Best Campgrounds near Telluride, CO

Alaska offers a diverse range of camping experiences across its vast wilderness areas, with established campgrounds like Homer Spit Campground and Eklutna Lake Campground providing options for tent, RV, and cabin camping. The region includes both drive-in sites with amenities and more remote backcountry locations, particularly within Chugach State Park and Denali National Park. Many campgrounds feature waterfront locations along lakes and rivers, providing scenic views and recreational opportunities while maintaining access to essential facilities.

Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping in Alaska, with most campgrounds operating from May through September when weather conditions are more favorable. Winter camping is available at select locations like Riley Creek Campground in Denali National Park, though with limited services. Road conditions vary significantly, with some campgrounds requiring travel on gravel or washboard roads. Permits and reservations are recommended for popular sites, especially during peak summer months when tourism increases. A visitor noted, "This is a great, smaller campground to choose when the popular nearby spots fill up with anglers. For some reason, this spot is not as in demand as the Russian River campground, despite having many of the same amenities."

Campers consistently praise Alaska's spectacular mountain and glacier views, with many sites offering direct access to lakes, rivers, and hiking trails. Waterfront campgrounds like Mendenhall Lake provide views of glaciers and opportunities for wildlife viewing, including bears and wolves during salmon runs. Several visitors mentioned the importance of bug protection, particularly in wooded or lakeside areas during summer months. According to one review, "We really enjoyed camping here. This was our first place we camped in Alaska and it was very clean. It has a beautiful view with the lake right there and the beavers are very active." Campgrounds near popular destinations like Seward and Homer tend to fill quickly during summer, while more remote locations offer greater solitude but fewer amenities.

Best Camping Sites Near Telluride, Colorado (296)

    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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Showing results 1-10 of 296 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Telluride, CO

1474 Reviews of 296 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

What camping is available near Telluride, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, Telluride, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 296 campgrounds and RV parks near Telluride, CO and 94 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Telluride, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Telluride, CO is Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed) with a 4.3-star rating from 39 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Telluride, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 94 free dispersed camping spots near Telluride, CO.

What parks are near Telluride, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Telluride, CO that allow camping, notably San Juan National Forest and Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests.