309 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The San Juan Mountains surrounding Rico, Colorado feature a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed camping areas along scenic mountain roads and waterways. Cayton Campground, located in the San Juan National Forest near Rico, provides designated sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets for both tent and RV campers. The region includes several dispersed camping options like Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping, where visitors can find primitive sites without designated facilities. Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area and Hermosa Park Road Dispersed also offer alternatives for those seeking more remote experiences away from developed campgrounds.
Camping in this high-elevation region typically operates from May through September, with many areas inaccessible during winter months due to snow. Forest roads leading to dispersed sites often require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain or early in the season. One camper shared, "If Google maps has you routed to take rd 58 just north of Rico, don't do it. The real entrance is through Purgatory Resort." Cell service varies significantly throughout the area, with coverage spotty in many locations. Temperatures remain cool even during summer months, with elevations ranging from 7,000 to over 10,000 feet. Campfires are generally permitted in established fire rings, though seasonal fire restrictions may apply during dry periods.
Campers report high satisfaction with sites near creeks and rivers, which provide both scenic views and natural white noise. The rushing water of Stoner Creek and the Dolores River creates peaceful camping environments at several locations. Proximity to hiking trails, fishing spots, and off-road vehicle routes represents a significant draw for visitors to the area. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "The spots were nice, the creek was nice and cool," highlighting the appeal of waterside camping. Wildlife sightings are common, though some areas experience cattle grazing that can impact the camping experience. Most dispersed sites fill quickly during summer weekends and holidays, while established campgrounds like Cayton offer reservable options that help secure space during peak periods.
"Beautiful views of surrounding mountains and Alta lakes as well as access to the ghost town of Alta."
"One of those classic colorado vistas, with outdoors feel, safe swimming for children and all round good times."
"Had a wonderful stay right next to the lake. Woke up to the sounds of birds. Sites include RV/van sites (2?) and at least six tent only sites. Each night only one other site was occupied."
"Pulled into this area late one evening on a fall camping trip across Colorado. Totally expected it to be full but there were a couple areas left to setup thankfully."
"If Google maps has you routed you to take rd 58 just north of Rico, don't do it. The real entrance is through Purgatory Resort. I somehow made it over the mountain in my 98 Econoline w/ RWD."
"Flat grassy site, good distance away from the campground below. Had the place to ourselves"
"We hiked up to Hope Lake as suggested by cashier at gas station in Rico. A bit to early to see the lake in all its glory, August would have been better. Yet, we loved our time at Cayton Campground!"
"Nice CG but in a canyon next to hwy so some hwy noise. Two loops, loop A has 20 sites and is the electric hookup loop and for larger RVs and TTs."
from $30 - $41 / night
Check Availability"Matterhorn Campground, located near Telluride and nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, offers an excellent balance of comfort and outdoor adventure."
"We were happy to have hot showers as we were on day 4&5 of our camping across Colorado honeymoon and it had rained nights 1-4. There were two camp hosts both of the ladies were nice."
from $26 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Lovely walking paths and trails right in the campground. The river was delightful for the kids to play in and to listen to through the night. So close to so many beautiful places to play all around."
"T4 is tucked away perfectly in the trees, on the bank of the Dolores river. ATT has good reception for calling, but it is Edge service. It will not work for internet."
"This is a great dispersed camping option near Telluride. It’s an open grass area surrounded by trees and views of the mountains."
"Convenient location to stay overnight near Telluride. Close to the road, but also close to a vault toilet across the road at lizard head pass trailhead."
"I stayed at Haviland Lake near Durango, Colorado for three days, but could have stayed for a week or more!"
"There are hookups at this campground and it isn't too far away from stores. Liked the place overall. No rushing waters but Haviland Lake took the attention. "
from $32 - $98 / night
Check Availability"I've spent quite a bit of time at various sites around this campground during annual vacations and using it as a base for geological field work nearby."
"Small lake with non-motorized boating and fishing. Level sites, pit toilets, tables, fire rings, and camp store. Kayaks for rent."
from $25 - $45 / night
Check Availability"We stayed in site #8 which was quite lovely, tucked in the aspen trees with a picnic table and fire ring. The small pond behind our site was dried up, probably due to the ongoing drought."
