East Portal Road and River Access
A secluded canyon oasis with a peaceful river and incredibly dark skies, perfect for camping and stargazing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer people, easier to snag a spot
East Portal Road and River Access
Best Time
Fewer people, easier to snag a spot
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded canyon oasis with a peaceful river and incredibly dark skies, perfect for camping and stargazing.
"The walk-in campground is a hidden gem, offering tranquility and stunning river access."
🚗 Master the Steep Descent
Use low gears (L or 1) going down to save your brakes! Your car (and fellow campers) will thank you.
🏕️ Arrive Early for Walk-in
Snag a prime spot at the walk-in campground by arriving before 2 PM, especially on weekends.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
East Portal Campground
Bottom of the canyon
Secluded walk-in campground with clean facilities, fire rings, and river proximity. A true gem for peace seekers.
River Access
Adjacent to campground
Direct access to a beautiful river, perfect for wading, relaxing, or enjoying the canyon's natural beauty.
Dark Sky Viewing
Canyon floor
Experience incredibly dark skies, ideal for stargazing away from light pollution. A photographer's dream.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Steep Descent Ahead!
Campground Crowds & Spots
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Master the Steep Descent
Use low gears (L or 1) going down to save your brakes! Your car (and fellow campers) will thank you.
🏕️ Arrive Early for Walk-in
Snag a prime spot at the walk-in campground by arriving before 2 PM, especially on weekends.
Planning A First Time Visit to Black Canyon Of The Gunnison
Canyonlands or Black Canyon of the Gunnison?
💧 Potable Water Available
Yes, the water spouts at the campground are potable! Fill up your bottles and stay hydrated.
🐻 Bear-Proof Bins
Utilize the bear-proof bins for all smelly items to keep yourself and the wildlife safe.
Hardest "hike" of my life. Totally worth it. Black Canyon of the Gunnison.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Master the Steep Descent
Use low gears (L or 1) going down to save your brakes! Your car (and fellow campers) will thank you.
🏕️ Arrive Early for Walk-in
Snag a prime spot at the walk-in campground by arriving before 2 PM, especially on weekends.
💧 Potable Water Available
Yes, the water spouts at the campground are potable! Fill up your bottles and stay hydrated.
🐻 Bear-Proof Bins
Utilize the bear-proof bins for all smelly items to keep yourself and the wildlife safe.
✨ Embrace the Seclusion
The walk-in sites offer incredible privacy and a true escape. Worth the short carry!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the secluded walk-in campground at East Portal, praising its river proximity, clean facilities, and peaceful atmosphere. The challenging but rewarding drive down the steep canyon road is a common talking point, as are the stunning dark skies. Some note that campsites can be close together in certain areas, and arriving early is crucial for securing a spot.
"Go to the walk-in campground area and you will NOT be disappointed.
$20/night
Secluded area with 95% less traffic than either North or South Rim Campgrounds.
Beautiful area with clean bathrooms, trash cans, bear-proof bins for smelly things, and potable water.
I strongly recommend this campground over North or South if you want to see way fewer people.
Make sure to use your lower gear when coming down the road to East Portal or your brakes will smell the campground up and everyone will laugh at you for not knowing how to descend steep roads.
There are fire rings, picnic tables, tent platforms, and trees to hang hammocks on/be in the shade of.
Give me a like if you have a crush on me or if you found this helpful. I will assume you have a crush on me though. So. Don't lie."
The Great Aerron
"This was a great campground! There are 16 designated campsites. A small handful of them are pull ins. The rest are ones you have to carry stuff down to the campsite. It wasn’t too far, but it is down a large fight of stairs. That is where we stayed in spot 7. It was perfect! Each site has a pad for the tent, a picnic table, and a fire ring with a grate on top for cooking. There was a water spout that we washed dishes in (I don’t know if the water is drinkable) The bathrooms are very clean for campsite bathrooms with a pit toilet. There are also food lockers throughout the campground.
It was $16/night. There was barely anyone else here. The site is very close to the water. So the drive down was very steep and slow. But it is gorgeous!"
Katie Fiola Jones
"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."
