Uncompahgre Valley Public Lands - Camping Guide

Uncompahgre Valley Public Lands

Camping Guide

InsidethisguideyouwillfindmapsanddescriptionsofpubliclandscampgroundsandcampingareasintheUn-compahgreValleyregion of Colorado.Located on pages 6 and 7 of the guide is a map and table listing each campground and its facilities.Usingthemap,youwillbeabletoeasilyseewhichpageoftheguidehasmoreinformationabouteachindividualcampground.

Inthefirstfewpagesoftheguide,youwillfindgeneralinformationaboutcamping.Thisinformationincludestopicssuchasfacilities,amenities,fees,passes,staylimits,pets,generalcampingrules,dispersedcamping,andmotorizedtransportation. This guide was updated in 2016, so be aware that features can change. Enjoy camping on

YOUR public lands!

CampingseasonisgenerallyfromMemorialDayweekendthroughLaborDayweekend.However,weatherisalwaysafactorinopeningandclosingcampgrounds.Somecampgroundsopenbeforeorremainopenafterthesedateswithlimitedservices,meaningwatermaybeshutoffandgarbagecollectionmayhavestoppedfortheseason.Itisadvisabletocheckwiththelocalpubliclandsofficeforcurrentconditionsbeforestartingyourtrip.

Plan AheadThisguideoffersonlybasicinformationonroads,trails,

and campgrounds.TheMontrosePublicLandsCenteroffersmore detailedinformationoncurrentconditionsoftrails and roads, travelrestrictions,campgroundopeningandclosingdates,etc. See address below for the Public Lands Center location.

Pleasekeepinmindduringthecampingseasonsomecampgroundsmaybefulleitherbyreservationsoronafirst-comefirst-servedbasis.

ForMoreInformationContact:

Montrose Public Lands Center BLMUncompahgreFieldOffice

USFSOurayRangerDistrict 2505SouthTownsendAvenue

Montrose,CO81401Phone: (970) 240-5300

ContentsCampinginCampgrounds....................... 2CampgroundRules................................... 2CampgroundsDuringHuntingSeason.... 2DispersedCamping.................................. 3MotorizedTransportation......................... 3Map.......................................................... 6ListofCampgrounds................................ 7GeneralInformation................................. 12MontrosePublicLandsCenter................. 12SanJuanMountainsAssociation............ 12

AdditionalContacts.............................. 12 Camping by Area

GunnisonRiverBasin........................... 4GunnisonGorgeNCA...........................5SanMiguelRiver.................................. 8DoloresRiver........................................ 8Dominguez-EscalanteNCA.................. 8UncompahgrePlateau........................... 9UncompahgreMountains-Norwood... 10UncompahgreMountains-Ouray........ 11

PhotobyPriscillaShermanHow to Use this Guide Camping in the Montrose Area

Facilities and AmenitiesMostdevelopedcampgroundsprovidedesignatedcampsites,toi-

lets, picnictables,andfirerings.Somecampgroundsalsoprovidewaterand Recreational Vehicle (RV)hookups.Pleaseusedumpstersorothertrash receptacles when they areavailable.Otherwise,bepreparedtofollow the “pack it in/pack it out”rulewithyourwaste.

Universal AccessibilityUniversally accessiblefacilities,suchaspicnictables,fire

rings,andrestroomsareavailableatsomecampsitesinsomecampgrounds.Formoreinformationrefertothecampgroundtableordescriptionsorcontactthelocalpubliclandsoffice.

Campgroundhostsarestationedatmanyofthecampgroundslisted in theguide.Theyaretheretohelpandwillbemorethanhappyto provide directions,answerquestions,andlistentoyourcomments.

Fees

Feesapplyatmostdevelopedcampgrounds.Feeinformationisposted attheentrancetoeachcampgroundandpaymentisrequiredtocamp. Feesarepayabletothecampgroundhostonsiteorthrough theself-serve registrationandfee-paymentstations.Feesgenerally rangefrom $5 to $20 per campsiteandadditionalfeesmayapplyforextravehicles, picnicking, or dayuse.

Federal Recreation Passes

AtmanysitesoperatedbytheForestService,NationalParkService,FishandWildlifeService,BureauofLandManagement,and BureauofReclamation,holdersoftheAmericatheBeautifulInteragency SeniorPass(forUnited States residentsover62)ortheAmericatheBeautifulInteragency AccessPass(forthosewithapermanentdisability)receivediscountsonExpandedAmenityFees(suchascamping,boatlaunching,andguidedtours).Advance Reservations

Some federal campgroundshavecampsitesthatcanbereservedin advance. Generally, reservationscanbemadeupto 180 days in advance for individualsitesandupto360daysinadvanceforgroupsites. You may paybycreditcard, over the phone, or online. In addition to a camping fee,anon-refundablereservationfeeischarged.Changes, no-shows, andcancellationsaresubjecttoservicefees.Tobookreservations, call toll-free877-444-6777; TDD877-833-6777,orgoto

National Forests.Generally,throughouttheGrandMesa,Un-compahgreandGunnisonNationalForestsoccupyingonecampsiteisallowedforamaximumof14days.However,withinspecificdesignatedcampgrounds,theallowedlengthsofstaymayvaryfromsevento30days.Pleasenotethatleavingunattendedpropertywithinacampsiteisalsoconsideredtobeoccupancy.Formoreinformation,refertothecampgrounddescriptionorcontactthelocalpubliclandsoffice.

Bureau of Land Management.Generally,campinginonelocationisallowedfor14consecutivedays,includinganydevelopedcampground.After14days,campersmustmoveaminimumof30airmilesawayandnotreturnfor30days.However,withinspecificdesignatedcampgroundsorcampingareas,theallowedlengthsofstaymayvary.Formoreinformationrefertothecampgrounddescriptionorcontactthelocalpubliclandsoffice.

Pets and LivestockPetsarewelcomeinallcampgrounds.Dogsmustbeleashed

andundercontrolatalltimes. Donotallowpetstoharassothervisitors,dogs,orwildlife.Donotleavepetsunattendedatanycampground.Campgroundsdonotallowpackstockunlessspecificallydesignated.Fordesignatedcampgroundsandmoreinformationrefertothecampgrounddescriptionsorcontactthelocalpubliclandsoffice.

Campground Rules

Upon entering a campground take a moment to read the posted regulations and information. Please remember that many

campgrounds and camping areas are patrolled and it is your responsibility to know and follow the current regulations.

The following are general regulations for all campgrounds.

Quiet TimePleasebeagoodneighborincampgrounds.Don’tmakeloud

noises or playloudmusic, especiallyatnight. Postedquiethoursaretypicallyfrom10p.m.–6a.m. Atotherhoursoftheday,berespectfulofothersandlimittheuseof generatorstonomorethanonehouratatime.

