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Established Camping

Molas Lake Park & Campground

Closed For the Season

This campground is closed for the season from October 1, 2024 through May 31, 2025.

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Molas Lake Park & Campground, near Silverton, Colorado, is a stunning spot that offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere for campers. With 62 sites, it’s a great place to set up camp, whether you’re in a tent or an RV, and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

The campground is known for its picturesque lake, perfect for non-motorized boating and fishing. Visitors rave about the “incredible views” and the clean, well-spaced sites that provide a sense of privacy. As one camper put it, “The backdrop and lake are off the chart beautiful.”

Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, with showers available for a small fee. While some campers mentioned that the shower facilities could use some improvement, the overall cleanliness and friendly staff make up for it. Plus, you’re just a short drive from the charming mining town of Silverton, where you can explore local shops and dining options.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the area boasts fantastic hiking trails, including access to the Colorado Trail. Just be prepared for unpredictable weather, especially in early summer, as it can change quickly. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, Molas Lake Park & Campground is a fantastic choice for those looking to immerse themselves in Colorado’s stunning wilderness.

Description

Municipal

Molas Lake & Campground was granted to the Town of Silverton in 1925 from the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. The 137-acre campground sits along the Million Dollar Highway (US 550) in the central San Juan Mountains; the most spectacular peaks in the Colorado Rockies. The Campground is adjacent to the largest wilderness area in the state of Colorado, the Weminuche Wilderness.

Molas Lake Campground provides visitors with unforgettable scenery, a stocked 25-acre lake, National Forest access via the Colorado Trail, and dark, starry skies free from light-pollution.

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Location

Molas Lake Park & Campground is located in Colorado

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Durango Head out of town north on highway 550. After approximately 42 miles, you'll reach Molas Pass. Continue for approximately one more mile and find the entrance to the park on the right, immediately off of highway 550. Driving time from Durango is approximately one hour. From Silverton Head out of town south on highway 550, towards Durango. After approximately 5 miles, you'll see the entrance to Molas Park on the left side of the road. If you reach the top of Molas Pass, you've gone too far. Driving time from Silverton is approximately 10 minutes. From Montrose Head out of town south on highway 550, towards Ouray. Continue through Ouray on highway 550. Continue over Red Mountain Pass to Silverton. Go past Silverton and continue and additional 5 miles, you'll see the entrance to Molas Park on the left side of the road. If you reach the top of Molas Pass, you've gone too far. Total distance from Montrose is about 65 miles with a driving time of about 1.5 hours.

Address

U.S. Highway 550
Silverton, CO 81433

Coordinates

37.74940611 N
107.68341728 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Good
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

32 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 4, 2024

Amazing views

It was beautiful but SO buggy in June on the lake. Probably better later in year.

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Aug. 20, 2024

Perfect place, wrong day

We loved this campground. Easy to find, well maintained. Clean bathrooms. Pot holes weren’t that bad. 20B was spacious but no trees for shade. 17A was closer to the lake, great spot, little too close to the pot smoking, drunken couple arguing half the night… then the monsoon like rain started. Not the campgrounds fault though

Site20B and 17A
Month of VisitAugust
  • a river runs through it
    Play button icon
  • Downpour from 7-930ish it was insane
    Play button icon
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Rebecca M., August 20, 2024
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Jun. 19, 2023

Fantastic Views

We’ve been here several times and have enjoyed ourselves each time. 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. We returned this year with a camper and we’re super thankful, because it hailed and snowed! The restrictions on generators and decent site spacing make for a peaceful stay. Highway noise can be a bit of a concern later in the summer. Shower facilities aren’t great, but at least they’re available.

Site35
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Joel C., June 19, 2023
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Joel C., June 19, 2023
Reviewed Jun. 14, 2023

Beautiful views!

Great little campground with amazing views. Several vault toilets on the property. Showers are $5 for 5 minutes

Siteurv1
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Scott B., June 14, 2023
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Scott B., June 14, 2023
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Scott B., June 14, 2023
Reviewed Aug. 14, 2022

Beautiful Lake, Not so Good Amentities

Camped here with my sister for the week. It's very close to a beautiful lake, cute little mining town called Silverton, and some of the best hiking trails in Colorado. Camp spots are clean and don't seem to be right on top of each other. The young lady that runs the office is extremely sweet and helpful. However, there were some concerns and issues. 1.They are close to the main highway, so you hear a lot of traffic at night. Big rigs and horn honking. 2.The bathrooms don't have toilet paper and/ or a wash sink or sanitizer(only the day use one towards the front of the campground). There is always a line too. 3.No potable water at your campsite, only at the front entrance. 4.The older gentleman who works the office is rude and unaccommodating. They were having some overflow issues with the water during our stay and I had to take a luke warm shower with absolutely zero water pressure. They didn't offer any assistance or refund for my token($5 for 4 min).

Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Jul. 19, 2022

Incredible view

A wonderful place to camp! Couldn’t have been more scenic. The lake was great for an afternoon of paddle boarding.

SiteP38 & P39
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Patrick W., July 19, 2022
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Patrick W., July 19, 2022
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Patrick W., July 19, 2022
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jul. 19, 2022

MTN paradise

Beautiful setting. A little close to the highway for some sites but worth it.

SiteP30
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jul. 8, 2022

Beautiful backdrop

Super friendly owners. Moved us to a better site even though we didn’t ask. The backdrop and lake are off the chart beautiful.

Site8
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Jeff K., July 8, 2022
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Jeff K., July 8, 2022
Reviewed Jan. 14, 2022

Most scenic campground ever

360 views of the mountains. Sites well spaced. Clean bathrooms. Gorgeous lake.

Site18
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Dave B., January 14, 2022
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Dave B., January 14, 2022
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Dave B., January 14, 2022
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Oct. 5, 2021

Great for camping near trail heads

This camp ground really has it all. Lake, hiking, mountains, stars! Must make reservations. This camp ground has a little shop as well with some essentials and firewood ect.

Site1
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Kelly M., October 5, 2021
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Kelly M., October 5, 2021
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Kelly M., October 5, 2021
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Sep. 20, 2021

Amazing views, quiet, close to Silverton

Stayed 3 nights mid September. Amazing 365 degree views. Small lake with non-motorized boating and fishing. Level sites, pit toilets, tables, fire rings, and camp store. Kayaks for rent. Great hiking nearby, very close to the Colorado trail. 10 minutes to Silverton. Downside was little to no cell service/internet.

Site14
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Scott B., September 20, 2021
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Scott B., September 20, 2021
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Scott B., September 20, 2021
Reviewed Aug. 28, 2021

Drop dead gorgeous!

Getting them to answer the phone or get a reservation for that matter was rather difficult, but it was all worth it! We used this as our base camp for the Alpine Loop (Engineer Pass and Cinnamon Pass). Took a day off to rent a kayak and do some fishing. The rainbow trout we pulled from the lake was absolutely delectable! 

There are no hookups, no dumpsite, and no generators allowed (at the scenic campground area). The do have potable water though. Also should mention that there is basically no cell reception. 

But if you’re game for some dry camping and want to check out the Silverton area, then this is the perfect campground!

Site35 and 8
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by John R., August 28, 2021
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by John R., August 28, 2021
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by John R., August 28, 2021
  • (21) View All
Reviewed Jul. 23, 2021

Dated, but very nice

Tent camped here at campsite 8 for five nights. Very nice tents sites but after traveling the country I felt it sucked because showers were $5 for a four minute shower and the toilets were basically glorified holes in the ground. Beautiful sights everywhere. Not far from Silverton and the OHV routes.

Sitetent site 8
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Darah F., July 23, 2021
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Darah F., July 23, 2021
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Darah F., July 23, 2021
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jul. 19, 2021

Piece

This campground is amazing! Not only do you have an excellent view no matter which way you turn, you also have a quiet pieceful place to unwind. We stayed for two nights and absolutely loved it! The hosts were so friendly and zen! You won’t get cell/internet service here…a major plus for us at the time!! We will be returning any time we are in the area!

Site1
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Maria H., July 19, 2021
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Maria H., July 19, 2021
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Maria H., July 19, 2021
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Jul. 11, 2021

Beautiful place, great hiking

We stayed here a couple nights in July 2019 after checking availability. It was beautiful and the camp host recommended a hike that went to a waterfall. Beautiful the whole way! Also, there were the most interesting little "things" in the shallow water at the lake. They had made little shells for their backs out of tiny pebbles. After looking it up, I think they were caddisfly larvae. So interesting... it was COLD at night (camping in tent) but I would definitely stay again. :)

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Kristen S., July 11, 2021
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Kristen S., July 11, 2021
Reviewed Jun. 19, 2021

Underwhelming.

