Camping near Ouray, Colorado provides access to the San Juan Mountains between 7,700 and 11,000 feet elevation. Temperatures typically drop 20-30 degrees at night, even in summer months, with afternoon thunderstorms common at higher elevations. Camping season runs primarily from late May through early October, with some sites maintaining winter operations.
What to do
Hiking the Perimeter Trail: Access this popular trail directly from Amphitheater Campground, which loops around Ouray's outer edge. "The campground has direct access to the Perimeter Trail, a scenic loop around Ouray, and other popular hikes like the Box Canyon Falls trail. You're also a short drive from town, where you can enjoy the famous hot springs or grab a meal," notes one visitor.
Fishing at small ponds: Ridgway State Park offers fishing opportunities in smaller water bodies. "There was 'lil walk down a hill to fishing in a creek and small pond from our campsite which is optimal for the fishing enthusiast," reports a camper, adding that the "nearby reservoir has space to have company over or host a party with amenities such as enough space and picnic tables."
Explore ghost towns: Visit abandoned mining structures near Alta Lakes Campground. "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," one camper explains. "You can't explore any of the buildings, at least not legally, but you can see them and experience what used to be."
What campers like
Riverside locations: Many sites near Ouray sit alongside flowing water. At 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park, campers appreciate "creek side camping. The views are spectacular and the people are great," according to a review. The park sits "on the outskirts of Ouray, tucked into the base of the mountain (perimeter trail actually has an access point at the park)."
Mountain views from tent pads: Several campgrounds feature elevated tent sites. "Our site had steps leading to the tent pad which gave us wonderful views from the tent and won't flood during rain storms. Fire ring and picnic table was below the steps to the tent which allowed for anyone wanting to stay up later and not bother anyone trying to sleep," notes a visitor at Amphitheater Campground.
Cell service in unexpected places: Despite the remote mountain setting, connectivity exists in surprising locations. At Last Dollar Road, "I had good cell service too (working remotely). There are some larger dispersed campgrounds near the top trailhead that are more in the woods," reports one camper. Another confirms, "I have AT&T and had good coverage here."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to many sites requires preparation. "The road to Alta can get rough after heavy rain and at the end of the season," warns one camper. Another notes for Last Dollar Road: "Road from Ridgeway was well maintained but definitely a little rocky getting closer to the top of the road. Road gets washed out in the rain so heads up."
Early arrival recommended: Popular sites fill quickly, especially in peak season. "This campground fills up quite quickly. We arrived relatively early, but were unable to find a site and it was just as well because we would have been hard pressed to find level ground for our overland tents without putting blocks on the ground," reports a visitor to Alta Lakes.
Weather extremes: Be prepared for rapid temperature changes. At County Road 14 (Dexter Creek Backcountry), campers report enjoying streamside camping, but advise having proper gear: "It got pretty chilly at night and rained most of the days." Alta Lakes visitors experienced "a lot of wind so we were at the top of the valley and the wind would just rush up and you could hear it coming."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly biking: Some campgrounds offer safe cycling for children. At Ridgway State Park, "There were kids riding bikes on paved walkways and some trails throughout the well maintained park. Nice waters @ the nearby reservoir." The park is "a great park for kids. I loved the activities, hikes, swimming and absolutely stunning views!"
Fishing ponds for young anglers: Several locations feature designated fishing areas for children. "The nearby park has a kids fishing pond with a sign that says you can rent gear," notes a visitor to Telluride Town Park Campground. Families appreciate the accessibility and convenience.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Wildlife sightings enhance family camping experiences. At Amphitheater Campground, one visitor had "deer in my camp site" while another "saw my first moose here. Reservations are key, and sites are more private on the lower loop and without RVs."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in privacy and size. At Ouray Riverside Resort, "The downside is the sites are very close together. Some of the sites are a little larger so you would have a little more space. We had a picnic table and electric, sewer and water hookups."
Road access limitations: Many dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. "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," warns an RVer at Last Dollar Road. For Alta Lakes, numerous sources indicate high clearance is needed, though one camper notes "not the case as we passed a few Prius' making the climb up the road to this site."
Limited overflow parking: Plan accordingly when bringing multiple vehicles. One RVer at Ouray Riverside Resort notes "Small sites with little over flow parking" as a drawback, despite the "Great view of the mountains with river next to park. Walking trail along river into town from park, not a short walk though."
