If you’re looking for a remote and natural camping getaway, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is the perfect spot. Not only does it boast some incredible scenery and wildlife but there are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Whether you’re an experienced camper or just getting into the great outdoors, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about camping at Black Canyon. We’ll cover types of camping, fees & reservations, rules & regulations, what to pack (including essentials and gear), things to do in the area (hiking/boating/fishing/stargazing) and most importantly ways for visitors to stay safe while exploring nature! Let’s jump right in so you can start planning your next trip!
Types of Camping
At Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, there are three main types of camping: drive-in camping, backcountry camping and group camping.
Drive-In Camping: Drive-in campsites are located in the East Portal area of the park (near Crawford). These sites have limited amenities but offer easy access to many activities. This type of camping is great for families or those who want to explore the park without having to do too much hiking or lugging gear around.
Backcountry Camping: For a more adventurous experience, backcountry camping at Black Canyon gives you the opportunity to camp anywhere within several miles from a road or trailhead access point. You will need to obtain a permit before embarking on your journey and all appropriate gear must be packed with you – including food and water supplies!
Group Camping: The park also offers two group campsites for up to 25 people each. These sites require reservations in advance so plan ahead if you’re looking for an organized group experience at Black Canyon!
Drive-in Camping
Drive-in camping is a popular option for camping at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. This type of campsite requires no backpacking and can be accessed by car or recreational vehicle. Drive-in campsites are located in both developed and primitive areas, with amenities ranging from picnic tables and fire rings to vault toilets and water spigots.
When reserving drive-in sites, the maximum number of campers per site should be kept in mind, as larger parties will require multiple sites close together in order to be accommodated adequately. It’s also important to remember that generators may not be used anywhere within campgrounds at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park except in designated areas marked on campground maps.
For those seeking a unique experience, there are also plenty of scenic overlooks along Rim Road where visitors can park their RVs overnight for an incredible view without having to worry about setting up tents or sleeping bags! The views here are truly breathtaking – you’ll never forget them!
Backcountry Camping
Backcountry camping is a great way to experience the wild and beautiful landscape of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Camping at designated backcountry sites allows visitors to be immersed in nature away from traditional crowds. This type of camping requires planning, preparation, and knowledge about wilderness rules and regulations.
Before setting out on your backpacking trip, you should obtain a permit from the park’s visitor center or online in advance. Permits are issued on a first-come, first-serve basis so plan ahead! It’s also important to note that campfires are not permitted at many backcountry sites due to fire danger and fragile soils. Instead, make sure you bring a stove for cooking or hot drinks as needed.
Backpacking in the park can be quite strenuous as there are no maintained trails, making navigation especially challenging during high winds or snowstorms. Here is where having proper maps and orienteering skills become essential for safety while out in the field. Make sure you understand how to read topographic maps and use compasses before embarking on any remote adventures into the canyon walls.
Cell service is often unreliable while exploring deeper into remote areas of Black Canyon but satellite phones may be allowed with prior permission from park officials if necessary for emergency contact purposes only
Group Camping
Group camping at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park allows up to 8 people to camp together in one location. This is a great option for families, scout troops, and other organized groups looking to take advantage of the park’s natural beauty and recreational activities.
When reserving group campsites, all group members must be present when checking-in. There are three types of group campsites available at Black Canyon—tent sites, RV/tent combo sites, and drive-up tent sites—each with its own amenities such as water spigots, picnic tables, and fire rings. It’s important to note that not all campsites have access to electrical hookups or campfire grates.
Campers must also check into their site within the first hour after it has been made available (usually two hours before sunrise). If a group does not arrive on time, they may risk having their reservation cancelled without refund. Additionally, any additional guests staying overnight in the park must pay an extra fee regardless if they’re using a tent or RV space provided by the group campsite registration fee.
Finally, it’s important that all visitors abide by the designated quiet hours which begin at 10 pm each night. Loud music or excessive noise after this time is strictly prohibited and can result in being asked to leave by park rangers on patrol duty throughout the night.
Camping Fees & Reservations
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park has several different options for camping fees and reservations.
Drive-in Camping: Campers can stay in one of the park’s five drive-in campgrounds (East Portal, North Rim, South Rim, Gunnison East Group Site and Pinyon Flats) for a fee. The cost is $20 per night and there is no limit on how long you can stay. Reservations are highly recommended as campsites fill up quickly during peak season.
Backcountry Camping: Hiking into the backcountry for one or more nights requires a permit which costs $10 per person per night in addition to your entrance fee. If you plan to camp overnight near a boat ramp, please contact the marina directly for additional permit requirements.
Group Camping: There are two group sites available at both the North Rim and South Rim of Black Canyon that accommodate 10 to 30 people each night ($3/person). Advance reservations are required year-round with payment due within 14 days after booking online or over the phone.
