South Rim Campground
The Quick Take
South Rim Campground is your basecamp for staring into one of the most dramatic chasms in North America, and it earns that privilege by keeping things refreshingly simple. Sites are tucked among Gambel oak and serviceberry at a lofty 8,400 feet, which means cool nights even in July and the kind of dark skies that make you forget light pollution exists. The trade-off is real: no showers, no dump station, and sites packed close enough that you will hear your neighbor's camp stove click. But you are a short walk from the rim, and that changes everything. Loop B is the play for RVers who need electric hookups, while tent campers should grab a spot on Loop A for slightly more tree cover. This is the campground for people who came to see the canyon, not to glamour up their Instagram grid.
Booking
Reserve Your Campsite
All 88 sites are reservable.
Book at Black Canyon Of The Gunnison LodgesWhat You Get
Sites & Setup
RV Information
RVs allowed. Maximum length: 55 feet. No electrical hookups.
Accessibility
21 ADA-accessible campsites. Accessible restrooms available. There is sidewalk access from paved roads to the pit toilets. Paved Roads - All vehicles OK
Rules to Know
- Fires:-Properly extinguish fires.
- Bear Safety:-Use bear boxes for any scented items, food, etc.
- Occupancy:-Maximum occupancy: 8 people, 2 vehicles per campsite.
- Stay Limit:-Stay is limited to 14 consecutive nights for a total of 30 days within a calendar year.
Pro Tips
Book the moment your dates open on Recreation.gov -- summer weekends fill fast, and there is no overflow camping nearby. Midweek arrivals in September are the sweet spot: smaller crowds, golden light on the canyon walls, and nights cool enough for a real sleeping bag.
The amphitheater hosts ranger programs most summer evenings, and the short walk to Gunnison Point from camp is one of the best sunset viewpoints in the park. Time it right and you will have the overlook nearly to yourself after the day-trippers leave.
Pack all your water beyond what you need for drinking -- there are no showers or dish stations, and potable water shuts off before the first fall frost. A collapsible water jug and biodegradable wipes go a long way. Bear boxes are provided and mandatory for all scented items, so plan your food storage accordingly.
Photos
NPS photoGetting There
Directions
From Montrose, take Hwy 50 east for 6 miles, then turn left onto Hwy 347 and follow it for 6 miles. Hwy 347 turns into the South Rim Drive of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. About 0.3 mile (500 m) past the park’s entrance station, turn right onto the South Rim Campground road.
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