Black Canyon Of The Gunnison South Rim Campground
4.43144 reviews10346 Hwy. 347, Montrose, CO 81401, USA
Black Canyon Of The Gunnison South Rim Campground
$20.00 - $34.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$34.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Electric sites cost $34 per night during peak season, and Standard Nonelectric sites cost $20. There is a $6 electricity attribute fee for Standard Electric sites. Discounts, taxes, and incremental fees are not included in displayed costs.
About this campground
Perched on the dramatic South Rim of one of Colorado's most awe-inspiring natural wonders, this year-round campground invites adventurers to experience the raw beauty of the Black Canyon. Wake to golden sunrises illuminating sheer canyon walls, spend days exploring winding trails, and end each evening beneath a canopy of stars so brilliant they seem close enough to touch. The campground's thoughtfully designed loops nestle among fragrant scrub oak forests, offering modern conveniences like electric hookups alongside the timeless appeal of vault toilets. Keep your camera ready—curious deer often wander through camp at dawn, while lucky visitors might spot elusive bobcats, black bears, or the distinctive drumming of grouse echoing through the trees.
The South Rim Campground accommodates tent camping, RV camping with electric hookups, and first-come-first-served sites during the off-season. Group camping, cabin lodging, or glamping options are not available.
Historical SignificanceThis land tells stories millions of years in the making, where ancient rivers carved through some of North America's oldest exposed rock. Just a short drive away, the Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit preserves the daring history of narrow-gauge railroads that once clung to impossible canyon walls, while the vast expanse of Curecanti National Recreation Area showcases how human ingenuity and natural forces have shaped this landscape. The Black Canyon itself stands as a testament to the power of persistence—both of the river that carved it and the conservationists who fought to preserve its wild character for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsThe canyon creates its own weather theater, where conditions can shift dramatically from rim to river. Summer days bring warm sunshine perfect for hiking, though evenings cool quickly as mountain breezes sweep through camp. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with snow blanketing the rim while ice sculptures form along exposed rock faces. At 8,000 feet, the thin mountain air adds an extra dimension to every season—spring arrives late with wildflower explosions, while autumn paints the scrub oak in fiery golds and crimsons. Pack layers regardless of season, as the canyon's moods can change faster than you can say 'Gunnison.'
ElevationAt 8,000 feet above sea level, you're camping in Colorado's high country, where the air is crisp, clean, and decidedly thinner than what most visitors are accustomed to. This elevated perch offers spectacular views but demands respect—take it easy your first day as your body adjusts to having less oxygen with each breath. The altitude brings unexpected benefits: cooler summer temperatures, more dramatic weather patterns, and some of the clearest night skies you'll ever witness. Even in summer, mountain nights can surprise you with their chill, so pack that extra fleece and prepare for the kind of deep, restful sleep that only comes with mountain air.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine camping atop a natural fortress of ancient Precambrian rock, where time is measured in billions rather than years. Your tent sits among groves of scrub oak that whisper secrets in the mountain breeze, their twisted branches framing heart-stopping views of the Gunnison River threading silver far below. This is a landscape of contrasts—gentle meadows suddenly giving way to dizzying drops, soft morning light transforming harsh rock walls into galleries of shadow and color. Wildlife thrives in this vertical wilderness: mule deer browse fearlessly near campsites, black bears lumber through in search of berries, bobcats ghost through the underbrush, and blue grouse explode from cover in whirring bursts of feathers.
Geological RegionYou're camping on the edge of one of North America's most dramatic geological showcases, where the Black Canyon earns its name from shadows so deep that sunlight rarely touches the ancient rock below. The South Rim reveals a landscape sculpted by extremes—narrow gorges that seem to defy physics, walls of schist and gneiss polished to mirror brightness, and depths that make even seasoned adventurers catch their breath. This isn't just any canyon; it's a place where the Gunnison River performed a two-million-year magic act, sawing through rock so hard that other rivers would have surrendered. The surrounding scrub oak forests soften this severe beauty, creating pockets of shade and shelter that have supported life on the rim for thousands of years.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites, grills, vault toilets, and parking are available.
