Tent camping near Silverton, Colorado offers access to primitive sites and dispersed camping at elevations from 9,800 to 12,000 feet. Campers can find options along forest service roads and creek beds within the San Juan National Forest, with most locations requiring preparation for the remote conditions. Seasonal access is typically limited from late May through early October due to snowpack and weather conditions at these elevations.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: From Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area, there are "little walking paths around the Priest Lakes that are very short and easy, plus another trail that I didn't check out," according to camper Kelsey I. These paths offer accessible options for casual hikers.
Explore ghost towns: The area features several abandoned mining operations worth exploring. At Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed), a camper noted, "You can't explore any of the buildings, at least not legally, but you can see them and experience what used to be." This historical experience adds cultural context to camping trips.
Fishing opportunities: While catches aren't guaranteed, campers report fishing possibilities at several locations. At Priest Lake, one visitor mentioned, "We switched to a smaller dry fly to mimic what was hatching and we caught one fish. A super small brook trout, very pretty and very feisty."
What campers like
Easy access to towns: Many campers appreciate the proximity to nearby communities. One visitor to Angel Creek Campground noted it's "conveniently 10 minutes outside of downtown Ouray!" This accessibility allows for supply runs or dining options.
Stargazing conditions: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. A Priest Lake camper shared: "The stars were BEAUTIFUL! This is a great spot for stargazers too."
Wildlife viewing: Hermosa Park Road Dispersed camping provides natural encounters, with one camper reporting it's "Full of wildlife, Bear, elk, fox and the marmot highway." Proper food storage is essential when camping in these wildlife-rich areas.
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access to many sites requires appropriate vehicles. About Silverton 20A - Dispersed, one camper warned: "Definitely need 4 wheel drive to get up to sites, had to build our own fire pit but that was ok!" Many roads deteriorate after rainfall.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack amenities. As a camper at Red Mountain Creek noted: "There are a lot of people ATVing, and most people camping there are there to take their ATVs out so it can be noisy throughout the day and night!"
Weather preparedness: Rapid temperature changes occur at these elevations. A camper at Alta Lakes reported: "It got pretty chilly at night and rained most of the days. If you want to bike, it really is only mountain biking suitable."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Some locations offer water recreation for children. At Alta Lakes, a camper mentioned it has "safe swimming for children and all round good times," making it suitable for families seeking water activities.
Site selection timing: Arrive early for the best family-friendly spots. One visitor to Angel Creek noted: "All spots were filled but we arrived at just the right time to snag one as another group was leaving. Seemed like 10-12 spots on the campground."
Food storage solutions: Red Mountain Creek and other sites require proper food management. At Angel Creek, "Most had bear boxes, we actually moved from our original site to a different one closer to the beautiful sounding river to get a bear box." This safety feature is particularly valuable for families.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many dispersed sites can't accommodate larger rigs. At Bear Camp Dispersed, a camper observed it's "Ideal for truck/car camping or maybe very small campers like a tear drop or other."
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at most sites. One visitor to Bear Camp noted: "Once up the hill you will find three somewhat unlevel sites that are close to one another."
Clearance considerations: Access roads often present obstacles. A camper trying to reach Bear Camp warned: "The road is rough heading up. I made it up there but got stuck. Three spots up there and they are close together. Don't go up here unless you have 4 wheel drive and use caution if it is wet."
