The Bank Campground

Star4.24
155 reviews
Bureau of Land Management, 3028 East Main St, Canon City, CO, 81212

Quick Facts

6,890 ft

Price

$20 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

33 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Bureau of Land Management site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
The Bank Campground
$20.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Individual sites cost $20 per night, and group sites cost $40 per night. An $8 non-refundable reservation fee applies to each booking.
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$40.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
719-269-8500BLM_CO_RG_VisitorInfo@blm.gov
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What Campers Say

4.24

Satisfactory

Based on 155 reviews

59 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietpeacefulclean

"The Bank Campground receives generally positive reviews for its scenic views, climbing access, and quiet atmosphere. However, issues with flies, vault toilet cleanliness, and lack of water detract from some experiences."

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Campground Map

Bureau of Land Management, 3028 East Main St, Canon City, CO, 81212

The Bank Campground

Bureau of Land Management, 3028 East Main St, Canon City, CO, 81212

Driving directionsFrom Highway 50 in Cañon City, take Dozier Avenue north following it as it turns west. At the four-way stop sign turn right on Field Avenue and follow it north until it turns into CR 9. In approximately 10 miles, continue straight and follow the sign for The Bank Campground. Campground is located approximately 1 mile up the rough dirt road.
The dirt road leading to the campground is steep and rough, which makes it challenging for large trailers and RVs. It requires careful driving, especially for compact SUVs. "The road up was steep and felt like a few sections had some potholes from all the rain," noted one camper.
Nearby places
Canon City (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies, groceries, and fuel are available in Canon City, 15 miles south of the campground.

Best Time to Camp at The Bank Campground

Summer transforms The Bank into a sun-drenched haven where temperatures soar and the high desert comes alive with buzzing insects—gnats, flies, and industrious ants claim their share of the landscape during June, July, and August. Seasoned campers know the secret: winter unveils an entirely different personality here. As crowds thin and temperatures mellow, the campground reveals its quieter soul, offering crisp mornings, star-filled nights, and the kind of profound silence that makes you remember why you sought the wilderness in the first place.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
2.0 / 5

Very hot in summer; frequent reports of gnats, flies and ant problems reduce enjoyment.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall praised as ideal for climbing and camping: cooler temps and clearer skies.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Spring likely pleasant with cooler temps; fewer explicit notes but generally better than summer.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.5 / 5
Top 14% in CO

Open year-round; some users call it one of their best winter camping experiences.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: January 1 - December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round
  • Current Alerts: No current alerts listed.

About The Bank Campground

Nestled among Colorado's dramatic limestone cliffs, The Bank Campground beckons adventurers with 33 thoughtfully designed tent-only sites that promise an authentic outdoor experience. This recently renovated gem has become a beloved basecamp for rock climbers scaling the legendary Shelf Road crags and hikers exploring the rugged high desert terrain. The campground features 31 individual sites perfect for solo travelers or families, plus 2 spacious group sites ideal for climbing clubs and outdoor gatherings. While the journey here requires navigating a characteristically rough dirt road that keeps large RVs at bay, this very remoteness ensures a more intimate connection with nature, complemented by essential amenities including well-maintained vault toilets.
The Bank Campground caters to tent campers and small groups, with a focus on climbers and outdoor enthusiasts. RV camping is not recommended due to the steep, rough access road.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive days.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The Bank Campground is a hub for outdoor activities, especially rock climbing, with nearly 1000 bolted routes accessible via the Cactus Cliff and Dark Side trails. Other available activities include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and 4WD routes.
HikingHiking trails are easily accessible from the campground. Reviewers highlight the trails' scenic nature and their proximity to climbing areas.
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.
BikingMountain biking is a popular activity, with trails accessible from the campground. User Ryan L recommends bringing a hard-tail or full-suspension mountain bike for rest days.
Wildlife viewingThe natural features, including limestone cliffs and piñon pine, create a picturesque environment and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPersistent biting flies, gnats, ants, and mosquitoes during warmer months. Uneven ground and embedded rocks present challenges for tent placement.
Active AlertsNo current alerts listed.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at The Bank Campground

Reviews

4.2
155 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
The Bank Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Bank Campground receives generally positive reviews for its scenic views, climbing access, and quiet atmosphere. However, issues with flies, vault toilet cleanliness, and lack of water detract from some experiences.
Review Summaries
Based on 155 reviews

What Campers Love

Users consistently praise the 'breathtaking views,' 'easy access to climbing routes,' and 'quiet, peaceful environment.' Many found the site 'well-maintained' with 'clean bathrooms' and enjoyed the...
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Based on 155 reviews

Common Concerns

Primary complaints include fly and gnat infestations, small tent pads, limited privacy, and the lack of water and trash facilities. Some users also note the absence of a camp host.
Based on 155 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water, firewood, and trash bags. Use a high-clearance vehicle for the rough access road. Plan for insects, particularly in summer, and consider a canopy for shade in exposed sites.
Based on 155 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews note extreme heat and insect problems, while fall and winter are highlighted as better seasons for climbing and camping due to cooler temperatures and clearer skies.
Based on 155 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Don't tell your friends about this spot. It's a hidden gem." (Jacob S) "Beautiful campground with gorgeous views. Easy to access a lot of the climbing." (Clarissa F) "Amazing views from the A-Loop...
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Based on 155 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site A-2: 'Convenient to a vault toilet; decent privacy.' Site B-19: 'Clean site, great for solar panels.' Site A-13: 'Accessible with good proximity to bathroom facilities.' Site B-23: 'Spacious but...
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Based on 155 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviewers highlight Site A-13 as accessible for individuals with mobility challenges. Bathrooms are generally closer to group sites, making them more convenient for larger parties.
Based on 155 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but some reviewers expressed concerns about stickers and ants affecting their pets' enjoyment.
Based on 155 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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