Dispersed camping near Silverton, Colorado ranges from primitive sites to more established options with vault toilets, particularly above 10,000 feet elevation where summer temperatures remain cool. The region features several equestrian-friendly sites where campers can bring their horses to explore the extensive trail systems throughout the San Juan National Forest. Weather conditions fluctuate rapidly in this mountainous terrain, with significant temperature drops after sunset even in July and August.
What to do
Trail riding with horses: Lower Hermosa Campground offers excellent access to horse-friendly trails. "Great access and trails! From what we heard, weekends can get crowded... several trails leave from the area, so you can go for nice evening hikes. These trails are also mountain bike friendly," notes reviewer Leah W.
Mountain peak exploration: The established campgrounds provide strategic bases for day trips to surrounding mountain peaks. When staying at Mill Creek, one camper mentioned they "spent seven days here as a base for bagging fourteeners, 4 wheelin', and just chilling." This campground serves as an excellent starting point for multiple mountain ascents.
Stargazing: The clear mountain air and minimal light pollution create prime conditions for night sky viewing. At Thirty Mile, campers report "great stargazing and access to the river for fishing. Loads of hunters in October and lots of wildlife to see!" The high elevation areas around Silverton offer exceptional celestial viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Creek-side sites: Access to flowing water enhances many camping locations near Silverton. At Anvil Dispersed Campground, a camper noted, "We stayed two nights next to the creek. It was crowded but still peaceful with beautiful views. There was quite a bit of dust but still worth the stay."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The remote locations increase chances to observe native animals. At River Hill, one camper shared their experience: "2nd stay in River hill CG. Loved every minute. Moose came through on 3rd day." Another visitor at Mill Creek Campground mentioned, "We saw Moose and Elk."
Isolation from crowds: During weekdays and shoulder seasons, campers can find solitude. At Ute Creek Trailhead #819, a visitor reported they were the "only people here, but beautiful spot. Woke up with a light dusting of snow but it thawed by 10:30." This horse-friendly campground includes "halter point and tack bar with wide open spaced for trailers."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many horse campgrounds near Silverton require bringing your own water supply. At Silver Jack Campground, reviewers note "clean bathrooms easy access to water," but at other locations, water access is limited or non-existent.
Road conditions: Access roads to horse-friendly sites range from well-maintained to rough. At Anvil Dispersed Campground, visitors describe the access as an "easy, flat road into the area" with "hard packed gravel," making it suitable for horse trailers.
Weather preparation: Mountain conditions change rapidly even in summer. One camper at Ute Creek Trailhead mentioned waking up to "a light dusting of snow but it thawed by 10:30," demonstrating the need for preparation even during warmer months.
Cell service: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. A visitor to Anvil Dispersed Campground reported "two bars LTE for AT&T," while at Thirty Mile Campground, campers "had no cell service at our site but when we drove through there were a few spots that did."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For family camping trips with horses, consider locations with basic facilities. Little Molas Lake Campground has vault toilets but no water. At River Hill, "the bathrooms were clean and smelled like bubble gum. Our kids were enchanted by the old hand pump," according to one family.
Space for activities: Select sites with room for children and animals to move safely. At Echo Basin Cabin and RV Resort, "there are lots of things to do and the sites are good sized with plenty of shade," making it suitable for families with pets and children.
Wildlife education opportunities: The area provides excellent chances to teach children about mountain ecosystems. One visitor at Mill Creek Campground mentioned seeing "Moose and Elk," creating natural learning moments for young campers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: When bringing horses to campgrounds near Silverton, choose sites with adequate turning space. At Mountain Meadow Camp, the "close accessability to trails, lake and rivers" makes it convenient for equestrian campers with trailers.
Elevation effects on equipment: The high altitude impacts vehicle and generator performance. At Little Molas Lake, one RVer noted their "elevation is about 10,300 and posed a problem for our generator that caused severe spark-plug fouling. But, re-jetting the carburetor from a #61 to #58 solved the problem."
Extended stays: Some locations allow longer camping periods. Anvil Dispersed Campground has a "14 day camp limit" which accommodates extended trips for trail riding throughout the extensive network of equestrian trails in the San Juan Mountains.
