Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Ophir, CO
Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping welcomes pets with no restrictions while camping on public land near Ophir. This free camping area offers access for both tent and RV camping with dogs on a first-come basis. Located at 37.809814, -107.906127, the dispersed sites provide basic camping without amenities like drinking water or toilets. Molas Lake Park & Campground also permits pets throughout its 62 sites, offering more facilities including drinking water, trash service, and toilets. Alta Lakes Campground requires a 4WD vehicle with good clearance for the rough access road, but rewards campers with stunning lakeside spots where pets can enjoy the alpine environment. Most campers with dogs find the driving difficulty worthwhile for the secluded mountain setting. The port-a-potties at Alta Lakes are serviced weekly, typically on Thursdays.
Campers report that the Alta Lakes road takes approximately 40-50 minutes to navigate in a pickup truck, with several water crossings and significant ruts requiring careful driving with pets aboard. Sites fill quickly, especially on weekends, with many pet owners arriving by early afternoon to secure spots. Little Molas Lake Campground provides an alternative option with pet-friendly sites and toilet facilities, though the free camping attracts steady visitation throughout summer months. The Telluride area offers multiple dispersed camping options for travelers with dogs, though pet owners should note the high alpine environment brings chilly overnight temperatures even in summer. Wildlife encounters are possible, so maintaining control of pets proves essential while exploring the surrounding mountain terrain.