Vehicles

Driveslowlythroughcampgroundloopsandwatchcare-fully for childrenandpedestrians. Off-highway vehicles (OHVs), such as motorcycles, All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and Utility Task Vehicles (UTVs) are generally, but not always, permitted to travel on campground roads to and from campsites and other locations; look for posted signs for regulations. Recreational driving of OHVs within campgrounds is not permitted anywhere.

Campfires

Beforeyoulightafire,makesuretherearenofirerestrictionsineffect.

Itisyourresponsibilitytoknowandfollowthecurrentregulations.Formoreinforma-tion,contactthelocalagencyofficeand lookforpostedsigns.Buyingfirewoodfromalocalsource,suchascampgroundhosts,isthebestpractice. Cut-tingofstandingtrees,shrubs,andothervegetationisprohibited.Campfiresmustbekeptinsidefireringsandputoutwhennooneisphysicallyattendingthefire.Pourwateronthefireandstirtheashesuntilthereisnoheat.

Trash

Usethetrashreceptaclesprovided in campgrounds.Insomecampgrounds, youmayberequiredtopackoutyourowntrash.Neverburnor burytrash.Keepandleaveyourcampsiteclean.

Protect VegetationDonotbreakofftree limbs,or drivenails orcarveinto tree

bark. Suchdamageallowsinsectsanddiseasetoenterandcanweakenorkilltrees.Whenpossiblewalkondirtorgravelpathstokeepgrassandplantsalive.Leavewildflowersforotherstoenjoyandtoseed next year’s beauty.

Camping in Campgrounds

Campgrounds During Hunting SeasonColorado’swildlifeismanagedbytheColoradoDivisionof

Parks and Wildlife(CPW), which has jurisdiction over all hunting seasons on federal lands. For more information contact (970) 252-6000 or (303) 297-1192

Duringhuntingseasons,backcountryvisitorsshould wear orange or brightly colored clothing and stay on well used trails.

Inthefall,somecampgroundsmaystayopenwithlimitedservices at discounted prices, while others remain open with full services at full price. Generally, if the gate to a campground is open, the campground is open to use at some level. Read and obey camp-ground entry signs.

Forinformationonwhichcampgroundsmaybeopenduringhunting seasons contact the managing agency. This situation is weather dependent and hard to predict.

2

Campground Hosts

www.recreation.gov.

Stay Limits

rlewis

Sticky Note

Marked set by rlewis

Getting Along With ResidentsWildanimalsaretheresidentsofthisdiverseterrain.

Campgroundvisitorsarelikelytoseesquirrels,chipmunks,marmots,deer,elk,skunks,porcupines,raccoons,andmanyofthesome300speciesofbirds.Backcountryvisitorsmaycatchaglimpseofbighornsheep,mountaingoats,blackbear,beaver,riverotters,orevenmountainlions.Viewwildlifefromasafedistanceandtreatwildanimalswithrespect.

Unwanted VisitorsDon’tattractunwantedvisitorstoyourcampsite.Smalland

large mammalsmaybeluredintoyourcampsitebythearomaoffood ortrash. Theycancausealotofdamage.Somerodentshavea taste forleatherandanythingsweatyorsalty;storetheseitemscarefully. Neverfeedwildanimalsorencouragethemtobecomeunafraid of humans;thisisasdangeroustoyouasitistothem.

Dogs and Wildlife DO NOT Mix!Dogsmustbeleashedorotherwisephysicallyrestrainedin

campgroundsandshouldbeundervoicecontrolatyoursideatalltimes.Dogscanseverelystressandendangerwildanimalsbychasingthem.Inaddition,manywildcreaturesposedangerstodogs.Yourpetcanbeattackedbypredatorsorsufferwhenaskunkorporcupinedefendsitselfagainstcuriosityorattack.

Store Food ProperlyBlackbearscancausealotofdamagetoyourbelongings

andifabearisdesensitizedtohumansbyyourbehavioritmayhavetobedestroyed.Food,containers,packaging,cookingutensils,garbage,andpetfoodmustbestoredinabear-proofmanner.Storetheseitemsinsideahard-sidedvehicleorcamper;hungatleast10feetabovegroundandfour feetawayfromatreeorothersupport;insideanapprovedbear-resistantcontainer;orwithinanelectrifiedenclosure.

Findingasitetocampandenjoyremoteareasinrelativesolitudehasbecomeincreasinglypopular.Dispersedcampingoutsideofcampgroundsisusuallyallowed,butsomeareasmaybepostedasclosed.Duetointerminglingofprivateandpubliclands,besuretouseacurrentlandstatusmapshowingpublicandprivatelandownership.

Caring for Your Favorite Camping SpotDevelopedcampgroundsaredesignedandmaintainedtoprotect

vegetation,soils,andnaturalsettings.Whencampinginundevelopedareas,campersareresponsiblefortakingcaretoprotectvegetation,soils,watersources,andnaturalsettingswiththoughtfulplacementofvehiclesandtents.• Toavoiddamagingvegetation,campinareaspreviouslyused.• Selectalevelsitewithgooddrainage.Donottrytolevelasiteordigtrenches.• Protectriparianareasbycampingandparkingatleast200feet(70adult-sizedsteps)fromallwatersources.• Leaveplants,rocks,andhistoricalartifactsasfound.• Donotbuildstructuresorfurniture.• Useexistingfirerings,or bring a firepanorstove.• Protectwildlifeandyourfoodbystoringprovisionssecurely.Donotleavefoodoutunattended.Packoutalltrash,leftoverfood,andlitter.•Donotallowpetstoharasswildlifeorothervisitors.

Dispose of Human Waste ProperlyTheuseofportabletoiletsishighlyrecommendedandmay

berequiredinsomedispersedcampingareas.Inareaswhereportabletoiletsarenotrequiredandifnoportabletoiletisavailable,solidbodywasteandurineshouldbeburiedinaholesixtotwelveinchesdeep.Thedisposalsiteshouldbelocatedwellawayfromstreams,campsites,andotheruseareas.Placetoiletpaper,wipes,diapers,andhygieneproductsinaplasticbagandaddittoyourcamptrashbag.

Washing Towashyourself,dishes, orclothing,carrywater200feetaway

from streamsorlakes.Usebiodegradablesoap.Straindishwaterandpack outfoodremnants.Scatterwashwaterawayfromyourcampsite.

FireFires may be prohibited in some areas or during times of high

firedanger.Followpostedregulationsregardingfireuse.Carryalightweightstoveforcooking.Whenandwherefiresare

permitted,useestablishedfirerings,firepans,ormoundfires.Ifyouusethesecarefully,itispossibletoleaveacampsitewithnoscarsorevidenceofyouruse.

