Camping options near Ouray, Colorado range from full-service resorts to remote dispersed sites. Situated at 7,800 feet elevation in the San Juan Mountains, this area experiences warm summer days and cool nights with afternoon thunderstorms common July through August. Winter access to many campgrounds becomes limited after October when seasonal facilities close and snow accumulation begins.
What to Do
Fishing access: Sites at Big Cimarron position campers within 30 yards of the river where rainbow trout are plentiful. "I caught a bunch of rainbow trout. Tall trees, a lovely circle of sky above, and even the mosquitoes were down the night I was there, July 14th," notes camper Joe J.
Hiking trails: Colorado Trail passes directly through Little Molas Lake Campground, offering excellent day hiking options. "This was a great spot to camp as a home base for hiking the Colorado Trail. There are great trails heading out of the campground in both directions," shares Annie C.
Hot springs access: Most campsites provide convenient access to Ouray's natural hot springs. "You are only about 10 minutes from the Orvis Hot Springs and a great BBQ place called Welded Elephant BBQ Shack," mentions Sarah S. about camping at Little Molas Lake.
What Campers Like
River sounds: Streamside camping enhances the overnight experience at many locations. "Sleeping was glorious with the sounds of the river. We stayed in site 11 which was at the end and in the cul de sac, near the bathroom," writes Casey C. about their Big Cimarron stay.
Family activities: Campgrounds often include amenities specifically for children. "There is so much to do for the kids in the campground, from fishing to hiking to dipping a toe in the creek," notes Chad K. about his experience at Ouray KOA.
Location convenience: The Amphitheater Campground provides quick access to town amenities while maintaining a natural setting. "Adventure awaits up the County Road towards the Portland mine," mentions Ethan in his review.
What You Should Know
Campsite availability: Many popular sites fill quickly during peak season. "We rolled in just at dusk. Campground sign said FULL. So we pulled down the road and stayed the night in a parking lot for hiking," warns Chad P. about Amphitheater Campground.
Road noise: Highway proximity affects some camping experiences. "Close to the main road, especially for sites by the entrance, we could hear cars all the time," notes Manisha S. about her Ouray KOA stay.
Wildlife considerations: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "We hauled all of our stuff up and down every day because there is a lot of bear activity in the area. My husband got a peek at him our second night," reports Stephanie M. about Thistledown Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Campgrounds with play equipment provide entertainment for younger campers. "This campground has so much to offer families! Stunning views, private spaces nestled amidst trees, clean facilities, a great restaurant and two playgrounds!" shares Nicole S. about Ouray KOA Holiday.
Water features: Sites near water offer natural play opportunities. "My kids enjoyed the rock climbing nearby. We stayed for 2 days and wished we had another night," writes Kristin K. about her Dakota Terraces experience.
Campsite selection: End sites often provide more space for families. "We got a spot by their little pond. Pleasant staff, bathroom and shower facilities available. No picnic table, but had a fire pit, plenty of shade, and quiet despite our spot being right off the road," advises Laura P.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some locations require additional equipment for RV setup. "Needed all our levelers as the site is sloped downhill," mentions Ursula about her stay at Dakota Terraces Campground.
Generator considerations: High elevation affects generator performance. "Elevation is about 10,300 and posed a problem for our generator that caused severe spark-plug fouling. But, re-jetting the carburetor from a #61 to #58 solved the problem," advises RaD_Travels about Little Molas Lake.
Amenities for extended stays: Full-service hookups make longer vacations comfortable. "We stayed here for 7 nights, and loved it. Not much shade is the only negative. Beautiful swimming beach, plenty of hiking trails. Restrooms were always clean," notes Bob M. about his Dakota Terraces experience.
