photos
    277 Saves
    Montrose, Colorado

    Overview

    A camping trip to the Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park makes for a beautiful getaway for sightseeing, stargazing, and hiking. The park protects the most dramatic section of the Gunnison River Canyon; no other canyon in North America combines the narrow opening, sheer walls, and startling depths of Black Canyon.

    Recreation

    Take one of many spectacular hiking trails such as the Oak Flat Loop Trail and watch for birds like the black-billed magpie. In summer, catch an evening educational program in the campground amphitheater.______ Winter activities include snowshoeing on Rim Rock Trail or go cross country skiing on South Rim Drive (South Rim Campground is first-come, first-served in winter).

    Facilities

    Take one of many spectacular hiking trails such as the Oak Flat Loop Trail and watch for birds like the black-billed magpie. In summer, catch an evening educational program in the campground amphitheater.______ Winter activities include snowshoeing on Rim Rock Trail or go cross country skiing on South Rim Drive (South Rim Campground is first-come, first-served in winter).

    Natural Features

    Perched on the South Rim of the Black Canyon, this campground is surrounded by scrub oak forests and sits atop ancient hard rocks. Deer, grouse, bears, and bobcats are known to frequent the area.

    Nearby Attractions

    Visit the Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit to see railcars and the last remaining railroad trestle on the Black Canyon of the Gunnison route. Head upstream to Curecanti National Recreation Area to enjoy water recreation on Colorado's largest reservoir.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hartman Rocks Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hartman Rocks Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hartman Rocks Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hartman Rocks Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hartman Rocks Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hartman Rocks Recreation Area

    3. Hartman Rocks Recreation Area

    19 Reviews
    46 Photos
    374 Saves
    Gunnison, Colorado

    Remember your OUTDOOR ETHICS when enjoying your public lands. Please RECREATE RESPONSIBLY. Overview Hartman Rocks Recreation Area includes over 14,000 acres of public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management and 160 acres (The Base Area) owned and managed by The City of Gunnison, and Gunnison County. Hartman Rocks has 45 miles of singletrack trail, 45 miles of roads, 50 designated dispersed campsites, and countless climbing crags. Singletrack trails are perfect for mountain biking, dirt biking, hiking, and trail running. Roads are often traveled by 4x4 trucks, ROVs and ATVs. In the winter months, 16 miles of roads are groomed as cross-country ski trails for classic and skate skiing; and some single-track trails are groomed as winter singletrack for fat biking. For more information, please contact the Gunnison Field Office. Know Before You Go Camping There are 50 dry/primitive campsites available. All sites are first come, first serve. No fees. No hookups! No potable water or developed facilities. Need a Map? Hartman Rocks Recreation Area Map- Climbing, Bouldering, and Rock Climbing Areas Hartman Rocks Trail__Map Helpful Links Visit: Gunnison Field Office ADA Access: Sea of Sage, Lost Dog and Broken Shovel Trails are wide trails used by hand cycles. Accessible restrooms are located at The Base Area and at the intersection of BLM Roads 3505 and 3500.

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Gunnison KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Gunnison KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Gunnison KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Gunnison KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Gunnison KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Gunnison KOA

    5. Gunnison KOA

    14 Reviews
    31 Photos
    60 Saves
    Gunnison, Colorado

    Tent and RV sites and cabins.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Slate River Road Designated Dispersed - CLOSED
    Camper-submitted photo from Slate River Road Designated Dispersed - CLOSED
    Camper-submitted photo from Slate River Road Designated Dispersed - CLOSED
    Camper-submitted photo from Slate River Road Designated Dispersed - CLOSED
    Camper-submitted photo from Slate River Road Designated Dispersed - CLOSED
    Camper-submitted photo from Slate River Road Designated Dispersed - CLOSED

    6. Slate River Road Designated Dispersed - CLOSED

    13 Reviews
    40 Photos
    584 Saves
    Curecanti National Recreation Area, Colorado

    2024 - THIS IS NOW PRIVATE PROPERTY

    All roadside vehicle and tent campers are required to camp ONLY in designated sites. Accessibility is not guaranteed. Please use caution when venturing down forest roads.

    Sites are designated by the presence of a 6in X 6in wooden post with a site number and camping symbol along with a permanent metal fire ring. All sites are first come first serve, if a site is occupied please look for another site.

    Fires are only permitted in the established metal fire rings. Extinguish all fires so they are cold to the touch.

    Sites are limited to two vehicles only per site.

    Finding a site to camp and enjoy dispersed recreation activities in remote areas or in relative solitude has become a popular form of camping throughout the Forest. At some more popular areas,toilet facilities may be provided. Contact the local Forest Service office for current information and refer to the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for each forest (Grand Mesa, Gunnison, and Uncompahgre National Forests). Dispersed camping is permitted in most areas of the Forest. Some caution should be used in selecting a site because of intermingled private lands within the National Forest. Recreation maps are available at all local Forest Service offices. Personnel at each office can answer questions on specific sites. Unlike developed campgrounds which are designed and maintained to protect the vegetation, soils, and natural setting, camping in undeveloped areas require more from the camper to help keep the site in the condition in which it was found. Dispersed camping must not occur within 100 feet of water sources (rivers, streams, ponds, or wetlands) or within 100 feet of any road or system trail. In some areas, dispersed camping is restricted to specific sites, contact the local Forest Service office for current information. Campsites can be occupied for no more than 14 days, then the site must be moved at least 3 miles away. Camping is also limited to a total of 28 days in a 60 day period.

    In areas closed to the use of vehicles off forest roads, where developed parking sites are not provided, and where not otherwise prohibited, direct access to a suitable parking site within 300 feet of the road is permitted. Such travel must not damage the land or streams. Please select your route carefully, and do not cut live timber. Off road travel should be limited to when the ground is dry. The public is encouraged to camp in locations where others have previously camped and utilized existing routes to those camp areas. Campers are required to leave a clean camp, not to damage vegetation or pollute streams and lakes on the National Forest and implement “Leave No Trace” practices.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park

    7. Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park

    29 Reviews
    82 Photos
    289 Saves
    Ridgway, Colorado

    This is the most popular campground at Ridgway, located on the top of a mesa covered in Pinyon pine and juniper trees. Offering campsites 80-187, it is also part of the Dutch Charlie area of the park. RV campsites have electric hookups and shared water and there are 10 walk-in tent sites. The dump station is located down the hill at the entrance to the Dakota Terraces Campground.

    All campgrounds offer: Restrooms; also, during the high season, showers, laundromat (coin operated), snack machines and a change machine in a Camper Services Building A playground Additional restrooms Hiking and biking trails

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Amphitheater Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Amphitheater Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Amphitheater Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Amphitheater Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Amphitheater Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Amphitheater Campground

    8. Amphitheater Campground

    29 Reviews
    132 Photos
    581 Saves
    Ouray, Colorado

    Overview

    Amphitheater Campground is located near the town of Ouray, Colo., at an elevation of 8,400 feet. Visitors enjoy the area for its beautiful scenery and great hiking and off-road trail opportunities.

    Recreation

    Many hiking trails are found in the immediate area, including the popular Upper Cascade Falls Trail, which begins at the campground. Baby Bath Tubs and Chief Ouray Mine trails can also be accessed from the same trailhead. The campground is a favorite among jeep and off-road enthusiasts for its close proximity to a number of exciting trails in the surrounding area.

    Natural Features

    The campground is named for the natural rock amphitheater that stands over Ouray. The massive gray cliffs were created by ancient volcanic and glacial activity. The campground is situated on the mountainside above Ouray, with stellar views of the amphitheater. A forest of Gambel oak trees and mixed conifers covers the area.

    Nearby Attractions

    Ouray is known as America's Switzerland. The charming, historic, mountain town offers a variety of dining, shopping and lodging options, as well as a hot springs pool and a variety of annual festivals.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Tall Texan RV Park & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Tall Texan RV Park & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Tall Texan RV Park & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Tall Texan RV Park & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Tall Texan RV Park & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Tall Texan RV Park & Cabins

    9. Tall Texan RV Park & Cabins

    12 Reviews
    79 Photos
    64 Saves
    Gunnison, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Ouray KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Ouray KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Ouray KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Ouray KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Ouray KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Ouray KOA

    10. Ouray KOA

    25 Reviews
    91 Photos
    121 Saves
    Ouray, Colorado

    Situated on several acres of beautiful landscape, the Ouray KOA Holiday offers several amenities such as a hot tub, pet walk, onsite restaurant, gem mining, and playground. With spacious RV sites, deluxe cabins, camping cabins, and a variety of tent sites, you can pick the pace of your travel. We offer an experience for every kind of camper, whether you're traveling with kids, pets, or friends, book your getaway today!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
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Showing results 1-10 of 292 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Powderhorn

Recent Reviews in Powderhorn

1118 Reviews of 292 Powderhorn Campgrounds


  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed
    Dec. 15, 2024

    Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed

    Remote Wilderness

    Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed Camping, located near Mount Sneffels in Colorado, offers an incredibly remote and breathtaking camping experience. If you're looking to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in pristine wilderness, this spot is ideal. The campsites are dispersed along the trailhead, offering peace and solitude with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and alpine lakes.

    The beauty of this dispersed camping area is its complete immersion in nature. With no designated campsites or amenities, you get to choose your own perfect spot in the forest, whether it’s near the rushing creek or with views of the towering mountains. This is truly a wilderness experience, so you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient—bring your own water, food, and a solid plan for waste disposal.

    The Blue Lakes Trailhead offers some of Colorado’s most scenic hiking, including access to the famous Blue Lakes and a challenging ascent of Mount Sneffels. The hike itself rewards adventurers with awe-inspiring views of alpine lakes, wildflowers, and rugged mountain terrain. It’s perfect for those seeking an immersive backcountry experience.

    One downside of this dispersed camping is that the road leading to the trailhead is rough, so it’s best suited for high-clearance vehicles, and be prepared for the possibility of unpredictable weather, as storms can roll in quickly in the mountains.

    Overall, Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed Camping is an incredible option for experienced campers looking to enjoy the wild beauty of Colorado’s high country. It’s remote, peaceful, and surrounded by some of the most stunning scenery in the state.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Lake Campground
    Dec. 15, 2024

    Lost Lake Campground

    Tranquil Alpine Retreat

    Lost Lake Campground near Crested Butte, Colorado, is a hidden gem that combines serene alpine beauty with a peaceful camping experience. Tucked away in the Gunnison National Forest, this campground offers stunning views of wildflower-filled meadows, dense forests, and the pristine Lost Lake itself, which mirrors the surrounding peaks.

    The campsites are well-maintained, spacious, and thoughtfully spaced for privacy, with some offering lakefront views. There’s a charming rustic vibe, with basic amenities like vault toilets and picnic tables, but no hookups. The nearby trails, including the popular Three Lakes Loop, are perfect for hiking, fishing, and soaking in the mountain scenery.

    What sets Lost Lake apart is its tranquil atmosphere—especially if you’re visiting during the off-season. It’s the ideal spot to disconnect and enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty, whether you’re kayaking on the lake or simply relaxing by the campfire.

    Be aware that the road to the campground is a bit rough and narrow, so it’s best suited for smaller campers or tents. Also, temperatures can drop quickly at night, so pack warm gear even in summer.

    If you’re looking for a quiet retreat near Crested Butte with postcard-worthy scenery, Lost Lake Campground is hard to beat. It’s the perfect blend of solitude, recreation, and breathtaking views.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Amphitheater Campground
    Dec. 15, 2024

    Amphitheater Campground

    A Scenic Mountain Escape

    Nestled just minutes above the charming mountain town of Ouray, Amphitheater Campground is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Surrounded by the breathtaking San Juan Mountains, this campground offers stunning views, a peaceful atmosphere, and convenient access to hiking trails, hot springs, and the iconic Million Dollar Highway.

