The Bank Campground

Colorado is a state that calls to the adventurous spirit, offering an unparalleled array of outdoor pursuits set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. For locals seeking a raw, authentic camping experience, particularly those drawn to the thrill of rock climbing or the solitude of vast landscapes, The Bank Campground near Cañon City stands out as a prime destination. This article is designed to give Colorado residents an in-depth understanding of this unique Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campground, highlighting its key features and why it's a suitable spot for your next rugged getaway.

The Bank Campground is not your typical manicured, amenity-rich camping resort. Instead, it embodies the spirit of dispersed camping with the added convenience of designated sites and basic facilities. Situated approximately 15 miles north of Cañon City at an elevation of around 6,890 feet, it offers breathtaking views of a nearby canyon and the expansive landscape that defines this part of Colorado. What truly sets The Bank apart is its direct adjacency to Shelf Road, one of Colorado's most popular and renowned sport climbing areas. This makes it a mecca for climbers, but its appeal extends to hikers, mountain bikers, and anyone who appreciates dramatic vistas and a quiet, dark sky for stargazing.

For Colorado locals who are familiar with the state's diverse outdoor offerings, The Bank Campground provides a specific type of experience. It's a place where the landscape dominates, characterized by long bands of limestone cliffs, piñon pine, and juniper vegetation. While the access road can be "heavily washboarded" and "rough," this often contributes to the sense of getting away from it all, filtering out those less prepared for a true outdoor adventure. The campground embraces a more minimalist approach to camping, focusing on the natural environment rather than extensive human-made comforts. This aligns perfectly with the ethos of many Coloradans who prioritize genuine wilderness immersion.

One of the key advantages of The Bank Campground is its year-round accessibility, though conditions, especially on the access road, can vary with the seasons. It's also a destination that encourages self-sufficiency – there's no water available, so campers must pack in all they need. While reviews note concerns about rocky ground at some campsites making tent staking difficult and the presence of ants and cacti, these are often minor considerations for experienced campers accustomed to Colorado's diverse terrain. For climbers, it's an undeniable convenience to be just a stone's throw from nearly 1,000 bolted routes on the Cactus Cliff and Dark Side walls. For others, it's a convenient base to explore the Royal Gorge area, historical sites like Cripple Creek, or simply enjoy the vastness of the Colorado outdoors.

Location and Accessibility:

The Bank Campground is located on an unnamed road (which is essentially County Road 9 / Shelf Road, leading to a turn-off for the campground itself), in Cañon City, CO 81212, USA. It's approximately 15 miles north of Cañon City. To reach it from Highway 50 in Cañon City, you would take Dozier Avenue north, which then turns west. At the four-way stop, turn right onto Field Avenue, following it north until it becomes County Road 9. After approximately 10 miles on CR 9, continue straight and follow signs for The Bank Campground. The campground is located about 1 mile up a rough dirt road.

The access road to The Bank Campground, particularly the final mile or so, is notably "very rough" and "heavily washboarded." While it is generally passable by most two-wheel-drive passenger vehicles under normal conditions, it is "not recommended for large RVs and long trailers" due to the "long, steep grade" and overall ruggedness. Some pull-through sites are available in Loop B, which can accommodate larger RVs and trailers that manage the access road, but tent and van camping are often more ideal. Visitors should be prepared for bumpy conditions and consider their vehicle's clearance. The campground is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and is part of the Shelf Road recreation area, known for its limestone cliffs. Always check current road conditions, especially during or after inclement weather, and be aware that cell service can be spotty in this remote area.

Services Offered:

• Campsites: The campground offers 33 designated campsites, including 31 individual sites and 2 group sites. Each individual campsite is limited to 2 vehicles and 8 people, while group sites are limited to 4 vehicles and 20 people.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings: Metal fire rings are provided at each site for campfires, subject to current fire restrictions. Campers should bring their own firewood.
• Vault Toilets: Multiple public vault restrooms are available and are typically stocked with toilet paper. These are primitive, non-flush toilets.
• No Water: There is no potable water available at the campground. Campers must bring their own supply of drinking water for their entire stay.
• No Electric Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups at any of the campsites, making it a primitive camping experience suitable for tent camping or self-contained RVs/vans.
• Day-Use Parking Area: In addition to campsites, The Bank Campground also offers a day-use parking area for recreationalists accessing the surrounding trails and climbing areas.
• Reservation System: Sites can be reserved on Recreation.gov, though some sites may also be available on a first-come, first-served basis (verify current policy). There is a fee per night for individual and group sites, plus a non-refundable reservation fee.

Features / Highlights:

• World-Class Rock Climbing: The primary highlight is its direct adjacency to Shelf Road, a premier sport climbing destination with nearly 1,000 bolted routes on limestone cliffs (Cactus Cliff and Dark Side walls).
• Stunning Canyon Views: Offers great views of a nearby canyon and the dramatic landscapes of the piñon pine and juniper vegetation.
• Beautiful Scenery: Known for its picturesque camping environment and natural features, enhancing the outdoor experience.
• Excellent Stargazing: Due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, it's a "nice area for stargazing."
• Proximity to Trails: Easy access to a variety of other recreation opportunities including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and 4WD routes.
• Pull-Through Sites Available: Some pull-through sites exist, particularly in the B-Loop, which can accommodate certain RVs and trailers.
• Year-Round Access: The campground is open year-round, though access road conditions can vary seasonally.
• Primitive Camping Experience: Appeals to those who prefer a more rugged and self-sufficient camping adventure.
• Convenient for Shelf Road Climbers: Provides a highly convenient basecamp for climbers planning multi-day climbing trips.
• Rocky Ground & Cacti/Ants: Be aware that some campsites (like Campsite 1) may have rocky ground making tent staking difficult, and there can be a presence of large cacti and ants (especially in late summer).
• No Warning Signs for Drop-Offs: One review noted a campsite on an edge of a cliff with no warning signs or fences, which could be dangerous, particularly at night or with pets. Exercise caution.

Contact Information:

Address: Unnamed Road, Cañon City, CO 81212, USA

Phone: (719) 269-8500

Mobile Phone: +1 719-269-8500

Please note: This phone number is for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Royal Gorge Field Office, which manages The Bank Campground. For specific inquiries regarding reservations, current conditions, or regulations, it's best to contact them directly or check the Recreation.gov website for booking and detailed information.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For Colorado locals, The Bank Campground offers an authentic, rugged, and profoundly rewarding outdoor experience. It's particularly suitable for those who prioritize world-class rock climbing, dramatic canyon views, and a genuine escape into nature over extensive amenities. While the access road may challenge some vehicles and campers need to be self-sufficient regarding water, these aspects are often seen as part of the adventure by seasoned Coloradans.

The ability to reserve sites makes planning easier for those committed to a climbing trip or a scenic retreat. The incredible stargazing opportunities, combined with direct access to hiking, biking, and 4WD trails, provide a diverse array of activities for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. For residents seeking a less crowded, more immersive connection with Colorado's wild beauty, where the sound of the wind through the pines and the challenge of the cliffs define the experience, The Bank Campground is an ideal and highly recommended destination.

To get a visual sense of the area, you can watch (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Gn0vNVgmxI). This video provides a virtual tour of the campground and its surroundings, offering an up-close look at the sites and features.

The Bank Campground

Unnamed Road, Cañon City, CO 81212, USA