Best Tent Camping near Rico, CO
Dispersed tent camping dominates the landscape surrounding Rico, Colorado, with several primitive options within the San Juan National Forest. Alta Lakes Campground and Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area offer tent-friendly sites at higher elevations, typically between 9,000-10,000 feet. These areas provide walk-in tent sites with minimal amenities but maximum wilderness immersion. Forest Road 316 and Hermosa Park Road also feature roadside primitive tent camping opportunities within driving distance of Rico.
Most tent sites require campers to pack in all necessities including water, as drinking water is unavailable at nearly all dispersed camping areas. Fire rings are common at designated sites, though seasonal fire bans frequently restrict campfires during dry periods. Vault toilets exist at some locations like Priest Lake and Alta Lakes, but campers should bring their own toilet paper as supplies often run out. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing many tent camping areas, particularly Alta Lakes where the road includes water crossings and rough terrain. According to one visitor, "The road to get to the site is rough. You need 4x4 and high clearance vehicle and good tires."
Tent campers benefit from spectacular mountain views and alpine lake access at several sites. Alta Lakes provides tent pads near alpine lakes with snow-capped mountain backdrops, while Priest Lake offers more secluded walk-in tent sites away from the parking area. Sites typically fill quickly during summer weekends, with most primitive areas reaching capacity by mid-day. Wildlife sightings are common, with deer frequently passing through campsites and coyotes heard in the distance. Bear activity necessitates proper food storage, with some areas requiring hard-sided vehicles for food storage. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, "The sites vary from right out in the open to being completely tree covered. Ours was right near a stream and had good shade during the day."
