Colorado / Montrose County / Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison North Rim Campground

Closed — Closed for winter. The North Rim road is unplowed and closed to vehicles, typically reopening by early May depending on snow conditions.

About

The North Rim Campground provides a remote camping experience on the less-visited side of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Situated at 7,767 feet elevation, the campground features 13 dispersed sites nestled among pinyon and juniper trees. The North Rim location offers solitude and spectacular canyon views, though getting here requires commitment: the final 5.6 miles of access road are unpaved gravel. All sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with payment processed exclusively through the Recreation.gov mobile app using the Scan & Pay feature. Since there is no cell service at the campground, visitors must download the app before arrival. The campground has strict size restrictions with a maximum combined length of 22 feet for RV, car, and trailer. Generators are prohibited to maintain the peaceful atmosphere. Amenities are minimal but functional, with vault toilets available year-round and seasonal potable water when the campground is open. Each site includes a designated fire ring and tent pad, though visitors should not attach anything to trees to protect sensitive vegetation. Bear boxes are provided for food storage. The ranger station operates intermittently during summer months and serves as a resource for wilderness permits and park information.

Directions

The North Rim is 15 miles southwest of Crawford. From CO Highway 92, turn west on Black Canyon Road approximately 3 miles south of Crawford. Follow road signs to the park. The last 5.6 miles are unpaved gravel. Once you reach the rim, turn right toward the ranger station; the campground is past the ranger station.

Nearby Campgrounds