RV campgrounds in Ouray, Colorado provide access to camping at 7,700 feet elevation, with temperatures that can drop below freezing even in summer months. Located in a valley surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, these campgrounds experience rapid weather changes and afternoon thunderstorms during summer. Most Ouray camping facilities operate seasonally from May through October due to heavy snowfall in winter months.
What to do
Hike the Perimeter Trail: The trail has access points directly from camping areas. At 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park, "the perimeter trail actually has an access point at the park" according to JJ V. The trail offers a 5-mile loop around Ouray with multiple waterfall views.
Walk to town amenities: Many rv campgrounds near Ouray position campers within walking distance of downtown. One camper at Ouray Riverside Resort notes "the river walk into town is so beautiful!" while another mentions it "leads to the hot springs and town."
Visit the Hot Springs Pool: Located a short walk from several Ouray camping sites. "It's only a few blocks from breweries, restaurants, and just down the road from the town hot springs!" reports Morghan and Taylor D. The pool maintains a year-round temperature between 80-106°F depending on the section.
What campers like
Mountain views from sites: Campers consistently mention the scenic surroundings as a highlight. At Ouray Riverside Resort, one visitor describes "great 360 degree mountain views" while another notes "Every direction you look is beautiful."
River proximity: Several Silverton Lakes RV Resort sites back up to water features. Dean W. mentions "Animas Creek flows through the edge of the campground, near the tent sites" providing natural sound barriers between campsites.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and common areas. At 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park, a reviewer states "Bathrooms are clean and code protected" while another notes "The bathrooms are very roomy, and they have plenty of hot showers."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Some parks feature tight sites while others offer more room. At Red Mountain Motel & RV Park, one reviewer notes "The sites are a bit close but for the most part the place is quiet," contrasting with Kat's experience: "We were able to put out our slides with a wooden picnic table available between the sites with a good 4-5 ft on each side of the table."
Seasonal operations: Most facilities close during winter months. Alpen Rose RV Park operates "Apr 1 - Oct 31" while Silver Summit RV Park runs "May 15 to October 15."
Fire restrictions: Rules vary by campground. Delci L. notes about Ouray Riverside Resort: "No fire rings, but there is a communal fire pit."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds on-site: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Elkhorn RV Resort, the facilities include a playground area and spacious cabins that can accommodate families.
Multi-use cabins: For families who don't have RVs, cabin options exist. Lynn explains that at Elkhorn RV Resort, "We also stayed on one of the cabins to give kids more trailer room. You provide the top bedding, but there was a queen bed and a bunk (so 4 could sleep easy)."
Safety considerations: Keep children away from moving vehicles in busier parks. One camper at 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park advises, "There is a road that goes through the grounds and it says 14 mph but some people go faster, watch your kids and animals."
Tips from RVers
Elevation impacts: The high elevation affects RV systems. At Alpen Rose RV Park, located at lower elevation than Ouray, a camper shares, "We had technical issues and they were very accommodating plus they have an RV tech on-site."
Winter preparations: Cold temperatures require special precautions. Kevin G. notes that at Red Mountain Motel & RV Park, "Owners required disconnecting water at night to prevent their water pipes from freezing and bursting" even in September.
Navigation challenges: Some parks have limited turning space. At 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park, a visitor warns, "Spaces are tight but that's to be expected" while at Silver Summit RV Park, a reviewer mentions "Tight back in sites on gravel."
