Wild & Wonderful: RV Camping Adventures in Gunnison, Colorado
There’s a special kind of freedom that comes with RV travel—rolling into a new town with everything you need and waking up to mountain air and open skies. Gunnison, Colorado offers that freedom in abundance. Tucked between high alpine peaks and rugged desert mesas, it’s a playground for nature lovers, off-roaders, hikers, and anyone who appreciates small-town charm.
On a recent trip, I set up base at the Tall Texan RV Park, explored the wild terrain of Hartman Rocks, shopped my way through Crested Butte and Gunnison’s Main Street, and hiked through jaw-dropping scenery just a short drive away. Here’s how it all unfolded.
Home on the Range: Tall Texan RV Park
Located just north of downtown Gunnison, the Tall Texan RV Park is a laid-back, pine-shaded gem with all the essentials—full hookups, clean bathrooms, laundry facilities, and even a small creek that sings you to sleep at night. There’s a sense of community here, whether you’re chatting with long-term RVers or exchanging trail tips with fellow weekenders.
The location is perfect: close to town but quiet enough to feel like you’re in the woods. After setting up camp, I kicked back with a cold drink and watched the evening light hit the trees. This is Colorado RV life at its best.
Off the Beaten Path: Hartman Rocks
For anyone with a taste for off-roading or mountain biking, Hartman Rocks Recreation Area is a must. Just minutes from Gunnison, this high-desert terrain is filled with technical trails, granite outcroppings, and wide-open vistas that stretch for miles.
I spent an afternoon tackling a few of the OHV-friendly routes—nothing too crazy, but enough to get the adrenaline going. The landscape is wild, dusty, and dramatic, with plenty of spots to stop, breathe, and just take it all in. Whether you’re in a side-by-side, Jeep, or on two wheels, Hartman delivers a full-throttle dose of Colorado adventure.
A Tale of Two Towns: Crested Butte & Gunnison
On a slower day, I headed north for a little retail therapy in Crested Butte, the picturesque ski town known for its colorful buildings and boho-chic vibe. The main drag is full of locally-owned shops with handmade jewelry, mountain art, funky fashion, and some seriously good coffee.
Back in Gunnison, Main Street has its own charm—more low-key, more local, but still full of surprises. I found a cozy bookstore, a couple of great gear shops, and a café that made an excellent espresso. It’s the kind of town where everyone smiles at you and you feel like you belong, even if you just rolled in on four wheels.
Day Hike Pick: Storm Pass via Mill Castle Trail
Tucked deep within Colorado’s West Elk Wilderness, the hike to Storm Pass via the Mill Castle Trail offers a rugged and rewarding backcountry experience. This challenging 14.8-mile out-and-back route near Gunnison showcases dramatic rock formations, alpine meadows, cascading waterfalls, and sweeping views that make every step worthwhile.
The Journey
The adventure begins with a gentle ascent along an old dirt road, where the first 1.5 miles offer views of the unique rock formations that give the trail its name. After crossing Mill Creek—a task that can be tricky during high water—the trail enters a serene aspen forest and the official wilderness boundary.
As the path climbs, we encountered a mix of terrain, including rocky switchbacks and lush meadows. Around the 4-mile mark, a stunning waterfall provides a perfect spot for a rest and photo opportunity. Beyond this point, the trail becomes steeper and more rugged, leading through pine forests and overgrown willows before opening into the expansive Mill Creek Basin. However, we did not make it that far but will on a future trip.
Hiking to Storm Pass via the Mill Castle Trail offers solitude and some of Colorado’s most breathtaking natural beauty. It’s a journey best suited for experienced hikers seeking a full-day adventure in a less-traveled part of the Rockies. The combination of diverse landscapes, challenging terrain, and stunning vistas makes this trail a memorable experience for those prepared to take it on.
Final Thoughts
Gunnison is the kind of place that sneaks up on you. It doesn’t try to impress with flash or crowds—it wins you over with fresh air, honest people, and an endless invitation to explore. RV camping at the Tall Texan gave me the perfect mix of comfort and wildness, and every day brought something new—whether it was a dirt trail, a hidden boutique, or a cold drink after a hike.
Pro Tip: Pack layers. The temperature swings here are real—from sun-scorched trails to chilly mountain evenings.
Whether you’re in it for the engines, the trails, or the peaceful creekside mornings, Gunnison delivers. And chances are, once you’ve camped here once, you’ll start planning your return trip before you even leave.