It is important to note that generator use must be approved by park staff in advance and all food items must be stored properly in an animal-proof container while staying at any of these campsites.
Camping Rules & Regulations
Camping at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park requires you to adhere to certain regulations. Here is a list of some of the most important rules:
All camping must be done in designated areas only.
Campfires are allowed as long as they are attended and extinguished properly when done.
Pets must be kept on a leash at all times.
Group size is limited to no more than 8 people in each campsite, with only 1 vehicle allowed per site.
Quiet hours are between 10pm – 6am, so please respect your fellow campers by keeping noise levels low during this time period.
Alcohol is not permitted in any public area or restroom facilities.
Discharge of firearms, fireworks, flares, smoke bombs and similar items is prohibited within the park boundaries.
It’s also important to remember that littering or leaving equipment behind after camping will incur fines and penalties so make sure you take everything with you when you leave the park!
What to Pack
When it comes to camping, having the right gear is important for a successful trip. To get the most out of your time in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, you’ll need to be prepared and pack accordingly.
Here are some key items you should bring:
Tent: Make sure your tent is big enough to fit all members of your party comfortably. Keep in mind that temperatures at night can drop below freezing in the winter months.
Sleeping bags: Bring sleeping bags rated for cold weather and an extra blanket or two if temperatures will be particularly low.
Camping Chair: A comfortable chair makes it easier to relax around camp after a long day spent exploring nature’s wonders.
Flashlight/Headlamp: Make sure a flashlight or headlamp with spare batteries are part of your packing list. You’ll need them during early morning hikes or late evening returns from fishing excursions!
Miscellaneous Supplies: Be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, bug repellent, hand sanitizer, first aid kit and toilet paper along on your camping trip!
Essentials
When it comes to camping at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, there are a few essential items you should never forget to pack. Here is a list of must-have items:
Shelter: Tent or RV with rain cover and ground tarp
Cooking Supplies: Stove, fuel, matches/lighter, cookware, utensils
Food & Water: Enough food for your stay including non-perishable snacks. Make sure to bring plenty of water or a filter for sourcing from streams.
Clothing & Footwear: Appropriate layers for both warm and cold weather conditions as well as sturdy shoes suitable for hiking in rocky terrain.
First Aid Kit & Medication: Must include bandages, antibiotic ointment and basic pain relievers such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Also remember any personal medication you may need during your trip.
Personal Items & Toiletries: Flashlight/headlamp with spare batteries, bug spray, sunscreen, toilet paper etc.
It’s also important to note that collecting plants or artifacts found in the park is strictly prohibited so make sure you practice Leave No Trace principles while camping here!
Clothing
When you are camping at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, it is important to dress for the elements and bring adequate clothing. Make sure to pack layers depending on what activities you plan on doing, as temperatures can change quickly in the area. If you’re planning a lot of outdoor activities like hiking or stargazing during your stay, then make sure to bring some warm outerwear such as a jacket and gloves. It’s also a good idea to bring along insect repellent if there might be mosquitoes or other biting insects around.
For footwear, closed-toe shoes are best for outdoor activities while sandals may suffice if you’ll be spending most of your time at camp. When packing clothes for camping at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, always remember that it can get chilly in the evenings so make sure to bring something warm and comfortable!
Gear
If you plan on camping at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, it’s important to come prepared with all the necessary gear. Here is a list of items that are highly recommended for your camping trip:
Tent: Make sure to bring a tent that is big enough for everyone in your party.
Sleeping bags and/or air mattresses: Choose sleeping bags or mattresses based on personal preference.
Camping stove and fuel: A camping stove and fuel are necessary for cooking meals during your stay.
Cooking utensils and dishes: Bring basic kitchen items such as pots, pans, plates, bowls, cups, silverware, etc., so you can prepare and eat meals while camping.
Camp chair: Sturdy camp chairs make sitting around the fire much more comfortable than sitting on the ground.
Flashlight or headlamp: Having a flashlight or headlamp handy will be useful when exploring after dark or setting up camp in low light conditions.
Compass/GPS device/Map & compass : Having an accurate map of the area will help you find your way back to camp if you get lost while exploring or hiking . A GPS device is also useful if cell service is unreliable in the area. If possible , having both a map & compass as well as other navigation devices would be ideal .
Things To Do
When it comes to camping at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, there are several activities that visitors can enjoy. There is something for everyone, from exploring trails to participating in organized programs and activities.
Hiking: With over 33 miles of trails, visitors have plenty of opportunities to explore the park’s geology and wildlife on foot. Trails range from short and easy nature hikes to steep, strenuous day hikes with stunning views. Visitors should note that access to some sections may be temporarily closed due to hazardous conditions or seasonal closures.
