Best Campgrounds near Ridgway, CO

Camping near Ridgway, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning views, outdoor activities, and unique campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to pitch a tent or a place to park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do

• Hiking: There are numerous trails nearby, including a one-mile hike from the South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park to the visitor center. One reviewer mentioned, "Great location for exploring the park. Just a mile from the visitors center."
• Star Gazing: The area is known for its dark skies, perfect for stargazing. A camper shared, "This is a dark sky park. Took photos of the stars," highlighting the beauty of the night sky.
• Fishing: The Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area is close to some great fishing spots. One visitor noted, "There were a few decent Brook trout in the lake just below that were easy to catch with a fly rod."

What campers like

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking scenery. One reviewer at the Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed) said, "The scenery is amazing and it’s secluded."
• Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like the Molas Lake Park & Campground, are well-maintained. A camper mentioned, "Clean bathrooms and showers, and the staff were very friendly."
• Proximity to Attractions: Campgrounds like Elk Ridge Campground — Ridgway State Park are conveniently located near local attractions. One visitor said, "Great location and beautiful!"

What you should know

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like the Black Canyon Dispersed Camping, have minimal facilities. A camper noted, "There are no toilets or trash services, so be prepared to pack out your waste."
• Road Conditions: Access roads can be rough. One camper at Last Dollar Road warned, "Do not go if you have a 2WD or a low sitting vehicle."
• Crowded Campsites: Some areas can get busy, especially during peak season. A visitor at the Ouray KOA mentioned, "Very busy and lots of out-of-state campers at this campground."

Tips for camping with families

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities like picnic tables and clean restrooms. The Telluride Town Park Campground has been praised for its cleanliness and proximity to town, making it a great choice for families.
• Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. One camper suggested, "Bring a shade tent or shelter!" to help keep kids cool during the day.
• Safety First: Be aware of wildlife in the area. A camper at the Black Canyon Dispersed Camping mentioned, "Given that this land is adjacent to a National Park, be aware that less than friendly wildlife can be in the area."

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the campground's size restrictions. A camper at the Amphitheater Campground noted, "I did not stay here. Got up to the entrance to find signs warning of overall length limitations."
• Look for Hookups: If you need electric hookups, check ahead. The Molas Lake Park & Campground offers some amenities, but not all sites have electric.
• Be Prepared for Weather: Weather can change quickly in the mountains. One RV traveler shared, "Last year, we had to leave a day early when cold rain made it tough to get comfy."

Camping near Ridgway, Colorado, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just be sure to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!