Dorchester Campground - Gunnison Rd

Star4.71
16 reviews
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Quick Facts

9,800 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Gunnison National Forest site

Official Website
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Dorchester Campground - Gunnison Rd
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are required for this site.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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

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What Campers Say

4.71

Top-Rated

Based on 16 reviews

14 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietclean

"User reviews emphasize the secluded and serene nature of Dorchester Campground. Many reviewers appreciate the clean vault toilets and the scenic beauty of the area. One user described the campground as 'quiet, safe, and amazing,' while another highlighted the 'incredible night sky.'"

Read all reviews

Campground Map

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Dorchester Campground - Gunnison Rd

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Driving directionsIn Almont, CO, at intersection of State Rt. 135 and County Rt. 742, take Rt. 742 for 23.3 miles to intersection of Forest Rts. 742 and 765. Continue straight on Rt. 742 for another 14.4 miles (last 12.8 miles are dirt) to campground sign. Turn left into campground.
The road changes to improved dirt immediately after the turn off for Cottonwood Pass Road. The last 12.8 miles to the campground are dirt.
Nearby places
Almont is the nearest city, but specific distances beyond the driving directions are not provided.
Nearby supplies
Specific information about the nearest locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel is not provided.

Best Time to Camp at Dorchester Campground - Gunnison Rd

From late May through October, Dorchester Campground awakens from its winter slumber to welcome visitors into a world of dramatic mountain weather. Sun-drenched days invite exploration and outdoor play, with temperatures that keep you comfortable without the oppressive heat of lower elevations. As evening paints the peaks in alpenglow, the mountain air takes on a crisp edge—a reminder to pack that extra layer and gather around the campfire. This high-altitude climate creates perfect conditions for refreshing summer escapes and spectacular fall color displays.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open May 20–Oct 1; sun-drenched days and peak season late May–early Oct.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Open into October; late-season colors and quieter conditions noted by visitors.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens late May; spring access limited but late-spring wildflowers and thaw bring activity.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed in winter; seasonal dates May 20–Oct 1.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Late May through early October.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open seasonally from May 20 through October 1.
  • Current Alerts: None reported.

About Dorchester Campground - Gunnison Rd

Nestled at the breathtaking upper reaches of Taylor Park, Dorchester Campground offers an intimate escape into Colorado's high country wilderness. This hidden gem, managed by the Gunnison Ranger District, beckons adventure seekers with its perfect blend of rugged accessibility and pristine natural beauty. Ten thoughtfully spaced campsites accommodate both tent campers and RV enthusiasts, each furnished with sturdy picnic tables and grills for memorable outdoor meals. At 9,800 feet, this mountain sanctuary serves as your gateway to endless adventures—whether you're carving through backcountry trails on your OHV, casting a line into the crystal-clear Taylor River, or exploring the area's legendary mountain biking terrain.
Dorchester Campground caters to primitive campers and OHV enthusiasts. The campground primarily serves a first-come, first-serve basis and includes both tents and RV-friendly sites, though no hookups are available.
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Stay Limit
Maximum of 16 nights.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Recreational activities at Dorchester Campground cater to outdoor enthusiasts. OHV trail riding is a significant draw, with an extensive network of trails leading to Taylor Reservoir. Other popular activities include fishing for rainbow and brook trout at the nearby Taylor River, and the area is suitable for mountain biking. Picnicking is supported with single-site setups.
FishingFishing is available in the nearby Taylor River, where anglers can catch rainbow and brook trout.
BikingThe area offers opportunities for mountain biking through scenic landscapes.
Wildlife viewingWildlife such as deer can be observed, especially in the evenings near the river.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include high-altitude effects (9,800 feet), which can lead to altitude sickness, and wildlife encounters. The campground is also subject to cold nighttime temperatures that may catch visitors unprepared.
Active AlertsNone reported.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Dorchester Campground - Gunnison Rd

Reviews

4.7
16 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Dorchester Campground - Gunnison Rd is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews emphasize the secluded and serene nature of Dorchester Campground. Many reviewers appreciate the clean vault toilets and the scenic beauty of the area. One user described the campground as 'quiet, safe, and amazing,' while another highlighted the 'incredible night sky.'
Review Summaries
Based on 16 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive features mentioned include the quiet setting, clean vault toilets, stunning views, and nearby fishing opportunities.
Based on 16 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users noted the lack of potable water and basic amenities such as showers.
Based on 16 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own potable water and firewood. Campers should also prepare for high-altitude conditions as the campground is situated at 9,800 feet.
Based on 16 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest the campground is less crowded during weekdays. Some reviews highlight the challenge of high-altitude camping, especially for those not acclimated.
Based on 16 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Secluded, clean, night sky that is just incredible.' (user review) - 'Went to Dorchester for 20 straight years with my family... The stars are unbelievable. The air is indescribable and the views...
Show more
Based on 16 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific sites within the campground were not singled out in the provided reviews.
Based on 16 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility reviews or mentions of experiences from users with disabilities were provided.
Based on 16 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific mentions of pet policies or experiences.
Based on 16 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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Dorchester Campground - Gunnison Rd