Black Canyon Of The Gunnison South Rim Campground

4.42

581 reviews

10346 Hwy. 347, Montrose, CO 81401, USA

Scenic ViewsStargazingGreat Hiking

Featured in:Camping Near Black Canyon of the Gunnison#1 Camping Near Canyonlands National Park

Quick Facts

8,000 ft

Price

$20 - $34/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

102 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

8,000 ft

Price

$20 - $34/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

102 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison South Rim Campground

$20.00 - $34.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard Electric sites cost $34 per night during peak season, and Standard Nonelectric sites cost $20. There is a $6 electricity attribute fee for...

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hookup Site Fee$34.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

970-249-1914 EXT 425blca_info@nps.gov

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What Campers Say

4.42

Recommended

Based on 581 reviews

173 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsprivacylocationhiking

Some mention

noisesmall

"The campground has mixed reviews highlighting its scenic location, wildlife, and star-filled night skies. Complaints focus on small campsite sizes, limited water availability, lack of shower facilities, and noise from neighboring sites. Vault toilets are praised for cleanliness but noted for issues such as flies."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

10346 Hwy. 347, Montrose, CO 81401, USA

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison South Rim Campground

10346 Hwy. 347, Montrose, CO 81401, USA

Driving directionsThe park is located approximately 250 miles southwest of Denver. The South Rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is 15 miles east of Montrose, CO, via U.S. Hwy 50 and CO Hwy 347.

The campground is accessible year-round via paved roads (U.S. Hwy 50 and CO Hwy 347). Roads are open during winter but may be icy or require snow tires.

Nearby places

Montrose: approximately 15 miles (24 minutes), Denver: approximately 250 miles (4 hours)

Nearby supplies

Montrose has stores for camping supplies, groceries, and fuel approximately 15 miles away. There are no firewood sales or water hookups within the park.

Best Time to Camp at Black Canyon Of The Gunnison South Rim Campground

The canyon creates its own weather theater, where conditions can shift dramatically from rim to river. Summer days bring warm sunshine perfect for hiking, though evenings cool quickly as mountain breezes sweep through camp. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with snow blanketing the rim while ice sculptures form along exposed rock faces. At 8,000 feet, the thin mountain air adds an extra dimension to every season—spring arrives late with wildflower explosions, while autumn paints the scrub oak in fiery golds and crimsons. Pack layers regardless of season, as the canyon's moods can change faster than you can say 'Gunnison.'

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season Apr 15–Sep 30: warm days for hiking and busy but excellent views and night skies.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Shoulder-season weather, fewer crowds, and strong scenery make fall very appealing.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Variable weather and shifting conditions on the rim; trails available but early-season limitations possible.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round with snowshoeing and XC skiing but limited services and first-come sites in winter.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 15 to September 30.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round. Reservations available from April 15 to September 30.
Current Alerts: No current alerts but water is unavailable off-season. Cell reception unreliable.

About Black Canyon Of The Gunnison South Rim Campground

Perched on the dramatic South Rim of one of Colorado's most awe-inspiring natural wonders, this year-round campground invites adventurers to experience the raw beauty of the Black Canyon. Wake to golden sunrises illuminating sheer canyon walls, spend days exploring winding trails, and end each evening beneath a canopy of stars so brilliant they seem close enough to touch. The campground's thoughtfully designed loops nestle among fragrant scrub oak forests, offering modern conveniences like electric hookups alongside the timeless appeal of vault toilets. Keep your camera ready—curious deer often wander through camp at dawn, while lucky visitors might spot elusive bobcats, black bears, or the distinctive drumming of grouse echoing through the trees.

The South Rim Campground accommodates tent camping, RV camping with electric hookups, and first-come-first-served sites during the off-season. Group camping, cabin lodging, or glamping options are not available.

Historical SignificanceThis land tells stories millions of years in the making, where ancient rivers carved through some of North America's oldest exposed rock. Just a short drive away, the Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit preserves the daring history of narrow-gauge railroads that once clung to impossible canyon walls, while the vast expanse of Curecanti National Recreation Area showcases how human ingenuity and natural forces have shaped this landscape. The Black Canyon itself stands as a testament to the power of persistence—both of the river that carved it and the conservationists who fought to preserve its wild character for future generations.

Weather and SeasonsThe canyon creates its own weather theater, where conditions can shift dramatically from rim to river. Summer days bring warm sunshine perfect for hiking, though evenings cool quickly as mountain breezes sweep through camp. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with snow blanketing the rim while ice sculptures form along exposed rock faces. At 8,000 feet, the thin mountain air adds an extra dimension to every season—spring arrives late with wildflower explosions, while autumn paints the scrub oak in fiery golds and crimsons. Pack layers regardless of season, as the canyon's moods can change faster than you can say 'Gunnison.'