Sites SizeSite sizes vary. Official descriptions indicate suitability for tents and smaller RVs, while user reviews note some sites may be cramped or awkwardly shaped.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is mixed; scrub oak and foliage provide separation at many sites, but others are described as close together or lacking shade.
Total Campsites102 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLoop B sites feature electric hookups and privacy. Loop A offers access to trails and amphitheater shows.
Best CampsitesLoop B campsites like B007 and B013 are highly rated for privacy and access to amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One truck or car per site.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly supported at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree loops (A, B, C) with varying amenities. Loop B features electric hookups; Loop C has larger sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Reservations available from April 15 to September 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov website, app, contact center, or in person.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable year-round. During winter, all sites are first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival, with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the reservation fee. Late cancellations (starting from midnight one calendar day before check-in) also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
This campground offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, birding, stargazing, and ranger-led educational programs. Seasonal activities include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing during winter.
Hiking
Hiking trails such as the Oak Flat Loop Trail and Rim Rock Trail are accessible directly from the campground. Trails vary in difficulty and provide scenic views of the canyon. Some users found trails limited in number but stunning.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer, grouse, bears, and bobcats are frequently seen. One user reported a bear in their campsite.Cultural and Educational Programs
Rangers conduct night sky tours, geology talks, and bat presentations at the amphitheater.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowshoeing on Rim Rock Trail and cross-country skiing on South Rim Drive.Water Sports
No water sports are available at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires permitted only in designated fire pits. No wood collection or sales within the park.
- Quiet hours start at 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife like bears, steep canyon trails, and high altitude effects.
Active alertsNo current alerts but water is unavailable off-season. Cell reception unreliable.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Montrose provides the nearest hospitals and police stations. Ranger stations are available within the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15 to September 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available at the campground, but recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNo direct water features at the campground, but Curecanti National Recreation Area offers water-based activities nearby.
Common complaintsCell reception issues, small campsites, limited water availability, and loud noise from nearby campers during quiet hours.
HostHosts available year-round making rounds to ensure compliance. Positive feedback from visitors.
Campground Map
10346 Hwy. 347, Montrose, CO 81401, USA
Driving directionsThe park is located approximately 250 miles southwest of Denver. The South Rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is 15 miles east of Montrose, CO, via U.S. Hwy 50 and CO Hwy 347.
The campground is accessible year-round via paved roads (U.S. Hwy 50 and CO Hwy 347). Roads are open during winter but may be icy or require snow tires.Nearby places
Montrose: approximately 15 miles (24 minutes), Denver: approximately 250 miles (4 hours)
Nearby supplies
Montrose has stores for camping supplies, groceries, and fuel approximately 15 miles away. There are no firewood sales or water hookups within the park.
Camper Reviews
4.4
144 reviews
Black Canyon Of The Gunnison South Rim Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has mixed reviews highlighting its scenic location, wildlife, and star-filled night skies. Complaints focus on small campsite sizes, limited water availability, lack of shower facilities, and noise from neighboring sites. Vault toilets are praised for cleanliness but noted for issues such as flies.
Review Summaries
Based on 144 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the location close to hiking trails, scenic canyon views, ranger-led programs, and privacy offered by scrub oak separating sites. Wildlife sightings, including bears and mule deer, added...
Based on 144 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Key complaints include cramped and awkward site layouts, limited water availability, lack of flush toilets and showers, unreliable cell reception, noise from neighboring sites, and absence of...
Based on 144 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend filling RV tanks before arrival, bringing sufficient water, using red headlamps for stargazing, and buying firewood en route to the park. Early arrival is advised for better...
Based on 144 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight busy campground conditions but stunning night skies and canyon views. Winter visitors praise activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing but note the...
Based on 144 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Canyon was amazing, must be seen in person to appreciate." "The vault toilets smelled pretty good." "The scrub oak between sites created private campsites." "No access to firewood in the park, pick...
Based on 144 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site A007 is praised for partial shade and wind protection from scrub oak. Site B015 provides privacy due to its location near scrub oak and the periphery. Site C010 is noted for proximity to...
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Accessibility Features
Limited accessibility features were noted. Older visitors and those with disabilities found hiking options limited and trails difficult.
Based on 144 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Several users appreciated pet-friendly features like allowing dogs on specific trails and near overlooks.
Based on 144 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025