Camping in Silverton, CO, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

United States
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Colorado
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Silverton

95% (770 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Silverton

Star Hosts in Silverton

Top camping destinations

This was taken (with a 400mm lens) in the parking lot at the store below the campground. The sand dunes sit on the west edge of the Sangre de Cristo mountains and so see some pretty awesome sunsets.

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Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(10)

The Sundance Ridge - Telluride

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Sawpit, CO

"The most incredible views in Colorado" Perched on the edge of a 2,000 ft canyon, surrounded by an aspen grove and jagged peaks, there is no equal. In the beautiful Aspen grove and next to the ridge with canyon and mountain views. This is probably one of the most beautiful camp sites in all of Colorado. Hike on the property, especially the Ridge Hike" that goes along the ridge, featuring rock outcroppings and jaw-dropping views. Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kids camped out on the property before and after he robbed his first bank, which is still located in Telluride. This is where the name comes from. Please clean up after your pet and yourself. If there is dog or human waste of any kind of trash left behind, there will be a fee added to your reservation. Help keep the place pristine 😊

99%

(36)

Mount Hayden Backcountry Lodge

2 sites · Lodging35 acres · Ouray, CO

This property came to me through a family connection and we are thrilled to share it with others. In the spring you ski or hike to the property from Camp Bird Road. Spring skiing or snow shoeing is spectacular. The road to the property is open late June or early July through October and is real 4WD or you can hike or bike in. There are many incredible waterfalls on site. The summer months bring wildflowers galore and lots of wildlife, along with great hiking on the surrounding 13 and 14 thousand foot peaks. Ouray and all of it's amenities are a quick seven miles away. Learn more about this land: This listing is for a new lodge Remote, pristine with full amenities and two gourmet meals each day included. The Mount Hayden Backcountry Lodge is located at 11,200 ft. in Richmond Basin off of the Imogene Pass jeep trail between Ouray and Telluride, Colorado. Situated in a gorgeous forest the lodge provides comfort and full amenities. There are two private rooms and two partitioned bunk spaces as well. There is cell and internet. The conventional plumbing can even deliver a hot shower with amazing spring water. Bring your own sheet and pillowcase or sleeping bag but there are plenty of blankets here. Hike, bike or drive off road ready, high clearance 4WD in from Camp Bird (required). All dietary needs can be accommodated. You won't believe the wood fired hot tub! Do not attempt to arrive here using a navigations app!

Animas River Valley red cliffs

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Durango, CO

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.

Magical Mountains

1 site · RV1 acre · Silverton, CO

Located at an impressive elevation of 9318 feet, our dirt lot sits in the heart of Silverton, offering unparalleled access to outdoor adventures. Silverton serves as the drop-off and pick-up point for the iconic Durango/Silverton Railroad, adding to the area's charm. Just a short walk from town and conveniently positioned one block away from the OHV route, our location is ideal for exploring all that Silverton has to offer. For a wealth of information about the area, feel free to click on the following link: https://www.colorado.com/cities-and-towns/silverton Additionally, we provide electric hookups for your convenience, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst the stunning scenery of Silverton.

Pine Ridge Botanical Sanctuary

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Ridgway, CO

This handsome Earthwork's tipi is situated in a private location amidst a lovely Ponderosa pine grove on the West side of the Uncompaghre river valley. Abundant birds fill the forest with their song and the tipi deck is a great perch for watching them flit through the forest. The land is just 10 minutes from Ridgway or ten minutes to Ouray (by car). The tipi sits on an elevated deck to provide a flat, dry space and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. It is comfortably appointed with a memory foam pad atop a futon bed with clean sheets and cozy blankets. There's a propane cook stove, a picnic table, a few lounge chairs and fresh drinking water. Cheery solar-powered fairy lights make it easy to see inside at night and the shady hammock spot should not be missed for those seeking a blissful afternoon nap. Guests are most welcome to use the private, indoor, 3/4 bathroom in the apothecary shop at the main house on the property. A 2 minute walk along a nature trail from the tipi gets you there. Towels and toiletries are not provided. There are over 80 varieties of medicinal plants growing on the property. Some are in formal and informal gardens, others in the greenhouse and others grow wild in the forest. A comprehensive line of botanical products are created in the Apothecary on site. Tours are available by appointment. (970) 708-0236 Activities close by include: hiking trails within minutes of the land, rock climbing in Ridgway and Ouray, a via ferrata, the box canyon waterfall and hot springs are all just ten minutes away.

12 top campgrounds near Silverton

Magical Mountains

1 site · RV1 acre · Silverton, CO

Located at an impressive elevation of 9318 feet, our dirt lot sits in the heart of Silverton, offering unparalleled access to outdoor adventures. Silverton serves as the drop-off and pick-up point for the iconic Durango/Silverton Railroad, adding to the area's charm. Just a short walk from town and conveniently positioned one block away from the OHV route, our location is ideal for exploring all that Silverton has to offer. For a wealth of information about the area, feel free to click on the following link: https://www.colorado.com/cities-and-towns/silverton Additionally, we provide electric hookups for your convenience, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst the stunning scenery of Silverton.

Pine Ridge Botanical Sanctuary

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Ridgway, CO

This handsome Earthwork's tipi is situated in a private location amidst a lovely Ponderosa pine grove on the West side of the Uncompaghre river valley. Abundant birds fill the forest with their song and the tipi deck is a great perch for watching them flit through the forest. The land is just 10 minutes from Ridgway or ten minutes to Ouray (by car). The tipi sits on an elevated deck to provide a flat, dry space and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. It is comfortably appointed with a memory foam pad atop a futon bed with clean sheets and cozy blankets. There's a propane cook stove, a picnic table, a few lounge chairs and fresh drinking water. Cheery solar-powered fairy lights make it easy to see inside at night and the shady hammock spot should not be missed for those seeking a blissful afternoon nap. Guests are most welcome to use the private, indoor, 3/4 bathroom in the apothecary shop at the main house on the property. A 2 minute walk along a nature trail from the tipi gets you there. Towels and toiletries are not provided. There are over 80 varieties of medicinal plants growing on the property. Some are in formal and informal gardens, others in the greenhouse and others grow wild in the forest. A comprehensive line of botanical products are created in the Apothecary on site. Tours are available by appointment. (970) 708-0236 Activities close by include: hiking trails within minutes of the land, rock climbing in Ridgway and Ouray, a via ferrata, the box canyon waterfall and hot springs are all just ten minutes away.

The Sundance Ridge - Telluride

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Sawpit, CO

"The most incredible views in Colorado" Perched on the edge of a 2,000 ft canyon, surrounded by an aspen grove and jagged peaks, there is no equal. In the beautiful Aspen grove and next to the ridge with canyon and mountain views. This is probably one of the most beautiful camp sites in all of Colorado. Hike on the property, especially the Ridge Hike" that goes along the ridge, featuring rock outcroppings and jaw-dropping views. Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kids camped out on the property before and after he robbed his first bank, which is still located in Telluride. This is where the name comes from. Please clean up after your pet and yourself. If there is dog or human waste of any kind of trash left behind, there will be a fee added to your reservation. Help keep the place pristine 😊

Animas River Valley red cliffs

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Durango, CO

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.

