Dispersed camping near Norwood, Colorado offers backcountry experiences at elevations ranging from 7,000 to 10,500 feet. The San Juan Mountains provide accessible camping locations with variable road conditions depending on season and recent precipitation. Access routes often require careful navigation as some roads become impassable after heavy rainfall or during spring runoff.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Miramonte Reservoir, visitors can catch several trout species from shore or small watercraft. "Of the three species of trout (rainbow, brown and cutthroat) we caught two rainbow trout and they were lunch both Saturday and Sunday. They were amazing. We were given the heads up that fishing is much better in October," notes one camper.
Wildlife observation: Campgrounds near Norwood provide habitat for diverse wildlife. At Hermosa Park Road Dispersed camping area, one camper reports it's "Full of wildlife, Bear, elk, fox and the marmot highway." Another mentions, "Coyotes could be heard frequently in the distance along with cows."
Ghost town exploration: Some camping areas contain historical mining structures. Near Alta Lakes, "the ghost town comes before the campground and we did attempt to go to the campground but in one spot we couldn't see what was on the other side of our hood of our truck and chose to turn around." The abandoned buildings offer glimpses into the area's mining history.
What campers like
Lake access: Priest Lake receives positive reviews for its water features. "We could see the lake from our site, which is nice. We walked in to our site and the parking gets really full, come early!" warns one camper at Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area. The lake provides recreation opportunities without requiring advanced equipment.
Secluded sites: Many dispersed camping areas offer separation between sites. "These spots are far from one another so you feel like you have the mountain to yourself!" reports a camper about dispersed camping in the area. Another notes their spot had "huge sites backed right up to a path that led down to the reservoir."
Night sky viewing: The region's dark skies create stargazing opportunities. One camper at 4R Freedom Ranch observed "The stars are beyond compare" while another mentioned, "While you are cooking food over the fire be sure to look up at the stars before the moon comes over the mountains as it is a real treat to see."
What you should know
Road conditions: Several campgrounds require cautious driving. At Fall Creek Camping, "The directions led us to the campground, would be easy to miss otherwise. We found the area suited our 18 foot travel trailer. Was a little tricky getting it level but was manageable."
Weather variability: Mountain weather changes rapidly throughout the day. One camper reports, "Being so close to telluride, it's a worthwhile jaunt in. We were there during monsoon season so it was raining when we got there and it started raining again at 11 the next day."
Bathroom facilities: Toilet availability varies significantly. "There is one vault toilet, bring your own tp. Its not the prettiest vault but it works," notes a Priest Lake visitor. Another camper observed, "The bathrooms were still closed although the sign said they hoped to have it ready by Memorial Day."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Some water bodies near Norwood are family-friendly. "The views were great with Lone Cone off to one side, the reservoir was really pretty and the water was nice, the kids swam in it all weekend," describes a Miramonte camper.
Kid-friendly fishing: Shallow lakes provide safe fishing experiences for children. One visitor reports, "The kids enjoyed being able to fish though with little supervision since the lake is really quite shallow and it's very close to the sites."
Site selection: For families, arrive early to secure optimal spots. At Last Dollar Road, "Road to get here was pretty rough. Definitely need 4x4. Narrow dirt road that takes you up the mountain has dispersed spots. This road is hard to turn around on, or let others pass."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. At Angel Creek Campground, a camper notes "not the flattest of parking spots if using a rooftop tent or car camping without anything to level with."
Site accessibility: Some areas accommodate small trailers despite rough roads. "We stayed here for a long weekend to go see Telluride and the surrounding area. We found the area suited our 18 foot travel trailer," reports a Fall Creek camper.
Arrival timing: RV campers should plan early arrivals for best tent camping near Norwood, Colorado. "Arrive early to find a spot," advises one Hermosa Park Road visitor who noted it gets "Very busy on a Friday-Sunday."
