Dispersed tent camping near San Juan National Forest typically operates at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet, creating cooler nighttime temperatures even during summer months. The forest encompasses 1.8 million acres across southwestern Colorado, with the eastern portions receiving more annual precipitation than western areas. Forest roads providing access to primitive campsites usually open by late May, though higher elevation routes may remain snow-covered into June.
What to do
Fishing at easily accessible waterways: Roche Gulch near Delores River offers quick access to prime fishing spots. "Fish were JUMPING so get your fly rods ready!" noted a camper who appreciated the proximity to water despite being near the highway.
Hiking with mountain views: The Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area provides multiple trail options of varying difficulty. "There are little walking paths around the Priest Lakes that are very short and easy, plus another trail that I didn't check out," reports one visitor who enjoyed the accessible hiking options.
Wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk: Morning and evening hours offer the best opportunity to spot local wildlife. "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. It's a pretty place with very scenic views. There are two abandoned cabins that were pretty cool to check out," shared one family who spotted ducks, geese, and deer during their stay.
What campers like
High elevation escapes from summer heat: Alta Lakes Campground sits at approximately 11,000 feet, providing relief during hot months. One camper noted, "We ended up here because all the other campgrounds around were full by the time we came into town. After heading up the minimally maintained road for about 20 minutes the road opened up to gorgeous views and an incredible lake. Even at the end of July it got really chilly up on top of the mountain."
Secluded sites with running water: Stream-adjacent sites are particularly coveted during summer months. "Beautiful campground, very quiet. Up a dirt road but passable with a 2WD (in Oct, no snow). The shorter route in is via the trout lake entrance- less time on dirt road," explained one visitor to Priest Lake.
Dark skies for stargazing: Areas further from town provide exceptional night sky viewing. "The stars were BEAUTIFUL! This is a great spot for stargazers too," reported a Memorial Day weekend camper who found space despite the holiday crowds.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp offers better accessibility for standard vehicles. "This was an easy spot and any kind of vehicle can get here. Lots of room, not much to look at in the fall, as far as, right around, but the views are amazing distance and at night the stars are amazing," explained a fall visitor.
Seasonal closures affect planning: Many forest roads close during winter months. "Road is currently closed. Assuming through March like most others in the area," reported a camper in early March who found Forest Road 316 inaccessible.
No water available at sites: All dispersed camping requires bringing water supplies. "This is a dispersed site—pack in/pack out (especially garbage; the nearest dumpster is in the town of Telluride). There is no running water, one outhouse, no service, no electrical outlets or RV pumps," explained a Priest Lake visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Creek-side sites for natural play: Hermosa Park Road Dispersed offers stream access ideal for children. A reviewer described their experience: "Literally gorgeous views. Drive on million dollar HWY - read reviews below. Do not take the weird route it tried to take you to. Made it in a 2WD camper van. You'll be fine just take it slow."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites provide educational wildlife spotting opportunities. "Beautiful campground. Easy to access with great views along the way. Not to far from trailhead, blooming wild flowers in July and right near the stream," described a summer visitor to Hermosa Park Road.
Short hikes for young explorers: Look for campgrounds with built-in short trails. "Dispersed camping, no amenities, but beautiful location. Little streams running nearby, wildlife viewing, the drive up the slope is beautiful as well," noted one camper describing the natural features that keep children engaged.
Tips from RVers
High clearance access requirements: Old Lime Creek Road offers spots for different vehicle types. "Smaller RVs can pull off at South entrance to the road and high clearance can continue on to the lake and trailhead further up the road. Tent spots are available the entire way up. Water was only available at the lake in August so come prepared."
Generator etiquette varies by location: Some dispersed areas have informal quiet hours. "There was one night an inconsiderate person parked his company truck and camper as close to me as was possible with wide open space all over and ran his generator. Luckily he was gone the next day," shared a Cherry Creek visitor, highlighting the importance of respecting fellow campers.
Finding level spots requires advance planning: Arrive early for better RV options. "I was surprised that I was able to roll up at dusk and get a spot no problem - there seem to have a handful of pullouts here (with fire rings!). Maybe because it was mid week after elk season closed," explained a Bay City visitor who found surprisingly good options.
