Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a 30,244 acre National Park with sheer, vertical walls plunging from the rim to depths of over 2,700 feet to the Gunnison River below. The park was established on October 21, 1999 and there are approximately 219,000 visitors per year. Summer temperatures range from 60 to 100F during the day and 30 to 50Fat night. Winter daytime temperatures range from 20 to 40F during the day to -10 to 20F at night. The temperature difference between the canyon rim and the floor can vary greatly, so make sure if you are planning a trip, pack cloths that will suit you for the unexpected change in temperature.

There are 2 separate entrances into the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and numerous options for camping.

South Rim:

Located 15 miles east of Montrose, the south Rim Visitors Center is open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm in the summer and 8:30 am to 4:00 pm in the fall, winter, and spring. They are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day. During the winter months the road is only open to Gunnison Point. Although the rest of the road is closed to vehicle traffic, it is open to cross country skiing and snowshoeing.

The South Rim has a few options for camping.

South Rim Campground:

There are 88 sites available that are nestled in an oak-brush forest. Vault toilets are easily accessible from each of the sites. Water is available from mid-May to mid-September. Remember to conserve water because it gets trucked in. 30-amp electrical hookups are only available at the B-Loop sites. The maximum stay is 14 consecutive days in a 30 day period. Sites range in size and allow for a maximum of 8 people and 2 vehicles. There are 2 Handicap accessible sites at A21 and B1. All sites have a table and grill. Firewood is not available at the campground and cannot be collected so make sure to stop in town and stock up.

Fees:

Loop A - $12.00 per night.

Loop B - $18.00 per night and has electric hookups. $12.00 per night for Interagency Senior/Access Pass.

Loop C - $12.00 per night. $6.00 per night for Interagency Senior/Access Pass.

South Rim Campground Map

For $3.00 per night more you can get an online reservation for Loop A or Loop B.

Backcountry Camping:

Check back for information regarding backcountry camping.



North Rim:

The North Rim entrance is located 11 miles south of Crawford and is closed during the winter.

Learn even more about the The Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park and other US National Parks on a friends site.









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