Placerville, Colorado camping options span elevations between 7,000-10,000 feet in the western San Juan Mountains. The region experiences dramatic weather patterns, with summer highs rarely exceeding 80°F and afternoon thunderstorms common from July through early September. Most campgrounds in this area operate seasonally from May through September, with many closing after the first significant snowfall.
What to do
Hiking at Haviland Lake: The campground offers trail access along streams with minimal elevation gain. "There are several trails around the park and lake that leave right from the campground," notes a camper, making it perfect for day hikers seeking moderate terrain.
Mountain biking from Little Molas Lake: Located at approximately 10,300 feet elevation, this high-altitude campground connects directly to the Colorado Trail. "This was a nice retreat for us. It is a very popular place on the weekend, but during the week it is much quieter. Most of the weekend traffic is heading to the trailhead for hiking or biking," explains one visitor at Little Molas Lake Campground.
Fishing at Ridgway State Park: The park's reservoir offers trout fishing with convenient access points. A camper at Ridgway State Park reports, "Great for a base camp. Tons of places to go from there and the evenings by the fire. Great, super clean facilities and friendly staff."
What campers like
Creek-side campsites: Many visitors appreciate the sound of running water. At Thistledown Campground, a camper shared, "This was our third choice after Amphitheater and Angel Creek. We were so happy that no sites were available at the first two campgrounds. Thistledown was beautiful. Our site #3 was right along the creek with views of the cliffs."
Clean facilities: Consistent maintenance stands out across campgrounds. According to a guest at Ouray KOA Holiday, "This campground has so much to offer families! Stunning views, private spaces nestled amidst trees, clean facilities, a great restaurant and two playgrounds! The staff are some of the sweetest and friendliest we've met."
Off-season tranquility: Fall camping offers fewer crowds and seasonal beauty. One camper noted about Thistledown, "Mostly empty in October. Good price $10. Close to town. Vault toilet."
What you should know
Elevation considerations: High-altitude camping requires preparation. A camper at Little Molas Lake mentioned, "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."
Wildlife precautions: 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 a Thistledown Campground visitor.
Reservation requirements: Peak season demands advance planning. At Amphitheater Campground, a visitor warned, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's facilities. A visitor to Ouray KOA Holiday shared, "Kids loved the playground and jump pad! Close by to Ouray for great SXS and off-road trails."
Lake access for children: Water activities provide family entertainment. At Ridgway State Park, one camper observed, "There were kids riding bikes on paved walkways and some trails throughout the well maintained park. Nice waters @ the nearby reservoir."
Glamping options for comfort: For families seeking upgraded accommodations near Placerville, Colorado, glamping tents offer comfort without roughing it. A visitor at BASECAMP 550 reported, "We had an amazing stay at Basecamp 550. The amenities were excellent, including quarter-operated hot showers and laundry, restrooms, Wi-Fi, full hookups, and a clubhouse with coffee + tea, kitchen access, and a great workspace."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many campsites require careful planning for larger vehicles. A Dakota Terraces camper advised, "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."
Leveling requirements: Uneven terrain challenges RVers throughout the region. One visitor at Ridgway State Park's Dakota Terraces noted, "Stayed for just one night at site 55. Needed all our levelers as the site is sloped downhill. Windy in the morning. Clean and friendly. Nice views."
Hookup availability: When glamping near Placerville in an RV, full-service sites can be limited. At Riverside Resort, a camper explained, "This is a very nice RV park, and it's four stars because it's definitely priced as such, in their defense it's a small mountain town, everything is over priced. That's how mountain towns stay in business... The park is maintained with pride, hook ups and WiFi are great!!"
