The best desert campgrounds near Silverton, Colorado

Looking to camp near Silverton, Colorado and explore the desert terrain? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 720 options available near Silverton, Colorado with desert terrain, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your adventure. And with prices ranging from as low as $15 to an average of $40 per night, there's something for every budget. Check out top campsites like Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven (245 reviews), The Views at Gateway (243 reviews), and Bright Star Campground (211 reviews) for a great camping experience. Enjoy popular amenities like potable water, campfires, and trash services, while engaging in activities such as snow sports, horseback riding, and surfing. Happy camping!

96% (35)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to camp near Silverton, Colorado and explore the desert terrain? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 720 options available near Silverton, Colorado with desert terrain, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your adventure. And with prices ranging from as low as $15 to an average of $40 per night, there's something for every budget. Check out top campsites like Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven (245 reviews), The Views at Gateway (243 reviews), and Bright Star Campground (211 reviews) for a great camping experience. Enjoy popular amenities like potable water, campfires, and trash services, while engaging in activities such as snow sports, horseback riding, and surfing. Happy camping!

96% (35)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Art Shack A Tiny Glamping Cabin

100%

(7)

49mi from Silverton · 1 site · Lodging · Hesperus, CO

We are in the rural area between Hesperus, Durango, and Mancos - An easy drive to Durango and its thrift shops, restaurants, galleries, cafes, Animas River and River Trail, and hiking and biking trails. Mancos is filled with art galleries, a wonderful bakery and cafe, beauty, and endless trails. Also within driving distance are Phil's World, Cortez, Sand Canyon, the beautiful La Plata Canyon, Mesa Verde National Park, Lake NIghthorse, and more! There are endless hiking and biking trails within driving distance of the property. Cross country skiing and snowshoeing abound and alpine skiing at Purgatory Ski Resort are popular winter activities. The views of the La Platas and Sleeping Ute are ever changing, awe inspiring, and constant from the deck of The Art Shack. On the property are cats, two dogs, two equines (you will hear our burro braying). Our neighbors have yaks, cattle, goats, sheep, dogs, horses, poultry, and other farm animals. You will also see the wild critters that inhabit our corner of La Plata County. You are welcome to wander our property beyond the Big Stick Ditch but do not go into the pasture with our burro or enter any of the out buildings. Park within steps of the Art Shack, cross the foot bridge over the bubbling irrigation ditch, and you have arrived! Please remove your shoes before entering! There is electricity, a queen bed, rustic chairs inside, an outdoor table and chairs, a composting toilet, a coffee machine, and purified drinking water for your use. An electric heater is supplied during winter months. There is no air conditioning. We are available if needed (unless we are out of town adventuring) but will not expect to interact with you as you relax. No dogs are allowed - 2 people max - No smoking of lit substances inside The Art Shack. Please remove your shoes before entering The Art Shack!

2. Ribbit Retreat

86%

(7)

40mi from Silverton · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Durango, CO

Scenic RV Parking & Outdoor Adventure in Southwest Colorado Welcome to our open-field RV site in beautiful Durango, Colorado! Located at Toad Road, our property offers a convenient and peaceful spot to park your rig while you explore the stunning landscapes of La Plata County and beyond. Amenities & Features: ✔️ Electrical hookups available ✔️ Spacious open field with easy access for cars of all sizes and RVs ✔️ 5+ acres, 2 new Eno hammocks! ✔️ Perfect for short stays while visiting Durango, Mesa Verde, San Juan National Forest, and more We welcome outdoor enthusiasts, but please be respectful of our neighbors and keep noise levels reasonable. No hunting allowed on site. Whether you're here for adventure, sightseeing, or a relaxing stop along your journey, this is a great place to set up for a few nights. Book your stay and enjoy all that Southwest Colorado has to offer!