ElevationAt 8,000 feet above sea level, you're camping in Colorado's high country, where the air is crisp, clean, and decidedly thinner than what most visitors are accustomed to. This elevated perch offers spectacular views but demands respect—take it easy your first day as your body adjusts to having less oxygen with each breath. The altitude brings unexpected benefits: cooler summer temperatures, more dramatic weather patterns, and some of the clearest night skies you'll ever witness. Even in summer, mountain nights can surprise you with their chill, so pack that extra fleece and prepare for the kind of deep, restful sleep that only comes with mountain air.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine camping atop a natural fortress of ancient Precambrian rock, where time is measured in billions rather than years. Your tent sits among groves of scrub oak that whisper secrets in the mountain breeze, their twisted branches framing heart-stopping views of the Gunnison River threading silver far below. This is a landscape of contrasts—gentle meadows suddenly giving way to dizzying drops, soft morning light transforming harsh rock walls into galleries of shadow and color. Wildlife thrives in this vertical wilderness: mule deer browse fearlessly near campsites, black bears lumber through in search of berries, bobcats ghost through the underbrush, and blue grouse explode from cover in whirring bursts of feathers.

Geological RegionYou're camping on the edge of one of North America's most dramatic geological showcases, where the Black Canyon earns its name from shadows so deep that sunlight rarely touches the ancient rock below. The South Rim reveals a landscape sculpted by extremes—narrow gorges that seem to defy physics, walls of schist and gneiss polished to mirror brightness, and depths that make even seasoned adventurers catch their breath. This isn't just any canyon; it's a place where the Gunnison River performed a two-million-year magic act, sawing through rock so hard that other rivers would have surrendered. The surrounding scrub oak forests soften this severe beauty, creating pockets of shade and shelter that have supported life on the rim for thousands of years.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in time is 2:00 PM.

Check-out

Check-out time is 11:00 AM.

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

One truck or car per site.

Groups

Group camping is not explicitly supported at this campground.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThree loops (A, B, C) with varying amenities. Loop B features electric hookups; Loop C has larger sites.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov website, app, contact center, or in person.

Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable year-round. During winter, all sites are first-come, first-served.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival, with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the reservation fee. Late cancellations (starting from midnight one calendar day before check-in) also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.

AccessibilityAccessible campsites, grills, vault toilets, and parking are available.

Site SizeSite sizes vary. Official descriptions indicate suitability for tents and smaller RVs, while user reviews note some sites may be cramped or awkwardly shaped.

PrivacyPrivacy is mixed; scrub oak and foliage provide separation at many sites, but others are described as close together or lacking shade.

Total Campsites102 campsites

Recommended SitesLoop B sites feature electric hookups and privacy. Loop A offers access to trails and amphitheater shows.

Amenities available

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

This campground offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, birding, stargazing, and ranger-led educational programs. Seasonal activities include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing during winter.

HikingHiking trails such as the Oak Flat Loop Trail and Rim Rock Trail are accessible directly from the campground. Trails vary in difficulty and provide scenic views of the canyon. Some users found trails limited in number but stunning.

Wildlife viewingWildlife such as deer, grouse, bears, and bobcats are frequently seen. One user reported a bear in their campsite.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsRangers conduct night sky tours, geology talks, and bat presentations at the amphitheater.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include wildlife like bears, steep canyon trails, and high altitude effects.

Active AlertsNo current alerts but water is unavailable off-season. Cell reception unreliable.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers provided at most sites for safe food storage.

Fire PolicyFires permitted only in designated fire pits. No wood collection or sales within the park.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours start at 10 PM.

Emergency ServicesMontrose provides the nearest hospitals and police stations. Ranger stations are available within the park.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are available at the campground, but recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.

Water FeaturesNo direct water features at the campground, but Curecanti National Recreation Area offers water-based activities nearby.

Camp HostHosts available year-round making rounds to ensure compliance. Positive feedback from visitors.

Weather at Black Canyon Of The Gunnison South Rim Campground

Reviews

4.4

581 reviews

Recommended

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison South Rim Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground has mixed reviews highlighting its scenic location, wildlife, and star-filled night skies. Complaints focus on small campsite sizes, limited water availability, lack of shower facilities, and noise from neighboring sites. Vault toilets are praised for cleanliness but noted for issues such as flies.

Review Summaries

Based on 581 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praise the location close to hiking trails, scenic canyon views, ranger-led programs, and privacy offered by scrub oak separating sites. Wildlife sightings, including bears and mule deer, added...

Based on 581 reviews

Common Concerns

Key complaints include cramped and awkward site layouts, limited water availability, lack of flush toilets and showers, unreliable cell reception, noise from neighboring sites, and absence of...

Based on 581 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend filling RV tanks before arrival, bringing sufficient water, using red headlamps for stargazing, and buying firewood en route to the park. Early arrival is advised for better...

Based on 581 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight busy campground conditions but stunning night skies and canyon views. Winter visitors praise activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing but note the...

Based on 581 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Canyon was amazing, must be seen in person to appreciate." "The vault toilets smelled pretty good." "The scrub oak between sites created private campsites." "No access to firewood in the park, pick...

Based on 581 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site A007 is praised for partial shade and wind protection from scrub oak. Site B015 provides privacy due to its location near scrub oak and the periphery. Site C010 is noted for proximity to...

Based on 581 reviews

Accessibility Features

Limited accessibility features were noted. Older visitors and those with disabilities found hiking options limited and trails difficult.

Based on 581 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Several users appreciated pet-friendly features like allowing dogs on specific trails and near overlooks.

Based on 581 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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