Yurt camping near Rico, Colorado offers access to the San Juan Mountains at elevations between 8,500 and 9,000 feet, where temperatures can drop 30 degrees from day to night even in summer months. The region features dense pine forests interspersed with aspen groves that turn brilliant gold from mid-September through early October. Rico sits at the intersection of Highway 145 and the West Dolores River, creating access to both riverside and mountain campsites.
What to do
Fishing access: Little Molas Lake Campground provides direct lake access for anglers. "Little Molas lake is a very beautiful section of the Rockies. It is about 7 miles south of Silverton Co above 10,000 ft. Several dispersed camp sites, vault toilets, no potable water. Absolutely stunning views, many trails and fishing," notes camper Christopher K.
Hiking trails: Lower Hermosa Campground connects directly to the Hermosa Creek trail system. "Stayed for 2 nights. Right next to Hermosa Creek trail. Such a beautiful place. The bathrooms are clean, the camp host is an awesome guy," reports Thanh H.
Trail connections: The Colorado Trail passes directly through Little Molas Lake Campground for multi-day hiking. "This was a great spot to camp as a home base for hiking the Colorado Trail. There are great trails heading out of the campground in both directions," explains Annie C.
Historic railroad viewing: United Campground of Durango offers unique train watching. "The greatest thing about this campground though is that the Durango steam train goes right through the campground. To see the historic train right from your camper or tent window is pretty great," says Nick S.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Haviland Lake Campground maintains exceptionally clean facilities. "Camp hosts were very engaged. Clean pit toilets. Lots of hiking in area. 30 minutes to Durango," reports Donald S.
River access: Dolores River RV Resort's riverside yurts sit directly along the Dolores River. "Perfect Spot on the River. My site was right on the river and it was super spacious. The amenities were SPOTLESS. The cleanest showers I've ever encountered whilst camping and the bathrooms were HEATED!" shares Victoria R.
Mountain views: Target Tree Campground provides expansive mountain vistas. "Beautiful well kept campground. Nearby highway is a little noisy. Friendly campground host," notes David R.
Space between sites: United Campground provides well-spaced sites with natural privacy. "The campsites are fairly large, and well shaded. The restrooms, showers and laundry room are all clean and well maintained. There's also an exterior utility sink," explains Brian O.
What you should know
Elevation challenges: Campgrounds near Rico sit at high elevations affecting equipment function. "Little Molas Lake elevation is about 10,300 and posed a problem for our generator that caused severe spark-plug fouling. Re-jetting the carburetor from a #61 to #58 solved the problem," advises RaD_Travels.
Weather extremes: Expect sudden weather changes even in summer. "Campers should be prepared for sudden and severe weather. The high desert location can bring intense storms with strong winds," warns Paulina B.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience road noise. "Target Tree has awesome campsites. It sits between Mesa Verde and Durango and is a perfect launch for this area. All kinds of activities are nearby," notes Dave, though others mention highway noise.
Water access: Many campgrounds lack potable water. "Little Molas lake is a very beautiful section of the Rockies. Several dispersed camp sites, vault toilets, no potable water," reports Christopher K.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Durango North-Riverside KOA offers river access and swimming areas. "RV sites, some tent sites and cabins. Cabins have a single and a bunk, power, porch light, picnic tables and firepit. Office has firewood. Camp was clean and well kept," reports Cale D.
Educational experiences: Morefield Campground hosts ranger programs suitable for children. "Ranger talks at the amphitheater. You get to pick your spot out of what is still open when you arrive (at least for tents, not sure about RVs due to sizing). Located 4 miles into the park," explains Tori K.
Multi-activity sites: Mancos State Park offers varied activities for different ages. "We spent several days at Mancos State Park and loved every minute there. The fishing in the lake was good, and my kids enjoyed splashing around in the water. The real gem of the trip, however, was the town of Mancos itself," shares Henry H.
Playground amenities: Dolores River RV Resort includes dedicated play areas. "Great place with things to do for all ages. Swing set, fishing, and hiking. Clean RV spots well maintained. Bathrooms and showers are the cleanest I've seen from a campground," notes Chris M.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Target Tree Campground offers larger sites for bigger rigs. "Beautiful well spaced sites with plenty of room to spread out. Sparkling clean bathrooms. Road noise but it's not so bad at night. Great camp host. Firewood and water. Lots of hiking nearby," advises Lauren.
Leveling requirements: Some campgrounds require substantial leveling equipment. "Monday evening, third week of September site 25. Quiet. Well spaced sites. Sloped towards lake. At least this site and 26 would be difficult to find level spot for tent and requires lots of rocks or blocks to level RV," shares Michael at Mancos State Park.
Site spacing: Ouray KOA provides premium yurt accommodations with full hookups. "Our site backed up to a stream that sounded wonderful with running water. Each site has a picnic table and a combo fire ring/grill. They even welcome you with three large fire logs!" reports Todd G.
Public transportation: United Campground offers transit connections. "If you're planning on riding the Scenic Railroad, this is the place for you. Not only does the train bisect the RV and Tent camping areas so you can watch it go by, but the city free trolley stop is right at the entrance," explains Brian O.
