Unlike most mountain towns of its size, Ouray has an established RV park right in town alongside national forest dispersed options in the surrounding canyon terrain. The Box Canyon area and the Uncompahgre Gorge set the backdrop, with road access going up toward Red Mountain Pass and into the forest in multiple directions. Ouray dispersed camping options cover the no-fee forest sites on roads outside town, including access conditions and which routes hold up without four-wheel drive.
Ridgway is about 10 miles north with additional developed sites and tends to have more availability during peak season weekends. The Dyrt campers checking in around Ouray flag the road conditions as worth checking before committing to higher dispersed sites, particularly before the snow fully clears in spring. Most of the better dispersed spots sit above 9,000 feet, which means the window runs roughly June through September.
Telluride is about 30 miles southwest for campers who want a second base option in the San Juan corridor. The in-town RV park fills quickly on summer weekends, and the dispersed roads get competitive in July and August. Booking or arriving early in the week makes a noticeable difference.
Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!
Round 1 of 5
$28 / night
"Best location to camp near Ouray as the hiking (right off the campground) is amazing! Close drive into town. Sites are nice. Some closer together than others. It gets busy so make reservations."
"During our recent trip to Ouray we finally found the luck in our favor with the Amphitheater Camp Ground."
"The best thing about this park was the location. It is located close to Ouray and many activities in the area."
"4 Amenities: 4 Customer Service: 5 Cleanliness: 5
Ouray is a wonderful place... tucked away in the mountains, surrounded by peaks and pines."
"Beautiful views of surrounding mountains and Alta lakes as well as access to the ghost town of Alta."
"The off road trail it get to Alta lakes took us about 40-50 minutes in my boyfriends F-150. The views were amazing so neither of us really minded."
$50 - $99 / night
"Need more than 2 days to explore everything, Million Dollar Highway, Trials, Ouray itself!! So many things to do. Box Canyon…..so much. Excellent foodie town!"
"We loved how close it was to downtown Ouray and the hot springs. We stayed two nights on an extra wide riverfront side site and had plenty of room. Clean bathrooms, too!"
$28 - $50 / night
"This little place is on the outskirts of Ouray, tucked into the base of the mountain (perimeter trail actually has an access point at the park)."
"This park is within walking distance of Ouray’s most popular sight seeing. It’s only a few blocks from breweries, restaurants, and just down the road from the town hot springs!"
"The campground is bordered on one side by the San Juan River and by the park on the other side, making a tight but nice campground."
"It's right next to the town and is used a lot for Telluride's summer festivals. Its more than a campground it is also where a lot of town events are held and also has sports venues."
$28 - $36 / night
"The site was big and a real short walk from the car. It was nice that the road didn't go next to the campsite like usual so it cut down on noise."
"We were in site 123 which didn't have a great view, but plenty of space around and behind us to stretch out. "
"Primitive camping right outside outside Ouray Colorado. Imogene pass trail ends at the campground entrance. Trail into campground is a little rough but that's primitive camping."
"It is close to Ouray but far off the grid, June is the month to go... All of the campsites are right on and or close to the water... LOTS of wildlife and deer....Did I mention the mountain views..."
"I have camped in the Ouray area a number of times, but I’ve always paid to do so. I came across the Portland Road area and thought I would give it a try."
"County 16 is an off-road type road that requires a high-clearance vehicle... and 4-wheel-drive doesn't hurt either! But, once up above Ouray, it's absolutely gorgeous! And quiet."
"We drove in from ouray side and took the long 40 min dirt road and I will say, the road was rough.. we made it just fine in my hyundai tuscan but I will say, I was sh*ting myself driving it!"
"Some of the best in Colorado. I had good cell service too (working remotely). There are some larger dispersed campgrounds near the top trailhead that are more in the woods."
TravelerThis is a perfect oasis for dispersed camping. Right by the stream and relax to the flowing sound of the water. Perfect Mountain View and sit and listen to the birds. Bathroom available but good to have your own toilet paper. Lots of spaces that are spread-out. Close to Silverton which we hope to explore. It’s been cool in the evening but it’s nice compared to the 90-100 degrees we came from in Utah. We love this area!
GuideThe water here is a shade of blue over never before seen. The campground is clean and plenty of spots for tents to the biggest RVs. The trip from Norwood is super simple and easy to do. There’s a lot activity during the day, lots of people coming and going, but it is incredibly peaceful at night.
