Lake City sits at 8,671 feet elevation in Colorado's San Juan Mountains, surrounded by some of the state's most remote wilderness areas. The camping season runs primarily from late May through mid-October due to significant snowfall and temperature drops outside these months. Nearby Lake San Cristobal, Colorado's second-largest natural lake, provides additional recreation opportunities for campers seeking RV sites near Lake City, Colorado.
What to do
Fishing access: Many Elkhorn RV Resort visitors appreciate the proximity to excellent fishing spots. "Remote, gorgeous, and the owners are fantastic. It's very clean, very community oriented and walking distance to everything in Lake City," notes one camper.
River walks: Campers at Ouray Riverside Resort enjoy the scenic riverside trail. "The river walk into town is so beautiful! The park is maintained with pride, hook ups and WiFi are great," writes one visitor, while another adds "We loved the trail into town - an easy walk to the hot springs pool or to grab something to eat."
Horseback riding: Families staying at Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch can arrange trail rides directly from the property. "There is so much to do on the ranch such as swim in the pools, play games, horseback ride, etc." One reviewer points out this option is particularly convenient for those who want to explore the surrounding terrain without driving.
What campers like
Mountain views: The dramatic alpine scenery impresses visitors at RV parks near Lake City. One 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park camper explains, "Primo campground right in the city of Ouray. Our site is next to the river so we've got the sounds of the river and Mountain Views on all sides."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms are consistently mentioned in reviews. "The bathrooms are very roomy, and they have plenty of hot showers," notes one camper about 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park, while another mentions that "Bathrooms are clean and the staff was friendly and helpful."
Community atmosphere: Several campgrounds foster a social environment. At Elkhorn RV Resort, campers appreciate the "very community oriented" setting. Another reviewer at Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch highlights the "welcoming community vibe" that makes longer stays more enjoyable.
What you should know
Winter closures: Most RV parks near Lake City operate seasonally. Antlers Rio Grande Lodge operates from "May 15 - Oct 1," while Highlander RV Campground runs from "May 1 to October 15." Elkhorn RV Resort opens "May 1 to October 31."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. At Antlers Rio Grande Lodge and RV Park, campers report good connectivity, while a Blue Mesa reviewer notes, "There is NO service here but the lodge does have WiFi."
Reservation requirements: During peak season, advance bookings are essential. "Call to make reservations. Linda gets right back to you," advises one Elkhorn RV camper. Sites at the most popular parks fill quickly from July through early September.
Elevation considerations: The high altitude affects many visitors. Temperatures can drop sharply after sunset even in summer months. Proper hydration and acclimatization time are necessary, as one Blue Mesa reviewer noted: "not being used to 7,000 feet I was sucking air."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch provides both indoor and outdoor pools. "We thoroughly enjoyed the outdoor pool for the kids! Both indoor and outdoor pools were clean, well-maintained, and perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring," reports one family.
Kid-friendly fishing: Several campgrounds offer accessible fishing opportunities for children. "There is an indoor and outdoor pool, playground, cool mini golf set up, horses, and a lake for kids to fish in!" notes one Blue Mesa visitor.
Walking distance amenities: Choose campgrounds with easy access to town activities. "This park is within walking distance of Ouray's most popular sight seeing. It's only a few blocks from breweries, restaurants, and just down the road from the town hot springs!" explains one 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park reviewer.
Cabin options: For families without RVs, some parks offer cabin accommodations. "We also stayed on one of the cabins to give kids more trailer room. You provide the top bedding, but there was a queen bed and a bunk (so 4 could sleep easy)," shares an Elkhorn RV Resort guest.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites require leveling equipment. One camper at Red Mountain Motel & RV Park advises, "make sure you have blocks as they are not level at all."
Seasonal freeze protection: Cold nights require special precautions even in summer. As one reviewer at Red Mountain Motel & RV Park noted: "We were here in mid-September and the temps got down into the 30's at night. Owners required disconnecting water at night to prevent their water pipes from freezing and bursting."
Walking access: Select an RV park with pedestrian access to reduce driving needs. A Henson Creek RV Park visitor recommends: "Just a gravel lot with tight slots but can't beat this location- walkable to town and parks."
Hookup variations: Full-service hookups aren't universal at all RV sites near Lake City. "Full hookup, sewer hook up on each site" notes one 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park camper, while others mention varying electrical amperage options between parks.