Boating & Fishing: The North Fork of the Gunnison River runs through Black Canyon providing a popular destination for anglers as well as other recreational boaters including canoeists and kayakers. Fishing is permitted in both rivers but only artificial flies or lures may be used; bait fishing is prohibited within the canyon walls due to its fragile ecology. Boats must follow park regulations regarding type, speed limits, size restrictions and drifts restrictions so please refer to the official website before planning your trip out onto either river.
Stargazing: The sky above Black Canyon during a clear night presents an incredible view full of stars without any light pollution obscuring them! Visitors are encouraged bring their own telescope or binoculars along with them so they can observe planets and constellations up close while also learning about astronomy basics from rangers leading star-viewing programs throughout summer weekends!
Hiking
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park offers some of the most spectacular views you’ll ever see. With its steep, sheer canyon walls, remote backcountry trails, and incredible variety of wildlife, it’s a great place to go hiking.
The park has a wide range of hikes for all levels from easy strolls through meadows to challenging treks up vertical cliffs. There are also plenty of options for day trips or multi-day adventures depending on your preference.
For those looking for an easier hike, the Coyote Trails Nature Hike is a great choice as it’s relatively flat and features stunning views along the way. For more experienced hikers looking for something more challenging, try out Green Mountain Trail which takes you up 6500 feet in elevation with amazing panoramic views at the top.
When planning your hikes at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, make sure to come prepared with enough food and water as well as warm clothing due to changing temperatures throughout the day. It’s also important to check ahead for any trail closures before heading out and always practice safe hiking by bringing a map and staying on designated trails.
Boating & Fishing
Boating and fishing are popular activities at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The park is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, smallmouth bass, and carp.
There are two boat ramps available in the park: one on the North Rim Drive near Cedar Point Campground and another on the South Rim Drive near Painted Wall Visitor Center. All motorized boats must be registered with Colorado Parks & Wildlife before launching in the park. Non-motorized boats do not need to be registered but all vessels must have a valid ID or permit visible while out on the water.
When it comes to fishing, anglers must possess a valid Colorado Fishing License as well as a free Park Fishing Permit issued by Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park before they can start casting their lines into the waters. A variety of techniques can be used for fishing here including spinners, flies, baitcasting/spinning gear and even bows!
In order to protect local wildlife from being disturbed or harmed by boaters or fishers, visitors should take caution when they are out on the lake and keep an eye out for any animals that may appear in their vicinity. It’s important that everyone respects nature and practices conservation whenever possible while enjoying these outdoor activities at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park!
Stargazing
Stargazing at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is an incredible experience. With its high elevation and minimal light pollution, the park offers some of the best night skies in the country for stargazers.
Visitors to the park should take advantage of this opportunity to explore their celestial surroundings by packing a telescope or star chart. There are several designated viewing areas throughout the park where you can get away from city lights and enjoy a spectacular view of stars in all their glory.
The darkest skies will be found in remote parts of the canyon, but there are also plenty of great spots along Rim Road where you can settle in with your equipment and enjoy an evening under the stars. For novice stargazers, these areas provide a perfect place to learn about constellations and other objects visible in our night sky.
Be sure to bring proper clothing for cooler temperatures during late summer nights at higher elevations as well as bug repellent because mosquitoes tend to be more active after dark!
Wildlife & Safety
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is home to a wide variety of wildlife, ranging from mule deer and elk to black bears and mountain lions. It is important for campers to be aware of their surroundings while out in the park and take precautions when it comes to wildlife.
When visiting the park, avoid feeding or approaching any wild animals as this can be dangerous. Make sure your food is stored properly at all times so that it does not attract any wild animals into campgrounds or other developed areas. If you do encounter a wild animal while camping, stay calm and back away slowly until you are safely away from the animal.
The National Park Service also offers safety tips for visitors including paying attention to weather forecasts before entering any trails in order to avoid lightning strikes or flash floods; staying on established trails; bringing plenty of water; letting someone know where you’re going before embarking on longer hikes; wearing appropriate clothing such as long pants and closed-toe shoes to protect against poison ivy; avoiding contact with cacti, especially cholla cactus; carrying sun protection with you including hats, sunglasses, sunscreen etc.; being cautious around cliffsides as they may have loose rocks or become slippery due hazardous terrain features like mud holes. Following these safety suggestions will ensure that every camping trip is an enjoyable experience!
Conclusion
Camping at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is an amazing experience that offers a range of activities for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or planning to stay for several days, this is the perfect place to explore nature and reconnect with your loved ones.
But camping in any national park comes with certain rules and regulations. Make sure to check these out before heading off on your trip, including fees, reservations policies, and local wildlife safety guidelines. And be sure to pack all the necessary equipment and clothing you’ll need during your stay so that you can enjoy the beauty of this incredible park safely and comfortably!