The fishing must be good cause there were plenty of people doing that. I took my paddleboard and had a great time hot/warm enough days and at night it was chilly but not cold.
GuidePeaceful campsite along North Fort Creek stayed here two days. We were the only campers amazing
GuideGood spot but 15 min off the highway so it can be difficult if you are short on time or tired.. Private. Only 2 or 3 spots available.
TravelerThe parking where the want you to park were not wide enough for our 34ft toy hauler and two slides. So we parked above and the view was spectacular. It’s an OHV riding area which my husband loved!! He rides!!! But for the purpose of an overnight it’s awesome!! I will put up pictures from our toy hauler deck
ScoutBest spot in my opinion if u have a car put stones underneath and I have a flat spot to sleep
GuideThe views for this campground are beautiful. Parking was easy and not busy in early June. The camp host was very nice. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire pit. Bathrooms are pretty close by. Showers are $3 and quarters only. Was slightly disingenuous the showers only lukewarm/cool water.
RangerMuch of the surrounding area cannot be camped on from March 15-July 15 to conserve the sage grouse habitat. This is available. It is a small, dirt, parking lot just outside a gate. We had the place to ourselves on May 30, 2026. The view to Crawford was great. No restrooms.
TravelerMost beautiful campground I have ever been to. We got here kind of late, and not many sites were open.
Camping near Ouray, Colorado provides access to the San Juan Mountains between 7,700 and 11,000 feet elevation. Temperatures typically drop 20-30 degrees at night, even in summer months, with afternoon thunderstorms common at higher elevations. Camping season runs primarily from late May through early October, with some sites maintaining winter operations.
Hiking the Perimeter Trail: Access this popular trail directly from Amphitheater Campground, which loops around Ouray's outer edge. "The campground has direct access to the Perimeter Trail, a scenic loop around Ouray, and other popular hikes like the Box Canyon Falls trail. You're also a short drive from town, where you can enjoy the famous hot springs or grab a meal," notes one visitor.
Fishing at small ponds: Ridgway State Park offers fishing opportunities in smaller water bodies. "There was 'lil walk down a hill to fishing in a creek and small pond from our campsite which is optimal for the fishing enthusiast," reports a camper, adding that the "nearby reservoir has space to have company over or host a party with amenities such as enough space and picnic tables."
Explore ghost towns: Visit abandoned mining structures near Alta Lakes Campground. "The ghost town comes before the campground and we did attempt to go to the campground but in one spot we couldn't see what was on the other side of our hood of our truck and chose to turn around," one camper explains. "You can't explore any of the buildings, at least not legally, but you can see them and experience what used to be."
Riverside locations: Many sites near Ouray sit alongside flowing water. At 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park, campers appreciate "creek side camping. The views are spectacular and the people are great," according to a review. The park sits "on the outskirts of Ouray, tucked into the base of the mountain (perimeter trail actually has an access point at the park)."
Mountain views from tent pads: Several campgrounds feature elevated tent sites. "Our site had steps leading to the tent pad which gave us wonderful views from the tent and won't flood during rain storms. Fire ring and picnic table was below the steps to the tent which allowed for anyone wanting to stay up later and not bother anyone trying to sleep," notes a visitor at Amphitheater Campground.
Cell service in unexpected places: Despite the remote mountain setting, connectivity exists in surprising locations. At Last Dollar Road, "I had good cell service too (working remotely). There are some larger dispersed campgrounds near the top trailhead that are more in the woods," reports one camper. Another confirms, "I have AT&T and had good coverage here."
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to many sites requires preparation. "The road to Alta can get rough after heavy rain and at the end of the season," warns one camper. Another notes for Last Dollar Road: "Road from Ridgeway was well maintained but definitely a little rocky getting closer to the top of the road. Road gets washed out in the rain so heads up."
Early arrival recommended: Popular sites fill quickly, especially in peak season. "This campground fills up quite quickly. We arrived relatively early, but were unable to find a site and it was just as well because we would have been hard pressed to find level ground for our overland tents without putting blocks on the ground," reports a visitor to Alta Lakes.