3. A Colorado Trail Gem

36mi from Silverton · 1 site · RV · Durango, CO

Just a place to park for the night. Gravel pad with plenty of room to turn around. Potable water available upon requests. A single electrical cord can be run to the site No electric hook up/no rv dump/no bathroom

4. San Juan National Forest

97%

(41)

696 sites · Rico, Colorado

Hike through the rugged wilderness or take a scenic drive in this expansive national forest.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

5. Uncompahgre National Forest

85%

(23)

228 sites · Ophir, Colorado

Head to wild western Colorado to truly get away from it all.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

6. Modern Nomad

33mi from Silverton · 1 site · Tent, RV · Durango, CO

Welcome to your peaceful, private RV getaway on County Road 250, one of Durango’s most scenic and iconic byways. This covered RV site sits beneath a spacious pole barn with protection from sun, snow, and weather—perfect for year-round stays. Located just 12 minutes from downtown Durango, 8 minutes from the hot springs, and 20 minutes from Purgatory Ski Resort, this spot gives you the best of mountain adventure with the quiet comfort of rural living. 🌄 Site Amenities ✔ Covered RV Parking (Pole Barn Shelter) – ideal for all seasons ✔ Electrical Hookup – 30/50 amp available (specify if you want) ✔ Water Access – fill your tank onsite (no direct sewer hookup) ✔ Solo Stove Smokeless Fire Pit – perfect for evenings under the stars ✔ Picnic Table + Outdoor Chairs – relax and enjoy the mountain views ✔ Porta Potty On-Site – clean, private, and maintained ✔ Gravel base – level parking, easy access ✔ Beautiful rural property – quiet, safe, and private ⸻ 🏔 Close to Everything You’re right in the heart of Durango’s outdoor playground: • 8 minutes → Durango Hot Springs • 12 minutes → Downtown Durango (restaurants, shops, Animas River) • 20 minutes → Purgatory Ski Resort • 2 minutes → Mountain biking + trail access • Nearby → Hiking, fishing, rafting, wildlife viewing • On County Road 250 → One of the most scenic roads in Southwest Colorado Whether you’re here to ski, soak, bike, hike, or just unwind, this spot puts you close to everything while giving you the peace of country living.

7. Dry RV site w/ Views of Mesa Verde

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(30)

49mi from Silverton · 1 site · RV · Mancos, CO

Learn more about this land: **You MUST have your own self contained RV with a restroom!! Sorry, NO TENTS! Please include a description of your RV setup in your booking request!** Nestled on seven acres of former ranch land, and enjoy a relatively level RV site (pull in or back in) with views of Mesa Verde, the La Plata Mountains, and the shade of mature juniper trees. Feel far from everything while only a few miles from town.  Enjoy the starry skies, the company of wandering mule deer, and the sound of coyotes conversing with one another.  At 7,000' above sea level, in the high desert of SW Colorado, we get over 250 sunny days a year, big beautiful snows in winter (and sometimes as late as June), and monsoon rains in late summer.  Spring can be cool and windy, but you'll experience the reawakening of the plants, the lowing of mother cows and their calves on nearby ranches, and maybe even a blooming prickly pear or two! In the heart of the Mancos River Valley, you'll find yourself at the perfect basecamp for all that the area has to offer! It's just 15 minutes to the entrance gate at Mesa Verde National Park, designated in April of 2021 as the 100th Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association. Take a scenic two mile drive to historic Downtown Mancos, to find art, dining, and fun. Historic Mancos, known for its thriving creative district, is the home of the The Raven House Gallery, The Artisans of Mancos Co-op, The Painted Turtle Gallery, Bombdiggity, and Kilgore American Indian Art. Downtown Mancos is also home to dining options from local food trucks to fine dining. Fenceline Cidery and their delightful riverside cider garden host a variety of local food trucks on a rotating basis Family friendly eats are always on the menu at the Columbine Bar & Grill. Deco Dessert, offers something for your sweet tooth with homemade ice cream, artisan chocolates, and cakes. Just across Hwy 160, you can enjoy craft beer, delicious locally sourced food, and a variety of fun events, including live local music, weekly triviaat Mancos Brewing Company. The long anticipated, Boathouse on Grand will open in Summer 2023 with fine dining fare. We even have a little bit of nightlife at the newly opened El Rio Cantina, featuring creative tequila cocktails. Other downtown offerings include locally roasted coffee at Fahrenheit Coffee Roasters, and an incredible variety of baked goods and delightful breakfast and lunch options.  Grab take out and sit at a picnic table by the Mancos River or in the park across the street or enjoy their dining area featuring local art.  Be sure to also check out local artists' work in the art vending machines at Fahrenheit Coffee Roasters and Fenceline Cider! Beyond downtown, you'll find easy access to Mancos State Park, mountain biking at Phil's World, Aqueduct, and the Boggy Draw trail systems, paddling at Summit Lake, paddling and boating at McPhee Reservoir, the 88 mile Canyon of the Ancients Scenic Drive, and miles of hiking and off-roading trails in the San Juan National Forest. Or head just 40 minutes into Durango for a ride on the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a run on the rapids of the Animas River, or a powder day at Purgatory (resort an hour from the site). If you want to venture further afield, Telluride, Moab, Monument Valley, and Arches and Canyonlands National Parks are all within 2.5 hours. Or take a drive along the San Juan Skyway scenic byway to see the best of Colorado's Western Slope including Silverton and Ouray. Your hosts are avid outdoor enthusiasts who can give you the details (and loan you some maps and guidebooks) on all of the great things that await you at our little slice of southwest Colorado!

8. Sunset Ridge

42mi from Silverton · 1 site · Tent, RV · Cimarron, CO

Welcome to Sunset Ridge — your basecamp for adventure, sunsets, and Colorado mountain magic! Tucked away on the ruggedly beautiful Western Slope, our rustic mountain campsite offers panoramic sunset views, crackling campfires*, and easy access to the wild outdoors. Whether you're chasing adrenaline or soaking in the scenery, we've got you covered: 🛻 Four-wheel across scenic trails and roadways, 🥾 Hike to jaw-dropping overlooks on nearby popular trails, 🎣 Cast a line in peaceful fishing spots, 🎶 Enjoy live music, drinks and food under the stars at the local lodge. ...and that’s just the start. We’re a scenic drive from two classic Western Slope mountain towns—both offering hot springs, local eateries, charming shops, and even a nostalgic drive-in theater for the perfect nightcap. At Sunset Ridge, you can rise with the sun and the sound of birdsong, bugling elk, or grazing sheep, explore untamed Colorado by day, and unwind beside the fire* while the sky erupts in color followed by a nightlight of stars from above. Whether you're pitching a tent or pulling up in your rig, this is your place to unplug, unwind, and explore. *Availability is based on local fire restrictions, which are often in place during peak summer months.

Public campgrounds near Silverton

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South Mineral Campground

6mi from Silverton · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

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Alta Lakes Campground

12mi from Silverton · 16 sites · in Uncompahgre National Forest

67%

(3)

Matterhorn Campground

12mi from Silverton · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Matterhorn Cabin

12mi from Silverton · 1 site · in Uncompahgre National Forest

EarthRoamers descending Last Dollar Road towards Telluride, CO

Sunshine Campground - Norwood

13mi from Silverton · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Campsite #9 - 100 yards off road, behind #10, very private and quiet. Loved this spot.

88%

(4)

Amphitheatre Campground

15mi from Silverton · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Sig Creek Campground

17mi from Silverton · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

Cayton Campground

17mi from Silverton · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

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Haviland Lake Campground

21mi from Silverton · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

Chris Park Campground

22mi from Silverton · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

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(2)

Woods Lake Campground - Norwood

22mi from Silverton · 46 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Taken slightly upriver from the campsites, just magnificent!

