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Camping near Ophir, CO
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Dispersed camping areas near Ophir, Colorado provide a variety of mountainous accommodations within the San Juan Mountains region. Alta Lakes Campground, situated at approximately 11,100 feet elevation, offers 20 designated dispersed sites around alpine lakes about 10 miles from Telluride. The surrounding area includes developed options like Molas Lake Park & Campground near Silverton with 62 sites and the Matterhorn Campground in the Uncompahgre National Forest. Most campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, though many dispersed sites have limitations for larger vehicles.
Road conditions significantly impact camping access throughout the region, with many sites requiring high-clearance 4WD vehicles. The Alta Lakes area features a particularly challenging access road that takes 20-40 minutes to navigate even with appropriate vehicles. Most camping areas operate seasonally from mid-May through September or early October due to high elevation weather patterns. Summers bring mild temperatures while nighttime conditions remain cool year-round. Winter access becomes nearly impossible at most sites due to snow accumulation. Campground availability varies widely, with developed sites accepting reservations while dispersed areas operate on a first-come basis. As one visitor noted, "Sites fill by about noon every day of the week and all sites are walk-in."
Campers frequently mention the spectacular mountain views and alpine lake settings as primary attractions in the area. Alta Lakes in particular receives consistent praise for its scenic value despite access challenges. Several visitors highlighted the fishing opportunities in local lakes, with reports of plentiful fish activity, especially at dawn. While the elevation creates dramatic scenery, it also demands proper preparation. Many reviews indicate that proximity to Telluride makes these sites popular despite difficult access, leading to weekend crowding. A review mentioned that "I got there around 4pm on a Wednesday and there was still quite a few sites to choose from," suggesting mid-week visits offer better site selection. Most dispersed areas have minimal facilities—typically only portable toilets—requiring visitors to pack in water and pack out waste.
Best Campgrounds near Ophir (324)
1. Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)
"Beautiful views of surrounding mountains and Alta lakes as well as access to the ghost town of Alta."
"The off road trail it get to Alta lakes took us about 40-50 minutes in my boyfriends F-150. The views were amazing so neither of us really minded."
2. Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area
"Had a wonderful stay right next to the lake. Woke up to the sounds of birds. Sites include RV/van sites (2?) and at least six tent only sites. Each night only one other site was occupied."
"Pulled into this area late one evening on a fall camping trip across Colorado. Totally expected it to be full but there were a couple areas left to setup thankfully."
3. Telluride Town Park Campground
"The campground is bordered on one side by the San Juan River and by the park on the other side, making a tight but nice campground."
"It's right next to the town and is used a lot for Telluride's summer festivals. Its more than a campground it is also where a lot of town events are held and also has sports venues."
4. Molas Lake Park & Campground
"I've spent quite a bit of time at various sites around this campground during annual vacations and using it as a base for geological field work nearby."
"Small lake with non-motorized boating and fishing. Level sites, pit toilets, tables, fire rings, and camp store. Kayaks for rent."
from $25 - $45 / night
Check Availability5. Kendall Camping Area
"Was a really nice area with a ton of campsites off the dirt path or close to the river."
"Lots of fire rings scattered around the rocky area. This site can get very full and very loud as it is very popular and close to Silverton."
6. Sunshine Campground
"We stayed in site #8 which was quite lovely, tucked in the aspen trees with a picnic table and fire ring. The small pond behind our site was dried up, probably due to the ongoing drought."
"In pursuit of the perfect campground in Colorado, Telluride has so many to choose from it makes it near impossible to select just one."
7. Matterhorn — Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre And Gunnison National Forest
"Matterhorn Campground, located near Telluride and nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, offers an excellent balance of comfort and outdoor adventure."
"We were happy to have hot showers as we were on day 4&5 of our camping across Colorado honeymoon and it had rained nights 1-4. There were two camp hosts both of the ladies were nice."
from $26 - $40 / night
Check Availability8. Last Dollar Road
"Some of the best in Colorado. I had good cell service too (working remotely). There are some larger dispersed campgrounds near the top trailhead that are more in the woods."
"We drove in from ouray side and took the long 40 min dirt road and I will say, the road was rough.. we made it just fine in my hyundai tuscan but I will say, I was sh*ting myself driving it!"
9. Amphitheater Campground
"the sites are full, or snag a hotel near 550 when we don't want to chance a night on a slope."
"Site was clean, easy to access and close to restroom. Great views all around and super close to Ouray and surrounding hiking trails."
from $28 / night
Check Availability10. South Mineral — San Juan National Forest
"Large campsite near intersection of campground roads; some traffic driving by. Campground wasn't crowded during our stay."
"On the way there you will pass several single dispersed campsites next to the river or in the reeds by the beaver ponds, as well as a few semi developed dispersed campgrounds."
from $20 / night
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Drive Time
- 2 hrs 23 min from Farmington, NM
- 2 hrs 28 min from Grand Junction, CO
- 5 hrs 23 min from Pueblo, CO
- 5 hrs 44 min from Colorado Springs, CO
Recent Camping Photos near Ophir, CO
510 Photos of 324 Ophir Campgrounds
Spencer K.
Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)
Greg L.
Matterhorn — Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre And Gunnison National Forest
Christina A.
Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area
Ryan F.
Sunshine Campground
Madison G.
South Mineral — San Juan National Forest
Ryan F.
Silver Lake
Matt T.
Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping
Nick C.
Telluride Town Park Campground
Landon C.
Golden Hour Dispersed
Texas Roving Ranger
Golden Horn Dispersed
Dave R.
Bear Camp - Dispersed
Annie C.
Anvil Dispersed Campground- ROAD CLOSED
Recent Reviews near Ophir, CO
1732 Reviews of 324 Ophir Campgrounds
shelby B.
GuideForest Road 316 Roadside Camp
Great spot
There are so many spots available, some shaded some not. A bunch of cows all around too. It’s also a very easy gravel road to drive on. We walked around & there were some rough spots way back but mostly all very easy to drive.
Phil K.
ScoutBlack Canyon RV Park & Campground
Super-scenic campground
Beautiful, well-kept campground, great hosts, easy booking, clean bathhouse. The views are absolutely stunning!
Jessica R.TravelerRed Mountain Creek
A great place to rest after a long drive
Coming from Buena Vista though Ouray, we got here around 5pm and had plenty of sites to choose from. If you’re lucky one along the river will be open. The spots aren’t very tucked back but each one is spread out far enough you feel you have your own space. It was a warm day so we rinsed off in the freezing river, a perfect end to the day!
Renae G.GuideIce Lake Trailhead Dispersed
Incredible Views Close to Trailhead
Along this whole road are dispersed campsites - way more than just the specific locations noted - all the way up to the trailhead and paid South Mineral Springs Campground. Campsites are mostly on the south side with small firepits, flat dirt areas for tents, some tent sites further down closer to the water if you want to walk a bit. I stayed on Friday and Saturday night and there was plenty of space for everyone along the road, I could only see one set of neighbors. Super quiet, amazing scenery, right near the trailhead for an early morning hike. Pit toilets are at the trailhead. No Verizon service along the whole road or the Ice Lakes hike. I saw a moose at night! Keep your eyes open!
- Renae G.Guide
Chutes and Ladders Dipsersed
Beautiful and Buggy
Amazing views of Mesa Verde especially Park Point. There are a lot of designated, numbered campsites along this road. I went as far as site 8 easily in a Subaru Outback. I could have gone further down the road if I wanted to - no high-clearence needed. Some sites are pull-through and some are back in but all have ample space for multiple tents, multiple cars, or an RV. Firepits at all sites but there is a fire ban in place. Was here early June and the midges are horrendous. If you get a site on the South side the wind helps a bit but I ended up hiding in my vehicle for most of the evening. On Sunday night it was very busy and people coming in around 7-8 struggled to find a spot. Monday night was nearly empty.
- Renae G.Guide
Boggy draw
Quiet and Cozy
Easy gravel road with large pull-offs for camping. Lots of trees provide shade after the hot and sunny day. On a Monday night it was very quiet - I saw maybe 3-4 cars all night. Two extremely clean pit toilets at the start of the dirt track. No Verizon coverage at the campsite, but I did have it at the toilets.
Gina G.TravelerKendall Camping Area
Lovely oasis
This is a perfect oasis for dispersed camping. Right by the stream and relax to the flowing sound of the water. Perfect Mountain View and sit and listen to the birds. Bathroom available but good to have your own toilet paper. Lots of spaces that are spread-out. Close to Silverton which we hope to explore. It’s been cool in the evening but it’s nice compared to the 90-100 degrees we came from in Utah. We love this area!
Hannah R.GuideDan Noble State Wildlife Area Miramonte Reservoir
Blue sky and bluer water
The water here is a shade of blue over never before seen. The campground is clean and plenty of spots for tents to the biggest RVs. The trip from Norwood is super simple and easy to do. There’s a lot activity during the day, lots of people coming and going, but it is incredibly peaceful at night.
The fishing must be good cause there were plenty of people doing that. I took my paddleboard and had a great time hot/warm enough days and at night it was chilly but not cold.
Guide to Ophir
Dispersed camping areas near Ophir, Colorado sit within the stunning San Juan National Forest, with several sites positioned above 10,000 feet elevation. The surrounding mountains create distinct microclimates that can produce unexpected weather patterns, especially during summer monsoon season when afternoon thunderstorms frequently develop. Winter access to most campsites near Ophir becomes extremely difficult from October through May due to heavy snowfall.
What to do
Trail access from camp: Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area connects to several walking paths. As one camper notes, "There are little walking paths around the Priest Lakes that are very short and easy, plus another trail that I didn't check out. The stars were BEAUTIFUL! This is a great spot for stargazers too."
Fishing opportunities: Molas Lake Park & Campground offers stocked trout fishing on site. A camper reports, "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." The lake is accessible directly from campsites.
