East Portal Campground
4.8320 reviews102 Elk Creek, Gunnison, CO, 81230, USA
Quick Facts
6,526 ftPrice
$10 - $20/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
15 campsites
Season
Typically open May t...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
6,526 ftPrice
$10 - $20/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
15 campsites
Season
Typically open May t...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsEast Portal Campground
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard camping fee is $20 per night. Senior/Access Pass holders receive a discounted rate of $10 per night. Payment must be made online using the...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$20.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider(970) 641-2337cure_info@nps.gov
What Campers Say
4.83
Top-Rated
Based on 20 reviews
55 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanlocation
"Overall, East Portal Campground is highly praised for its scenic beauty, proximity to the Gunnison River, and serene environment. The steep and winding road is frequently mentioned as both a challenge and a highlight of the experience."
Fees & Passes at East Portal Campground
$10 - $20/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Stay limited to 14 consecutive nights for a total of 30 days within a calendar year.
Cancellation: Cancellations are not applicable as reservations are not accepted. Payment is non-refundable once ma...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official National Park Service website.
Best Time to Camp at East Portal Campground
At 6,526 feet, East Portal exists in a world of dramatic weather personalities. Morning might greet you with brilliant sunshine warming the canyon walls, while afternoon could bring sudden mountain storms that transform the landscape. Temperature swings of 30 degrees keep even summer days interesting, reminding visitors that mountain weather plays by its own rules. Wise campers pack layers for all seasons, knowing that July can sometimes feel like October when canyon shadows lengthen and river breezes carry a surprising chill.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May to mid-October.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Typically open May to mid-October, weather permitting. Closed in winter from November 10-April 11.
- Current Alerts: East Portal Road closes seasonally to vehicles during winter.
About East Portal Campground
Tucked away at the dramatic base of Black Canyon, East Portal Campground offers an intimate escape where the mighty Gunnison River whispers past 15 secluded campsites. Here, beneath a canopy of ancient box elder trees, adventurers discover a hidden gem accessed by a thrilling descent down one of Colorado's most memorable access roads. This quiet sanctuary combines raw natural beauty with fascinating glimpses of human ingenuity, where the historic Gunnison Tunnel stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering prowess.
The campground offers drive-in and walk-in sites, primarily suited for tent camping. RV access is restricted due to road limitations.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the doorstep of the legendary Gunnison Tunnel's East Portal, where early pioneers transformed an impossible dream into concrete reality. This engineering marvel, paired with its companion diversion dam, tells the story of human determination against nature's obstacles. Visitors often find themselves captivated by tales of tunnel workers who labored in darkness to bring water to the Uncompahgre Valley, forever changing Colorado's agricultural landscape. As one awestruck guest reflected, the tunnel's history reveals an amazing saga of water, willpower, and the West's transformation.
Weather and SeasonsAt 6,526 feet, East Portal exists in a world of dramatic weather personalities. Morning might greet you with brilliant sunshine warming the canyon walls, while afternoon could bring sudden mountain storms that transform the landscape. Temperature swings of 30 degrees keep even summer days interesting, reminding visitors that mountain weather plays by its own rules. Wise campers pack layers for all seasons, knowing that July can sometimes feel like October when canyon shadows lengthen and river breezes carry a surprising chill.
ElevationPerched at 6,526 feet above sea level, East Portal Campground inhabits that sweet spot where mountain air stays crisp but breathable. This elevation creates a unique microclimate within the canyon depths, where thin air meets river moisture to produce ever-changing atmospheric conditions. Visitors should allow time to acclimate and stay hydrated, as the altitude combined with outdoor activities can surprise even seasoned campers.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to towering canyon walls that seem to touch the sky, their dark volcanic rock faces telling stories millions of years in the making. The Gunnison River flows like liquid silver through your backyard, its constant murmur providing nature's soundtrack. Overhead, gnarled box elder trees create living umbrellas, their leaves dancing with light and shadow throughout the day. This natural amphitheater offers front-row seats to one of Colorado's most dramatic geological performances, where every sunrise and sunset paints the canyon walls in impossible shades of gold and crimson.
Geological RegionEast Portal occupies a remarkable position where Curecanti National Recreation Area meets the raw power of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. This unique location places campers literally at the bottom of one of North America's most spectacular gorges, where the relentless Gunnison River has carved through two billion years of rock history. The canyon walls rise like natural skyscrapers around the campground, their Precambrian rock faces hosting a grove of resilient box elders that somehow thrive in this vertical world. It's a place where geology textbooks come alive, and every rock tells an ancient story.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityEast Portal Campground is not ADA accessible. The campground road and parking areas are gravel, and campsites are on unimproved ground. Five campsites have adjacent parking, while others require walking down stairs. Access to pit toilets and water is on compacted dirt paths.
