Granite Tent Campground - Gunnison Rd

4.44

13 reviews

Peace & Quiet

Quick Facts

8,474 ft

Price

$16/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Open season from May...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

8,474 ft

Price

$16/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Open season from May...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests site

Official Website

Get Directions

Granite Tent Campground - Gunnison Rd

$16.00 - $16.00 / night

Campsite Fees

$16 per night per camping unit. Second vehicle fee: $8/night. Picnic fee: $6/vehicle. $10 per firewood bundle. Interagency Senior/Access Pass holders...

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

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What Campers Say

4.44

Recommended

Based on 13 reviews

8 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulshadesites

"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."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Granite Tent Campground - Gunnison Rd

38.7259, -106.7687

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.

Best Time to Camp at Granite Tent Campground - Gunnison Rd

The 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.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open in summer; shaded canyon keeps temperatures refreshingly cool per reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.0 / 5

Open through Sept 29; early fall likely pleasant but canyon limits sunlight and season is short.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Opens May 23 so late-spring access only; conditions may be variable early season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed outside May 23–Sep 29 window; winter use not applicable.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Open season from May 23 to September 29.

About Granite Tent Campground - Gunnison Rd

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.

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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 camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground features six spread-out tent sites, allowing for privacy and a spacious camping experience.

Walk-in AvailabilityThis site is first-come, first-serve with no reservation system in place.

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the source materials.

Site SizeThe campground contains 6 tent-only sites. The sizes of these sites are not specified in the source materials.

PrivacyThe 6 campsites are reported as being spread out, offering some degree of privacy.

Total Campsites6 campsites

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.

ClimbingClimbing 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.

FishingThe 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

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsNo potable water is available at the site. Campers should prepare for potentially cold weather due to the canyon location.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Granite Tent Campground - Gunnison Rd

Reviews

4.4

13 reviews

Recommended

Granite Tent Campground - Gunnison Rd is recommended, placing it in the top 40% 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 13 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 13 reviews

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 13 reviews

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 13 reviews

Seasonal 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 13 reviews

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 13 reviews