Best Tent Camping near Purgatory, CO
Tent camping near Purgatory, Colorado provides access to numerous dispersed sites within the San Juan National Forest. Old Lime Creek Road offers tent-only camping just 2.5 miles past Purgatory Ski Resort, with sites scattered along a meadow and near a small pond. Hermosa Park Road Dispersed area provides secluded tent camping with a 4.8/5 rating, while Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp offers walk-in tent sites with established fire rings. Jersey Jim Lookout stands out as a designated tent-only area with picnic tables and toilet facilities, though fires are not permitted at this location.
Most tent campsites around Purgatory require visitors to pack in all supplies and pack out all trash. No drinking water is available at these primitive tent camping areas, and vault toilets are rare except at Jersey Jim Lookout. Fire regulations vary seasonally, with bans common during dry periods. Many sites feature established fire rings, though campers should verify current fire restrictions before their trip. Bear activity is prevalent throughout the region, making proper food storage essential for backcountry tent camping. Weather conditions can change rapidly at these high-elevation sites, with afternoon thunderstorms common in summer and cold nights even during peak season.
The primitive tent camping experience near Purgatory offers exceptional mountain views and access to hiking trails. According to reviews, Old Lime Creek Road provides "beautiful views, tons of wildflowers, and amazing weather" with convenient access to Durango, Silverton, and Ouray. Most dispersed tent sites fill quickly, especially on summer weekends, with campers recommending arrival before noon to secure a spot. Hermosa Park Road Dispersed camping is noted for its "little streams running nearby, wildlife viewing" and beautiful approach drive. Many sites require high-clearance vehicles or 4WD to access, particularly after rain when dirt roads can become muddy and challenging for standard passenger vehicles.
