Cottonwood Grove Campground

About

Cottonwood Grove Campground sits among mature cottonwood trees along the Gunnison River within the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. The campground provides direct river access for anglers and paddlers, with a boat ramp accommodating non-motorized watercraft such as kayaks, canoes, and rafts. The setting offers a quiet, primitive camping experience in one of Colorado's notable river corridors. The campground has six campsites, including one ADA-accessible site adjacent to an accessible fishing pier. Each site features a shade structure, picnic table, and fire ring. A vault toilet serves the campground. There is no potable water, so campers must bring their own supply. Camping is free on a first-come, first-served basis with a maximum stay of 7 days (6 nights). Access to Cottonwood Grove requires a high-clearance vehicle. South River Road is a graded natural-surface road that is passable when dry but becomes impassable when wet. The campground is located 4 miles down South River Road from Smith Mountain Saddle.

Directions

From Austin, Colorado, drive south on 2200 Road for 0.9 miles. Turn left onto H75 Road (signed for Gunnison Gorge NCA). Follow H75 Road, a well-maintained gravel road, for 2.8 miles to enter the NCA. Continue 0.2 miles to Smith Mountain Saddle (4-way intersection). Turn slight right onto South River Road toward West River Trailhead. Follow the graded natural-surface road 4 miles to the campground. High-clearance vehicle required; road is impassable when wet.