Camping near Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

100% (17 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park adventure.

A dramatic vertical wilderness ideal for hikers, rock climbers, and sightseers.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Book externally

Public campgrounds in the park
Book externally

Stay at a public campground in Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

100%

(3)

North Rim Campground

13 sites · RVs, Tents In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

South Rim Campground

57 sites · RVs, Tents In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Beautiful riverside camping down at the bottom of Black Canyon.

100%

(4)

East Portal Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

from

$12

/ night

Top-rated campgrounds near Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

100%

(122)

Marble Mountain Yurt

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Marble, CO

NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS FOR THE 2024 SEASON (May-October)! A little about our reservation process. We accept two group reservations per week: 1) A discounted mid-week booking (Checking-in Tuesday or Wednesday) for 1-2 nights minimum (depending on the season) 2) A weekend booking starting Thursday, Friday, or Saturday weekly with a 2-3 night minimum. Enjoy hut-style glamping at its finest in our modern mountain yurt. Bask in the sun and take in the stunning panoramic mountain views on our one-acre property above the quirky town of Marble, CO. With immediate access to public lands and some of the best backcountry skiing, hiking, biking, lakes, rivers, and BBQ in Colorado, there is truly something for everyone to love! The heated bathhouse features a toilet and foot pump sink. Purified drinking water is available from May - September. You must bring your own water from October - April. The kitchen features an oven/range and basic cooking and serving supplies. There is no refrigerator, so please bring your own cooler and ice. Campfires are allowed, but it is your responsibility to determine if there is a fire ban in effect. Firewood may be available or dead wood can be collected on the property. There is a picnic table nestled in the scrub oaks. We only rent one side and the entire property is private to you! We do have neighbors, but the property is pretty well tucked away. You may see the occasional vehicle or hiker on the road or hear someone doing some yard work, but it is generally very quiet and secluded at the yurt. Our neighbors have chosen to live in Marble for its privacy and tranquillity. Please show them respect by keeping the noise down and leaving them be. If you have questions or need help, call us from the yurt landline. Winter camping experience/equipment and a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle with severe snow-rated tires and chains may be required to access the yurt Oct-April. During large snow events, driving to the yurt may be impossible in any vehicle. Skiing to the yurt may be an option Dec - Feb. Gear sleds are available at the yurt for your use.

90%

(15)

Oasis RV Resort

104 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Gunnison, CO

Nestled beside Colorado’s expansive Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest body of water in the state, our location offers unparalleled access to serene waters and breathtaking views. Our Gunnison Lakeside Oasis Vacation Cottages offer a range of sizes and sleeping capacities, with a two-night minimum stay requirement. Each cottage includes restroom facilities, including a shower. Options include two-bedroom cottages, 12×12 and 12×16 cottages with or without covered porches, and even a 1960 Retro Trailer. Enjoy your stay close to the beautiful Blue Mesa Reservoir! Discover the exceptional amenities at Oasis RV Resort and Cottages where modern comforts meet the tranquility of nature. Equiped with fiber optic internet, stay connected to the world while surrounded by the serene beauty of our natural surroundings.

99%

(348)

Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents35 acres · Hotchkiss, CO

The House where we live is the corner stone of the Bruce Property and is on the Colorado Register of Historic Houses.The residence was constructed between 1905 and 1912, using red bricks made on the site. John and Sophia Bruce, early pioneers in the North Fork Valley, were first involved in cattle raising. The family later became successful fruit growers. Located along the West Elk Loop, a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway, the large two-story residence features a steeply pitched hipped roof with prominent attic dormers.As a guest of Riverwalk you will have full access to the river during your stay. In addition, there is the Riverwalk Trail System that skirts the North Fork of the Gunnison River from the top of the property, by the Riverwalk Yurt, (available on this site) meandering downstream past the Riverwalk TIPI (available on the site) passing the Grove Yurt (available on this site) and terminating at the bottom of the property with the sandy Riverwalk Beach. There is a trial that zigs through the Cottonwood Grove and zags back along the gentle Monitor Ditch skirting a newly planted grove of young trees.For RV Campers we provide 2- 30amp,1-50 amp and 1- 110-amp electrical services and potable water. There is a dump station available. There is also access to our heated shower house with running water and bathroom amenities (<3 min. walk, may be shared with other guests). The property is perfectly geared to groups of friends gathering in a central location between the onset of the Rockies and the termination high desert to the west. Friends or family will reserve both Yurts and the RV Site for a perfect reunion setting!

