Places to Camp near Telluride, CO
Camping near Telluride, Colorado
Camping near Telluride, Colorado, offers a unique blend of breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventures, and a variety of camping experiences. Whether you're looking for a secluded spot in the wilderness or a well-equipped campground with amenities, Telluride has something for everyone. From the high alpine lakes to the rugged mountain trails, the natural beauty of this area is sure to captivate any outdoor enthusiast.
In this guide, we'll explore some of the top campgrounds near Telluride, what you can do while you're there, and what other campers have to say about their experiences. We'll also provide some helpful tips for families and RVers to make the most of their camping trip. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the great outdoors in Telluride, Colorado!
What to do
Telluride is a haven for outdoor activities, offering everything from hiking and fishing to off-roading and paddleboarding. The surrounding mountains and lakes provide endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
- Hiking and Trails: Many campgrounds, like Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed), offer direct access to hiking trails. "Great spot just outside of Telluride to camp and enjoy the high alpine lakes," says Sahmon F. (source).
- Fishing: The lakes around Telluride are perfect for fishing. Ronnie S. mentions, "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).
- Off-Roading: For those with a taste for adventure, off-roading is a popular activity. "The off-road trails in this area are amazing and shouldn’t be missed," says Cheryl W. about Ouray KOA (source).
What campers like
Campers love the stunning views, the variety of activities, and the friendly atmosphere at the campgrounds near Telluride. Many reviews highlight the beauty of the area and the well-maintained facilities.
- Scenic Views: "I love Alta lakes campground! It’s so beautiful out there the scenery is amazing and it’s secluded," says King D. about Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed) (source).
- Friendly Staff: "Camp host Fred was fantastic (2023). He ran a tight ship at the campground and stepped up to help us when our batteries died," says Adrienne S. about Telluride Town Park Campground (source).
- Clean Facilities: "Well maintained campground with clean facilities. We'll definitely be back!" says Kelly H. about Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park (source).
What you should know
While camping near Telluride is a fantastic experience, there are a few things you should be aware of to ensure a smooth trip. Some campgrounds have specific rules, and the weather can be unpredictable.
- Weather: "A word of caution though, early summer weather can change quickly here. Last year, we had to leave a day early when cold rain made it tough to get comfy," says Joel C. about Molas Lake Park & Campground (source).
- Road Conditions: "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," warns Haylee H. about Last Dollar Road (source).
- Crowds: "There were quite a few people though," notes Taylor about Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area (source).
Tips for camping with families
Camping with family can be a rewarding experience, especially in a place as beautiful as Telluride. Here are some tips to make your family camping trip enjoyable and stress-free.
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Campgrounds like Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park offer amenities that are great for families. "A great park for kids. I loved the activities, hikes, swimming and absolutely stunning views!" says Jennifer D. (source).
- Plan for Activities: Keep the kids entertained with activities like paddleboarding at Molas Lake Park & Campground. "The lake was great for an afternoon of paddle boarding," says Patrick W. (source).
- Safety First: Always keep an eye on the weather and be prepared for sudden changes. "The restrictions on generators and decent site spacing make for a peaceful stay," notes Joel C. about Molas Lake Park & Campground (source).
Tips from RVers
RVers have specific needs and preferences when it comes to camping. Here are some tips from experienced RVers who have camped near Telluride.
- Check for Big Rig Friendly Sites: Some campgrounds, like Ouray KOA, are well-suited for big rigs. "The park can accommodate big rigs and we were able to get our 38 foot 5’er into the parking and into a spot," says Cheryl W. (source).
- Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: "Some of the sites are on top of each other but the sites I had were exceptional," notes Kristina B. about Ouray KOA (source).
- Amenities Matter: Look for campgrounds with good amenities. "The bathrooms were clean and the showers looked ok but we never used them," says Kimberly M. about Ouray Riverside Resort (source).
Camping near Telluride, Colorado, offers a diverse range of experiences, from rugged dispersed camping to well-equipped campgrounds. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just soaking in the stunning views, there's something for everyone. With these tips and insights from fellow campers, you're sure to have an unforgettable adventure in the great outdoors.
