Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a beautiful and minimally crowded national park located on the western slope of Colorado. This park is not as large or conveniently located to Denver as Rocky Mountain National Park. However, it is definitely worth the trip! Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is also surrounded by RV-friendly places and access to other amazing outdoor places.
Nearest city: Montrose, CO
The largest town closest to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, is Montrose, CO – an up and coming mountain town in southwest Colorado. Montrose offers easy access to some of Colorado’s best RV adventures such as Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, as well as other places such as Telluride, Ouray, and Escalante Canyon. This will be the best place to stock up on necessities like groceries and gas. Montrose is conveniently located about 20 minutes away from Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
RV camping
There are several options to camp when visiting Black Canyon. There are RV sites available on the South and North Rim in the park. There are 88 sites available in the south rim campground. For all the dog lovers, this campground (campground only) does allow dogs. Be sure to check the website before going for the most updated rules. There are also other RV parks available in Montrose. Cedar Creek RV Park is the closest park to Black Canyon and offers full-service RV spots with showers and laundry facilities available. On the south side of town, there are also several free camping spots at Billy Creek.
Things to do
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a steep narrow canyon carved from the Gunnison River. The park does have an entrance fee. (Read about the benefits of purchasing an Annual Park Pass). When you enter the South Rim, you will find yourself on top of the canyon. If you are just looking to drive and snap some epic photos of the canyon, be sure to check at stops such as High Point, Sunset View, and Dragon View.
For those who would like to venture off on a hike, there are plenty of options. The Warner Point Nature Trail hike is a self-guided trail with a lot of historical and interesting information. Oak Flat Loop Trail is more strenuous, but allows a hiker to explore the lower parts of the rim. For those who want to hike the inner canyon be aware that these trails are unmarked and very difficult and require a wilderness permit. Fishing, kayaking, and rock climbing are also options in this park with the appropriate experience level and permit.
Another awesome fact about this park is due to its more isolated location, Black Canyon is part of the International Dark Sky Association. Black Canyon has one of the most epic dark skies at night and offers amazing views of the Milky Way. The park is always open to visitors for stargazing!
Southwest Colorado is incredibly beautiful and worth a trip during a summer RV vacation. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a different, less crowded beautiful park that is worth a stop!
Starting planning your trip to Black Canyon today with Outdoorsy!