98%

(65)

Spectacular Mountain Getaway

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Ridgway, CO

5 acres of trees up on a hill with breathtaking views of the mountains, including the 14er peak, Mount Sneffels. Only 5 miles from the small mountain town of Ridgway, Colorado and only 30 miles from the famous mountain town of Telluride, Colorado. Friendly hosts willing to offer great advice about how to explore the area. The mountain views from the property makes you imagine you are in Nepal looking at one of the Himalayan Peaks!

98%

(209)

Sage View Ranch

24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Paonia, CO

After traveling the US in our motorhome for almost 5 years my husband Scott and I know the value of a smiling face and a helping hand after a day (or week) of travel. Exploring and experiencing this amazing country, its diversity and incredible people enhanced our lives in so many ways. In mid 2017 we found out our first grandchild was on the way. Long story short we parked the RV and parked ourselves here in Paonia, CO. In December of that year, we moved onto this amazing property full time and started the long list of fix ups (the list is still long). lol We are blessed to have our two adult sons and (aforementioned) grandson living on this property with us. Our philosophy is to live in the moment as the present is the gift. Whether enjoying a sunrise or a sunset or anytime in between you’ll likely find us outside most days. In that, we love all that nature has to offer including fresh fruits and veggies, animals, beauty and fragrances. Sage View Ranch is being created with the desire to have people experience the natural rustic beauty and magic of Paonia. Scott and I look forward to meeting you :)

96%

(213)

Tater's Black Canyon Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Crawford, CO

Hot showers and toilets are now available! Tater's was voted a 2024 top runner up as 'Best Hipcamp in Colorado'. 35 acres of bliss shared with 2 humans, 2 dogs, 2 cats, 3 horses and 4 chickens [Eggs may be available upon request]. Black Canyon National Park is a short drive to the west. Conveniently located to Crawford and the North Fork Valley to wineries, music fests and local eateries. Incredible views and dark skies make the perfect respite for just hanging out, climbing in the Black, foodie time in the North Fork Valley or pretty much whatever you like to do. Hunters are welcome as this is a perfect base camp to Unit 63.

100%

(12)

Darbywoods Mountain Lot

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Cimarron, CO

This is a one acre lot for just one RV located at 9500ft in the Colorado mountains between Montrose and Gunnison. Located half way between and six miles up the Alpine Plateau road this area is surrounded by BLM land and National Forest. The lot is located with full hook ups and wifi in a neighborhood with cabins and rv lots.

100%

(2)

Gunnison Glamping @ Blue Bear Ranch

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Gunnison, CO

Take advantage of this private glamping tent on an acre between Gunnison and Almont, CO and forget trying to find a spot in nearby campgrounds or dispersed camp sites! The entrance is right off of highway 135, 8 miles north of Gunnison. Come down the driveway and take a right into the field. The tent is nestled against the cottonwoods far enough away from the main house for complete privacy. Relax on the property or use it as your adventure base camp. Less than a mile from Gunnison river access, National Forest access in hunting units 54 and 55. Not far from units 66 and 67. Almont is a 2 minute drive, Gunnison is about 10 minutes away and Crested Butte is about 20 minutes from the property. The queen size bed will be made (additional cots can be added with advance notice) and the kitchen has a two burner propane camp stove, tea pot, pots, pans, plates, bowls, cups, mugs, and utensils. It is stocked with potable water, oil, S&P, coffee, tea, marshmallows and fresh eggs from our chickens will be provided daily. The tent is equipped with a wood burning stove and stocked with all the firewood you should need. Kindling and fire starters are also available for you - let us do the hard work - you RELAX! Electricity is provided, so you can charge your phone or whatever else you need. Enjoy your private fire pit, chill in the rocking camping chairs, or walk across the field to the main house and enjoy the hot tub on the deck. You may spot our horse "Sassy" or some of our chickens roaming around. A porta potty is situated near (but not too near) the tent for your convenience. Towels and wash cloths are also provided.

