Top Glamping near Ouray, CO
Camping near Ouray, Colorado
Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Ouray, Colorado, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Known as the "Switzerland of America," this charming town offers breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and a variety of camping options. Whether you're looking for a secluded spot in the wilderness or a well-equipped campground with modern amenities, Ouray has something for everyone.
From dispersed camping areas with stunning vistas to established campgrounds with all the comforts of home, the options are plentiful. This guide will help you navigate the best camping spots near Ouray, highlighting what people love, what to watch out for, and tips for making the most of your camping experience.
What to do
Camping near Ouray offers a plethora of activities to keep you entertained. From hiking and fishing to exploring historic sites and enjoying scenic drives, there's no shortage of things to do.
- Hiking: Trails like the ones near Amphitheater Campground offer spectacular views and easy access to nature. "Hiking trails that you can jump on right from the campground," says Codey S. in his review.
- Fishing: If you're into fishing, Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area is a great spot. "There were a few decent Brooke trout in the lake just below that were easy to catch with a fly rod," notes Derek B. in his review.
- Scenic Drives: The drive to Last Dollar Road is an adventure in itself. "Amazing scenic drive with camp spots that have great vistas!" says Sahmon F. in his review.
What campers like
Campers love the natural beauty and variety of camping options near Ouray. Whether it's the stunning views, the friendly camp hosts, or the well-maintained facilities, there's a lot to appreciate.
- Stunning Views: The views from Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed) are a big hit. "It’s so beautiful out there the scenery is amazing and it’s secluded," says King D. in his review.
- Friendly Hosts: The camp host at Telluride Town Park Campground gets high marks. "Camp host Fred was fantastic (2023). He ran a tight ship at the campground and stepped up to help us when our batteries died," shares Adrienne S. in her review.
- Clean Facilities: Cleanliness is often mentioned in reviews. "Well maintained campground with clean facilities," says Kelly H. about Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park in her review.
What you should know
While camping near Ouray is generally a fantastic experience, there are a few things you should be aware of to ensure a smooth trip.
- Altitude: The high altitude can be challenging for some. "I won’t lie and say it wasn’t difficult for my Texas lungs to get used to the altitude," mentions Ronnie S. in his review of Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed).
- Road Conditions: Some roads can be rough, especially for low-clearance vehicles. "Do not go if you have a 2WD or a low sitting vehicle," warns Haylee H. in her review of Last Dollar Road.
- Crowds: Popular spots can get crowded. "There were quite a few people though," notes Taylor in her review of Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area.
Tips for camping with families
Camping with family can be a rewarding experience, especially in a place as beautiful as Ouray. Here are some tips to make your family camping trip enjoyable.
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Ouray KOA is a great option for families. "The park also offers beautiful scenery and it is a wonderful Basecamp for exploring the area," says Cheryl W. in her review.
- Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. "A great park for kids. I loved the activities, Hikes, swimming and absolutely stunning views!" shares Jennifer D. in her review of Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park.
- Safety First: Always keep an eye on the weather. "A word of caution though, early summer weather can change quickly here," advises Joel C. in his review of Molas Lake Park & Campground.
Tips from RVers
RVers have unique needs and preferences when it comes to camping. Here are some tips from fellow RVers to help you make the most of your trip.
- Big Rig Friendly: Some campgrounds are better suited for big rigs. "The park can accommodate big rigs and we were able to get our 38 foot 5’er into the parking and into a spot," says Cheryl W. in her review of Ouray KOA.
- Hookups and Amenities: Look for campgrounds with the amenities you need. "We had a picnic table and electric, sewer and water hookups," notes Kimberly M. in her review of Ouray Riverside Resort.
- Quiet and Peaceful: Some RVers prefer quieter spots. "The restrictions on generators and decent site spacing make for a peaceful stay," shares Joel C. in his review of Molas Lake Park & Campground.
Camping near Ouray, Colorado, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a variety of camping options. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, this guide will help you make the most of your camping adventure. Happy camping!