    The campsites are well-spaced, offering a mix of shade and sun. Many sites provide spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valley below. The facilities are basic but well-maintained, with clean vault toilets and potable water. While there are no hookups for RVs, the campground’s rustic vibe is perfect for tent camping or smaller camper setups.

    One of the highlights is its proximity to the Perimeter Trail, a scenic loop around Ouray, and other popular hikes like the Box Canyon Falls trail. You’re also a short drive from town, where you can enjoy the famous hot springs or grab a meal.

    A word of caution: the road to the campground is steep and narrow, so it may not be ideal for large RVs. Be sure to plan for cool nights, as temperatures drop significantly due to the elevation.

    Overall, Amphitheater Campground offers an unbeatable combination of solitude, accessibility, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re looking for a basecamp for outdoor adventures or simply a serene spot to relax, this campground delivers.

    Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch
    Dec. 6, 2024

    Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch

    Amazing Campground, could use a refresh

    Located near Blue Mesa Reservoir, Thousand Trails Gunnison offers breathtaking views and outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. The campground features spacious sites, clean facilities, and a welcoming community vibe.

    While some amenities could use a refresh, the stunning location more than makes up for it. It’s a great spot for adventurers and nature lovers.

    Outdoor closes and activities die down after beginning of September.

    ASK other campers about the laundry facilities. Hopefully the dryers will be fixed by next season. They were taking more than 3 cycles to dry our clothes.

  • Kim L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from The Campground at Big B’s Delicious Orchards
    Nov. 27, 2024

    The Campground at Big B’s Delicious Orchards

    No amenities but next to orchard, restaurant, activities

    Campsites are a small piece of grassy area next to a pond or on an outside loop. Portable toilets only. Traffic noise at night. But was fun being next to a working orchard, a great restaurant with delicious food and a little store. Lots of outdoor seating. There are also special events on the property such as festivals, concerts, etc. it’s rather fun.

  • Kim S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Angel Creek Campground
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Angel Creek Campground

    Good campground with some bearboxes

    Stayed for 4 nights in early Oct 2024. Nice little campground with large bear boxes for food storage. I felt it's at a good location to venture off each day from.

    Not too many sites, had leveled tent areas, pit toilets, deer went through the campground adding to the nice views there and a river by it.

    The cons were there's no trash disposal there you need to go up the road to the other campground to get rid of it, cars were constantly going by looking for a campsite which was constant noise into the evening and they went really fast making the campground road not feel very safe to walk along, not the flattest of parking spots if using a rooftop tent or car camping without anything to level with

    Enjoyed the place.

  • Jeremy H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Montrose / Black Canyon Nat'l Park KOA
    Oct. 25, 2024

    Montrose / Black Canyon Nat'l Park KOA

    Nicest in town

    Tent camping is pricey but the amenities r almost with it. Close to black canyon and in town food and booze with in walking distance. What more could u ask for. A pool, they got that.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Three Rivers Resort & Outfitting
    Oct. 24, 2024

    Three Rivers Resort & Outfitting

    Great location with easy access fishing

    Great location with full hookups for RVs. The description mentions back-in sites only, and while our electric hookup was conveniently on the same side, we had to run our water and sewage lines underneath the RV since those hookups were on the opposite side—this seems to be the case for all sites. The campground is perfectly situated at the intersection of the Gunnison, Taylor, and East Rivers, making it ideal for fly fishing. They offer cabins, RV sites, and long-term housing options. There's a small store with basic items, beer, and merchandise, plus a fly shop in the same building. There's also a restaurant, though it was closed during our stay, and coin-operated laundry facilities. Overall, a great stay!

