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Best Campgrounds near Telluride, CO

1,487 Reviews

Dispersed camping and established campgrounds dot the landscapes surrounding Telluride, Colorado in the San Juan Mountains. The area includes several options within 10-30 minutes of town, including Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area and Alta Lakes Campground for tent camping, as well as Matterhorn Campground and Sunshine Campground for those seeking more developed sites. Telluride Town Park Campground offers the closest option to town amenities, situated within walking distance of Colorado Avenue. Most campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, though vehicle size restrictions apply at many locations due to mountain terrain and narrow access roads.

Roads to camping areas around Telluride vary dramatically in quality and accessibility, with many requiring high-clearance 4WD vehicles, particularly for dispersed sites. The camping season typically runs from May through September or early October, with most high-elevation campgrounds closing during winter months. Sites at popular locations like Priest Lake and Alta Lakes fill quickly during summer weekends, especially from June through August. Several campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. As one camper noted regarding Alta Lakes, "Beautiful camping spot high in the San Juan's about 25 minutes from Telluride. Access via rugged dirt road. Saw some stock SUVs (CRVs, Subaru's, etc.) but questionable to get there without higher clearance and 4WD."

Proximity to alpine lakes and streams represents a common feature of highly-rated camping areas in the region. Trout Lake, Priest Lake, and Alta Lakes provide scenic water access near campgrounds. Elevation in the camping areas ranges from approximately 8,000 to 11,000 feet, resulting in cool temperatures even during summer months. Campgrounds with vault toilets and fire rings, such as Priest Lake and Last Dollar Road, receive consistently positive reviews for their scenic mountain views and natural settings. A review for Priest Lake mentioned, "It is only 15 minute drive from Telluride, but once you are there you are immersed in wilderness. Great for car camping, solid fishing, bonfire pits and bathrooms available." Campers should note that cell service is limited or non-existent at most camping locations outside of Telluride proper, though Last Dollar Road reportedly has good AT&T coverage.

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Best Camping Sites Near Telluride, Colorado (298)

    1. Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)

    39 Reviews
    Ophir, CO
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 327-4261

    "Beautiful camping spot high in the San Juan’s about 25 minutes from Telluride. Access via rugged dirt road."

    "Dirt road to high alpine setting, big views and lakes - mountain camping at its finest!

    4WD recommended for the drive up - water crossings and some good ruts."

    2. Telluride Town Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Telluride, CO
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 728-2173

    "It's a pretty park with a small waterfall just steps from it, and right along the San Miguel river, but the obvious draw is being steps from Telluride's Main Street and its park complex. "

    "This campsite is great if you want to do Telluride on a budget - it's free. It's right next to the town and is used a lot for Telluride's summer festivals."

    3. Last Dollar Road

    28 Reviews
    Placerville, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 874-6600

    "I took the upper road from 62 and yes, it was a bit rocky, but I read that the other way from Telluride was rutted out as well.  It's only 3mi of true 4x4 road to get up to the bluff."

    "Highly recommend coming from Telluride side if your vehicle not high clearance with GOOD tires and 4x4.

    Anyways, the campsite is amazing! Awesome views with a few fire pits."

    4. Amphitheater Campground

    32 Reviews
    Ouray, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 537-8888

    $28 / night

    "the sites are full, or snag a hotel near 550 when we don't want to chance a night on a slope."

    "It's near the town of Ouray which IMHO beats Telluride's pretentiousbess in spades which I is just over the Imogene Pass a popular 4x4 trail. An easier 4x4 trail is the Alpine Loop also nearby."

    5. Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area

    22 Reviews
    Ophir, CO
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 874-6600

    "It is only 15 minute drive from Telluride, but once you are there you are immersed in wilderness. Great for car camping, solid fishing, bonfire pits and bathrooms available."

    "Several trailheads are nearby. Scenery is absolutely gorgeous and is situated at 10k feet next to Priest Lake which is just a big pond."

    6. Sunshine Campground

    19 Reviews
    Telluride, CO
    4 miles
    Website

    "Fairly small campground, most sites located really close to the road, but some had some privacy and were tucked away in the trees."

    "In pursuit of the perfect campground in Colorado, Telluride has so many to choose from it makes it near impossible to select just one."

    7. Kendall Camping Area

    21 Reviews
    Silverton, CO
    10 miles

    "Was a really nice area with a ton of campsites off the dirt path or close to the river."

    "Lots of fire rings scattered around the rocky area. This site can get very full and very loud as it is very popular and close to Silverton."

    8. Molas Lake Park & Campground

    31 Reviews
    Silverton, CO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 880-2982

    $25 - $45 / night

    "I've spent quite a bit of time at various sites around this campground during annual vacations and using it as a base for geological field work nearby."

    "Small lake with non-motorized boating and fishing. Level sites, pit toilets, tables, fire rings, and camp store. Kayaks for rent."

    9. Ouray KOA

    25 Reviews
    Ouray, CO
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 325-4736

    "This campground will be rated as a Basecamp — grounds that offer a comfortable home base that you’re happy to return to after a day of exploring the surrounding area."

    "The best thing about this park was the location. It is located close to Ouray and many activities in the area."

    10. Matterhorn — Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre And Gunnison National Forest

    15 Reviews
    Ophir, CO
    6 miles
    +1 (970) 249-4552

    $26 - $40 / night

    "This place is close to Telluride Mountain and fairly close to Telluride. You can take two gondola rides from Telluride Mountain down into Telluride."

    "Matterhorn Campground, located near Telluride and nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, offers an excellent balance of comfort and outdoor adventure."

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481 Photos of 298 Telluride Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Telluride, CO

1487 Reviews of 298 Telluride Campgrounds

Guide to Telluride

Camping near Telluride, Colorado, offers stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around the area. Many campers rave about the Vallecito Trail, which is right next to the Vallecito Campground. One visitor said, "The Vallecito Trail is such a beautiful hike and was right next to our camp site."
  • Fishing: The lakes and rivers around Telluride are great for fishing. A camper at the Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area mentioned, "There were a few decent Brooke trout in the lake just below that were easy to catch with a fly rod."
  • Sightseeing: Don't miss the breathtaking views from the Last Dollar Road. One camper noted, "Amazing scenic drive with camp spots that have great vistas! Dispersed camping at its best!"

What campers like:

  • Scenic views: Campers love the stunning landscapes. A review for the Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed) highlights, "Amazing views and a heck of a ride in describe this place well."
  • Seclusion: Many campgrounds offer a sense of privacy. A visitor at the Molas Lake Park & Campground said, "It’s secluded, I love the spacing between camp sites!"
  • Friendly hosts: Campers appreciate the welcoming atmosphere. One reviewer at the Stoner RV Resort shared, "Scott the host’s mission is to make sure everyone has a great stay."

What you should know:

  • Road conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A camper at the Last Dollar Road warned, "Do not go if you have a 2WD or a low sitting vehicle."
  • Limited amenities: Many sites are basic. A visitor at the Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area mentioned, "There is a decently clean out-house style bathroom, but it is still just a toilet over a hole in the ground."
  • Weather changes: Be prepared for sudden weather shifts. A camper at Molas Lake Park & Campground cautioned, "Early summer weather can change quickly here."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with amenities. A reviewer at the Ouray KOA said, "The park also offers beautiful scenery and it is a wonderful Basecamp for exploring the area."
  • Plan for activities: Make sure there are fun things for kids to do. One camper at the Telluride Town Park Campground noted, "There is a pool and tennis courts."
  • Safety first: Keep an eye on kids near water. A visitor at the Vallecito Campground mentioned, "There were mostly RVs," which can be safer for families.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have size limitations. A camper at the Amphitheater Campground warned, "Got up to the entrance to find signs warning of overall length limitations."
  • Look for full hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with full amenities. A visitor at the Stoner RV Resort praised, "Full electric water and waste hookups."
  • Be ready for tight spots: Some campgrounds have small sites. A reviewer at the Ridgway State Park mentioned, "Sites are small and close together."

Camping near Telluride, Colorado, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful scenery, fun activities, and a variety of campgrounds, you're sure to have a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does camping in Telluride cost?

Camping costs around Telluride vary widely based on amenities and location. Mary E Campground - Norwood RD charges $14 per site, providing picnic tables, fire rings, and basic facilities like portable toilets. Firewood is available for purchase at $10 per bundle. For those seeking full hookups, Riverwood RV Resort costs approximately $50 per night for gravel spots with full hookups, offering paved roads, river access, and walking distance to town amenities. State park options like Dakota Terraces Campground at Ridgway State Park typically range from $20-36 per night depending on hookups and season. Dispersed camping areas may be free but often lack amenities. Telluride Town Park Campground, being centrally located, typically charges higher rates during peak season.

Where are the best campgrounds near Telluride?

Several excellent campgrounds exist within a short drive of Telluride. Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed) offers beautiful high-elevation camping about 25 minutes from town, though access requires high clearance and 4WD on rugged dirt roads. It features 20 designated sites with fire rings and nearby porta-potties. For those seeking easier access, Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area is just a 15-minute drive from Telluride, providing wilderness immersion with bonfire pits and bathrooms. Other notable options include Matterhorn Campground (nestled in trees near Telluride Mountain) and Caddis Flats (a small riverside campground with three designated sites). For those willing to drive further, Ridgway State Park offers more amenities.

Is tent camping available in Telluride?

Tent camping is readily available throughout the Telluride area. Caddis Flats offers a small, intimate tent camping experience with three designated sites next to the San Miguel River. The location is gorgeous, though limited in capacity. For more adventurous campers, Last Dollar Road provides dispersed tent camping opportunities with stunning views, though access requires navigating rocky terrain (best approached from the correct direction). Multiple dispersed camping options exist around Telluride that accommodate tents, including Alta Lakes and Priest Lake areas. For those preferring established campgrounds, Matterhorn Campground provides tent sites nestled among trees. Most campgrounds in the region accommodate both tents and RVs, though tent campers have more flexibility with site selection.

When is the best season for camping in Telluride?

The prime camping season in Telluride runs from late June through early September when temperatures are mild and access roads are clear. Matterhorn — Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre And Gunnison National Forest is particularly pleasant during summer months, offering shaded sites among the trees. At Dakota Terraces Campground — Ridgway State Park, summer camping can be warm with limited shade, while spring and fall offer more comfortable temperatures. Many campgrounds, especially those at higher elevations like Alta Lakes, are inaccessible during winter due to snow. Shoulder seasons (late May/early June and September/early October) offer fewer crowds but come with risks of unpredictable mountain weather. Note that water hookups at some campgrounds may be unavailable during designated winter months.

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