49mi from Nucla · 2 sites · Tents, RVs4WD Spirit Ranch is comprised of 35 acres of isolation in the lush green aspen forest, above the sage and juniper at 8800’. Somewhat hard to get to, up a bumpy road, it’s very private, quiet and green. Within 45 minutes to the city of Montrose, a day trip to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Ouray, the Cimarron's and the San Juan's. Spirit Ranch’s seclusion gives you respite from civilization. Soak in the peace. To access the property, you need some clearance, AWD or 4WD is recommended (something like a RAV4 or better).
Larger vehicles will probably touch some soft branches along the way. After a big rain, the road can be muddy and slick. Not a serious jeep trail, but definitely “off roady”. The last 1.4 miles is through a locked gate through private property. Camp host is only there 25% of the time, with only two sites, you are not likely to see anyone else. Each campsite is marked, has a fire ring and flat spots for tents. There is plenty of dead aspen to burn. One composting porta potty serves both sites. You will need to bring your own water and leave with your garbage. There is decent cell phone reception (Verizon), but with towers on top of Waterdog Mtn, other providers are likely.
Foot traffic to the top of Waterdog, from near the locked gate, is totally tolerated despite the signs. Blessed with the state’s finest top soil, it’s lush in a way most of the west can’t provide. A great place to play with a plant identification app, foragers will be thrilled with the amount of edible plants. Feel free to explore our 35 acres (property boundaries are not marked, the OnX app works great and comes with a free trial, our property is currently labeled as “Providence…”). Responsible firearm target practice is allowed. Wildlife is abundant. You’ll hear coyotes, see the scratches and tracks from mountain lions, scat and tracks from bear, elk, deer and free range cattle. Be careful with your pets.