"In pursuit of the perfect campground in Colorado, Telluride has so many to choose from it makes it near impossible to select just one."
TravelerWe camped in the dry camping area and found a shady site. Bathrooms and water spigots were plenty. Avery nice camping experience.
We did not know what to expect in our visit to Mesa Verde. Plan to drive 50 miles or so inside the park to see all of the sites.
GuidePerfect, no negative comments. The views are amazing. The sites are large with full hook ups. There is glamping and tents. Everything looks brand-new. Restrooms/ showers are meticulous. There is firewood available, nice firepits. You can buy propane. Very friendly couple that own and host the camping/ rv site. They guide you to your campsite. In one word perfect, we will be back
ScoutSmall camp ground by the stream with metal fire rings.
GuideI arrived around 4 on a Friday in the fall and it was packed. I had to leave but came back the following Monday and there were lots of spots right off 550 close to Ouray
ScoutThis was the perfect spot to camp in the rain. It had a nice creek and several sites available. The creek behind the site was epic. The drive in was easy and way better and secluded spots than nearby Lime Creek. Do not drive above the frost spot at lime creek it sucked! We went all the way to the top at Potato Lake and nothing was better than the first few spots which were wide open to everyone else around. We stayed in the free spots directly across from Sig creek. Not sure what that's like, but there is no way it's better especially considering the cost ($0.00). We can pack our doo out for a few bucks and privacy. The post adjacent to our (to the right) was taken but had a small and fast flowing waterfall in the rain. I'd have loved to have snagged that.
TravelerI have stayed here several times when traveling north and south. During the summer they have flush toilets that the hosts keep spotless. There is the Can Do trail to the north of the Pinon loop which overlooks the McPhee reservoir. The Juniper loop is FCFS and Pinon is reserved on Recreation.gov although in the shoulder seasons there have been plenty of FCFS spots in both loops. Weekends are busy and Pinon closes October 1.
GuideThis is an amazing 7day spot with spectacular views but the rd here is rocky and rutted! I made it in my van but probably wouldn’t recommend it
RangerThis is pretty easy to find on the right.
TravelerThe first sites are pretty easy to get to: as soon as you leave the private property and enter the national forest, there is a ridge with a large dirt lot and a sign for last dollar road. This is where we stayed, there’s a few spots in the trees a little, or you can park right on the ridge. Any further up the road and it gets more technical.
Campsites near Rico, Colorado sit in the high-elevation terrain of the San Juan Mountains, typically between 8,500 and 10,500 feet. The camping season runs shorter than lower elevations, with many areas accessible only from mid-June through September due to snowpack. Nighttime temperatures drop significantly even in summer, with July averages in the low 40s F, requiring campers to prepare for cold nights regardless of season.
Wildlife viewing: Deer and elk frequent the area, especially at Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area. One camper noted, "We stayed right next to a stream which made for easy relaxing. Well cared for facilities with showers. A little pricey at $24 for a tent site but a great stay nonetheless."
Fishing: Test your luck in mountain lakes and streams around Molas Lake Park & Campground. "The lake is amazing, people were fishing, although I didn't see anyone pulling out fish," according to one visitor. The lake is stocked with trout and offers fishing from shore or small non-motorized boats.
Hiking: Access trails directly from some campsites near Hermosa Park Road Dispersed. A camper shared: "Beautiful campground. Easy to access with great views along the way. Not too far from trailhead, blooming wild flowers in July and right near the stream." The area features trails for all skill levels, from easy creek-side walks to challenging mountain ascents.
Riverside camping spots: Fall asleep to natural white noise at Priest Gulch Campground and RV Park. As one visitor described: "Very nice FS CG, close to hwy so access is good. CG host onsite, 28 sites total, 8 sites are full hookups. Most are reservation only." The riverside sites remain popular throughout the season.
High-altitude lakes: Enjoy scenic water views at various elevations. According to a visitor at Alta Lakes Campground: "This place is amazing. You will want a high clearance vehicle, we took our F350 up. The initial road was a little stressful for us as it is wide enough just for us but we got up."
