Granite Tent Campground - Gunnison Rd
04 reviewsGranite Tent Campground - Gunnison Rd
$16.00 - $16.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$16 per night per camping unit. Second vehicle fee: $8/night. Picnic fee: $6/vehicle. $10 per firewood bundle. Interagency Senior/Access Pass holders receive a 50% discount on camping.
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About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Taylor Canyon, Granite Tent Campground offers an intimate escape where the rushing waters of the Taylor River provide nature's soundtrack. This hidden gem welcomes adventurers on a first-come, first-served basis with six secluded tent sites nestled beneath towering canyon walls. Whether you're casting a line into the pristine waters, scaling the nearby rock faces, or preparing for a thrilling rafting adventure, this tent-only sanctuary serves as your perfect basecamp for exploring the canyon's endless outdoor possibilities.
The campground is tent-only with no facilities to accommodate RVs or group camping. It operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Weather and SeasonsThe canyon's natural architecture creates a unique microclimate where summer days remain refreshingly cool beneath the protective shade of towering walls and ancient spruce. As seasons change, so does the canyon's personality—from sun-dappled summer mornings perfect for riverside coffee to crisp autumn evenings around the campfire. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, though icy conditions demand respect and preparation. Spring and fall visitors should pack for surprises, as mountain weather can deliver unexpected snowflakes even as wildflowers bloom or leaves turn gold.
Natural Features and SceneryGranite Tent Campground immerses you in a living postcard where ancient spruce trees stand sentinel along the Taylor River's melodic flow. The canyon walls rise dramatically on either side, their weathered faces telling geological stories millions of years in the making. Morning mist dances above the river while evening alpenglow paints the canyon rim in shades of rose and gold. This riverside haven offers front-row seats to nature's daily performance, from the splash of rising trout to the graceful flight of canyon wrens threading between the trees.
Geological RegionSet within the dramatic embrace of Taylor Canyon, this campground showcases the raw beauty of Colorado's geological heritage. The canyon's sculpted walls reveal layers of time, while the Taylor River continues its patient work of carving through ancient stone. Majestic spruce forests thrive in the canyon's protected environment, their roots anchored in soil enriched by centuries of mountain runoff, creating a lush riparian corridor that feels worlds away from the high desert landscapes beyond the canyon mouth.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe campground contains 6 tent-only sites. The sizes of these sites are not specified in the source materials.
Sites PrivacyThe 6 campsites are reported as being spread out, offering some degree of privacy.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 14 days.
Groups
No group sites are available at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features six spread-out tent sites, allowing for privacy and a spacious camping experience.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season from May 23 to September 29.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis site is first-come, first-serve with no reservation system in place.
Amenities available
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Granite Tent Campground is an excellent base for outdoor recreational activities, including fishing, rafting, rock climbing, and picnicking.
Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
The Taylor River flows adjacent to the campground, offering excellent opportunities for trout fishing. User reviews highlight the 'tons of huge trout visible from the bridge' and describe the fishing as challenging but rewarding.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are described. However, the site is reported to be cold and icy during the winter months.Water Sports
Rafting is mentioned as an activity accessible from the campground, but no further details are provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsNo potable water is available at the site. Campers should prepare for potentially cold weather due to the canyon location.
Weather forecast
55
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 0.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Gunnison (~17 miles) has the nearest emergency services including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo information about trash or recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly along the Taylor River, providing easy water access.
Common complaintsLimited facilities with no potable water; strong urine smell noted in restrooms. Camp host enforcement of the 14-day stay limit was described as overly strict by one reviewer.
Campground Map
Driving directionsDrive east on County Road 742 (Taylor Canyon Road) for 7.5 miles.
The campground is accessed via County Road 742, which is presumably paved but has no explicit mention of seasonal closures or unpaved stretches.Nearby places
Almont (~7.5 miles), Gunnison (~17 miles), Crested Butte (~31 miles).
Nearby supplies
Almont (~7.5 miles) offers basic supplies and dining
Gunnison (~17 miles) is better equipped with grocery stores and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Granite Tent Campground - Gunnison Rd has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Granite Tent Campground receives positive reviews for its scenic location and peaceful atmosphere. Reviewers appreciate the proximity to outdoor activities and the spread-out nature of the campsites. However, the lack of potable water and smelly vault toilets are noted as downsides.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the campground's beautiful setting along the Taylor River, peaceful environment, and proximity to activities like fishing and rock climbing. 'Only 6 spots, all spread out,' and 'The...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of potable water, the odor in the vault toilets, and strict enforcement of the 14-day camping limit. 'The bathrooms aren’t the greatest, not because of cleanliness....
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend coming prepared with water, given the lack of potable water on-site. 'Prepare to be tough' is advice for visitors given the basic facilities.
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews indicate the campground is an excellent summer escape due to its shaded sites and cooler temperatures compared to surrounding areas. However, the canyon location results in limited sunlight,...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Great spot for tent camping. Only 6 spots, all spread out. Taylor River on one side, canyon on the other.' - Jack Chambless. 2. 'Gorgeous place. If you climb rocks or trout fish this is a really...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites are not identified by number in the reviews. However, users emphasize the spread-out nature of the sites as a positive feature.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically discuss pet policies or experiences.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025