100%

(2)

Dragonsong Sanctuary Forest Retreat

2 sites · Lodging40 acres · Cedaredge, CO

Dragonsong is home to our family and we are available to provide nourishment and nurturing if that is what you need. Tai Ji, Qi Gong, herbal consultations, Rune Readings, healthy organic homecooked meals (with advanced notice, vegan and gluten free too ), guided journeys to the Mesa or to your inner spaces, and hugs are always available. We also realize that sometimes what you need most is space and silence and that is something Dragonsong has in abundance. This is your journey and we want to support you in whatever way feels best! We're also here to host your joyful gatherings of friends who want to share stories, tasty beverages, and a beautiful fire. (weather and wind permitting) We are 25 minutes from the Grand Mesa and it's breathtaking 500 square miles of wilderness and 300 mountain lakes. Dragonsong Sanctuary sits amidst 40 acres of Juniper and Pinion forest with incredible views of the San Juan and West Elk Mountains. There are trails running through the property for you to explore and all well behaved dogs are welcome. We have a unique and colorful tiny home, several camp sites with a compost potty nearby, paddleboards available for adventures on the Mesa, a 23 ft Star Belle tent, and big open skies perfect for catching meteor showers and basking in the wonder of the Milky Way. We are 10 minutes from the town of Cedaredge, where you will find restaurants, galleries, a beautiful town park with playgrounds and a creek for the kiddos, free live music Friday nights through the summer at the Grand Mesa Arts and Event Center, antique shops, Snow Capped Cider tasting room, SIPS wine bar, and Applefest, our annual fall festival. Stop by the Appleshed, our local indoor art mall and enjoy a wine tasting from Williams Cellars, with Sugar Mama's bakeshop inside providing cafe faire and mouth watering fresh breads. Just add a well stocked local grocery store, golf course, thrift shops and wonderful boutiques, Cedaredge has something for everyone! We are an hour from The Black Canyon, Paonia and Palisade and their incredible wineries and organic farms, an hour and 20 min from Orvis Hot springs in gorgeous Rdigeway,and only 15 more min to Ouray, called the Switzerland of Colorado. National monuments, forests, canyons, hiking, mountain biking, cross country skiing, ancient culture, petroglyphs, rivers, mountains, incredible fall foliage and kind folks at every turn, there is something for everyone close by! Our mission at Dragonsong Sanctuary is to provide a space of safety, love and belonging while helping people connect deeply to the heart of Nature. We foster kindness, compassion, inclusivity, and believe in celebrating life with mirth and reverence. We welcome groups and retreats in alignment with that vision. We hold all life as sacred and ask that you honor the land and all the creatures who call this forest home. We look forward to sharing this beautiful landscape with you. Bright Blessings and lovelovelove, Kaewyn, Jory, Tirion, Nana Karen and Russ

95%

(20)

Delta Hobby Farm

1 site · RV, Tent4 acres · Delta, CO

We are a working hobby farm, complete with orchard, goats, pasture, and yurts. We love this slice of Western Colorado beauty... so close to the Grand Mesa, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, and the Uncompaghre Plateau. So many outdoor possibilities! We build a brand new shower house with flushing toilet to share between all guests as we also have 2 yurts. We also welcome pets that don't chase the free range chickens and are on a leash when out n about.

