The best ranch campgrounds near Telluride, Colorado

Looking to experience the rugged beauty of a ranch near Telluride, Colorado? Look no further than Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven, the premier camping website in the United States. With over 280 options specifically tailored to your ranch preference, Hipcamp has the perfect campsite for you. Whether you're looking to stay in a tipi at Bright Star Campground, pitch your tent at High Sage Hogans, or cozy up in a hogan at High Sage Hogans (137 reviews), Hipcamp has got you covered. With popular amenities like potable water, trash disposal, and pet-friendly sites, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, with activities like hiking, boating, and whitewater paddling nearby, you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore the stunning terrain. And with an average price per night of $45 and options as low as $20, camping has never been more affordable. So why wait? Start planning your ranch camping adventure with Hipcamp today!

95% (289)

Top-rated campgrounds near Telluride

Looking to experience the rugged beauty of a ranch near Telluride, Colorado? Look no further than Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven, the premier camping website in the United States. With over 280 options specifically tailored to your ranch preference, Hipcamp has the perfect campsite for you. Whether you're looking to stay in a tipi at Bright Star Campground, pitch your tent at High Sage Hogans, or cozy up in a hogan at High Sage Hogans (137 reviews), Hipcamp has got you covered. With popular amenities like potable water, trash disposal, and pet-friendly sites, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, with activities like hiking, boating, and whitewater paddling nearby, you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore the stunning terrain. And with an average price per night of $45 and options as low as $20, camping has never been more affordable. So why wait? Start planning your ranch camping adventure with Hipcamp today!

95% (289)

Top-rated campgrounds near Telluride

1. Hartwork Ranch

97%

(29)

12mi from Telluride · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Elk are in rut and you can hear them bugling from your campsite. The aspen groves are peaking and we’re surrounded by orange scrub oak for fall. Oh, we have views! You may have a campfire and we have free wood! We also have delicious duck eggs! A beautiful 40 acre ranch on Hastings Mesa with views of Alder Canyon and Hayden’s Peak. You can hear Alder Creek flowing through the canyon from the comfort of your campsite. Many nearby options for bicycling, hiking, kayaking and skiing in the area. Once you pull out the driveway you are a few minutes from Last Dollar Ranch Road (hike, bike, or 4x4) and about a 25 minute drive to Telluride, 30 minutes to Ridgway, and 30 minutes to Norwood. Just outside of Ridgway is Orvis Hot Springs, and more hot springs can be found in Ouray. The property offers access to Alder Creek and our beaver ponds down in the canyon. The fields are blanketed with Iris and clematis flowers in May and June and other wild flowers throughout the summer including pentstemon, larkspur, and wild roses. There are patches of scrub oak and fields with cinquefoil bushes in the camping areas, and as you go down in the canyon there’s aspen groves, blue spruce, and ponderosa pines. As mentioned before, we have delicious farm fresh duck eggs from our happy free-ranging ducks!

2. Lazy Rooster Ranch

97%

(104)

22mi from Telluride · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging

The ranch was the site of a sawmill in the early 1900s when the old Rio Grande Southern and Galloping Goose Railroads ran through the property along the Dolores River. All that’s left now is a little shack in the middle of the meadow and some remnants of the railroad tracks in the river. 

3. Animas River Valley red cliffs

95%

(129)

36mi from Telluride · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pitch your tent or park in the upper pasture and enjoy the view of the Animas Valley. Just 8 miles north of Durango off of the million dollar highway. Across the road from Honeyville and across the river from fun at the Bar D  Ranch or James Ranch Harvest Grille.  Durango Mountain Resort is just up the road.  Horses and cattle grazing in the pasture below and the apple trees and the honey bees are in full production this year.  No other view like it of the Mission Ridge red cliffs with the silhouettes and glow at sunset.  At night you may hear the Animas River below or some animal sounds. Name the constellations among the amazing view of the stars! Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or park in the "sloped" pasture and enjoy the view of the Animas Valley. Just 8 miles north of Durango off of the million dollar highway. Across the highway from Honeyville and across the river from fun at the Bar D  Ranch or James Ranch Harvest Grille.  Durango Mountain Resort is just up the road.  Horses and cattle grazing in the pasture below and the apple trees and the honey bees are in full production.  Mission Ridge red cliffs with the mysterious silhouettes and glow at sunset.  At night you may hear the Animas River below or some animal sounds. Name the constellations among the amazing view of the stars! Please provide what you will be driving and camping in, along with guesstimate of your arrival time for a quick booking response. Safe travels.  

4. Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins

96%

(88)

45mi from Telluride · 23 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: At the head waters of the Rio Grande River, Mineral County is 96% National Forest with 4.5M acres of National Forest lands surrounding us.  You can see the largest wilderness area in the United States from your camp site, at 9,000 ft. We are an outdoor enthusiast's playground. Wolf Creek ski area 'The Most Snow In Colorado'. Creede Repertory Theater rivals Off Broadway. We offer cabins, RV sites and Campsites at Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins. Please call our office or visit our website. RV Sites are NOT booked through hipcamp, they run $50-$60 nightly and can only be reserved through the Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins website.  We are 32728 hwy 149 Creede. 11 miles towards Lake City on hwy 149. Pull all through the Cabins and either turn left up the little hill camping anywhere, but keep the fire pit open for everyone. Or drive through the green gate past cabin #7 and camp in the pasture. Bathhouse is in the middle of the cabins. (No Bathhouse or water after September 15th.) Fire pit and picnic table are on the hill.  You can have dogs off leash anywhere away from the cabins and RV sites, just be careful as we have horses, we don't want the pup's getting kicked.  Let me know if you need anything. NO BATHHOUSE BETWEEN SEPT 15-JUNE 1 PRICE $30 BATHHOUSE AVAILABLE JUNE 1 - SEPTEMBER 14 Price $35 Dale, Anne, and Susan.

5. Happy Canyon Ranch

30mi from Telluride · 1 site · Lodging

Happy Canyon Ranch is a hidden gem perched on the Uncompahgre Plateau in western Colorado, a wild and peaceful land where nature speaks in silence and sky. The terrain is dotted with Utah junipers and fragrant sagebrush, forming a high desert tapestry that glows in golds and greens under the sun. Perched along the canyon’s edge are massive safari tents, offering rustic luxury with sweeping views. From your canvas porch, you can often spot golden eagles riding the canyon thermals, drifting effortlessly above the rock-strewn cliffs. At night, the sky opens up into a cathedral of stars—pure, unpolluted, and endless—where the Milky Way is so clear it feels like you could reach out and touch it. The air is clean and crisp, scented with pine, earth, and sage. And rising in the distance, like a sentinel watching over the land, is the majestic Mount Sneffels—a 14,000-foot peak that shimmers with snow in spring and glows amber at dusk. This is not just a place. It’s an experience of stillness, scale, and sacred space. Happy Canyon Ranch is where the wild meets the soul.

6. Riverside Glamping Retreat

83%

(3)

39mi from Telluride · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Looking for an epic camping spot with easy access to both the outdoors and some local adventure? This tent site in the Animas Valley, right on the banks of the Animas River, is perfect for you. Imagine waking up to the sight of elk or mule deer casually grazing nearby while red-tailed hawks cruise the skies. It’s super chill and ideal for anyone who loves wildlife. But that’s just the start—you're also a quick drive from Durango’s cool local scene and all the hiking, biking, and exploring the San Juan Mountains have to offer. Spend your days hitting the trails, rafting the river, or checking out Durango’s breweries and cafes, then come back to relax by your campfire under the stars. It’s the perfect mix of wild and town vibes!

7. Hideaway

39mi from Telluride · 1 site · Lodging

Welcome to Hideaway Ranch, a one-of-a-kind retreat in Crawford County nestled in a canyon, perfect for yoga, family trips, corporate off-sites, or creative escapes. Perched above Morrow Point Reservoir, this 4-bedroom, 2-bath home (sleeps 11) offers 50-mile panoramic views of 14,000-ft peaks with total seclusion. Built in 2023, the property features an open living space, master suite, loft bedroom, covered patio, Wi-Fi, solar power, and modern comforts, offering the perfect blend of nature and privacy. Stay comfortably at this 4-bedroom house, which includes a full bed perfect for a good night’s sleep. Amenities such as AC, a fitness room, and a jetted bathtub allow guests to relax and unwind. This inviting property provides a soothing atmosphere, ideal for a memorable getaway. Hosts are available to answer any questions during your stay. All prices include fees — no hidden charges.

8. Ribbit Retreat

86%

(7)

49mi from Telluride · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

9. Dolores River Rim Camp

100%

(2)

51mi from Telluride · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to our high desert hideaway in Southwest Colorado with some of the best views the Four Corners has to offer! Expect warm summer days, cool nights, and some of the best sunrises and sunsets! Starry nights most of the year. The property include a spacious cabin and several dry camping site dispersed throughout the property. For the dry camping sites we keep things simple—this is rustic, off-grid camping, so come prepared with your own water and supplies. Wide open spaces with mountain views in every direction. Rolling hills and shallow canyons dotted with juniper, oak brush, pine, and sagebrush. Wildlife, including elk and deer, can be found wandering through the property. With thousands of acres for you to explore, this is the perfect destination for hiking, biking, foraging, birdwatching, wildlife photography, stargazing, and soaking in the beauty of nature. You can also explore local history including Lowry Pueblo, a fascinating ancient Ancestral Pueblo ruin, just 16 miles down the road. We’re happy to share this peaceful corner of our family ranch with you and hope you’ll love it as much as we do! Let us know if you have any questions—we’re happy to help you plan your stay!

10. Basecamp 550

93%

(7)

14mi from Telluride · 2 sites

This little campground was originally developed in the 1970s but the Weber Ranchers.  It was built with small sites and big views in mind. We're giving this old campground a facelift little by little and adding unique lodging options for our guests. Hope you enjoy!

Camper favorites near Telluride

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins

96%

(88)

45mi from Telluride · 23 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: At the head waters of the Rio Grande River, Mineral County is 96% National Forest with 4.5M acres of National Forest lands surrounding us.  You can see the largest wilderness area in the United States from your camp site, at 9,000 ft. We are an outdoor enthusiast's playground. Wolf Creek ski area 'The Most Snow In Colorado'. Creede Repertory Theater rivals Off Broadway. We offer cabins, RV sites and Campsites at Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins. Please call our office or visit our website. RV Sites are NOT booked through hipcamp, they run $50-$60 nightly and can only be reserved through the Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins website.  We are 32728 hwy 149 Creede. 11 miles towards Lake City on hwy 149. Pull all through the Cabins and either turn left up the little hill camping anywhere, but keep the fire pit open for everyone. Or drive through the green gate past cabin #7 and camp in the pasture. Bathhouse is in the middle of the cabins. (No Bathhouse or water after September 15th.) Fire pit and picnic table are on the hill.  You can have dogs off leash anywhere away from the cabins and RV sites, just be careful as we have horses, we don't want the pup's getting kicked.  Let me know if you need anything. NO BATHHOUSE BETWEEN SEPT 15-JUNE 1 PRICE $30 BATHHOUSE AVAILABLE JUNE 1 - SEPTEMBER 14 Price $35 Dale, Anne, and Susan.

Happy Canyon Ranch

30mi from Telluride · 1 site · Lodging

Happy Canyon Ranch is a hidden gem perched on the Uncompahgre Plateau in western Colorado, a wild and peaceful land where nature speaks in silence and sky. The terrain is dotted with Utah junipers and fragrant sagebrush, forming a high desert tapestry that glows in golds and greens under the sun. Perched along the canyon’s edge are massive safari tents, offering rustic luxury with sweeping views. From your canvas porch, you can often spot golden eagles riding the canyon thermals, drifting effortlessly above the rock-strewn cliffs. At night, the sky opens up into a cathedral of stars—pure, unpolluted, and endless—where the Milky Way is so clear it feels like you could reach out and touch it. The air is clean and crisp, scented with pine, earth, and sage. And rising in the distance, like a sentinel watching over the land, is the majestic Mount Sneffels—a 14,000-foot peak that shimmers with snow in spring and glows amber at dusk. This is not just a place. It’s an experience of stillness, scale, and sacred space. Happy Canyon Ranch is where the wild meets the soul.

