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Submission
The East Portal Campground is located within Curecanti National Recreation Area, but is adjacent to and only accessible from Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, where the entrance fee is $30. The campground is located at the bottom of the canyon, along the Gunnison River. It is a small campground shaded by box elder trees. East Portal is closed in winter, when the Bureau of Reclamation closes the East Portal Road. Elevation: 6526 feet
From Montrose, take Hwy 50 east. After about 6 miles turn left onto Hwy 347 and follow it for 6 miles. Hwy 347 turns into the South Rim Drive of Black Canyon National Park. Just past the park’s entrance station, turn right into East Portal. Follow the road 5 miles to the base of the canyon and turn left at the T-Junction. The Campground is just past the ranger station.
Spent the night without another soul in sight. Drove in after dark and didn't realize the 16% grade until the morning. Absolutely worth a visit, stunning visuals. Perfect dark sky, in a narrow canyon, in the middle of nowhere. Enjoy this gem before all the Jerry's ruin it!
Super awesome experience. There is a steep windy road to get to the camp ground, but not too bad in a low gear and well worth it!
Beautiful place to stay at the bottom of the canyon right next to the river. The road to get down is bumpy and steep. The campground was small and has people right next to each other. We got there around 2pm and snagged one of the last spots, lots of people came in later and had to leave because there was no spots left. Half of the spots are down stairs that you have to walk all your stuff down to and leave your car in the upper parking lot. You can't beat the proximity to the river though. Currently $16/per night.
Hosts were very friendly and helpful with trails. Bathhouse was hands down the cleanest I've ever seen! Great cozy little camping spot near the Rocky Mountain National Park!