100%

(11)

Tongue Creek Ranch

3 sites · Lodging70 acres · Austin, CO

Tongue Creek Ranch is beautifully situated at the base of the Adobe Buttes on the southern side of the Grand Mesa in Austin, Colorado. The 70-acre ranch has over 40 acres in hay and alfalfa with seasonal cattle grazing in the fall and winter months. Whether you come to stay at one of the rental properties, get married or host a special event, we welcome you to enjoy the beautiful setting of Tongue Creek Ranch and the incredible sites of the Western Slope! David and Barb Cocetti purchased the ranch in June 2019 to embark on a new life where they could cultivate the land and be more self-sustaining. By following Biblical guidelines for work and agriculture, this land has come to life! It is proving to be an oasis where people find peace while enjoying the serenity of the surroundings. The clamping Cabin sits behind the horse arena and in front of Tongue Creek. It's the cutest little cabin and we mean little, more like an expertly finished big shed. It is 10x14 with a 3x14 covered porch but finished inside like a 5 star hotel. AC, TV, Wifi, fireplace, comfortable queen size bed. Beetle kill tongue and groove ceiling, cultured barn wood wanes coating. It's super nice. The ranch itself may be the reason for the "glamp" booking. The yard is manicured and the 25 house, goats and chickens are fun to see. The big plus is we are only 20 minutes away from the Grand Mesa outdoorsman mecca. This is probably the cheapest base camp to the Mesa. The ranch is a great base camp to wineries, Moab, Telluride, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, fishing, boating, hiking, trails and hundreds of open BLM land for Razor riding. Check us out.

98%

(33)

Wild Abandon Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent50 acres · Paonia, CO

PLEASE NOTE: We do not allow campfires at our campsite at any time, regardless of fire bans or not. We had a fire hit our property last summer and no longer feel comfortable letting visitors have fires in such a high fire danger region. Thank you for understanding! Wild Abandon Ranch is a gorgeous 50 acre property that we purchased in March of 2023. Sadly, the property had been abandoned and neglected for over 20 years and we are doing our best to breath some new life into her. We are chasing those land dreams! This property has a wild amount of potential and an endless story of labor and we hope to bring a new vision and purpose to this very special place. The Hipcamp site is located down by the creek (on the SOUTH side of Minnesota Creek Rd) where you'll have total privacy and room to relax and explore. It is a beautiful place to get lost amongst the trees and the rhythm of the creek. Our property is only 3.5 miles from the town of Paonia so you're oh-so-close yet so far away from it all. Paonia is central to the abundant North Fork Valley and there is so much to experience in this area. From hiking, biking, camping, or swimming to touring the many vibrant vineyards or galleries. Your visit is very directly contributing to this land's second chance. We hope you'll visit again and follow along in the evolution of Wild Abandon Ranch. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you!

The best camping near Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park guide

Overview

About

Carved over millions of years by the Gunnison River winding its way through metamorphic rock, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is so narrow in spots that the sun barely touches it, making it appear black in the middle of the day. The canyon’s sheer vertical cliffs make a challenging playground for rock climbers, while expert kayakers will find technical whitewater down below. Scenic drives offer stellar views of the canyon, where hiking trails meander along the rim. Campers will find sites perched on both the south and north rims, and at the bottom of the canyon.

Notable campgrounds

Best for RVs: South Rim Campground
Best for solitude seekers: North Rim Campground
Best for river access: East Portal Campground

Tips for snagging a campsite

Reservations are only available for the South Rim Campground. North Rim and East Portal campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis only.
Campground reservations open six months in advance on a rolling basis.
Make sure to check the campsite details before booking. Only Loop B of the South Rim Campground offers electric sites and many sites have limits on RV length.

When to go

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is open year-round, but sights and services are limited during the winter months. The best time to visit is May through mid-November when the South Rim Road, the North Rim, and all campgrounds are open. The park is busiest in summer, so visit in May, September, or October if you wish to avoid the crowds. In winter, only one loop of the South Rim Campground remains open, and much of the South Rim is only accessible by skis or snowshoes.

Know before you go

Electric hookups are only available at the South Rim Campground.
The East Portal Campground is for tents only. It’s located at the bottom of the canyon and although the road to the campground is paved, it’s windy and steep. Vehicles exceeding 22 feet in length are not allowed on the East Portal Road.
Dogs are allowed at the South Rim Campground, but from early June through early August, dogs may not be walked around the campground (even on a leash) to prevent deer conflicts.
Drinking water is not always available in the campgrounds. Come prepared with your own water.
Temperatures can vary greatly between the rim and the bottom of the canyon. Bring layers and be prepared for wind if camping on the rim.