Riverside Glamping Retreat

83%

(3)

39mi from Telluride · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Looking for an epic camping spot with easy access to both the outdoors and some local adventure? This tent site in the Animas Valley, right on the banks of the Animas River, is perfect for you. Imagine waking up to the sight of elk or mule deer casually grazing nearby while red-tailed hawks cruise the skies. It’s super chill and ideal for anyone who loves wildlife. But that’s just the start—you're also a quick drive from Durango’s cool local scene and all the hiking, biking, and exploring the San Juan Mountains have to offer. Spend your days hitting the trails, rafting the river, or checking out Durango’s breweries and cafes, then come back to relax by your campfire under the stars. It’s the perfect mix of wild and town vibes!

Hideaway

39mi from Telluride · 1 site · Lodging

Welcome to Hideaway Ranch, a one-of-a-kind retreat in Crawford County nestled in a canyon, perfect for yoga, family trips, corporate off-sites, or creative escapes. Perched above Morrow Point Reservoir, this 4-bedroom, 2-bath home (sleeps 11) offers 50-mile panoramic views of 14,000-ft peaks with total seclusion. Built in 2023, the property features an open living space, master suite, loft bedroom, covered patio, Wi-Fi, solar power, and modern comforts, offering the perfect blend of nature and privacy. Stay comfortably at this 4-bedroom house, which includes a full bed perfect for a good night’s sleep. Amenities such as AC, a fitness room, and a jetted bathtub allow guests to relax and unwind. This inviting property provides a soothing atmosphere, ideal for a memorable getaway. Hosts are available to answer any questions during your stay. All prices include fees — no hidden charges.

Ribbit Retreat

86%

(7)

49mi from Telluride · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

Dolores River Rim Camp

100%

(2)

51mi from Telluride · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to our high desert hideaway in Southwest Colorado with some of the best views the Four Corners has to offer! Expect warm summer days, cool nights, and some of the best sunrises and sunsets! Starry nights most of the year. The property include a spacious cabin and several dry camping site dispersed throughout the property. For the dry camping sites we keep things simple—this is rustic, off-grid camping, so come prepared with your own water and supplies. Wide open spaces with mountain views in every direction. Rolling hills and shallow canyons dotted with juniper, oak brush, pine, and sagebrush. Wildlife, including elk and deer, can be found wandering through the property. With thousands of acres for you to explore, this is the perfect destination for hiking, biking, foraging, birdwatching, wildlife photography, stargazing, and soaking in the beauty of nature. You can also explore local history including Lowry Pueblo, a fascinating ancient Ancestral Pueblo ruin, just 16 miles down the road. We’re happy to share this peaceful corner of our family ranch with you and hope you’ll love it as much as we do! Let us know if you have any questions—we’re happy to help you plan your stay!

Basecamp 550

93%

(7)

14mi from Telluride · 2 sites

This little campground was originally developed in the 1970s but the Weber Ranchers.  It was built with small sites and big views in mind. We're giving this old campground a facelift little by little and adding unique lodging options for our guests. Hope you enjoy!

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

C

Christine

October 2025

Tent

4 nights at Animas River Valley red cliffs

We loved staying on Melinda's land! It was pouring rain from a freak storm and she generously allowed us to use her mudroom and her addition downstairs. Genuinely, she saved our trip. She had great recommendations on things to do in the area and was available and communicative. I could not ask for a better host,

T

Tammy

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Animas River Valley red cliffs

We love camping at Melinda’s. Beautiful views, gracious host and close to hiking trails and Durango. This was our 2nd time there and we’ll be back our next time through Colorado.

