Dry Gulch Campground
04 reviewsQuick Facts
7,560 ftPrice
$16/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
9 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
7,560 ftPrice
$16/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
9 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsDry 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
Total Campsite Fees$16.00
Get Notified When Available
We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.
Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes
167,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Providercure_info@nps.gov
What Campers Say
N/A
Limited Reviews
Based on 4 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."
Fees & Passes at Dry Gulch Campground
$16/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Cancellation: All sites are first-come, first-served, so reservations cannot be cancelled.
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official National Park Service website.
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.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
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.
Weather and SeasonsExperience 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.
ElevationPerched at 7,560 feet above sea level, Dry Gulch Campground sits in Colorado's sweet spot where the air is crisp, the nights are cool, and the stars shine with remarkable clarity. This elevation brings refreshing temperatures even during summer's peak, while winter visitors should come prepared for snow and the enchanting beauty it brings to the cottonwood grove. The thin mountain air adds an invigorating quality to every breath, reminding you that you've truly escaped to the high country.
Natural Features and SceneryDry Gulch Campground rests like a hidden gem in its sheltered valley, where majestic cottonwood giants stretch their branches overhead, creating a natural cathedral of dappled sunlight and shadow. Just beyond this peaceful grove, adventurers can explore the striking Dillon Pinnacles—ancient volcanic formations that pierce the sky like nature's own skyscrapers. The whimsically named Bay of Chickens recreational area beckons nearby, offering additional opportunities for exploration and discovery in this diverse landscape where forest meets geological wonder.
Geological RegionTucked into a protective low valley, Dry Gulch Campground showcases the remarkable geological diversity of western Colorado. The campground's cottonwood-shaded haven provides a gentle contrast to the dramatic landscapes that surround it. Venture out to witness the awe-inspiring Dillon Pinnacles, where volcanic rock formations tell the story of the earth's fiery past, or explore the intriguingly named Bay of Chickens, where unique geological features create a playground for the curious. This special corner of Colorado demonstrates how water, wind, and time have sculpted a landscape that seamlessly blends serene valleys with spectacular geological monuments.
Advertisement
Campsite details
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious enough for multiple tents and additional equipment, such as pop-up canopies.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are shaded by large cottonwood trees, providing a decent level of privacy.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early to secure sites, especially during weekends. Site #7 is recommended for space and proximity to restrooms.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
Typical limit for sites is up to 8 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is small and sites are tucked among trees with spaces for tents, medium RVs, and small trailers. Each site includes a picnic table and fire pit.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round but may be less accessible during snow-bound periods.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable as Dry Gulch is exclusively first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Users noted busy weekends might fill up sites early, emphasizing the importance of arriving in the morning.
Cancellation PolicyAll sites are first-come, first-served, so reservations cannot be cancelled.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
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.
Hiking
Hiking 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.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated metal fire pits only. Guests must bring their own firewood.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wet firewood and isolated location with limited cell service (3 bars 4G max). No specific wildlife or terrain warnings noted.
Weather at Dry Gulch Campground
21
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are in Gunnison, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer months are likely peak season based on user reviews and proximity to hiking/beach activities.
Trash and recyclingNo information available about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Bay of Chickens recreational area and Dillon Pinnacles hiking trail.
Common complaintsFew camping spots available and sites fill quickly on busy weekends. Wet firewood was mentioned as a recurring issue.
HostRangers maintain the site daily, checking bathrooms and providing fresh water. 'Rangers were extremely friendly!!!' - User review.
Campground Map
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.
Reviews from booking and map sources
0.0
4 reviews
Dry Gulch Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % 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 4 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...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
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...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
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...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
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 4 reviewsCamper 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...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #7 is highlighted as being particularly spacious, with room for multiple tents, a cooking area, and a canopy.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
0
0 review
1
2
3
4
5
Last updated November 27, 2025
Advertisement