Camping near Lake City, Colorado includes several established sites at elevations between 7,500-11,000 feet where summer temperatures range from 45-80°F. The area features significant mining history with abandoned structures visible on many hiking trails. While Ridgway State Park and Ouray KOA offer luxury amenities, smaller Forest Service campgrounds provide more primitive experiences with vault toilets and no hookups.
What to do
Hiking to mountain lakes: The Deer Lakes Campground area offers excellent trails with abundant wildlife viewing. "We saw moose and deer almost every day. This area is beautiful. Lakes are good for fishing and there are little trails to explore," notes camper Cait Sith C.
Fishing in mountain streams: At Big Cimarron Campground, anglers can access the Cimarron River directly from camp. "Little paths take you the 30 yards or so to the Cimarron River, where I caught a bunch of rainbow trout," reports Joe J. The river provides productive fishing with rainbow trout being the primary catch.
Mountain biking trails: Several single-track trails branch out from the campgrounds, ranging from beginner to advanced. "The park has plenty of hiking trails, absolute stunning views of the small deer lakes," mentions Greg L. Trails vary from 2-10 miles in length and connect multiple recreation areas.
What campers like
Mountain views and scenery: The San Juan Mountains provide dramatic backdrops at most campgrounds. At Ouray Riverside Resort, campers appreciate the natural setting. "Location is all I can Say. Every direction you look is beautiful, onsite restaurant is great, drinks are good, sites level," shares Chris A.
Campground cleanliness: Many reviewers note the well-maintained facilities. "This campground was amazing. And it absolutely could not have been cleaner," states Diane M. about Deer Lakes Campground. Vault toilets are serviced regularly and trash removal is consistent at most sites.
River access: Sites along waterways remain particularly popular. "Plenty of shade, easy access to the river, tons of wildlife, and quiet, starry nights. It's everything I dream of when I picture the perfect campsite," explains Fabein D. about Big Cimarron. Many campsites sit within 50 feet of flowing water.
What you should know
Reservations essential: Most glamping and developed campgrounds fill quickly. According to Kathi V. about Dakota Terraces Campground, "We were a group of 3 campers. The spacing of the sites is ample and most of the sites have covered picnic tables... The campground is super clean and well patrolled. We will absolutely go back."
Weather patterns: Mountain storms develop quickly, particularly in afternoons. "Misty Mountains. Most sites have a covered picnic table which was very helpful during the frequent light rain showers," notes Kristin K. about Dakota Terraces Campground.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly by location and carrier. "Totally reconstructed CG, new roads, camp pads, toilets and dumpsters. No water though and No cell signal on my T-Mobile," reports Greg L. about Deer Lakes Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Choose campgrounds with designated play areas. At Ouray KOA Holiday, "We had a great stay in a cabin for our little family and a tent for our other family party. Near each other and close to the bathrooms and playground. Kids loved the playground and jump pad!" shares Ruth.
Proximity to water features: Children enjoy wading in shallow streams at several campgrounds. "The beach was within a bike ride or a walk from our site. My kids enjoyed the rock climbing nearby," reports Kristin K. about Dakota Terraces.
Safety considerations: Campground hosts provide valuable information about wildlife activity. "Lala, The Camp Host, was very helpful regarding getting our site and she also knows everything about the surrounding wildlife," mentions Diane M. Bear safety protocols should be followed at all campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many mountain campgrounds have sloped sites. At Uncompahgre National Forest Amphitheater Campground, careful positioning is necessary. "Stayed for just one night at site 55. Needed all our levelers as the site is sloped downhill," warns Ursula at Dakota Terraces Campground.
Limited hookup availability: Full hookups exist primarily at private RV parks and state parks. "There are three places to stay in this park, the Dakota Loops, the Elk Ridge Terraces, and Pa Co Chu Puk down the road. The last of the three has zero climb, and likely most useful for very large RV's," explains Daniel K.
Narrow access roads: Some forest roads present challenges for larger rigs. "The site we camped at was a little further back into the area. Roads were a little difficult to maneuver," cautions Tina M. about Deer Lakes Campground. Vehicles over 30 feet may struggle at national forest campgrounds.
