The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Cottonwood Grove Campground is a serene camping area situated along the majestic Gunnison River in western Colorado. The picturesque site gets its name from the mature cottonwood trees that can be seen throughout the area. The campground, which is administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), provides a perfect opportunity for travelers looking to stay overnight in a peaceful place away from the bustle of the city. While staying at the site, visitors often enjoy activities like fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing in the surrounding area. Those who travel south of the campground can visit the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area or, a bit farther south, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
Throughout Colorado and many other states, millions of acres of public land are protected by the BLM. Many who enjoy connecting with nature go out of their way to enjoy BLM camping at established campgrounds as well as dispersed campsites in remote areas. If you're interested in trying BLM camping for yourself, an online search for "BLM camping near me" can show you where your closest options are located.
This lengthy out-and-back trail is located in the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. It begins near the confluence of the Gunnison and North Fork of the Gunnison Rivers and leads into the breathtaking Gunnison Gorge. The area offers lovely scenery, impressive views, and, typically, plenty of solitude.
Length: 5.2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This out-and-back route, which is great for hiking and mountain biking, is one of the most popular trails in the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. Along the trail, you'll see colorful wildflowers and sizable rock walls. If you're proceeding on foot, you'll want to make sure to give dirt bikers plenty of room.
Length: 2.0 miles
Intensity: Moderate
You'll find this scenic out-and-back trail in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. During your hike, you'll enjoy some great views of the iconic canyon and river below. Before you embark, you can grab a trail guide at either the South Rim Visitor Center or the High Point Overlook. The ideal times to visit the area are between May and October.
Length: 1.5 miles
Intensity: Easy
Cottonwood Grove Campground lies right beside the Gunnison River, which is known as an exceptional fishing destination. There's a fishing pier located right at the campground, and you'll have a great shot at catching a few wild brown trout and wild rainbow trout. If you're looking to go boating, you can also take a kayak or canoe out on certain sections of the Gunnison River, and there's a boat ramp provided at the BLM site. The North Fork Gunnison River offers opportunities for non-motorized boating as well, but it's only advised for those who are experienced with whitewater conditions.
The nearby Black Canyon of the Gunnison is one of the most popular destinations for rock climbing in the region. The incredible canyon is known for its amazing combination of narrowness, sheerness, and depth, which is unrivaled in all of North America. There are multiple spots featuring traditional climbing routes in the area, including the Checkerboard Wall and the SOB Gully. The difficulty levels at the canyon range from 5.9- to 5.11+.
If you spend time exploring the area that surrounds Cottonwood Grove Campground, you'll have a good chance of seeing many unique wildlife species. The area's forests and mountains are inhabited by mountain lions, elk, mule deer, coyotes, ringtail cats, and a variety of smaller mammals. While you're near the Gunnison River, you should keep your eyes open for river otters. You might also spot several types of neo-tropical birds and raptors if you periodically scan the skies.
You'll find few better picnicking spots in the area than Cottonwood Grove Campground. The BLM site features several picnic tables, shade structures, and fire rings, providing almost everything you'll need for a great picnic. All you'll need to provide yourself is the food, and you can enjoy a lovely lunch at the campground. Of course, you could also bring your own picnic blanket along and choose a tranquil spot closer to the flowing water.
You're welcome to enjoy BLM RV camping at Cottonwood Grove Campground. The campground features six campsites, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis. However, if you prefer RV camping with electrical hookups and more advanced amenities, the area's Bureau of Land Management campgrounds won't provide what you're looking for. In that case, one good option may be to head east into the Hotchkiss, CO area and stay at the Mountain Valley Meadows RV Park.
The campsites at Cottonwood Grove Campground are completely free, so you can partake in Bureau of Land Management free camping there. Alternatively, if the sites are full or you'd rather establish your own dispersed campsite, you can search for a suitable location in either direction along the Gunnison River.
If you're planning a trip to Cottonwood Grove Campground, it'd be wise to check the weather forecast for the area in advance. Although the area is almost always accessible, there are times when winter snow or spring rain causes some of the area's roads to be impassable. If you're planning to stay at the campground, you should consider having a backup option—especially if you're visiting during peak camping season. Because there are only six campsites available, the campground can become full fairly quickly at times.
While exploring the trails near the river, be careful about pushing through shrubbery and undergrowth. There's a fair amount of poison ivy in the area, and you wouldn't want to accidentally come into contact with it. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
If you make an effort to follow the Leave No Trace principles, you can help ensure that Cottonwood Grove Campground is open and in good condition for many years. The campground is very small, and you probably won't be alone there, so please be respectful and courteous toward all of your fellow campers.
To reach Cottonwood Grove Campground from Austin, CO, start by heading south on 2200 Road for about 0.9 miles, then take a left on H75 Road. You should see a sign for access to the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. After approximately 3 miles on H75 Road, you'll come to a four-way intersection. There, you'll take a slight right to follow the signs for South River Road and the West River Trailhead. After roughly 4 miles, you'll reach the BLM campground.
Ready to visit Cottonwood Grove Campground? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