Peaceful mountain settings: Find solitude away from crowds even in peak season. At Stoner RV Resort, a camper shared: "Fantastic restrooms and showers. When we stayed the showers and laundry were included with our stay! Beautiful pads next to the creek with great fire rings and wooden swings."
Weather changes rapidly: Prepare for all conditions in this mountain environment. At Matterhorn Campground, a camper noted: "Very nice FS CG, close to hwy so access is good. CG host onsite, 28 sites total, 8 sites are full hookups. Most are reservation only. Cell limited to none but my Starlink worked great."
Access roads vary greatly in quality: Research before arrival to ensure your vehicle can handle the terrain. At Alta Lakes, visitors warn: "The road up is a bit rough. We managed it barely in all wheel drive vehicles but did get stuck for a bit at one point when we had to stop for someone on their way down."
Cell service is limited: Don't count on connectivity for navigation or communication. One camper at Cayton Campground shared: "Note that there is NO cell signal here at least for my TMobile phone, but some sites with open views to north would work with Starlink."
Choose established campgrounds for amenities: Families appreciate the conveniences at places like Haviland Lake Campground. A visitor reported: "Nice level sites w electric. Great access to fishing. Camp hosts were very engaged. Clean pit toilets. Lots of hiking in area."
Look for campsites with natural entertainment: Kids enjoy exploring creek sides and small lakes. At Priest Lake, a visitor observed: "The kids enjoyed being able to fish though with little supervision since the lake is really quite shallow and it's very close to the sites."
Plan for temperature fluctuations: Even summer nights get cold for little ones. As noted by a visitor to Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area: "Priest lake is by trout lake. Not far from telluride. We pulled in shortly after lunch on a Friday and it was already somewhat crowded but by bed time it was packed."
Leveling challenges at dispersed sites: Bring plenty of leveling equipment for uneven terrain. At Lizard Head Pass, an RVer advised: "Nice spot off the road to boondock, with great views both directions. We pulled in on a Thursday afternoon and didn't have any problems finding a good spot (make sure you have your levelers packed!)"
Limited hookup options: Plan for boondocking at most locations. One RVer at Hermosa Park Road shared: "Good campground, stayed here for just one night. Right off the highway next to the Dolores River. There are 2 loops, one loop with electric and tent only."
Reservoir water access may be seasonal: Check availability before planning your trip. A visitor to Molas Lake noted: "Our site was one of the non-electric sites, though about half the campground does have electricity running to the sites, these were primarily occupied by small RVs."
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at campgrounds in Rico, Colorado?
Campgrounds around Rico offer varying levels of amenities. Stoner RV Resort provides well-maintained facilities with riverside RV spots and dedicated tent sites. The resort is known for its cleanliness and attentive management. For those seeking developed public campgrounds, Cayton Campground offers clean toilet facilities and firewood for purchase, plus beautiful surroundings with wildflowers and river access. At Matterhorn Campground, campers enjoy a balance of comfort and wilderness with well-maintained facilities while still accessing stunning alpine scenery. Many dispersed camping areas like Golden Horn and Priest Lake provide more primitive experiences with few or no amenities, though some have vault toilets nearby.
Where are the best camping spots in Rico, Colorado?
Rico offers excellent camping options for all preferences. West Dolores Campground is a favorite established site with riverside access and spots suitable for both tents and campers. The campground provides privacy with its well-spaced sites and has evolved to include electricity. For those seeking more remote experiences, Hermosa Park Road Dispersed provides beautiful creek-side spots with natural surroundings, though access requires careful navigation (best reached through Purgatory Resort rather than Road 58 north of Rico). Other notable options include Lizard Head Pass for dispersed camping and Busted Arm Draw for private, quiet sites that serve as excellent base camps for exploring the surrounding San Juan Mountains.
What camping is available near Rico, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, Rico, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 309 campgrounds and RV parks near Rico, CO and 106 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Rico, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Rico, CO is Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed) with a 4.4-star rating from 49 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Rico, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 106 free dispersed camping spots near Rico, CO.
What parks are near Rico, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Rico, CO that allow camping, notably San Juan National Forest and Mesa Verde National Park.
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