Sand Gulch

Summary

Sand Gulch Campground is a 17-site camping facility open year-round located 14 miles north of Canon City and offers spectacular views of surrounding limestone cliffs. Climbers can access bolted routes via the Sand Gulch trails, as well as other activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and 4wd routes. The campground features 16 individual sites, one group site, and one vault toilet. Enjoy stunning rock features with piñon pine and juniper vegetation, and explore the nearby attractions of the Royal Gorge Region.

Overview

With easy walking access to sport rock climbing routes in the popular Shelf Road Recreation Area, Sand Gulch Campground is a 17-site camping facility, open year-round. The campground is located 14 miles north of Cañon City at an approximate elevation of 6,400 feet and features spectacular views of the surrounding limestone cliffs. 

Recreation

Sand Gulch Campground offers sport climbers easy walk-in access to tall monolithic cliffs. Climbers can access Contest and Freeform Walls with bolted routes via the Sand Gulch trails. A variety of other recreation opportunities easily accessed from the campground include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding as well as 4wd routes. In addition to campsites, Sand Gulch Campground offers a small day-use parking area for recreationalists. 

Facilities

This 17-unit campground has 16 individual sites, one group site, and one vault toilet. The individual sites are limited to 2 vehicles and 8 people. The group site is limited to 4 vehicles and 20 people. Each campsite includes a parking space, a metal fire ring and picnic table. The sites are small and designed for tent-camping. Drinking water, electric hook-ups and trash service are not available at Sand Gulch Campground. Please bring your own water and firewood. Plan to take your trash with you when you leave.  

Natural Features

Sand Gulch Campground and the surrounding area is well known amongst rock climbers and outdoor enthusiasts for the long bands of limestone cliffs dominating the landscape. Stunning rock features paired with the piñon pine and juniper vegetation, enhance the dramatic vistas and a picturesque camping environment.  

Nearby Attractions

The region around Shelf Road offers numerous attractions and recreation opportunities. Popular activities include visiting the Royal Gorge via the Royal Gorge Bridge, the Royal Gorge Train, hiking trails or a rafting trip with one of a number of river outfitters. The Arkansas River offers whitewater rafting as well as outstanding angling. There are numerous trails for all activities in the region as well as agricultural and heritage tours along the Gold Belt National Scenic Byway. The local communities offer a range of shopping and dining experiences.   

Visit the Royal Gorge Region web page for more information about local attractions: 

Explore - Royal Gorge Region: royalgorgeregion.com