Tanne Bratton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
East Portal Road is accessed via CO-135 S near Almont, Colorado. Turn onto County Road 742 (East River Road) and follow it for approximately 10 miles. The road becomes steep and unpaved as you descend into the canyon towards the river access and campground.
The initial part of East River Road is paved, but it transitions to a steep, unpaved, and bumpy road as you descend into the canyon towards the river access.
The road has a significant 16% grade, making it one of the steepest roads in the area. Drivers are advised to use low gears to prevent brake overheating.
While some reviews mention RVs, the steep and unpaved nature of the road, especially the descent, can be challenging for larger vehicles. It's best suited for high-clearance vehicles or those comfortable with steep, rough terrain.
East Portal Road is generally open year-round, but conditions can vary significantly with weather. Snow and ice can make the steep road impassable during winter months. Always check local conditions before heading out.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee for East Portal River Access itself. However, camping at the East Portal Campground incurs a nightly fee, typically around $16-$20 per night.
East Portal River Access and the campground are generally open 24/7, as it's a natural area. However, access can be restricted due to weather conditions, especially in winter.
Payment for camping is typically handled on-site, often through a self-registration system or by paying a ranger if available. It's advisable to have cash on hand.
The East Portal Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, especially for the walk-in sites. Reservations are generally not available.
No specific permits are required for day use at East Portal River Access. However, if you plan on fishing, you will need a valid Colorado fishing license.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The walk-in campground is highly praised for its seclusion and proximity to the river. It features tent pads, picnic tables, fire rings, clean pit toilets, potable water, and bear-proof food lockers. +1
The river is generally shallow and suitable for wading and cooling off, especially during warmer months. Water levels and temperature can vary.
Activities include camping, fishing, wading in the river, stargazing due to dark skies, and enjoying the peaceful canyon environment. +1
Yes, the East Portal Campground has clean pit toilets. Many reviewers have noted their surprisingly good condition for pit toilets. +1
You might see deer, various birds, and potentially other small mammals. Remember to use the bear-proof bins for food storage.
📸 📸 Photography
The steep canyon walls, the winding river, the campground nestled by the water, and the incredibly dark night skies for astrophotography are prime subjects.
Sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light filtering into the canyon. However, the dark night sky is a major draw for photographers.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the canyon vistas. For astrophotography, a sturdy tripod and a camera with good low-light performance are essential.
The drive down offers several pull-offs with stunning views. The riverbanks themselves provide excellent vantage points for capturing the canyon's scale.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check with the local Forest Service or BLM office for current rules and restrictions before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing water shoes for the kids to navigate the riverbed comfortably. The drive down can be an adventure in itself, but emphasize the importance of slow, safe driving. While the campground is more secluded, some sites are close to neighbors, so be mindful of noise levels. It's a great spot for families looking for a more rustic and natural experience away from crowded tourist hubs.
🚗 Budget Travelers
While the drive requires careful attention, it doesn't necessitate a high-clearance or 4x4 vehicle for most passenger cars, saving on rental costs. The natural beauty and river access provide ample entertainment without needing to spend money on activities. It's a perfect destination for those who enjoy the outdoors and want to stretch their travel budget further.
🌌 Stargazers & Astrophotographers
Bring your best camera gear, a sturdy tripod, and perhaps a star chart app. The quiet atmosphere of the campground, especially during weekdays, adds to the serene stargazing experience. Remember to bring a red-light headlamp to preserve your night vision and that of others.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Steep Descent
This steepness is precisely what helps preserve the secluded nature of the river access and campground. The challenging approach deters many casual visitors, leaving the area more peaceful for those who make the effort. It's a classic example of how a slightly difficult access can lead to a more rewarding, less crowded experience.
The Allure of the Walk-In Campground
Each walk-in site typically includes a tent pad, picnic table, and fire ring. The campground also boasts surprisingly clean pit toilets, potable water spigots, and bear-proof food lockers, making it comfortable despite its rustic feel.
Dark Skies and River Serenity
Beyond the river, East Portal is a prime location for astrophotography and stargazing. Tucked away in a narrow canyon and far from city lights, the night sky here is exceptionally dark.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit