Portland Road Dispersed

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. The initial access, speaking, mainly about the short climb near the amphitheater entrance, would definitely be difficult to do without high clearance and four-wheel-drive. It just so happens that, I went for the first time at night while it was pouring rain so the slick rocks did not make it easier but I drive a Jeep Gladiator Mojave and if you drive anything similar, you shouldn’t have any issues. The views are spectacular and especially looking down into the town of Ouray.

It is a large spot on the side of the road you can pull in and sleep overnight.

It is a bit steep, but totally doable for my ford transit high roof extended.

Beautiful and secluded but a rough drive. Most definitely need a high clearance vehicle. We weren't able to make it to the top because there is a wash out in one area we could not clear with our 4Runner. But we did find an amazing spot anyway.

Great dispersed camping close to town with a decent number of spots that feel secluded, but people were NOT exaggerating about the road. I took my 4Runner up and spun in a few spots, though I also saw someone manage to get a teardrop up with some careful maneuvering. Overall great spot if you’re in Ouray with a vehicle that can handle some ruts

The previous reviews don't lie. 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 camped 4 nights (Wednesday-Sunday) and saw exactly 3 other vehicles. We also saw deer and/or fox every morning and night, which was super cool. There is a creek that is difficult to access but provides some ambient outdoor noise. There are probably 10-12 spots (maybe more?) and most are on the smaller size, but there are a few comparable for fitting several vehicles. It's close to town so our phones had perfect signal (T-Mobile) yet far enough away to be alone in the wilderness! Definitely 5 stars and we'll be back!

We camp here annually and access with a lifted Tacoma, definitely wouldn't recommend it for anything that isn't high clearance. This spot is so convenient for getting into town and to all the trails in the area.

It’s clean, not sure what people are talking about. Absolutely need high clearance 4wd. Torn up road from side by sides but worth the stretch.

There were plenty of dispersed camping sites along the trail however you’re not allowed to camp on the first 1/3 mile bc “humans left too much trash here.” So sad :(

The trail was super super rocky. I attempted it in my 2005 crv and dented so many things on the bottom. You NEED a high clearance vehicle.

If you can actually make it past the 1/3 mile there’s probably good camping up there. Too bad my car didn’t make it.

Humans ruining perfectly pristine camping bc they can’t pick up after themselves:/

Nice tent areas overlooking the small town of Ouray. Portland Rd is 4WD high clearance although we did see low clearance drivers take chances. There is a small lot at the bottom with limited parking yiu can park and haul your stuff up the road if you find a nearby area to pitch your tent.