Weather extremes: Be prepared for rapid temperature changes. At County Road 14 (Dexter Creek Backcountry), campers report enjoying streamside camping, but advise having proper gear: "It got pretty chilly at night and rained most of the days." Alta Lakes visitors experienced "a lot of wind so we were at the top of the valley and the wind would just rush up and you could hear it coming."
Kid-friendly biking: Some campgrounds offer safe cycling for children. At Ridgway State Park, "There were kids riding bikes on paved walkways and some trails throughout the well maintained park. Nice waters @ the nearby reservoir." The park is "a great park for kids. I loved the activities, hikes, swimming and absolutely stunning views!"
Fishing ponds for young anglers: Several locations feature designated fishing areas for children. "The nearby park has a kids fishing pond with a sign that says you can rent gear," notes a visitor to Telluride Town Park Campground. Families appreciate the accessibility and convenience.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Wildlife sightings enhance family camping experiences. At Amphitheater Campground, one visitor had "deer in my camp site" while another "saw my first moose here. Reservations are key, and sites are more private on the lower loop and without RVs."
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in privacy and size. At Ouray Riverside Resort, "The downside is the sites are very close together. Some of the sites are a little larger so you would have a little more space. We had a picnic table and electric, sewer and water hookups."
Road access limitations: Many dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. "I have a truck that can pull 12,000lbs and my smallish travel trailer with water weighs 5500lbs. The roads are completely sketchy pulling a trailer," warns an RVer at Last Dollar Road. For Alta Lakes, numerous sources indicate high clearance is needed, though one camper notes "not the case as we passed a few Prius' making the climb up the road to this site."
Limited overflow parking: Plan accordingly when bringing multiple vehicles. One RVer at Ouray Riverside Resort notes "Small sites with little over flow parking" as a drawback, despite the "Great view of the mountains with river next to park. Walking trail along river into town from park, not a short walk though."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds near Ouray, Colorado?
The stunning Amphitheater Campground is considered one of the best options near Ouray, offering breathtaking views and excellent hiking trails that connect directly to the campground. Just 25 minutes from Ouray, Dakota Terraces Campground — Ridgway State Park provides clean facilities with bathroom and shower access in a beautiful setting. Other highly-rated options include Molas Lake Park & Campground with its incredible mountain setting, and several RV-friendly options like 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park which features creekside camping at the base of the mountains. Most campgrounds in the area offer spectacular views of the San Juan Mountains and provide convenient access to Ouray's hot springs, hiking trails, and off-road adventures.
Can I camp near Ouray Hot Springs?
Yes, you can camp conveniently close to Ouray Hot Springs. Ouray KOA Holiday offers an excellent location near town with easy access to the hot springs, plus amenities like cabins, tent sites, a playground, and a jump pad—making it ideal for families. 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park is another great option on the outskirts of Ouray, featuring clean bathrooms, free showers, and beautiful creekside camping with an access point to the perimeter trail. For those seeking more basic accommodations, Angel Creek Campground provides primitive camping just outside Ouray with vault toilets and the soothing sounds of the river nearby. Most camping options are within a short drive of the hot springs.
Is dispersed camping available around Ouray, Colorado?
Yes, dispersed camping is available in several areas around Ouray. Last Dollar Road offers spectacular dispersed camping with breathtaking views and multiple spots, both in open areas and among trees. The first week of June can be particularly beautiful here. Owl Creek Pass provides another dispersed option with beautiful aspen groves, flowing rivers, and mountain vistas, though it's important to verify that sites are officially open for camping. Additional dispersed camping can be found along County Road 14 in the Dexter Creek backcountry area. When dispersed camping, remember to follow Leave No Trace principles, camp in established sites only, and be prepared for minimal or no facilities. Most dispersed areas require high-clearance vehicles and are typically open from late spring through early fall, weather permitting.
Do I need reservations for camping in Ouray?
Reservations are highly recommended for camping in Ouray, especially during the peak summer season. Molas Lake Park & Campground fills up quickly, with campers booking months in advance to secure spots in this popular destination. Red Mountain RV Park is another option that tends to book up, particularly for those looking to recharge and use facilities after backcountry camping. Many campgrounds in the area, including Amphitheater Campground, have attentive hosts and well-maintained facilities but get busy during the summer months. For those without reservations, arriving mid-week and having backup plans is advisable. Some dispersed camping areas offer alternatives when developed campgrounds are full, but they too can fill up during peak season.
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