Dry Gulch Campground

Star4.00
11 reviews

Quick Facts

7,560 ft

Price

$16/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens National Park Service 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
Dry Gulch Campground
$16.00 - $16.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The camping fee is $16 per night and payment methods include both card and cash.
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

4.00

Satisfactory

Based on 11 reviews

10 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanshadespaciouswater

"User reviews for Dry Gulch Campground are generally positive, with visitors appreciating its secluded atmosphere, spacious sites, and well-maintained facilities like clean vault toilets. However, the campground's limited capacity and the first-come, first-served system can be a drawback during peak times. The spotty cell service is noted, but it is still functional enough for basic needs like calls and music streaming."

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Campground Map

Dry Gulch Campground

38.4841, -107.1884

Driving directionsDry Gulch Campground is located 17 miles west of Gunnison just north of U.S. Highway 50.
Access to Dry Gulch Campground is straightforward from U.S. Highway 50. Roads are paved and maintained, with no indication of seasonal closures.
Nearby places
Gunnison (17 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Montrose (approximately 1 hour), Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (approximately 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Downtown Gunnison offers grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel options, located approximately 20 minutes away.

Best Time to Camp at Dry Gulch Campground

Experience the dramatic seasonal shifts of the Colorado high country at Dry Gulch, where winter transforms the campground into a crystalline wonderland of light snow and crystal-clear skies. Summer brings warm, golden days perfect for outdoor adventures, while the cottonwoods provide welcome relief from the afternoon sun. The campground's varied seasons mean each visit offers a completely different experience—from the crisp, invigorating air of autumn to the gentle warmth of late spring mornings.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer is peak season; shaded sites provide comfort and nearby trails/beaches attract visitors.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Autumn offers pleasant high-country weather and scenic foliage but fewer reviews mention it.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Spring likely transitional (snowmelt/variable conditions); fewer specifics provided.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5

Open year-round with snow and clear skies, but access and services may be limited in winter.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Summer months are likely peak season based on user reviews and proximity to hiking/beach activities.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: The campground is open year-round but may be less accessible during snow-bound periods.

About Dry Gulch Campground

Nestled in a tranquil valley 17 miles west of Gunnison, Colorado, Dry Gulch Campground offers an intimate escape beneath a canopy of towering cottonwood trees. This charming, small-scale campground welcomes both tent campers and medium-sized RVs to its shaded sites, where the rustling leaves create nature's own soundtrack. Each first-come, first-served site comes thoughtfully equipped with a picnic table and metal fire pit, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. While the amenities remain refreshingly simple—clean compost toilets and fresh water—the real luxury here is the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to disconnect from the digital world.
Dry Gulch Campground is primarily designed for traditional camping, with facilities to accommodate tents and medium-sized RVs. All sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and there are no provisions for luxury or group camping.
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Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground is a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions and activities. It is close to destinations like the Bay of Chickens recreation area, the Dillon Pinnacles hiking trail, and the Black Canyon. This makes it an ideal spot for those who enjoy outdoor activities in the surrounding areas.
HikingHiking opportunities include the nearby Dillon Pinnacles trail, which is popular among visitors. Another trail, the Dry Gulch Trail, is mentioned with mixed reviews. One user noted that the trail is 'good for about 2 miles,' but becomes hard to follow afterward.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include wet firewood and isolated location with limited cell service (3 bars 4G max). No specific wildlife or terrain warnings noted.
Food Storage RequiredBear boxes are available for food storage and are included in the camping fee.

Weather at Dry Gulch Campground

Reviews

4.0
11 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Dry Gulch Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Dry Gulch Campground are generally positive, with visitors appreciating its secluded atmosphere, spacious sites, and well-maintained facilities like clean vault toilets. However, the campground's limited capacity and the first-come, first-served system can be a drawback during peak times. The spotty cell service is noted, but it is still functional enough for basic needs like calls and music streaming.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors appreciated the campground's 'super clean' vault toilets, potable water availability, and well-shaded, spacious campsites. The proximity to local attractions like the Dillon Pinnacles and...
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Based on 11 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users mentioned that the campground could use more sites, as it fills up quickly on busy weekends. Another drawback is the lack of on-site firewood, although rangers occasionally make wet wood...
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Based on 11 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend arriving early, especially on busy weekends, to secure a spot. Bringing your own firewood is advised since the available wood is often wet. It’s also suggested to bring a tablecloth...
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Based on 11 reviews

Seasonal Insights

User reviews suggest the campground is busiest during holiday weekends and summer months. The secluded nature and shade provide comfort during warmer weather.
Based on 11 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Wonderful little spot for traditional camping.' - Sam Lang - 'Rangers were extremely friendly!!! Great advice and really accommodating.' - Sam Lang - 'Great Campground with super clean compost...
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Based on 11 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #7 is highlighted as being particularly spacious, with room for multiple tents, a cooking area, and a canopy.
Based on 11 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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