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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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."
What you should know
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."
Tips for camping with families
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."
Tips from RVers
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."
