The Gunnison National Forest is part of a triad of national forests with Grand Mesa National Forest and Uncompahgre National Forest. It also borders three other national forests. The forest covers nearly 1.7 million acres that extend across the counties of Gunnison, Saguache, Hinsdale, Delta, and Montrose in western Colorado. Seven wilderness areas lie within Gunnison National Forest and are part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. While exploring the forest, you will have the opportunity for skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, fishing, hunting, mountain biking, and off-roading. For those who enjoy strolling and birdwatching, there are lots of trails to choose from.
Camping in Gunnison National Forest
Exploring the national forest in an RV allows you to experience sights you might miss otherwise. The Gunnison National Forest is a vast area with RV campgrounds in all directions. Prepare your lunch and set out on a hike, and then, at the end of the day, return to your RV and relax. RVshare has a wide selection of RV rentals to make your time at Gunnison National Forest more enjoyable.
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Tall Texan RV Park and Cabins
The Tall Texan is within walking distance of the Gunnison River. Enjoy fishing, picnicking, biking, or simply relaxing. They offer full hookups, and many of the spaces are pull-throughs, perfect for larger rigs. Nightly rates start at $40.
Water hookup: Yes
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
Pet-friendly: Yes
Other amenities: Gift shop, game room, playground, picnic tables, fire circles, and grills, restrooms, showers, laundry, cable, playground, propane, dump station.
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Crested Butte RV Resort
Crested Butte RV Resortis nestled in the foothills of Crested Butte. Stargazing and Happy Hour on the river are popular features of the park. Stop in at the general store or try "catch and release" fishing at Slate River. Many of the RV sites are back-in, and big rigs are welcome. Rates start at $45 per night.
Water hookup: Yes
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: No
Wi-Fi: Yes
Pet-friendly: Yes
Other amenities: Shaded picnic area, fishing, fire pit, BBQ grill, ice, restrooms, showers, laundry, dump station, dog grooming
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Black Canyon RV Park and Campground
Black Canyon RV Park and Campground, located in Cimarron, has 36 RV sites that can accommodate big rigs and slide outs. Each site has its own picnic table and charcoal grill. While staying in the park, enjoy fishing, golf, and hunting.
Water hookup: Yes
Electrical hookup: Yes
Sewer hookup: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
Pet-friendly: Yes
Other amenities: Restrooms, showers, laundry, barbecue areas, fire pits, playhouses, horseshoe pit
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Skyhigh Colorado RV Park
Skyhigh Colorado RV Park overlooks Taylor Reservoir and is within walking distance to the lake or streams of the forest. A trout fishery is just below the lake dam. Stop in for a bite to eat at the Nugget Café and shop at the trading post or the gift shop. Rates start at $50 per night.
How to get to Gunnison National Forest
Address: 2250 South Main St, Delta, Colorado 81416
Fee: Entry fee $0
Whether you are planning a summer vacation or a winter getaway, Gunnison National Forest is the place for an RV road trip. View spectacular mountain ridges and unusual wildlife as you travel areas around the forest. Hike, ski, hunt, or fish at one of the many streams or lakes. Enjoy a picnic lunch, then go birdwatching as you stroll past flowers of all types. When you are done for the day, return to your RV hideaway to relax.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gunnison National Forest
Is there a fee to get into Gunnison National Forest?
No, there is no fee to get into Gunnison National Forest. However, activities like camping at developed campgrounds, using certain day-use areas, or cutting down Christmas trees may require an additional permit and fee.
Is Gunnison National Forest open all year round?
Yes, Gunnison National Forest is open year-round. Some campgrounds and day use areas may only be open in summer, however.
Is there a limit to how long you can camp in Gunnison National Forest?
Yes, there is a limit to how long you can camp in Gunnison National Forest. For dispersed camping and camping at most developed campgrounds, occupying one campsite is limited to a maximum of 14 days. However, some developed campgrounds have their own limits, ranging from seven to thirty days - check with any campground before you book to see how long you're allowed to stay.
Do you need a permit to fish or hunt in Gunnison National Forest?
Yes, you need a permit to fish or hunt in Gunnison National Forest. Hunting permits are required for hunting in the forest. Everyone 16 and older who fishes in Colorado is also required to have a fishing permit.
Can you kayak, canoe, or raft in Gunnison National Forest?
Yes, you can kayak, canoe, and raft in Gunnison National Forest. There are several lakes and rivers in the forest, and there are companies that lead rafting trips in the area.