Dispersed camping options near Rico, Colorado primarily consist of sites along forest roads and ridges at elevations between 8,000-11,000 feet. Most sites enforce a 14-day stay limit and allow campfires in established rings when no fire restrictions are in place. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with higher elevation sites often providing better connectivity than valley locations.
What to do
Fly fishing opportunities: The South Mineral Creek area provides accessible fishing spots close to camping. At Golden Horn Dispersed, campers can fish in nearby streams. One visitor mentioned: "You can hike down to the lake where we saw some fish!"
Historic exploration: Check out abandoned mining structures near camping areas. At Alta Lakes Campground, the remnants of Rico's mining era are accessible. A camper noted: "Check out Alta ghost town (abandoned mining town), which used to serve Gold King Mine. You can hike up over the ridge onto Telluride ski area, and hike down into town of Telluride this way if you're feeling up for a long walk."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer the best chance to spot wildlife. A camper at Hermosa Creek Trailhead shared: "Very amazing campsite just a few miles north of Durango. The road to the site was pretty long, we camped around 6 miles out. Many people coming and going during the day but very quiet at night."
What campers like
Accessibility to nearby towns: Many dispersed sites provide quick access to larger towns for supplies. A visitor at Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area noted: "We camped here in a campervan and it was perfect! Having the vault toilet is a nice perk for a dispersed camping site, and the views are second to none!"
Stream proximity: Sites near water sources are highly valued. At Hermosa Creek Trailhead, a camper reported: "Easy access to 4-5 dispersed sites close to the Hermosa Cr TH. The site farthest back has a log that you can use to cross the creek if it is high. All sites are right on the creek."
Night sky viewing: The lack of light pollution makes this area excellent for astronomy enthusiasts. A camper at Madden Peak Road shared: "We decided to drive further up the mountain, gaining some elevation but it was much more secluded. There was also some walking paths behind our campsite which helped us get to know the vegetation and animals in the area."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many sites require high-clearance vehicles. At Last Dollar Road, a camper advised: "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."
Weather preparedness: Temperatures fluctuate dramatically in summer with afternoon storms common. At Alta Lakes Campground, a visitor noted: "The lake is beautifully blue with gray snow covered stunning peaks surrounding it. You can camp in a few spots around the lake or make your own off the shore. It's up pretty high so make sure you're ready for a cold night!"
Site availability: Free camping near Rico, Colorado fills quickly during summer weekends. According to a Priest Lake camper: "We arrived around 7PM on Friday during Memorial Weekend and thought I'd be out of luck but it was barely half full! There are less than 10 spaces but they seem to fill slowly!"
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water access: Look for camps with safe water play areas. A camper at Priest Lake mentioned: "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."
Wildlife education opportunities: Several sites offer chances to observe wildlife from a safe distance. A visitor to Golden Horn Dispersed noted: "Wildlife viewings were great. Many spots along the road."
Short hiking options: Some areas offer easy trails suitable for children. At Madden Peak Road, a camper shared: "There are walking paths behind our campsite which helped us get to know the vegetation and animals in the area."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Most dispersed camping near Rico requires leveling equipment. A visitor to Golden Horn Dispersed reported: "Sites are covered in river rock. Nothing is level, so bring the right gear to manage that if it's important to you."
Turn-around limitations: Many forest roads have limited space for large vehicles to maneuver. A camper at Cross Mountain - East Fork Dispersed Camping cautioned: "Road ends quickly at a TH parking area with no turnaround for TTs so scout first. No cell signal, no designated sites, no water or dumpsters. The top road into the dispersed camping area is very rough and has deep potholes so scout and go slow slow."
Limited facilities: No hookups are available at dispersed sites. A Golden Horn Dispersed camper stated: "This is a no frill campground. There are toilets. No fire pits, tables, electric, water, or dump available. Bring your own fire pit or use the make shift rock fire pits left by others."