Keepfiressmall,usingsticksfromthegroundthatcanbebrokenbyhand.Donotsnapbranchesofflivetrees.Donotputitemssuchasplastics,cans,bottles,oraluminumfoilintoafirering.Donotattempttoburnfood,asitwillnotburncompletelyandwillattractwildlifetoyourcamp.

Beforeyouleavecamp,alwaysdouseyourfirewithwater,stiritwithastick,anddouseitagaintomakesureitiscompletelyout.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM)OHVdesignationsonBLMadministeredpubliclandsare:Open, Limited, and Closed.

Open:Off-roaduseisallowed,aslongasitdoesnotresultinsignificant,unduedamagetoordisturbanceofsoil,wildlife,wildlifehabitat improvements,cultural resources,vegetativeresources,orotherauthorizedusesofthepubliclands.

Limited:Vehicleuseisrestrictedasdefinedintheappropriatelanduseplan.Limitationscouldincludesuchdesignationsas“limitedtoexistingroadsandtrails,”“limitedtodesignatedroadsandtrails,”orseasonallimitationssuchas“novehicleuseduringelkcalvingseason”.

Closed:Motorizedvehicleuseisnotallowed.

Forest ServiceOtherthanwintersnowmobileusein

unrestrictedareas,motorizedtravelisrestrictedtodesignatedroadsandtrailsasshownontheMotorVehicleUseMap(MVUM).TheMVUMsarefreetothepublicandavailableatallForestServiceofficesandonlineatwww.fs.fed.us.National Parks and Recreation Areas

Motorizedtravelisallowedonlyondesignatedroads.

Motorized Transportation

3Dispersed Camping

Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV)It is your responsibility to know and

abide by regulations relating to motor vehicle travel. Federal law prohibits operation of any mechanical or motorized equipment within the boundaries of Wilderness, Wilderness Study Areas, or other special closure areas.

All OHVs and over-snow vehicles operated on public lands in Colorado must have a current Colorado State registration. For more information, visit CPW's website, www.cpw.state.co.us.

Curecanti National Recreation AreaThreereservoirs,namedforcorrespondingdamsonthe

GunnisonRiver,formtheheartofCurecanti.BlueMesaReservoirisColorado’slargestbodyofwater,and itisthelargestkokaneesalmonfisheryintheMorrowPointReservoiristhebeginningoftheBlackCanyon,andbelow, the EastPortalisthesiteoftheGunnisonDiversionTunnel,aNationalHistoricCivilEngineeringLandmark. AllmotorizedwatercraftatCurecantiarerequiredtobeinspectedforaquatic invasive species before and after launch. For moreinformation, including camping opportunities, gotowww.nps.gov/cure.

• Cimarron CampgroundThecampgroundhas21sites,somesuitableforlargeRVs,ona

pavedlooproad.Toiletsareavailableseasonally(mid-May–October1) atthecampground,picnicareaandvisitorcenter.Drinkingwaterisavailableseasonallyinthecampgroundandpicnicarea.ThereisanRVdumpstation(openseasonally)acrossfromthepicnicarearestroom. Thepicnicareahasfive tableswithgrillspartiallyshadedbylargecottonwoodsandonecabanawithseveraltables.

FromMontrose(Jct.US50&US550),traveleastonUS50about20 miles.Turnleftatthesign“Cimarron,CurecantiNationalRecreationArea,TrainExhibit,MorrowPointDam.”Crossthebridge.Thepicnicareaistotheright.Thecampgroundistotheleftjustpastthevisitorcenter.

GPS:N38.44294W107.55504

InresponsetothethreatsposedbyAquaticNuisanceSpecies,likeZebraandQuaggamussels,manywatersinColoradonowrequireinspectionsbeforelaunch.Allboatsandotherfloatingdevicesofanykindincludingtheircontent,motors,trailersandotherassoci-atedequipmentaresubjecttoinspectionspriortolaunchorde-partureinthesewaters.Formoreinformation,visithttp://cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Pages/BoatInspection.aspx.

Gunnison River BasinBlack Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

BlackCanyonoftheGunnisonNationalParkisrenownedforitssteepanddeepcanyoncarvedovermillenniabytheGunnisonRiver.Prepareyourselffor2,000-foothigh,narrowcanyonwallsdroppingalmostverticallytotheGunnisonRiver.Formoreinformationgotowww.nps.gov/blca.

• East Portal CampgroundSituatedintheshadeofagroveofboxeldertrees,thecamp-

groundislocatedatthebottomofBlackCanyon,oneandahalfmilesdownstreamfromCrystalDam.ThecampgroundislocatednearthehistoricGunnisonRiverDiversionTunnelwhereexhibitstellthestoryofthetunnelandtown.TheroadintotheareaisamongthemostimpressivescenicdrivesintheUnited States.

Thereare15tentsitesavailableonafirst-come,first-servedbasis.Tenofthesitesarewalk-in.Thecampgroundandpicnicareaisopenspringthroughfall.Waterisavailablemid-MaytoearlyOctober.Boththecampgroundandpicnicareahavevaulttoilets.Thepicnicareahasalargecabana,twogrills,andseveraltables.TheentrancefeetothenationalparkappliestothoseaccessingtheEastPortalarea.

From Montrose(Jct.US50&US550),go8.3mileseastonUS50toCO347ontheleft(north),awell-signedjunction.Proceed5.6milesonCO347totheparkentrancestation.Turnrightjustpasttheentrancestation and go 5.4 miles to the bottom of the canyon. Turn hard left for the campground and continue straight ahead to the picnic area. Due to the steep grades of the East Portal road, use lowest gear and watch for rock fall. Vehicles exceeding 22 feet in length (including trailer) are not permitted on the East Portal road because of the steep 16% grade and sharp, narrow curves.

GPS:N38.52658W107.64919• North Rim Campground

Onthenorthrimofthecanyon,thiscampgroundoffers13first-come, first-served campsites within the forest. A nature trail to theNorth Chasm View, some 1,800 feet above the river, begins at the campground and there are many opportunities for hiking and climbing in the area. The trail leads to a second overlook with views of Painted Wall and Serpent Point where swifts, swallows, and raptors are frequently seen.

There are no hook-ups at the North Rim and vehicles greater than 35 feet total combined length are not recommended. There is a maximum of eight people and two vehicles per site. Water is trucked tothe campground; therefore, RV water filling is not available. Vault toilets are available. There is not an RV dump station. Bears frequent the area. All food must be kept in approved containers. Bear boxes are provided.

From Delta (Jct.US 50 & CO 92), take CO 92 east 35 miles

follow the signs 12.2 miles to the North Rim Campground (6.6 miles are gravel road).

through Hotchkiss and Crawford to Black Canyon Road (about threemiles south of Crawford). Turn right (west) on Black Canyon Road;

GPS:N38.58677W107.70491• South Rim Campground

Onthesouthrimofthepark gorge,thiscampgroundoffers88siteswithinanoak brushforest.Thereareopportunitiesforhiking,rockclimbing,birdwatching,in-terpretivetours,andeveningprograms.Theself-guidedRimRockNatureTrailbeginsatthecampground.TherearemanyexcellentviewsoftheGunnisonRiverandthesheerwallsofthecanyon.Bearsfrequentthearea.Allfoodmustbekeptinapprovedcontainers,andbearboxesareprovided.Wateristruckedtothecampground;therefore,RVwaterfillingisnotavailable.Electricalhookups(30amp)areavailableinLoopB.However,onlyLoopAisopenyearround.Vehiclesgreaterthan40feetarenotrecom-mendedandnogeneratoruseisallowedinthecampground.ForRVslongerthan25feet,reservationsarestronglyrecommended.Sitescanbereservedthroughwww.recreation.govorbycalling(877) 444-6777.

From Montrose (Jct. US 50 & US 550),go8.3mileseastonUS50 to CO347ontheleft(north),awell-signedjunction.Proceed5.6miles onCO347totheparkentrancestation.Continueanother0.2milesto thecampgroundentranceontheright(east).

GPS:N38.54097W107.68940

Crawford State ParkOpenyear-round,CrawfordStateParkwithits400-acre

reservoirand337landacresofferscamping,fishing,watersports,hunting,andscenicmountainterrain.Winterrecreationincludesicefishingandcross-countryskiing.TheparkoffersconvenientaccesstotheNorthRimportionoftheBlackCanyonoftheGunnisonNationalPark.Inadditiontofourday-useareas,playgrounds,andtrails,theparkofferstwomodern,universally-accessiblecampgrounds.CampsitesmaybereservedfromMay1 throughLaborDay.Allwatercraftmustbeinspectedbeforelaunchingintothereservoir.

FromDelta (Jct.US50&CO92),takeCO92eastabout33milesthroughthetownsofHotchkissandCrawfordtothepark’sVisitorCenterwheredetailed,currentinformationonfacilitiesandactivitiesmaybeobtained.

GPS:N38.68743W107.59531

• Clear Fork Campgroundoffers21sitesforbasiccamp-ing.Whileitcanaccommodatealltypesofcampingunits,itisbestsuitedfortentsandsmallRVs.Payshowers,restrooms,anddrinkingwaterareavail-able.Cabanasatsomesitesprovidetheonlyshade.

• Iron Creek Campgroundoffers45sitessuitableforalltypesofcampingunits,haselectricandwaterhookups,withsomesiteshaving50-ampservice.ThecampgroundalsohasanRVdumpstation,rest-rooms,payshowers,boatramp,accessiblefishingrampandwalk-inpicnicarea.Cabanasatsomesitesprovidetheonlyshade.

4

Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area TheGunnisonGorgeNationalConservationArea(NCA)isjust

downstreamfromtheBlackCanyonoftheGunnisonNationalParkandisaunitof theBLM’sNational Conservation Lands.TheNCAoffersarangeofboating, hiking,biking,equestrian,andmotorizedridingadventuresonprimitiveroadsandtrailsthatwindtheirwaythroughimposingadobebadlandformations,scenicsandstonecanyons,anddiversenativeplantcommunities.

Motorized watercraft are prohibited on all river sections in the NCA.

LocatedintheheartoftheNCA,theGunnisonGorgeWildernessfeaturesaspectaculardoublecanyonformedbytheGunnisonRiver.Thewildernessareaencompassesabout17,700acresofpubliclands,including14milesoftheriver,extendingnorth fromtheboundaryoftheBlackCanyonoftheGunnisonNationalPark.

TheGunnisonGorgeWildernessoffersawildandpristinebackcountry experience,spectaculargeology,worldclasstroutfishing,and challengingwhitewaterboatingadventures.

• Camping Within the Gunnison Gorge Wilderness

TheGunnisonGorgeWildernessismanagedtopreserveandprotectitswilderness,scenic,andrecreationalvalues.Motorizedrivercraft,othermotorizedvehicles,andmountainbikesareprohibitedinthewilderness.

Dayuseandcampingfeesarechargedinthewildernessareaandcanbepaidattrailheads.Interagencypassesarenotvalidforwildernesspermitfees.

CampingwithintheGunnisonGorgeWildernessandGunnisonRivercorridorisallowedinprimitivecampsitesthataredesignatedforeitherboaterorhikeruse.

Visitorsmustpurchasecampingpermits,register,andreserverivercampsitesatthewildernesstrailheadsuponarrival.Sitesareavail-ableonafirst-come,first-servedbasis.Maximumgroupsizeis12;maximumlengthofstayistwo nights.Woodfiresareprohibited.Usecampstovesand/orfirepanswithcharcoal.Portabletoiletsystemsarerequiredforallovernightboateruse.BackpackersmayuseprimitivepittoiletslocatedinUtePark,attheDuncanriveraccess,orattheChukarrivercampsite.

ChecktheBLMwebsite,signs,andmapsforadditionalregulationsandinformation.

Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

River RaftingAllboatersarerequiredtocarryadequatesafetyequipmentand

complywithboatingregulations.Boatersmustuseeitheracampstoveorcharcoalinafirepanandpackoutallashes.Portable,reusablecamptoiletsarerequired.AboaterwastestationislocatedattheGunnisonForkstakeoutfordisposalofhumanwaste.OnepersonfromeachgroupmustregisterattheeithertheChukarput-in,or GunnisonForks,Bobcat,Duncan,orUtetrailheads.

• Non-Wilderness River CampingCampingisallowedonlyattheCottonwoodGrovecampground

anddesignatedrivercampsitesidentifiedonBLMmapsandsigns.Useofa portabletoiletsystemisrequiredinallriversiteswithoutrestrooms.Maximumstaylengthissixnights/sevendaysforsitesdownstreamofthe GunnisonForks.

• Dispersed Vehicle CampingCampingisallowedintheremainderoftheNCAuptosix

consecutivenights,unlessotherwiseposted.CheckBLMmaps, signs,andwebsiteforcampinginformation.

Gold Medal Fishing RegulationsThefollowingfishingregulationsapplyontheGunnisonRiver

fromtheupstreamboundaryoftheBlackCanyonNationalPark,throughtheGunnisonGorgeWilderness,anddownstreamtotheReliefDiversionDitchlocatedfivemilesbelowtheNorthForkoftheGunnisonRiver:· Fishingbyartificialfliesorartificialluresonly.·Allrainbowtroutcaughtmustbereturnedtothewaterimmediately.· Four fishlimitonbrowntrout.

• Cottonwood Grove CampgroundTheCottonwoodGroveCampgroundhassixsites.Threehave

cabanaswithtablesandgrillsandthreehaveonlytablesandgrills.Oneofthecabanasitesprovidesuniversalaccesscamping.Itislocated

nearthewheelchairaccessiblefishing pier.Thereisatoiletandhand-carryboatlaunchrampbutnodrinkingwaterortrashservice.Thereareadditionaldesignatedprimitivecampanddayusesitesalongtheriver. Visitors mustprovidetheirownportabletoilettousethesesites.

FromDelta(Jct.US50&CO92),goeastonCO 92 for5.5milestoCRH75Roadontheright(south).VeerrightontoH75Roadandcontinuefor4.3miles,passingaparkingareawithtoiletbe-forecomingtoajunctionwithSouthRiverRoad.TurnrightontoSouthRiverRoadandgo4.1milestothecampgroundentranceontheleft.Caution:Thelast2.6milesofSouthRiverRoadisnarrow,roughandsteepwithfewopportunitiesforvehiclestopass.ChecktheroadconditionsbeforetakingRVsintothisarea.Theroadmaybeimpassableifwet.

GPS:N38.77872W107.85281

• Chukar TrailheadAlthoughitrequiresaone mile

hiketotheriver,ChukarTrailheadisthemainboateraccessforraftingtheGunni-sonGorgesectionoftheGunnisonRiver.Italsoprovidesfourdesignatedcampsiteswithcabanas,picnictables,andgrillsforamaximumof25people.Thereisatoiletbutnodrinkingwaterortrashservice.

Althoughtherearenofeestousethetrailhead,permitsandfeesarerequiredforenteringtheadjacentGunnisonGorgeWilderness.Furtherinformationispostedandaself-registerfeestationislocatedatChukarTrailhead.

FromMontrose(Jct.US50&US550),takeUS50north8.4milestoFalconRoad.TurnrightontoFalconRoadandgo3.6miles.Atthatpoint,FalconRoadbecomestheunpavedPeachValleyRoad.Continuefor1.4milesonPeachValleyRoadtothesignontheright,“ChukarTrail7Mi.” TurnrightontoChukarRoad,arough4WDroadthatisnotsuitableforRVs.Warning:Past3.7milesonChukarRoad,a4WD,high-clearanceve-hicleisrequiredandthedirtroadwilllikelybeimpassablewhenwet.

GPS:N38.61283W107.83625• Ute Trailhead

TheUteTrailheadprovidesaccesstoahikingandequine trailintotheGunnison GorgeWilderness.Outsidethatarea,thereareadditionalopportunitiesforhiking,mountainbiking,andfour-wheeldrivinginthisarea.Thetrailheadprovidestwositeswithcabanas,picnictables,andgrills.Thereisatoiletandhitchrailforhorses,butnodrinkingwaterortrashservice.

Although there are no fees to use the trailhead, day use orcampingfeesarerequiredfortheadjacentGunnisonGorgeWilderness.Furtherinformationispostedandaself-registerfeestationislocatedatUteTrailhead.

FromDelta(Jct.US50&CO92),gosouthonUS50for9.3milestoCarnationRoad.Turnleft(east)andgo3milesto6200Road.Turnleft(north)onto6200Roadandcontinue3.8milestowhere6200Roaddead-endsatPeachValleyRoad.TurnleftontoPeachValleyRoadandgo0.4milestothesignontheright“UteTrail2.5Mi.”Turnrightandproceedtothetrailhead.

Warning:PastthePeachValleyRoadturn-off,a4WD,high-clearance vehicleisrequiredandthesteep,rough,rockydirtroadmaybeimpassablewhenwet.RVsarenotrecommended.

FromMontrose(Jct.US50&US550),takeUS50north.2.2milesnorthofthestoplightinOlathe,lookforCarnationRoadontheright.Turnright(east)andfollowtheabovedirections.

GPS:N38.68270W107.86401

5

Gunnison Gorge Wilderness

Campsites Reservable? RV size

Location Stay Limit

Dispersed camping No reservations RV not rec.

10 mi. S of Telluride at 11200' Max. stay 7 days

35 campsites Reservable Max. RV size: 25'

1 mi. S of Ouray at 8100' Max. stay 7 days

8 campsites No reservations RV not rec.


11 campsites No reservations Max. RV size: 25'

38 mi. E of Montrose at 8800' Max. stay 14 days


21 mi. W of Naturita at 5000' Max. stay 1 day




2 mi. W of Placerville at 7200' Max. stay 14 days


29 mi. NE of Montrose at 6000' Max. stay 7 days



10 Clear Fork21 campsites Reservable Max. RV size: 40'

33 mi. E of Delta at 6600' Max. stay 14 days


40 mi. W of Montrose at 9000' Max. stay 14 days



13 11 campsites No reservations Max. RV size: 40'

31 mi. S of Whitewater at 8700' Max. stay 14 days

10 campsites No reservations No max. RV size

26 mi. S of Whitewater at 7100' Max. stay 14 days


22 mi. S of Montrose at 7050' No max. stay




23 mi. W of Delta at 5500' Max. stay 14 days


4 mi. E of Placerville at 7700' Max. stay 7 days




23 mi. W of Montrose at 9600' Max. stay 14 days


12 mi. E of Naturita at 5900' Max. stay 14 days


13 mi. E of Naturita at 5900' Max. stay 14 days


6 mi. E of Norwood at 6700' Max. stay 7 days




19 mi. S of Norwood at 7700' Max. stay 14 days




22 mi. S of Montrose at 7000' No max. stay

6 dispersed campsites No reservations RV not rec.



40 mi. SE of Montrose at 9000' Max. stay 14 days






In Telluride at 8700' Max. stay 7 days






12 mi. S of Placerville at 9400' Max. stay 14 days

Name

Beaver Lake4

Angel Creek3

Amphitheater2

Caddis Flats7

6

Bedrock5

14

Divide Forks

12

11

Cimarron9

18

17

East Portal16

Dutch Charlie15

22

21

Iron Springs20

Iron Creek19

25

Matterhorn24

Lower Beaver23

29

28

North Rim26

Priest Lake

27

32

Sunshine31

South Rim30

35

Ute Trailhead34

Thistledown33

Map Key

#

EHNPJO

Q

SHO

Chukar Trailhead

QHN

QHN

QN

EHNJO

NO

QO

Services/Fee

Big Cimarron

Alta Lakes 1

8

EMHNOColumbine Pass N Cottonwood Grove QHN

N

H

HEMRHNPJO

QEHNO Escalante Potholes HN

Dominguez

N

HEMRHNPJO

NLedges Cottonwood QHN

Fall Creek

Ledges Rockhouse QHN

QHN

EMRHNPJOMiramonte Reservoir HHN

EHNOPa-Co-Chu-Puk

EMRHNPJO

QN

QEHNJOSilver Jack

HN

SQEHNJO

ERHNJO

EHNJOTelluride Town Park EMHNO

HNJO

Woods Lake

6 7

San Miguel RiverTheSanMiguelRiverbeginsintheSanJuanMountainsabove

TellurideandendsattheconfluencewiththeDoloresRiver72milesdownstream.WhiletheSanMiguelismoreorlessfree-flowing,diver-siondamsdottheriverandalteritsflow.TheSanMigueldropsover7,000feetfromanalpinetoadesertecosystem.Theripariancorridorislushandcontainsnumerousgloballyrareriparianplantcommunities.

TheSanMigueloffersthewhitewaterboateravarietyofruns,withinClassII+toIVrange.Theconsistentgradientandcontinuousflowoftheriverprovidetheboaterwithanabundanceofwhitewaterrapids.Whiletherivershouldbeeasilynegotiablebytheintermediatewhitewaterboater,numerousstrainersanddownedwoodfromspringfloodscanmaketherivermorechallengingthanitsratingwouldsug-gest.Usecautioninmaneuveringaroundtheseever-changingobstacles.

• Caddis Flats CampgroundThiscampgroundandboatlaunchislocatedalongtheUn-

aweep/TabeguacheScenicandHis-toricByway(CO145).Thecanyoninthisareamakesthetransitionfromfor-esttohighdesertandisquitescenic.Thecampgroundhasthreedevel-opedcampsites,onewithacabana.FourparkingareaswillaccommodatelargeRVsandboattrailerpark-ing.Thereisatoiletbutnodrinkingwater.Thereisahand-carryboatlaunch.

FromPlacerville(Jct.CO145&CO62),gowestonCO1451.8miles.Entranceisontheleft(south).

From Norwood, go east on CO145about16.5miles.Entranceisontheright(south).

GPS:N38.02724W108.09330

• Ledges Cottonwood and Ledges Rock House CampgroundsLocatedingrovesofcottonwoods,theLedgescampgrounds

areaboutonemileapartalongtheSanMiguelRiver.Theriverinthissectionflowsoversandstonebedrockwhererockledgesformlargeholescreatingrapidsduringhighwater.

Cottonwood (14 sites) and Rock House (12 sites) campgrounds have RV and tent sites, a few cabanas, picnic tables, grills, toilets, and hand-carry ramps. No drinking water or trash services.

From Naturita, go about 2 miles east on CO 141 to CR 90 on the left (north). Go north 1.1 miles on CR 90 toward the power plant. At the “Y” near the power plant, keep right on CR 90 toward Montrose. Go another 6.8 miles to the bridge over the San Miguel River (unsigned). Immediately after crossing the bridge, turn hard right onto the unsigned road that parrallels the river. Cottonwood campground is about 2 miles from the bridge, and Rock House is about 1 mile beyond Cottonwood. Caution: During wet weather, the narrow, one-lane road along the river may become slick and impassable.

GPS: N38.24701 W108.39197

• Lower Beaver CampgroundThis campground is also located along CO 145 about 0.4 miles

down river from the Beaver Creek Boat Ramp. There are three tent sites with tables and grills. Two parking areas will accommodate a few small RVs. A toilet and hand-carry boat launch is present.

From Placerville (Jct CO 145 & CO 62), go west 10.5 miles. Entrance is between MM 94 and 95, on the left (south).

From Norwood, go east on CO 145 about 5.5 miles. Entrance is on the right (south).

GPS: N38.11134 W108.18991.

Dolores RiverTheDoloresRiverflowsformorethan200milesthroughsouth-

westernColorado,startinghighintheSanJuanMountainsanddescendingtoitsconfluencewiththeColoradoRiverneartheColorado-Utahborder.TheDoloresflowsthroughfivemajorwesternlifezones,fromthealpinelifezoneatitsheadwaterstotheUpperSonoranlifezonealongmuchofitslowerreaches.

Inanaveragesnowpackyear,sections of theriverarefloatablefromlateApriltoJune or July.Inaverydryyear,theremaybenoboatableflowsatall.FlowsonthelowerDoloresRiverarecontrolledbyspillreleasesfromMcPheeReservoir,12.5milesupstreamoftheBradfieldlaunchsite.ThespillreleasesaremanagedbytheBureauofReclamation.Formoreinformationonspillreleasescall970-565-7562.

• Bedrock CampgroundTheBedrocksiteisadjacenttotheDoloresRiver.Thereisa

boatrampandfourcabanaswithtablesandgrillsplusalargeflatareatoaccommodateadditionaltentsandRVs.Thereisnodrinkingwaterorpermanenttoilet.Seasonallythereisaportabletoiletlocatedattheboatramp.Thereareopportunitiesforrafting,hikingandscenicviewing.Openyear-round.Campingislimitedtoonenight.

AtBedrock,atthejunctionofCO90&CRY9(justwestoftheDoloresRiverbridgeattheeasternedgeofBedrock),turnsouthonCRY9.Go1mileonthedirtroadtothesite.Bedrockisabout21mileswestofNaturitaviaCO141/CO90,andabout40mileswestofNorwoodviaCO145/CO141/CO90.

GPS:N38.30394W108.89414

Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area

• Escalante Potholes Recreation SiteAtEscalantePotholesRecreationSitetherearefourdesignated

campsites.Campingisallowedonlyinthedesignatedsites.Thesiteshaveatoilet,cabanas,tablesandgrills.Thereisnodrinkingwaterortrashservice.Woodfiresarenotpermitted.SitescanaccommodateRVsupto45feet.Therearehikingtrailsandhistoricalsitesnearby.

FromDelta(Jct.US50&CO92),gowestonUS50about12milestoCR6.50/EscalanteCanyonRoadontheleft(southwest).WatchforthesignspointingtotheDominguez-EscalanteNationalConservationArea.ProceedonCR6.50about12milestotherecreationsite.Deltaisabout21milesnorthwestofMontrose.

• Dominguez CampgroundDominguezCampgroundisnestledamongponderosapine,cot-

tonwoodtreesandwillowsnexttotheDominguezCanyonWildernessandtheUncompahgreNationalForest.Thesurroundingredcanyoncountryhasopportunitiesforhiking,mountainbiking,andhorsebackriding.Off-highwayvehiclesandmountainbikesarenotallowedintheadjoiningwildernessarea.BigDominguezCreekrunsthroughthecampgroundandisverypopularforfishing.Therearetencampsites,nofees,andnodrinkingwaterortrashservice.Due to road conditions, RVs and travel trailers are not recommended.

FromWhitewater(Jct.US50&CO141),driveabout15milessouthonCO141toCR26.10.Asignatthejunctionreads“NationalForestAccess.DivideRoad.UncompahgreNationalForest”.TurnleftontoCR26.10andproceedsouthaboutsixmilestothejunctionofCR26.10andCR24.40.WatchfortheDominguez-EscalanteNationalConservationAreasigns.FollowCR24.40aboutfivemilestothecampground.

FromMontrosetotheUS50/CO141junctionisabout52milesnorthwest.Totaldistanceabout63miles.FromGrand Junction,theUS 50/CO141junctionisabouteightmileseastonUS 50. Caution:CR24.40isextremelyhazardousinwetconditions. Watchforrockslidesonthelasttwo milesofroad.

GPS: N38.74516 W108.54980

8

The Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area (NCA), a unit of the National Conservation Lands system, encompasses 210,172 acres of BLM-managed land in western Colorado. Within the NCA, 66,280 acres make up the Dominguez Canyon Wilderness Area. These lands are popular for those wanting to see

the spectacular red-rock canyons and sandstone bluffs, which include geological and paleontological resources spanning 600 million years, as well as many cultural and historic sites. Nearly 30 miles of the Gunnison River flow through the NCA. The Old Spanish National Historic Trail, a 19th Century land trade route, lies within the NCA.

Uncompahgre PlateauTheUncompahgrePlateauisadistinctivelargeupliftrisingfrom

theColoradoRiverat4,600feettoelevationsthatexceed10,000feet.Theplateauextendsabout70milesborderedontheeastbythewidevalleysoftheGunnisonandUncompahgreRiversandonthewestbythenarrowgorgesoftheSanMiguelandDoloresRivers.

Thesummitridgeoftheplateauisrelativelyflatandrunssouth-easttonorthwest.Theplateauisincisedbymanymulti-coloreddeepcanyons—BigDominguez,Escalante,Roubideau,Tabeguache,andUnaweep—separatedbyrelativelyflatmesas.

• Iron Springs CampgroundIronSpringsCampgroundhaseight

campsitesfortents,tenttrailers,pickupcampers,orsmallRVs,andonewalk-insitesuitableforagroup.PopularactivitiesintheareaareOHVtrailriding,hiking,mountainbiking,andbiggamehunting.Atoiletisavailable,butthereisnodrinkingwaterortrashservice.

FromMontrose:FromtheJct.of US550andCO90(Main&Townsend),gowestonCO90.AsCO90leavesMontrose,itmakesseveralturns–watchfordirectionsigns.Highway90becomesagravelroadandbecomesFS540attheforestboundary.Travelabout23.5milesfromMontrosetothecampgroundontheleft.

GPS:N38.31673W108.16328

• Divide Forks CampgroundSituatedinalargeaspengrove,therusticDivideForksCamp-

groundhas11campsites.Thecampsitesvaryinsizefromsuitableonlyfortents,tenttrailers,orpickupcamperstosuitableforlargeRVs.ManyOHVopportunities,aswellashikingandhorsetrails,arenearby.Therearenofees,waterortrashservice,butatoiletispresent.

FromWhitewater(Jct.US50&CO141),driveabout15milessouthonCO141toCR26.10.Asignatthejunctionreads“National

ForestAccess.DivideRoad.UncompahgreNationalForest”.TurnleftontoCR26.10(whichbecomesFS402)andproceedsouthabout15.5milestothecampgroundentranceontheright.FromMontrosetotheUS50/CO141junctionisabout52miles.Totaldistanceabout82miles.

FromMontroseviaDivideRoad:FromtheJct.US550andCO90(Main&Townsend),gowestonCO90.AsCO90leavesMontrose,itmakesseveral

turns–watchfordirectionsigns.Highway90becomesagravelroadandbecomesFS540attheForestServiceboundary.Travelabout24milesfromMontrosetoFS540/FS402junction.TakeFS402(DivideRoad)westabout16.5milestotheFS402/FS503junction.Turnleft,continuingonFS402foranadditional33.5milestothecampgroundentranceontheleft.Totaldistanceabout74miles.

GPS:N38.68375W108.68787

• Columbine Pass Campground

FromMontrose via Divide Road:FromtheJct.of US550andCO90(Main&Townsend),gowestonCO90.AsCO90leavesMontrose,itmakesseveralturns–watchfordirectionsigns.Highway90becomesagravelroadandbecomesFS540attheForestServiceboundary.Travelabout24milesfromMontrosetoFS540/FS402junction.TakeFS402(DivideRoad)westabout16.2milestothecampgroundontheleft.

From Montrose via 25 Mesa Road: Take US 50 north to the Jct. of US 50 & CO 348 in Olathe (about 10 miles). Turn west on CO 348, and follow it about 12 miles to the junction with 25 Mesa Road (CR D.00). Turn left (west) on 25 Mesa Road and follow it about 25 miles southwest until it ends at Divide Road (FS 402). Turn left on FS 402 and go about 0.2 miles to the campground entrance on the right. 25 Mesa Road is named variously CR D.00, CR Q37, and FS 503.

GPS: N38.42534 W108.38148• Silesca Cabin

The historic Silesca Cabin is located on the Uncompahgre Plateau in a beautiful meadow surrounded by aspen and spruce/fir forests. This rustic cabin will accommodate up to six guests. Amenities include non potable running water, a shower, flush toilet, electric stove, refrigerator, and wood burning stove.

Recreation opportunities nearby include hiking, mountain bik-ing, OHV trails, horseback riding, hunting, and wildlife viewing.The cabin is located about 40 minutes southwest of Montrose, For more information and reservations, visit www.recreation.gov. Information may also be obtained by contacting the Ouray Ranger District at(970) 240-5300.

Camping in the Forest Service Wilderness

Ridgway State ParkRidgwayStateParkisagreatcentrallocationtoenjoymoun-

tainsceneryandafive-milelongreservoir.Theparkoffersmodern,universally-accessiblecampgroundswithyear-roundcamping,restrooms,threeyurts,picnicareas,playgrounds,swimmingareaandtrails.Also,duringthehighseason,coin operatedshowers,alaundro-mat,snackmachines,andachangemachineareavailableintheCamperServicesBuilding.Allwatercraftissubjecttoinspection.

FromMontrose,takeUS550southfor22milestotheparkentranceontheright(west)sideoftheroad.

FromRidgway,takeUS550northforfourmilestotheentranceontheleft(west)sideofthe road.