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Oct. 24, 2024

    South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

    Great Campsite and Beautiful Views

    We loved our stay at the South Rim Campground. It was the perfect spot to explore the national park and take in its stunning views. The drive down towards the East Portal Campground was amazing and led us right to the beautiful Gunnison River, where we enjoyed some great fly fishing. Highly recommend

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from BASECAMP 550
    Oct. 24, 2024

    BASECAMP 550

    Great Location and Atmosphere

    We had an amazing stay at Basecamp 550. The campground’s location is perfect, with easy access to Ouray, Montrose, Telluride, and other nearby areas. The amenities were excellent, including quarter-operated hot showers and laundry, restrooms, Wi-Fi, full hookups, and a clubhouse with coffee + tea, kitchen access, and a great workspace. Our site had a beautiful view and was right next to a ranch where cows would come right up to the fence. The communal fire pit was a nice touch, and the private, fenced-in setting made us feel safe and comfortable. They also offer glamping tents and casitas on the property. Highly recommend!

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Golden Horn Dispersed
    Oct. 24, 2024

    Golden Horn Dispersed

    Perfect for Solitude and Views

    Great campground just 10 minutes from Silverton. Several spots are right next to a small stream, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The vault toilet helped us conserve water, and we used the public shower/bathroom in Silverton, which was very convenient. It's also close to many hiking trails, making it a great base for outdoor activities.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Silverton 20A - Dispersed
    Oct. 23, 2024

    Silverton 20A - Dispersed

    Secluded, quiet, great views

    Definitely need 4 wheel drive to get up to sites, had to build our own fire pit but that was ok! The views were phenomenal.

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from North Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
    Oct. 18, 2024

    North Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

    High Altitude Beauty

    As locals, we love the North Rim of BCNP. It's closed from November through April/May. Can be surprisingly cold in May with temps below freezing. Lots of interesting fellow campers as many are big wall climbers from all over the globe. The nature trail in the campground offers nice viewpoints. The trail to Explanation Point is a level and very beautiful 5k hike, BUT no dogs. Same goes for Green Mountain trail past the point. The SOB trail starts from the road near the campground and is a difficult route dropping a few thousand feet, rocky, and steep with poison ivy to greet you near the bottom. Rewards are in store for the hearty hikers with great trout fishing a super river access. Campground is tight for spaces, some are not pull through. Gravel biking during winter closures on the roads in BCNP is full of wildlife and wonder.

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Clear Fork Campground — Crawford State Park
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Clear Fork Campground — Crawford State Park

    West Elk Views

    As part of Crawford Lake State Park, this campground offers great water access to a small reservoir for SUPs, motorboats and sailing. Decent fishing in the spring with some northerns, bass, and crappie. Excellent walking trails and a sandy swimming beach plus two boat ramps nearby. Rarely full capacity, it's a nice relaxing place to hang. The town of Crawford is right over the hill with a great coffee shop, ice cream parlor, and restaurants. Good jumping off spot to visit the North Rim of the Black Canyon NP (one of the gems of Western Colorado and much less visited than the South Rim near Montrose).

  • Xavier G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Black Canyon Dispersed Camping

    Gorgeous, close to National Park, plenty of sites

    It is a little bit of a maze of roads, some are gonna need vehicles with higher clearance, careful not to commit too much on a road if you're unsure about your vehicle's offroading capability.  If you get to a site, most have room for 1/2 vehicles and tents.  Beautiful trees, each spot feels pretty secluded from others.  Plenty of downed trees for firewood if fire danger is low.  Will definitely come back.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed
    Oct. 10, 2024

    Black Canyon Dispersed

    Great spot, rough 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. 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. Beautiful views, quiet and secluded. We did find a few deer legs left behind, so keep an eye out for Mountain Lion

  • Erika R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)
    Oct. 10, 2024

    Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)

    LONG dirt road, but worth it

    The off road trail it get to Alta lakes took us about 40-50 minutes in my boyfriends F-150. The views were amazing so neither of us really minded. We enjoyed our 1 night stay and did not struggle to find a spot

  • Kevin S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon
    Oct. 6, 2024

    Black Canyon

    Extreme solitude close to Black Canyon National Park

    Easy to find BLM land with decent roads and lots of spots. I stayed here 3 days and never saw or heard another person. It’s only 5 miles from the North Rim of Black Canyon National Park. Crawford is about 8 miles away and has some restaurants with good home cooking.