This has been on my bucket list for decades. Having traveled Hwy 550 so many times over the years I would always be overwhelmed by the setting which is still OVERWHELMING.

This was the last of 3-2 night stays in search of the perfect paddling spot. I booked it back in March 2021 for June of the same year. It’s funny how your mind replays what you think you saw and then there’s the reality. It should be stated up front this property is a commercial endeavor owned by the Town of Silverton which is situated a brief drive, straight down hill. I had expected a much more refined experience than what I encountered because of viewing it from above in my car while driving by each time. It was NOT at all what I had imagined.

It is a breath taking spot there is no denying that and they take advantage of that. The camping is one step above dispersed. While there are fire rings, but no fires, at each site and a picnic table little else was been done to the sites themselves. It’s a sprawling compound but the vault toilets are few and a fair walk between. The sites are on top of each other and the terrain around them is filled with fallen trees and exposed roots and rocks. Trip hazards abound. One woman’s land yacht was wedged beside the road so precariously she had to install bright day glow green pool noodles to each exposed corner in hopes no one would hit it. My site had a beautiful view of the lake but no place to pitch a tent. There was barely enough room to function. It was situated directly next to the only road in and out and it had a constant steady stream of vehicles in and out all day and even until 10:00 at night. Dirt was flying everywhere and no one observed the 5mph speed limit. Several people left after one day for that very reason. No TP in the toilets but they hand you a roll at check in???

The lake is beautiful but small. It looks bigger from the road. There were thousands of tiny dragon flies everywhere it was amazing!

Bottom line this is really for families with kids who want to play in the boats they have available for rent. Showers are $5.00 for 4 minutes so there’s that. I didn’t see any evidence of drinking water but there may be. I bring my own so I didn’t have a need. Someone came buy peddling propane and the garbage truck loomed by around 4PM. The place was packed tight. They have added some new spots as you enter the compound for RV’s but they have literally been bull dozed out of the hillside below 550 and are not at all inviting, red clay and zero vegetation but I imagine they have a great view.

The couple who manage the place are very nice people and very accommodating. Of course, this is commercial endeavor in every way so expect accordingly.

I packed up and left after only one night. The incessant traffic noise from the 550 (think semi trucks struggling up or down the million dollar highway at 10,000 feet) and the steady stream of vehicles just a few feet from my bed was just too off putting. Turns out Ride Across the Rockies was going on and the road all the way to Durango was crowded with skinny tire cyclists testing their mettle on Molas and Coal Bank passes. It made for precarious driving on that two lane road that has nothing on either side. So everything was booked for that weekend probably from Ouray to Durango was was a zoo when I got down the hill. Glad I made it a week day trip the traffic going up the hill was thick looking for weekend relief from the incessant heat.

I’m glad I did stayed at least the one night. There are other spots that are more attractive there just make sure you really check the map before booking a spot. It’s a popular place for one good reason. The views are OVERWHELMING but the accommodations, sadly, left a lot to be desired. It’s really too bad because it’s a gem location and they rely on that in hopes you won’t notice the other.

SiteP39
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Mar. 7, 2021

Felt safe!

First time to Silverton and I was by myself. Connected right to a trail, bathrooms, shower, a bit pricey but worth.

Reviewed Mar. 3, 2021

Perfect spot on the lake

We amazingly found a last minute spot here last June right on the lake. We had our little john boat and were able to leave it right on the shore below our site. We had so much fun fishing. Definitely plan for different weather! We had sun, rain, and snow, but were ready for anything.

  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Brittney C., March 3, 2021
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Brittney C., March 3, 2021
Reviewed Oct. 1, 2020

Beautiful but Noisy

We had site #41, possibly the best in the campground, reserved for 3 nights. Due to the constant and all night long road noise from Hwy 550 we left after only one night...and I do use ear plugs. 5 stars for scenery and 1 star for lack of peace and quiet.

  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Steve E., October 1, 2020
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Steve E., October 1, 2020
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Steve E., October 1, 2020
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Sep. 30, 2020

The most beautiful views

This is the most beautiful park I’ve ever camped at. We got a premium lake site and while it doesn’t have electricity or water at the sites, the views more than make up for any of the amenities you may get at other parks. Do yourself a favor and see it for yourself.

