Places to Camp near Ridgway, CO
Camping near Ridgway, Colorado
Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Ridgway, Colorado, offers a stunning backdrop for camping enthusiasts. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a variety of outdoor activities, Ridgway is a prime destination for those looking to escape into nature. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a family looking for a weekend getaway, the campgrounds around Ridgway provide a range of experiences to suit every preference.
From established campgrounds with full amenities to dispersed sites offering a more rugged experience, there's something for everyone. In this guide, we'll explore what makes camping near Ridgway special, what campers love, and what you should know before you go. We'll also share tips for families and RVers to help you make the most of your trip.
What to do
Ridgway and its surrounding areas are packed with activities for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and fishing to exploring historic towns, there's no shortage of things to do.
One popular spot is the Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park, where you can enjoy hiking trails, swimming, and stunning views. Lauren M. shared, "I stayed in one of the walk-in tent sites on the edge overlooking the lake. It was absolutely beautiful. The staff were very friendly and facilities were clean" (source).
For those who love fishing, the Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed) is a great choice. Ronnie S. noted, "The water was stunning and the fish were plenty. So much so that if you waited until dawn you could see them nonstop jumping out of the water to eat mosquitoes" (source).
If you're into off-roading, the Last Dollar Road offers amazing scenic drives with camp spots that have great vistas. Sahmon F. described it as "Dispersed camping at its best!" (source).
What campers like
Campers appreciate the natural beauty and variety of camping options near Ridgway. Many campgrounds offer stunning views, clean facilities, and friendly staff.
At the Telluride Town Park Campground, Adrienne S. praised the camp host, saying, "Camp host Fred was fantastic. He ran a tight ship at the campground and stepped up to help us when our batteries died" (source).
The Ouray KOA is another favorite, especially for its amenities. Kristina B. mentioned, "Store, Restaurant & staff are great. Able to stream & work remotely with a strong AT&T signal" (source).
For those seeking a more secluded experience, the Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area offers a remote feel without being too isolated. Allison G. shared, "It's a stunning campground, with excellent views, and a decent variety of campsites" (source).
What you should know
While camping near Ridgway is generally a fantastic experience, there are a few things you should be aware of to ensure a smooth trip.
Some campgrounds, like the Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed), have limited cell service. King D. noted, "Verizon wireless is extremely spotty at this place! Campsite 13 gets a signal but only in the spot I had my tent" (source).
Access can also be challenging for certain vehicles. At the Last Dollar Road, Haylee H. warned, "Do not go if you have a 2WD or a low sitting vehicle. We learned the hard way and had to back down a steep hill for half a mile" (source).
Additionally, some campgrounds can get crowded. Derek B. mentioned about the Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area, "There were people coming in at all hours of the night, and the camping area was more of a small parking lot" (source).
Tips for camping with families
Camping with family can be a rewarding experience, especially in a place as beautiful as Ridgway. Here are some tips to make your family camping trip enjoyable.
Choose a campground with amenities that cater to families. The Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park is a great option. Kelly H. shared, "Well maintained campground with clean facilities. We'll definitely be back!" (source).
Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. The Ouray KOA offers a variety of amenities. Cheryl W. mentioned, "There are nice tent camping spots. Most of the people in the park had four-wheelers or motorcycles for off-road trails" (source).
Consider the accessibility of the campground. The Kendall Camping Area is easily accessible and offers beautiful views. Ryan A. noted, "Just a few miles from Silverton with minimal elevation change. Short dirt road access, some potholes inside the area" (source).
Tips from RVers
RVers will find plenty of options near Ridgway, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth trip.
Choose a campground with full hookups if you need them. The Ouray Riverside Resort offers electric, sewer, and water hookups. Kimberly M. shared, "We had a picnic table and electric, sewer, and water hookups. We had a riverside site but couldn't actually see the river due to the large berm behind the camper" (source).
Be aware of the size of your RV. Some campgrounds, like the Amphitheater Campground, may not be suitable for big rigs. Fred S. noted, "I feel that this campground is not suitable for big rigs; posted signs along the access road provide warnings" (source).
Consider the amenities offered. The Dakota Terraces Campground — Ridgway State Park offers clean restrooms and showers. Lance H. mentioned, "Clean restrooms and showers! We spent a lot of time in Telluride, Ouray, and Silverton so we did not take advantage of the park" (source).
Camping near Ridgway, Colorado, offers a diverse range of experiences, from established campgrounds with full amenities to dispersed sites for those seeking solitude. With stunning landscapes, a variety of activities, and friendly campgrounds, it's a destination that caters to all types of campers. Whether you're planning a family trip or an RV adventure, Ridgway has something to offer.
