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

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison South Rim Campground

Closed — Closed until further notice due to damage from the July 2025 South Rim Fire. Loops B and C were heavily damaged. The park will assess rehabilitation needs in spring 2026 after snowmelt. There is no set reopening date for 2026.

About

South Rim Campground is perched on the dramatic South Rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park at 8,400 feet elevation, offering access to one of North America's most spectacular canyons. The campground is divided into three loops: Loops A and C accommodate smaller RVs and trailers up to 23 feet combined length at $20 per night, while Loop B is designed for larger RVs and trailers up to 55 feet combined length with 20 and 30 amp electric hookups at $34 per night. Senior and Access pass holders receive 50% discounts. The campground sits among Gambel oak and serviceberry bushes, with sites that are fairly close together but offer partial shade. All 88 sites include picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-proof food storage lockers. Vault toilets are available year-round, and potable water is provided seasonally from late spring through fall. The campground features an amphitheater for summer ranger programs, and two ADA-accessible sites (A21 and B1) with level concrete pads. Visitors can explore spectacular hiking trails like the Oak Flat Loop Trail, watch for wildlife including deer, black bears, and bobcats, and enjoy world-class stargazing. The campground is located one mile from the South Rim Visitor Center and provides easy access to canyon overlooks and trails. Weather can change rapidly at this elevation, with three-season conditions possible even in summer, and the area is often windy.

Directions

From Montrose, take Highway 50 east for 6 miles, then turn left onto Highway 347 and follow it for 6 miles. Highway 347 becomes South Rim Drive in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. About 0.3 mile past the entrance station, turn right onto South Rim Campground road.

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