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."
Guide