Photography spots: At Last Dollar Road, campers find exceptional photo opportunities. "The campsite is amazing! Awesome views with a few fire pits. Get here early to snag a good spot. Only downfall is that it is busy with dirt bikes from sun up until sun down, but most are respectful!" The site includes multiple scenic overlooks.
What campers like
Proximity to Telluride: Many campers value Telluride Town Park Campground for its convenience. As one camper describes, "Helpful staff, amazing views of the mountains, and 5 minute walk to the Telluride shops, restaurants and galleries. Bathrooms and showers are super nice and have hot water. A river/creek flows right next to the campground too which is lovely!"
Budget-friendly options: Free camping draws many to Kendall Camping Area. A visitor explained, "Love the area. We parked close to the road tucked in some trees. Wanted to be by the water but it was taken by multiple coach RVs. Road noise is fairly loud during the day, but for free I won't complain (too much). Dispersed camping area only. Has a pit toilet but that's about it. About 10 minutes from Silverton."
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report animal sightings throughout the area. At Kendall Camping Area, one camper shared: "Saw Moose in the creek, very cool!! Bathroom was unlocked a couple days after I got there and it was well maintained and clean. Tons of parking, bring your own firewood!!"
What you should know
Road conditions vary widely: Many sites require serious vehicle capability. At Alta Lakes Campground, conditions can be challenging: "The road up is a bit rough. We managed it barely in all wheel drive vehicles but did get stuck for a bit at one point when we had to stop for someone on their way down."
Site availability patterns: Mid-week arrival significantly improves your chances at most sites. At Priest Lake, one camper noted: "There are less than 10 spaces but they seem to fill slowly! I arrived around 7PM on Friday during Memorial Weekend and thought I'd be out of luck but it was barely half full!"
Elevation affects comfort: Night temperatures drop significantly even in summer. A Sunshine Campground visitor recalled: "We went at the end of may and we ended up incredibly cold all night. as we were in the grand canyon a few nights before. the camp groundsman was very nice and we did pay our dues."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Some alpine lakes warm enough for children to swim during peak summer. At Alta Lakes, a camper reports: "One of those classic colorado vistas, with outdoors feel, safe swimming for children and all round good times."
Kid-friendly activities: Telluride Town Park offers additional recreational options: "The nearby park has a kids fishing pond with a sign that says you can rent gear, but we didn't have time to use it. The adjacent park appeared to have yoga classes in the mornings as well."
Weather preparation: Temperature swings affect children more severely. A Matterhorn Campground visitor observed: "Matterhorn Campground, located near Telluride and nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, offers an excellent balance of comfort and outdoor adventure. The elevation keeps the temperatures cool, even in summer, and the nights are peaceful—perfect for stargazing."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Many dispersed sites have limited space for larger RVs. At Last Dollar Road, one RVer advised: "I have a truck that can pull 12,000lbs and my smallish travel trailer with water weighs 5500lbs. The roads are completely sketchy pulling a trailer. I wouldn't have done it if not for prior others who apparently did it."
Hookup availability: Only a few sites offer hookups. A visitor to Matterhorn Campground noted: "Very nice FS CG, close to hwy so access is good. CG host onsite, 28 sites total, 8 sites are full hookups. Most are reservation only. Two restrooms, one is flush toilets and showers and other by tent walk-in sites is a vault toilet."
Water access points: Many RVers report limited water availability. One camper at Last Dollar Road shared their solution: "Drove into silverton for water at the Rv park. They told us to watch for moose."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the campgrounds located in Ophir?
Where are the campgrounds located in Ophir?
Campgrounds near Ophir are nestled throughout the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. Matterhorn — Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre And Gunnison National Forest is located near Telluride, offering easy access to alpine scenery. For those seeking riverside camping, Golden Hour Dispersed provides scenic spots along the water. Other options include dispersed camping along Last Dollar Road near Telluride and Alta Lakes Campground, which is situated at high elevation with mountain views.
What amenities are available at Ophir camping areas?
What amenities are available at Ophir camping areas?
Amenities at Ophir area campgrounds vary widely. Molas Lake Park & Campground offers well-maintained, leveled tent pads and on-site activities with excellent views. For RV campers, Dolores River RV Resort by Rjourney provides full hookups at 7,000 feet elevation with cooler temperatures. Dispersed camping areas like Chutes and Ladders Dipsersed have 15 designated sites but minimal amenities. Some campgrounds in the region feature vault toilets, while others like Matterhorn Campground provide hot showers—a luxury for extended trips.
When is the best time of year to camp in Ophir?
When is the best time of year to camp in Ophir?
Summer and early fall (June through September) offer the best camping conditions around Ophir. The high elevation means comfortable temperatures when lower areas are sweltering. Little Molas Lake Campground on the Million Dollar Highway is ideal during summer months when the Colorado Trail is accessible. Owl Creek Pass is particularly beautiful in late September when the aspens display brilliant fall colors. Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms in summer and potential early snow in fall. Many campgrounds and forest roads at these elevations close by mid-October due to snowfall.
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