Sand Gulch Campground

Star3.97
174 reviews
Bureau of Land Management, 3018 East Main St, Canon City, CO, 81212

Quick Facts

6,400 ft

Price

$7 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

31 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Bureau of Land Management site

Official Website
Get Directions

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
Sand Gulch Campground
$7.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Individual sites cost $7 or $20 per night depending on the booking platform. Group sites are $14 or $40 per night. There is an $8 non-refundable...
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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$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

3.97

Mixed Reviews

Based on 174 reviews

114 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsprivacyquietclean

Some mention

noisereservation

"Sand Gulch Campground is well-loved by climbers and outdoor enthusiasts for its easy access to climbing routes, scenic views, and affordability. Mixed reviews about site privacy and limited amenities like toilets and water highlight areas needing improvement."

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Campground Map

Bureau of Land Management, 3018 East Main St, Canon City, CO, 81212

Sand Gulch Campground

Bureau of Land Management, 3018 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, take a left turn at the sign for Sand Gulch Campground.
Easy paved-road access. The road into the campground is a bit rutted and bumpy, but not hard to navigate and fine for low sedans.
Nearby places
Canon City (14 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Canon City offers grocery stores, camping supplies, fuel, and dining options. Walmart is one of the closest large stores for supplies.

Best Time to Camp at Sand Gulch Campground

Summer brings warm days perfect for outdoor pursuits, though savvy campers come prepared for encounters with local residents like piñon gnats and mosquitoes. As winter transforms the landscape, temperatures plummet and occasional snowflakes dust the limestone cliffs, creating a serene wonderland for those who embrace the crisp mountain air and peaceful solitude of the off-season.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Warm days good for activities but reviewers report heat and piñon gnats/mosquitoes in summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall described as ideal for climbing and hiking with moderate weather and fewer bugs.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5
Top 16% in CO

Spring noted as ideal for climbing/hiking with moderate weather and post-snow conditions improving.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Open year-round but winter brings extreme cold and limited use; trail and access issues noted.

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

About Sand Gulch Campground

Nestled among towering limestone cliffs, Sand Gulch Campground beckons adventurers year-round with its world-class rock climbing routes and breathtaking natural playground. Whether you're a seasoned climber seeking your next vertical challenge, a hiker exploring rugged trails, or a nature lover drawn to dramatic landscapes, this outdoor haven offers an unforgettable basecamp for your Colorado adventures.
Sand Gulch Campground caters primarily to tent campers but includes pull-through sites for RVs and group camping options.
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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

Sand Gulch Campground is a prime destination for sport climbers, offering easy access to Contest and Freeform Walls. Additional activities include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and scenic drives. Nearby attractions include the Royal Gorge and Arkansas River, which offer rafting and fishing opportunities.
HikingHiking trails are accessible from the campground and lead to nearby cliffs and climbing areas. "There were some cool trails that go up by the cliffs."
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 trails are available, and the area also supports dirt biking and 4WD routes: "There is good trails for biking and off-road ATV fun."
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a highlight. "Great bat viewing after dark" was mentioned by one user.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBe mindful of desert heat, insects such as mosquitoes and gnats, and fire ant hills.
Active AlertsNo active alerts mentioned.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Sand Gulch Campground

Reviews

4.0
174 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Sand Gulch Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Sand Gulch Campground is well-loved by climbers and outdoor enthusiasts for its easy access to climbing routes, scenic views, and affordability. Mixed reviews about site privacy and limited amenities like toilets and water highlight areas needing improvement.
Review Summaries
Based on 174 reviews

What Campers Love

Affordability at $7-$20/night, proximity to climbing walls, scenic views, quiet atmosphere during off-peak times, and well-maintained campsites. "This campground is clean and quiet, with plenty of...
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Based on 174 reviews

Common Concerns

Limited vault toilets, occasional issues with the reservation system, and proximity of sites leading to diminished privacy. "Needs another bathroom. Long waits 20+ min in the morning."
Based on 174 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water and firewood, and book reservations online prior to arrival. Consider camping during cooler months to avoid insects and heat. "During the months of June, July, and August,...
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Based on 174 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months (June-August) are reported to be buggy and hot. Winter brings extreme cold but less crowding. Spring and fall are ideal for climbing and hiking, with moderate weather.
Based on 174 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Sand Gulch Campground is a climber's paradise, with amazing views of the walls, fun trails, and a spectacular night sky." - Caitlin Dacus. "Vault toilets are great but could use a second one." -...
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Based on 174 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #4: "Not recommended for even a small travel trailer; it took me 30 minutes to navigate." Site #7: "Roomy and private." Site #15 and #16: "Tent pad too small for a tent."
Based on 174 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviews do not provide detailed insights into accessibility for disabled individuals.
Based on 174 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews on pet policies or experiences, but pets are allowed.
Based on 174 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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