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(2)

Vallecito Campground

24mi from Silverton · 36 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

Stories from the community

covered table is a perfect spot for morning joe

Tasmia

September 2025

1 night at The Art Shack A Tiny Glamping Cabin

I loved my night at Gretchen's property. I was only there for a short time but Gretchen and her pups were very welcoming and the shack was the perfect place to rest for a night before a long drive. Had everything needed for a short stay :)

T

Teyanna

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The Art Shack A Tiny Glamping Cabin

Such a great spot!! I would use Maps for directions instead of google maps once you get close because it took us to the neighbors house instead😄

Audrie

August 2025

Weekend Trip to The Art Shack A Tiny Glamping Cabin

The art shack is a great spot. The view is gorgeous and even though the temperature got up to 87 it was nice a cool as the shack is in a small group of pine and popular trees. Even if it had been too hot Gretchen provided a cooler with a fan. There's a swing out front that was lovely to sway on while I watched the sunset. It was beautiful and peaceful. In distance you can hear some cows mooing and an occasional donkey song. Everything you want in a weekend away.

Gregory

July 2025

2 nights at The Art Shack A Tiny Glamping Cabin

The Art Shack was delightful. The hosts Gretchen and Andre were wonderful hosts. Just large enough to fit a bed and a few chairs... Internet worked great... They had a 5 gallon jug artfully propped up for easy access to water... The composting toilet was the best, clean, creative and scented of cedar. The view from the cedar throne was of the vast expanse of Colorado ranch land with Mesa Verde looming. One warm night , I truly enjoyed sleeping in my bag on the porch... The Vast Silence, the cool air and the Stars were the Stuff of Dreams. We went swimming in nearby lakes, so a shower was not necessary. It was a pleasure taking the back roads to Durango and Mancos. Beauty everywhere in every direction. I know that The Art Shack is just going to get better with our every stay. :-) Greg and Roberta

Nastasia

July 2025

1 night at The Art Shack A Tiny Glamping Cabin

My partner and I ADORED our stay at the Art Shack! Pictures don't do it justice! The property is so quiet and peaceful, with stunning views of the farm and mountains. We found the shack very cozy and had no trouble sleeping. We loved interacting with the friendly farm animals next door. I highly recommend this property for a unique and beautiful stay, and hope to return someday!

Spencer

July 2025

21 ft campervan

1 night at Ribbit Retreat

Great spot just outside of Durango. Comms from the host were excellent. Easy to find. Power hook up was a real plus, and clear sky views for Starlink. There is a house on the other side of the fence but felt private and quiet. Saw wildlife running in the bush. The road coming in is quite convex so if you have low clearance be careful.

Jennifer

June 2025

Tent

With pets

5 nights at Ribbit Retreat

Great site close enough to activities of Durango but far enough that you get the mellowness of being in nature. We had deer visit and saw a coyote in the distance which was super cool. Our dogs loved being able to be off leash but make sure you have them under good voice control because there is wildlife. The host was super responsive and communicated well. We didn't need any of the hook ups so stayed in a nice treed area to keep cool when it got warm. Would definitely stay again.

Site 2. Rigs longer than 55-60' (when connected) might have trouble unhooking due to the slope

S

Shannon

May 2025

35 ft fifth wheel

With pets

6 nights at Ribbit Retreat

A very peaceful property within 12 minutes of Walmart and 15 minutes of historic downtown Durango. We enjoyed watching the deer and elk wander by in the evenings. We stayed in site 2 in a 35' fifth-wheel with slides on both sides. Of the 2 sites, site 1 is the longer of the 2 sites and 24' feet wide. It looked pretty level side to side with a little bit of a downhill grade (front to back). There is about 6' between the power pole and the fence, so plenty of room to walk around the backside of your rig. Site 2 is also 20'+ wide, but shorter due to a steep drop at the front of the site and required a little bit of levelling side-to-side (1 block under the tires).

A

Ashley

May 2025

1 night at The Art Shack A Tiny Glamping Cabin

We had a great stay at the Art Shack! The lodging is super cute and unique and the setting is very pretty