Black Canyon Of The Gunnison North Rim Campground

About

Black Canyon of the Gunnison's North Rim Campground provides a secluded camping experience at 7,767 feet elevation, accessed via 5.6 miles of unpaved road. The 13 sites are dispersed among pinyon and juniper trees, offering more solitude than the busier South Rim. Each site includes a bear box for food storage, fire ring, and designated tent pad. To protect sensitive vegetation, campers must use designated tent pads and cannot tie or attach anything to trees. The campground operates seasonally, typically opening in early May when the access road becomes passable and closing when winter snow makes the road impassable. Potable water is available in summer but is trucked in, so conservative use is requested. Vault toilets are available year-round. There is no cell service at the campground, so campers must download the Recreation.gov app before arriving to complete the required Scan & Pay payment. The ranger station near the campground is open intermittently in summer, providing maps, park newspapers, and self-registration kiosks for wilderness permits. The North Rim offers five overlooks accessible by vehicle plus additional hiking access to canyon views and inner canyon routes for experienced hikers with permits.

Directions

The North Rim is 15 miles southwest of Crawford, Colorado. From CO Highway 92, turn west on Black Canyon Road approximately 3 miles south of Crawford and follow signs to the park. The last 5.6 miles are unpaved gravel but passable for most vehicles. Once at the rim, turn right toward the ranger station; the campground is past the ranger station.