Mount Hayden Backcountry Lodge

2 sites · Lodging35 acres · Ouray, CO

This property came to me through a family connection and we are thrilled to share it with others. In the spring you ski or hike to the property from Camp Bird Road. Spring skiing or snow shoeing is spectacular. The road to the property is open late June or early July through October and is real 4WD or you can hike or bike in. There are many incredible waterfalls on site. The summer months bring wildflowers galore and lots of wildlife, along with great hiking on the surrounding 13 and 14 thousand foot peaks. Ouray and all of it's amenities are a quick seven miles away. Learn more about this land: This listing is for a new lodge Remote, pristine with full amenities and two gourmet meals each day included. The Mount Hayden Backcountry Lodge is located at 11,200 ft. in Richmond Basin off of the Imogene Pass jeep trail between Ouray and Telluride, Colorado. Situated in a gorgeous forest the lodge provides comfort and full amenities. There are two private rooms and two partitioned bunk spaces as well. There is cell and internet. The conventional plumbing can even deliver a hot shower with amazing spring water. Bring your own sheet and pillowcase or sleeping bag but there are plenty of blankets here. Hike, bike or drive off road ready, high clearance 4WD in from Camp Bird (required). All dietary needs can be accommodated. You won't believe the wood fired hot tub! Do not attempt to arrive here using a navigations app!

Spectacular Mountain Getaway

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Ridgway, CO

5 acres of trees up on a hill with breathtaking views of the mountains, including the 14er peak, Mount Sneffels. Only 5 miles from the small mountain town of Ridgway, Colorado and only 30 miles from the famous mountain town of Telluride, Colorado. Friendly hosts willing to offer great advice about how to explore the area. The mountain views from the property makes you imagine you are in Nepal looking at one of the Himalayan Peaks!

Wildernest: Twilight Falls

3 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Silverton, CO

Wildernest: Twilight Falls is a 40 acres private paradise of natural forests, meadows, streams and waterfalls nestled within thousands of acres of San Juan National Forest. Come experience this amazing place. Words cannot describe it. This has been a family retreat for our family for decades, and we want to share it with you.

90%

(20)

Almostaranch

3 sites · RVs11 acres · Durango, CO

The Almostaranch Family welcomes you to stay with us in the San Juan Mountains located in Durango, Colorado. Our property features spectacular views and endless activities for you and your family. We look forward to seeing you! Durango is the Capitol of mountain biking in the US. Horseback riding next door and snowmobile rentals close by. Kayaking very close & hiking trails everywhere. Silverton 35 miles. RV site includes horseshoe pits and tables.

97%

(15)

Bear springs

1 site · RV35 acres · Durango, CO

Beautiful mountain views, trails and only 10 minutes to downtown Durango! 35 acre gated community property with miles of private trails to explore. Friendly pets welcome. Complementary firewood fire restrictions permitting. Owners live on property and are available to help or answer questions. Great setup and location.

96%

(89)

Lazy Rooster Ranch

5 sites · Lodging, Tents50 acres · Rico, CO

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.

100%

(7)

Thunder Heart Horse Sanctuary

1 site · LodgingRidgway, CO

This property on Amelia Street is the only 10-acre parcel in Ridgway. Years ago, it was part of a larger parcel, owned by an eccentric woman - a very wealthy land owner. She and the famous Marie Scott were land-owning buddies back in the day. I purchased this land in 1999 and actually moved onto the property in 2005 after renovations. The cabin you will be staying in was renovated in 2012 when a bathroom was added. The property supports horses and llamas. All are friendly, most of them are retired - the horses, that is...the llamas are lawn ornaments.Cottonwood Creek and the Dallas River run through the property.

100%

(37)

MSB Legacy Retreat

4 sites · RVs9 acres · Mancos, CO

We have 9 acres with plenty of elbow room. Located 5 minutes from Mancos, right off CO 184, there is one site in the trees with full hookups and 2 sites on top perfect for group camping. Sites on top have a beautiful view of Mesa Verde to the west and the La Plata mountains to the east. Both sites have water and electricity and sewer dump nearby. The area is full of history, from Mesa Verde National Park to Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. 3 ski areas within an hour, whitewater rafting, hiking, biking, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, stargazing or just enjoying the sunsets. With Mancos only 5 minutes away, there are dining options, brewery, parks, library, and shopping all with a small, hometown feel. Come enjoy all the 4 Corners area has to offer!