S

San

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hartwork Ranch

Easy to find using coordinates on google maps. Great spot near telluride and San Miguel river. Would book again

D

Doran

October 2025

19 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Hartwork Ranch

The scenery was beautiful and the host was very communicative. But, these sites are not meant for 20' campers. Very tight lots of half buried pointy rocks and if the weather isn't perfect the road in and out is sketchy at best. It would be fine for tear drop, pop up or even tent camping however.

B

Benjj

October 2025

16 ft car

With kids

1 night at Hartwork Ranch

Great view. Great Host. Would recommend. Definitely will be back next time I’m in Telluride.

Kayla

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lazy Rooster Ranch

Amazing A frame. Had a nice outside kitchen! Even a toilet on site. Right next to the creek and the sounds and views were beautiful. Will definitely be back!

Claire

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Hartwork Ranch

This was an excellent campsite with a wonderful view. Secluded. Well kept. The option to buy a half dozen duck eggs for breakfast in the morning was awesome! Great hospitality. This was my first HipCamp experience and it left a great impression on me

Ray

August 2025

Tent

4 nights at Hartwork Ranch

Gorgeous spot, made for a great nights sleep after days adventuring around the area and hitting some trails! Highly recommend, loved the area and the people, felt incredibly welcomed and had a blast.

K

Katie

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Hartwork Ranch

We loved our stay here! It’s such a beautiful property and the hosts are great. I definitely recommend staying here!

Jeff

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Lazy Rooster Ranch

This place is very beautiful! The hosts were very kind and helpful. It is a very peaceful place and not too far from Telluride. I drained my car battery on accident and they gave me a jump in the morning! Next time I am in the area I will definitely go back!

J

Julie

August 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins

The site was gorgeous, with plenty to do nearby, but what really stood out to me was the camp hosts. I was struggling with my equipment and the hosts helped me get everything set up for a comfortable stay. It brought good stay to a great stay and I was so grateful! Surrounded by views more gorgeous than I ever could have imagined, it was nice to have people equally fantastic!

Myke

August 2025

16 ft car

6 nights at Hartwork Ranch

Mary was a lovely host & the property was gorgeous. Quiet & serene; Mary also gave us some delicious duck eggs!

Looking back up the hill at the fire pit area

Nina

August 2025

Tent

6 nights at Hartwork Ranch

I was in CO for a festival in Telluride and this spot was the perfect antidote to the busyness of town. It was heaven to wake up every morning and look out at the view and see deer and butterflies. When I arrived Mary gifted me duck eggs and they were delicious fried up for breakfast! She was a great host and easy to communicate with. I felt safe camping alone as a woman. The roads in, especially the last little bit, are steep and rough. I was grateful for my truck. I would definitely camp here again if I’m ever in the area.

B

Bruce

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hartwork Ranch

After a short rough road, this campsite turned out to be all I hoped for. It had a good spot for the tent and a safe fire pit with access to free wood for a campfire. Nice views.

K

Kara

August 2025

Tent

7 nights at Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins

We camped with Bristol last week & had a fabulous time! The mountains were stunning, the staff were helpful & friendly, it was everything we needed to get away for a bit! Creed & Lake City are great places to explore! We would definitely stay here again!!!

B

Brent

August 2025

Tent

With pets

5 nights at Hartwork Ranch

This was the perfect getaway. We love off-roading and enjoy nature at its finest. From sunset to sunrise, we love spending our time here. Mary is lovely, respectful and informative. Directions and landmarks were clear and fun to follow. Recommend highly, more than likely to return!

K

Kyrie

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Hartwork Ranch

What a wonderful experience!! The directions were very helpful, super fun for those who love off roading. The campsites marked beautifully, the wildlife is plentiful. Our host was lovely and respectful. There are many little holes all around so be careful, a little fun obstacle course haha. LOVE ALL THE BEES! Save the bees! However, take precautions for anyone with bee allergies. Overall, a fantastic experience! I hope all hipcamp experiences are like this gem!