Camping areas near Cascade, Colorado range in elevation from 7,500 to over 10,000 feet with most sites accessible from May through October when snowpack retreats. Weather patterns in the San Juan Mountains create frequent afternoon thunderstorms from July through August. Water access remains a key consideration with roughly 60% of campsites located near creeks, rivers, or lakes.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Haviland Lake Campground provides easy lake access where trout are plentiful. "Nice level sites w electric. Great access to fishing. Camp hosts were very engaged. Clean pit toilets. Lots of hiking in area. 30 minutes to Durango," notes Donald S.
Creek exploration: Hermosa Park Road Dispersed offers multiple spots along flowing water. "We went night fishing at the dock. Slept at the camp grounds, everyone was friendly, and it was quiet, restroom facilities were very clean," says Dani Y. about nearby waterways. Sites vary from large open areas to secluded creek-side spots.
Trail access: Little Molas Lake Campground connects directly to the Colorado Trail system. "Amazing last-minute site/campground after our others fell through. Beautiful views, decent restrooms, spacious sites, and all around a great place at the price of free!" explains Chris, highlighting this high-elevation base camp.
What campers like
Private waterside sites: Campers consistently rate creek-adjacent spots highly. At Kendall Camping Area, "We found an awesome very secluded spot next to the river. We have a 34ft travel trailer and f-250 and was very easy to access," reports Jeanna C.
No-cost options: Free dispersed camping remains popular across the region. "This campground is at high elevation (~10,000'), so use caution if you aren't used to elevations," warns a camper about elevation challenges at sites like Priest Lake where "This is a dispersed site—pack in/pack out (especially garbage; the nearest dumpster is in the town of Telluride)," according to Christina A.
Wildlife sightings: Animal encounters add value to camping experiences. "Saw Moose in the creek, very cool!! Bathroom was unlocked a couple days after I got there and it was well maintained and clean," reports Templeton B. from Kendall Camping Area. Bear activity requires proper food storage at most sites.
What you should know
Road conditions vary drastically: Access roads range from paved highways to rough forest roads. For Alta Lakes Campground, "The road to get to the area can be a little rough, but most cars can make it if they drive slow," notes Tyler M., though many sites suggest high-clearance vehicles.
Toilet facilities limited: Most dispersed sites lack facilities. At Priest Lake, "The bathrooms were still closed although the sign said they hoped to have it ready by Memorial Day this weekend," reports Kelsey I. Even established sites may have basic vault toilets without supplies.
Cell service unreliable: Connectivity disappears at higher elevations and in valleys. "There is 1-bar 5G Verizon, and 2-bars AT&T 4G that were both spotty; cloud cover between the lake and Silverton caused occasional intermittent connectivity," explains RaD_Travels about Little Molas Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible water features: Sites with shallow water access work best with children. At Vallecito Campground, "The campground is clean, quiet, and well taken care of. Close to the river, reservoir, and great adventure access," reports Emma T.
Pack for temperature swings: High-elevation sites experience significant day-to-night changes. "It was a very beautiful section of the Rockies. It is about 7 miles south of Silverton Co above 10,000 ft," notes Christopher K. about Little Molas Lake. Nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer.
Plan for afternoon weather: Thunderstorms typically develop between 2-4pm at higher elevations. "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," warns Davis F.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many dispersed areas have uneven parking pads. "The 'parking area' has some rocks and is a bit uneven. We have a 33ft 5th wheel camper. We had to go slow to not scrap our jacks," shares Sarah L. about Kendall Camping Area.
Water access planning: No hookups means carrying sufficient water. At Lower Hermosa Campground, "Unfortunately, there is no water or trash station. However, you can refill portable water affordably at the Hydration Station in Durango or for free at the Durango Montessori School," advises Martin W.
Elevation impacts generators: High elevations affect engine performance. At Little Molas Lake, "Elevation is about 10,300 and posed a problem for our generator that caused severe spark-plug fouling. But, re-jetting the carburetor from a #61 to #58 solved the problem," explains RaD_Travels.