  • Kiet D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 2, 2024

    Black Canyon Dispersed Camping

    Great for visiting Black Canyon.

    Visited the first week of October 2024. Had beautiful weather, no bugs and few campers. Sites are dirt so I can see it be being messy when wet. Only few sites at entrance for larger campers. We got into with a Bean teardrop np.

  • Daniel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Creek RV Park
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Cedar Creek RV Park

    Not bad

    We stated here one night arriving without a reservation. The office was closed and no one was answering the phone but we were able to register for a site online. That worked reasonably well and we had a quiet relaxing evening. The RV sites are all on gravel but there is a large grassy area near the office. The site is on the edge of town but was fairly quiet.

    Nice clean laundry and restrooms. Good base for exploring Black Canyon NP.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gunnison KOA
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Gunnison KOA

    Good Location

    Great location for area activities, nice pretty green grass for dogs, bathroom and showers are clean but definitely need an over haul. Positive and negatives are livestock are cute walking around, down sides are poop paddies every where gets annoying.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ouray Riverside Resort
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Ouray Riverside Resort

    The Views and BBQ

    Location is all I can Say. Every direction you look is beautiful, onsite restaurant is great, drinks are good, sites level, might need a little updated showers and bathroom to match price. While area is a 10 of 10. Wish we would’ve stayed much longer.


Drive Time


Guide to Powderhorn

Camping near Powderhorn, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're into hiking, fishing, or just soaking in the views, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the area. One camper mentioned, “There is a one-mile hike from the campground to the visitor center along the rim,” which is perfect for a quick adventure.
  • Star Gazing: The South Rim Campground at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a dark sky park. A visitor shared, “Took photos of the stars,” highlighting the incredible night sky views.
  • Fishing: The Elk Creek Campground is close to Blue Mesa Reservoir, where you can enjoy fishing and swimming. One reviewer noted, “Fly fishing in the Gunnison as well as great fishing and swimming in Blue Mesa Reservoir is a short walk or drive.”

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. A review from Ridgway State Park stated, “The bathrooms were clean and the showers looked ok.”
  • Scenic Views: Many campgrounds offer breathtaking views. One camper at Dakota Terraces Campground said, “Our site had a view of Courthouse Peak,” making it a picturesque spot.
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful hosts. A visitor at Ouray Riverside Resort remarked, “The staff were extremely kind and helpful.”

What you should know:

  • Size Limitations: If you're bringing a larger RV, check the size restrictions. One camper warned about the limitations at the Amphitheater Campground, saying, “Got up to the entrance to find signs warning of overall length limitations.”
  • Proximity to Neighbors: Many campgrounds have sites close together. A reviewer at 4J + 1 + 1 RV Park mentioned, “The RVs are squeezed in tightly but it never felt that way,” indicating a cozy atmosphere.
  • Rodent Issues: Some campgrounds, like Elk Creek Campground, have reported rodent problems. One camper advised, “Do not feed or leave food out,” to avoid attracting them.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with amenities. A family at Ouray KOA enjoyed the “great camp store” and “old school arcade games for the kids.”
  • Safety Precautions: Be aware of wildlife. One camper at Elk Creek Campground shared, “We saw moose in the afternoon into evening,” reminding families to keep a safe distance.
  • Bring Layers: The weather can change quickly. A family camping in June noted, “The temperature was beautiful 24/7 (70 during the day and down to about 40 at night).”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Ouray Riverside Resort mentioned, “We had electric, sewer and water hookups,” which made their stay comfortable.
  • Plan for Wind: Some campgrounds can get windy. A visitor at Elk Creek Campground noted, “The wind is pretty bad,” so be prepared.
  • Use Propane Fire Pits: If wood fires aren’t allowed, consider renting a propane fire pit. A camper at Ouray Riverside Resort mentioned they could rent one, which is a great alternative.

Camping near Powderhorn, Colorado, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a perfect getaway for families and RVers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions