Amphitheater Campground
Overview
Amphitheatre Campground is located on the side of a mountain above Ouray, CO. The campground is tightly designed with loops and 35 camping spurs among Gambel oaks and mixed conifers. There is a scenic overlook from the campground of Ouray and the "Amphitheater," which was formed by a volcanic explosion. A nice day trip is going into Ouray for the small mountain town feel and gift shopping. There is also a public hot spring pool in Ouray. The campground is best suited for tent camping and smaller trailers/RVs (RVs can park at sites 3 through 15, take the second right and follow the "trailer" signs). Total RV length should not exceed 35 feet. This is bear country. Please practice safe food storage techniques.
Amphitheater Campground is located near the town of Ouray, Colo., at an elevation of 8,400 feet. Visitors enjoy the area for its beautiful scenery and great hiking and off-road trail opportunities.
** Some sites at the Amphitheater Campground are reservable in advance through the following organization:
These cannot be reserved more than 6 months in advance.
Other sites remain available as walk-in sites that are first-come, first-serve.
Natural Features:
The campground is named for the natural rock amphitheater that stands over Ouray. The massive gray cliffs were created by ancient volcanic and glacial activity. The campground is situated on the mountainside above Ouray, with stellar views of the amphitheater. A forest of Gambel oak trees and mixed conifers covers the area.
Recreation:
Many hiking trails are found in the immediate area, including the popular Upper Cascade Falls Trail, which begins at the campground. Baby Bath Tubs and Chief Ouray Mine trails can also be accessed from the same trailhead.
The campground is a favorite among jeep and off-road enthusiasts for its close proximity to a number of exciting trails in the surrounding area.
Facilities:
The campground offers single-family campsites, several of which are designated for tent camping only. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets, drinking water and trash collection are provided
Angel Creek Campground
Overview
Angel Creek Campground is a primitive campground with minimal services.The area is not designed for trailer campers. There are 15 designated camp sites with tent pads and fire rings/grills. 2 vault toilets are available. This is bear country. Please practice safe food storage techniques. Bear boxes are located at each site and ALL food and other smelly things should be stored in the box.
** This is a first-come, first-served campground with no reservations. $10 per site, per night **
https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/gmug/recarea/?recid=32524
Facilities:
The campground offers single-family campsites. Each site is equipped with a tent pad, picnic table, bear box for storage of food, and a campfire ring. Vault toilets are provided. NO WATER and NO TRASH SERVICE. Pack-it-in, pack-it-out!
Directions:
Travel south on State Highway 550 from Ouray, CO. Turn right at end of town on Canyon Creek road (County Road 361). Turn right on FSR 853.81 to campground.
Thistledown Campground
Overview
Thistledown Campground is adjacent to the historic site of Thistledown and the Weehawken Trailhead in Canyon Creek near Ouray, CO. This campground is heavily used by people planning to hike into Mount Sneffles & other nearby trails, enjoying the wildflowers in Yankee Boy Basin or driving on the local jeep trails. Tent camping is recommended. Small campers can be accomidated. This is bear country. Please practice safe food storage techniques.
** This is a first-come, first-served campground with no reservations. $10 per site, per night **
https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/gmug/recarea/?recid=32524
Facilities:
The campground offers single-family campsites. Each site is equipped with a tent pad, picnic table, and a campfire ring. Vault toilets are provided. NO WATER and NO TRASH SERVICE. Pack-it-in, pack-it-out!
Directions:
Travel south on State Highway 550 from Ouray, CO. Turn right at end of town on Canyon Creek road (County Road 361). Turn left at campground sign. This is just a short distance further up CR 361 from the Angel Creek campground.