Under $50

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(47)

Coworking Space with Mountain Views

5 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Montrose, CO

We bought a school house! Our long-term plan is to build out a full campground on the property, but in the interim we will be offering boondocking. While we are under construction on the outdoor space, the main building that we have converted into a coworking space is available for our guests to use from the hours of 9AM - 6PM. We have several options for HipCampers. We have several large trees which you can park under and will have partial shade throughout the day with mountain views or if you want full sun and would prefer to be out by our creek, we have that too! Please note that there is only one camping structure allowed per site (one tent, one rv, one van, etc.). Since we are under construction we ask that you use caution when pulling into the lot. Our property is also on a bike trail that connects to 70 miles of (mostly paved) bike trails across the town of Montrose. Please reach out with any questions. We look forward to hosting you!

Spectacular Mountain Getaway

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Ridgway, CO

5 acres of trees up on a hill with breathtaking views of the mountains, including the 14er peak, Mount Sneffels. Only 5 miles from the small mountain town of Ridgway, Colorado and only 30 miles from the famous mountain town of Telluride, Colorado. Friendly hosts willing to offer great advice about how to explore the area. The mountain views from the property makes you imagine you are in Nepal looking at one of the Himalayan Peaks!

MSB Legacy Retreat

4 sites · RVs9 acres · Mancos, CO

We have 9 acres with plenty of elbow room. Located 5 minutes from Mancos, right off CO 184, there is one site in the trees with full hookups and 2 sites on top perfect for group camping. Sites on top have a beautiful view of Mesa Verde to the west and the La Plata mountains to the east. Both sites have water and electricity and sewer dump nearby. The area is full of history, from Mesa Verde National Park to Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. 3 ski areas within an hour, whitewater rafting, hiking, biking, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, stargazing or just enjoying the sunsets. With Mancos only 5 minutes away, there are dining options, brewery, parks, library, and shopping all with a small, hometown feel. Come enjoy all the 4 Corners area has to offer!

90%

(5)

Camp Summit

1 site · RV95 acres · Durango, CO

Immerse yourself in nature's embrace as you find nothing but forest, endless and serene. If you're fond of scenic vistas, this site awaits you at the edge of the tree line, offering an expansive view that stretches beyond. Venture along game trails or hiking paths that crisscross the property, and with a little exploration, discover a hidden meadow nestled within the woods. The location is also a prime spot for observing hawks gracefully ride the winds. Set on a wooded mountainside, the site gazes out over Durango valley, promising breathtaking views. Over 95 acres of undisturbed forest and game trails beckon you to explore. Begin your journey with an easy-to-moderate trailhead found at the base of the driveway. For those seeking water adventures, Lemon and Vallecito reservoirs are a mere 30 minutes away, while the heart of downtown Durango is a convenient 10-15 minute drive down the road.

Animas River Valley red cliffs

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Durango, CO

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.

Available this weekend

96%

(89)

Lazy Rooster Ranch

5 sites · Lodging, Tents50 acres · Rico, CO

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.

Spectacular Mountain Getaway

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Ridgway, CO

5 acres of trees up on a hill with breathtaking views of the mountains, including the 14er peak, Mount Sneffels. Only 5 miles from the small mountain town of Ridgway, Colorado and only 30 miles from the famous mountain town of Telluride, Colorado. Friendly hosts willing to offer great advice about how to explore the area. The mountain views from the property makes you imagine you are in Nepal looking at one of the Himalayan Peaks!

Camp Summit

1 site · RV95 acres · Durango, CO

Immerse yourself in nature's embrace as you find nothing but forest, endless and serene. If you're fond of scenic vistas, this site awaits you at the edge of the tree line, offering an expansive view that stretches beyond. Venture along game trails or hiking paths that crisscross the property, and with a little exploration, discover a hidden meadow nestled within the woods. The location is also a prime spot for observing hawks gracefully ride the winds. Set on a wooded mountainside, the site gazes out over Durango valley, promising breathtaking views. Over 95 acres of undisturbed forest and game trails beckon you to explore. Begin your journey with an easy-to-moderate trailhead found at the base of the driveway. For those seeking water adventures, Lemon and Vallecito reservoirs are a mere 30 minutes away, while the heart of downtown Durango is a convenient 10-15 minute drive down the road.

