Rico is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Rico. Find the best campgrounds near Rico, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.
"Beautiful views of surrounding mountains and Alta lakes as well as access to the ghost town of Alta."
"The off road trail it get to Alta lakes took us about 40-50 minutes in my boyfriends F-150. The views were amazing so neither of us really minded."
"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."
"Dispersed camping, no amenities, but beautiful location. Little streams running nearby, wildlife viewing, the drive up the slope is beautiful as well"
$30 - $41 / night
"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!"
"When staying in Colorado, there are just way to many amazing campgrounds, so finding the perfect fit has so many faces for every individual camper."
"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."
$25 - $45 / night
"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."
$32 - $98 / night
"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. "
$30 - $60 / night
"The mayor of Stoner, Colorado, Scott is a great host and very generous. The place is very well maintained and clean and looked after. They have RV spots right on the river, Stoner Creek!"
"We prefer off the beaten path and when we rolled into Dolores, CO in our van late on the 25th of October we were happy to find Stoner on Dyrt, about 20 minutes outside town."
"This is a great dispersed camping option near Telluride. It’s an open grass area surrounded by trees and views of the mountains."
", However there is NO water, but scenery of surrounding peaks is awesome. Some hwy noise but goes away at night."
$26 - $40 / night
"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."
GuideIt was hard to tell what areas were designated spots, but overall lots of options! Definitely recommend 4WD, but we had 2WD and managed to find a good spot. Very secluded and far from other campers which we loved.
ScoutThis road can accommodate all kinds of camping. We didn't have to drive very far to find a good spot. Where we camped could fit all size rigs.
LegendThis is a decommissioned old CG. However the hard surface loop roads are still there and usable. There are old pit toilets that are closed but a new vault toilet is there and is clean and maintained. The FS verified that you can camp there, no fees. The old CG loops still have some good backin sites but all the tables and fire rings are missing or destroyed. No water or dumpsters.
Anyhoo, this is a great option for free camping close to the hwy and it does have a bit of cell signal also.
GuideWe camped here the first week of June and it was spectacular. The views were unreal!! Sadly it was pretty rainy that week but the storms were so cool to watch roll in, the clouds were basically our level. There are multiple spots out in the open and some back in the trees or along the roads. We drove in from ouray side and took the long 40 min dirt road and I will say, the road was rough.. we made it just fine in my hyundai tuscan but I will say, I was sh*ting myself driving it! My boyfriend on the other hand had full confidence lol. I was definitely nervous about the clearance of my car and my tires, it was super rocky, definitely some muddle and big puddles, steep downhills and close to the edge at one part- it was quite the adventure but I would definitely recommend going up through the telluride way bc it’s a much smoother and shorter road! The campspot was worth it though I will say!! Lots of trails and places to hike and a stream close by. Also plenty of fallen and dead trees that made for great firewood. 10/10!
TravelerWe stayed in site 021 which has a gorgeous view of the mountains. Clean bathrooms, great hiking trails, beautiful views.
GuideThis does not exist. I couldn't find the road - drove by several times 🤷‍♀️ Thankful there was a rest area a mile before this said camping spot.
TravelerSeveral Forest Service roads to choose from with camp areas with good distance between them. Some spots require 4 wheel drive or similar to access. Fire rings at designated sites with no other services.
TravelerThis campground is the last stop where you can access to with a camper. Sleep here and you will already be inside mesa verde national park. It is green all around, there are ranger talks in the evening, and wild animals coming by your camping spot. A lot of shade and very practical restrooms everywhere on the loops
TravelerGood road quality, hard packed gravel, river right next to the sites, 14 day camp limit
Camping near Rico, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning views, wildlife encounters, and a chance to unwind in nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.
Camping near Rico, Colorado, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike. Just remember to plan ahead and be ready for the unique challenges of the area!
Frequently Asked Questions
According to TheDyrt.com, Rico, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 276 campgrounds and RV parks near Rico, CO and 88 free dispersed camping spots.
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Rico, CO is Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed) with a 4.4-star rating from 38 reviews.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 88 free dispersed camping spots near Rico, CO.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Rico, CO that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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