Sites SizeMost sites are small and compact, with some space limitations due to the natural setting.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies significantly; some sites are described as secluded, while others are closely packed, with picnic tables almost touching.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites nearer to the river for better views and quieter experiences. Walk-in sites provide enhanced privacy but require effort to access.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is at 1 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 1 PM.
Stay Limit
Stay limited to 14 consecutive nights for a total of 30 days within a calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy: 8 people, 2 vehicles per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 15 sites, including 10 walk-in sites requiring gear transport down stairs. Sites may have limited privacy due to proximity.
Open and Closed SeasonTypically open May to mid-October, weather permitting. Closed in winter from November 10-April 11.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not accepted; all sites are first-come, first-served. Payment must be submitted online via the Recreation.gov mobile app using Scan & Pay.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served, with no reservation system. Campers are advised to arrive early to secure spots due to frequent full occupancy.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are not applicable as reservations are not accepted. Payment is non-refundable once made using Scan & Pay.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
East Portal Campground offers a range of outdoor activities with a focus on fishing, river access, and scenic enjoyment. 'Amazing fishing with friendly and helpful rangers,' highlights one visitor. The location is also praised for its proximity to hiking opportunities and the historic East Portal of the Gunnison Tunnel.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available nearby, including trails leading into the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Trails vary in difficulty and offer scenic views.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight of the campground. 'Amazing fishing with friendly and helpful rangers,' mentions a user. The proximity to the Gunnison River makes fishing easily accessible.Biking
Cycling is allowed on East Portal Road during the winter when it is closed to vehicles.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a common activity, with opportunities to observe the area's natural fauna.Winter Activities
During winter, East Portal Road is closed to vehicles but is open to pedestrians and cyclists, offering unique access to the area.Water Sports
Fishing is a primary water-related activity, but other water sports are not mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in designated fire rings. Adherence to fire bans and proper extinguishing are required.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep road access (16% grade) poses challenges for vehicles. Wildlife may be present, requiring food storage in lockers. Rapid weather changes may also occur.
Active alertsEast Portal Road closes seasonally to vehicles during winter.
Weather at East Portal Campground
30
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 69%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services (hospital, police) are located in Montrose, approximately 12 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay to mid-October.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling collection are available seasonally.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly next to Gunnison River with easy access for fishing and recreation.
Common complaintsSites are close together, creating limited privacy. Walk-in sites require carrying gear down stairs. Bathrooms occasionally need maintenance.
HostNo staff or hosts are present on-site regularly. Maintenance and ranger support may be limited.
Campground Map
102 Elk Creek, Gunnison, CO, 81230, USA
Driving directionsFrom Montrose, take Hwy 50 east. After about 6 miles, turn left onto Hwy 347 and follow it for 6 miles into Black Canyon National Park. At the park’s entrance station, turn right onto East Portal Road. Continue 5 miles to the base of the canyon and turn left at the signed junction toward the campground. The campground is just past the ranger station.
The East Portal Road leading to the campground is steep (16% grade) with tight curves, prohibiting vehicles longer than 22 feet (including trailers). The road is closed to vehicles during winter but remains open to pedestrians and cyclists.Nearby places
Montrose: approximately 12 miles (20-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Closest locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are in Montrose, about a 20-minute drive from the campground.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.8
20 reviews
East Portal Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, East Portal Campground is highly praised for its scenic beauty, proximity to the Gunnison River, and serene environment. The steep and winding road is frequently mentioned as both a challenge and a highlight of the experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 20 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently highlight the campground's scenic location, proximity to the river, clean vault toilets, and excellent fishing opportunities. 'Such a beautiful spot next to the river!' and...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the steep and winding access road, lack of privacy in some sites, and the need to carry gear to walk-in campsites. 'The closest camp spot to mine was so close to its...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a site, as the campground is first-come-first-served and fills quickly. Prepare for a steep drive and bring all necessary supplies, including firewood.
Based on 20 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during the summer months when the road is open. Winter access is limited to pedestrians and cyclists, resulting in fewer visitors. Users recommend visiting in late spring or...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'This was a great campground! Very close to the water.' 'The drive down to the campground is just spectacular.' 'Bathrooms need a little attention.' 'Quiet, secluded, and serene.'
Based on 20 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 7 is highly recommended for its privacy and proximity to the river. Other sites vary in quality, with some being closely spaced.
Based on 20 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground is not wheelchair accessible, and most sites require navigating stairs or unimproved paths.
Based on 20 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. Reviews do not provide specific feedback on pet-friendly amenities.
Based on 20 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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