Wildernest: Twilight Falls

3 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Silverton, CO

Wildernest: Twilight Falls is a 40 acres private paradise of natural forests, meadows, streams and waterfalls nestled within thousands of acres of San Juan National Forest. Come experience this amazing place. Words cannot describe it. This has been a family retreat for our family for decades, and we want to share it with you.

Almostaranch

3 sites · RVs11 acres · Durango, CO

The Almostaranch Family welcomes you to stay with us in the San Juan Mountains located in Durango, Colorado. Our property features spectacular views and endless activities for you and your family. We look forward to seeing you! Durango is the Capitol of mountain biking in the US. Horseback riding next door and snowmobile rentals close by. Kayaking very close & hiking trails everywhere. Silverton 35 miles. RV site includes horseshoe pits and tables.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

97%

(35)

San Juan National Forest

Rico, Colorado

88%

(20)

Uncompahgre National Forest

Ophir, Colorado

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Grand Mesa National Forest

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Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

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Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

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Gunnison, Colorado

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Gunnison National Forest

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Camping near Silverton guide

Overview

This historic mining town is set in the heart of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. Unlike most other Colorado mountain towns, Silverton has largely escaped upscale development. A National Historic Landmark, the town is essentially frozen in time and its rich mining history and old west charm are still palpable. Silverton makes an excellent basecamp for hiking and off-roading adventures into the surrounding high country, and campers can find several national forest campgrounds nearby, as well as dispersed camping options. Several RV parks are located right in town.

Where to go

The Alpine Loop

Colorado’s Alpine Loop Scenic and Historic Byway traverses the mountainous landscape between Ouray, Lake City, and Silverton. A high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle is necessary to make the 65-mile loop, but several ATV and jeep rental outfitters can be found in Silverton. The route passes numerous ghost towns, abandoned mines, viewpoints, and dispersed camping areas.

Along the Million Dollar Highway

This 25-mile stretch of highway from Silverton to Ouray is an attraction in itself. The road winds its way up Red Mountain Pass and then hugs a steep cliffside offering dramatic views at every turn. Several mining ruins can be spotted along the way, with numerous places to pull off and enjoy the views. The Million Dollar Highway also provides access to many of the San Juan Mountain’s most popular trails including one to Ice Lakes Basin and its South Mineral Campground, one of the area’s most scenic camp spots.

Ouray

Known as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is an old western town nestled into a narrow box canyon. It’s a bit more developed than Silverton and has a ton more camping, lodging, and dining options. Hikers can connect to the Ouray Perimeter Trail right from town for views of the city and then continue on to Box Canyon Falls, an impressive waterfall surrounded by towering cliffs.

When to go

June through September is high time in Silverton, when most snow has melted in the high country and trails, peaks, and backcountry roads are most easily accessible. The Hardrock Hundred Mile Endurance Run brings hundreds of mountain running enthusiasts to the area in July, and wildflowers put on one of the best shows in Colorado in the Silverton Mountains late in the month. Winter draws hardcore recreationists for some of Colorado’s steepest lift-served, backcountry, and helicopter skiing.

Know before you go

Only a handful of national forest campgrounds sit near Silverton and most are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early in the day for the best chance at a spot.
Ouray’s Amphitheater Campground is one of the few national forest campgrounds that can be reserved in advance. Sites book quickly but you may have luck if you check the reservation website for cancellations.
Dispersed campsites line both the South Mineral Fork Road and Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, but make sure you understand the rules before you camp. Always pack out all your trash and keep an eye on campfire restrictions.