  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Sara , September 30, 2020
Reviewed Sep. 27, 2020

Bathrooms Far Away

This campground has a great location and if you are lucky enough to get a lakefront site, the view is wonderful! The pit toilets were very far from some camp sites, so be sure your flashlight batteries are working in case you need to take a hike to the pit toilet in the middle of the night.

  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Mary H., September 27, 2020
Reviewed Jun. 19, 2020

Right on the lake surrounded by beauty

We’ve been wanting to check out this campground for a couple years but never seem to make reservations in time. Finally secured our first weekend in early June. It was the perfect getaway from our in-home quarantine and just an hour and a half away. This campground it’s so lovely and the hosts Jennifer and Brian are very nice and amenable and kept the bathrooms and common spaces very clean. Due to Covid and fire restrictions we could not take hot showers or use the fire pit. But no big deal. We were right on the lake with plenty of space between our neighbors especially since they have to do 50% occupancy. The Colorado Trail runs through the campground and whether you do a quick toddler hike to the waterfall or a much longer hike down to the river there is just so much to do here and to explore. We forgot our paddleboard but we will remember to bring it next time, and fish in the middle of the lake. They stocked it with hundreds of trout that you can also eat if you’d like. Our neighbors caught a few and gave us want to try. We booked two more trips to this campground, we wanted to capitalize on the availability since it is very limited.

  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Casey C., June 19, 2020
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Casey C., June 19, 2020
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Casey C., June 19, 2020
  • (4) View All
Reviewed May. 24, 2020

Glorious camping

Primitive camping, some campsites were closer to the lake than others. Access to bathrooms and showers near the small general store at the entrance. Fire pits available, along with a picnic table. Continue north for a bit along 550, and you’ll be in Silverton. Can’t wait to go back!

  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Laura S., May 24, 2020
Reviewed Nov. 26, 2019

Gorgeous Spot

One of the pretties views in America, clear lake just south of Silverton , CO. Does cost extra for showers. I would strongly recommend this campground.

Reviewed Jul. 2, 2019

Incredible views and beautiful lake

This place was so much fun to stay at. With a campground right next to the lake we were able to take our kayaks out and fish frequently, as well as enjoy beautiful views all day long. The staff was very nice and helpful. It’s a great place to stay if you want to explore Silverton or even Durango. The only thing was the bathroom was kind of far, it we made it work. We will definitely be back!

  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Lacy P., July 2, 2019
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Lacy P., July 2, 2019
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Lacy P., July 2, 2019
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Aug. 9, 2018

Molas Lake Campground

Great campsite, I was riding my motorcycle through the mountains for a few days and stayed one night here. The views were spectacular, the campsite was quiet and peaceful. The fire pit was great and the stargazing was some of the best I’ve seen. The night I stayed a few deer came through which just reminded me that we were in wildlife territory. Only thing that caught me up was the campsite is over 10,000 feet, weather can change quickly and it got cold during the night. Bring the appropriate gear and you will have no problems. I will stay here again when I go back through the area.

  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Davis F., August 9, 2018
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Davis F., August 9, 2018
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Davis F., August 9, 2018
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jul. 29, 2018

Great views and nice trails!

This was a great place to camp! Did some great hiking and saw some wildlife. The spots are not too close to each other and bathrooms are close. Didn't fish but I saw some big ones being caught, including by an osprey!

Sitepw3
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Nicholas V., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Nicholas V., July 29, 2018
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Nicholas V., July 29, 2018
Reviewed Jul. 20, 2018

excellent camping

we loved it so much, we came back on our way home! multiple bathrooms throughout the park to accommodate campers, showers ($5 for 4 minutes- not the greatest but hey its hot water) plus fire rings and bear safe trash bins. the lake is stocked with trout and the Colorado trail is easily accessible. staff is very friendly and the area is pet friendly as well. kayak, sup, and paddle boat rentals are also available. they have bear warnings up, but we never had any issues.

  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Paisley W., July 20, 2018
  • Review photo of Molas Lake Park & Campground by Paisley W., July 20, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost to camp at Molas Lake Park & Campground?

    Camping at Molas Lake Park & Campground can cost between $25.00 and $45.00 depending on the site.

  • What is the max vehicle length at Molas Lake Park & Campground?

    Molas Lake Park & Campground allows vehicles up to 50 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Molas Lake Park & Campground?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Molas Lake Park & Campground, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.