GPS:N38.21267W107.73384

• Dutch Charlie CampgroundsThebestmountainviewsarefoundinthe

Dakota Terraces Campgroundatsites1-79.Thiscampgroundiswithinwalkingdistanceofthereservoirandswimbeach.Allcamp-siteshaveRVelectricalhookupsandsharedwater.Adumpstationislocatedattheentrancetothecampground.Thisistheonlyareaoftheparkwithyear-roundRVcamping.

Elk Ridge Campgroundisonthetopofamesacoveredinpiñonpineandjunipertreesandofferscampsites80-187.RVcamp-siteshaveelectrichookupsandsharedwater.Thereare10walk-intentsites.

• PA-CO-CHU-PUK CampgroundCampsites200-295arewithinPa-Co-Chu-PukCampground

atthenorthendofthepark.Twoloopsprovidefullhookups.Camp-sites200-280areclosetotheUncompahgreRiver.Tentcamperscanenjoythe15walk-incampsites(281-295)locatedacrosstheriverinasecludedponderosapineforest.

For more information, call 970-626-5822, or email ridgway.park@ state.co.us. For reservations, call 1-800-678-2267 or go to http://cpw.state.co.us/.

9

There are several ways to experience the pristine resources and solitude of wilderness in this area -- visit the Lizard Head, Uncompahgre, and Mount Sneffels Wildernesses. In order to protect the unique character of our Wilderness, there are several rules and regulations that must be observed when traveling in wilderness areas - here are just a few of the most common ones: The use of motorized and mechanized equipment is not allowed; group sizes must be no more than 15 people, with a maximum group size of 25, including people and livestock; visitors must camp at least 100 feet from a trail or water system; building campfires above treeline or within 100 feet of a water system or Forest Service trail is not allowed..

Note: Within the Blue Lakes are of the Mount Sneffels Wilderness and Navajo Basin area of the Lizard Head Wilderness, no fires are allowed.

Please visit www.wilderness.net for more information regarding wilderness rules and regulations. This site contains specific information about wilderness areas around the country and is a helpful resource to consult before embarking on a trip.

Located on the top of the Plateau, the Columbine Campground has 23 campsites (a mixture of group and individual) each equipped with a fire ring. No water is available for visitors, but there are two vault toilets on site for public use. The sites are first-come, first-served. The campground is open seasonally and offers opportunities for recreation both on-site and nearby, including an open OHV area and fishing ponds stocked by CPW.

Uncompahgre Mountains-Norwood DistrictThemountaindivisionoftheUncompahgreNationalForestand

surroundinglandsconsistofruggednorthernslopesoftheSanJuanMountains,highplateaus,narrowstreamvalleys,andsteepwalledcan-yonslikethosesurroundingthetownsofTelluride,OurayandLakeCity.• Matterhorn Campground

AtMatterhornCampgroundthereare28campsites.Hikingandbikingtrails,fishing,andjeeproadsarefoundnearby.LizardHeadWildernessisaboutthreemilesaway.Therearewalk-intentsites,vehiclesites,and several campsites that offer RV hookups for electricity and septic. Showers are available.

Seasonal Information:AconcessionairemanagesthiscampgroundwithdailycampingfeesfromMemorialDaythroughmid-September.

FromTelluride(Jct.CO145&CO145Spur,the“T”),travelsouthonCO145foraboutninemiles.Entranceisontheleft(east).

GPS:N37.84698W107.88251• Sunshine Campground

Sunshineisasinglepavedloopcampgroundwith18campsitesnestledinamixedaspen/coniferforest.Drinkingwaterandtoiletsareavailable.LargeRVscanbeaccommodatedinsomesites.Biking,hiking,OHVand4WDopportunitiesareinthearea.

Seasonal Information:AconcessionairemanagesthiscampgroundwithdailycampingfeesfromMemorialDaythroughmid-September.Intheoff-season,thecampgroundisclosed.

FromTelluride(Jct.of CO145&CO145Spur,the“T”),travelsouthonCO145for4.9miles.Entranceisontheright(west).

GPS:N39.88936W107.88851• Woods Lake Campground

Situatedinanaspenstand,thecampgroundhas41campsites,including fivewithhorsefacilities.Thehorseloop,sites32-36,hasacorralwithfivepaddocks,awateringtrough,hitchingrails,feedholders,andstocktrailerparking.LocatednearWoodsLakeandtheLizardHeadWilderness,itservesasanexcellentbasecamp.Mountainbikersandmotorcyclistsmayridethe11.5-mileWilsonMesaTrail.NativeColoradocutthroattroutarefoundinWoodsLake.

Seasonal Information:Aconcessionairemanagesthiscamp-groundwithdailycampingfeesfromMemorialDaythroughmid-Sepember. In the off-season, the Forest Service manages the campground, no fees are charged, and services are limited.

From Placerville (Jct. of CO 145 & CO 62), travel east 2.9 miles to Fall Creek Road (CR 57P). Turn left (south) and continue 9.4 miles on CR 57P, FS 618 and FS 362 to the campground.

From Telluride (Jct. of CO 145 & CO 145 Spur, the “T”), travel west 9.7 miles to Fall Creek Road (CR 57P). Turn left (south) and continue 9.4 miles as above.

GPS:N37.88759W108.05254

Alta Lakes Dispersed Camping

FromTelluride(Jct.of CO145&CO145Spur,the“T”),travelsouthonCO145for5.2miles.Proceed4.3milestotheAltaLakesarea.

GPS:N37.88462W107.84663

• Priest Lake Dispersed Camping AreaAdjacenttothesmallman-madePriestLake,theareahasroom

foraboutsixcamps.Thesitehasatoiletbutnodrinkingwater.Highpeaksandmixedpine/aspenforestsurroundingtheareamaketheviewsspectacular.Hiking,biking,andOHV/4WDopportunitiesaboundinthearea.

GPS:N39.83466W107.88049

• Fall Creek BLM Dispersed Camping

Thisisadispersedcampingareathatwillaccommodatetwo to threetentsorsmallRVs.Thereisapicnictable,cabanaandgrillon-site. Duringthesummerportabletoiletsareprovided. Thereisnodrinkingwateravailable. AfewadditionalunimproveddispersedcampsitesarealongFallCreekRoadnorthandsouthofthecabanasite. Mountainhikingandbikingtrailsandfishingarenearby.

From Placerville (Jct. of CO 145 & CO 62), travel east 2.9 miles to Fall Creek Road (CR 57P). Turn left (south) and continue 1.1 miles to unmarked site on right (west). From Telluride (Jct. ofCO 145 & CO 145 Spur, the “T”), travel west 9.7 miles to Fall Creek Road (CR 57P). Turn left (south) and continue 1.1 miles as above.

GPS:N37.97920W108.03054

• Telluride Town Park CampgroundManaged by the town of Telluride, Telluride Town Park is a

public park with a campground and festival grounds. There are 28 vehicle campsites & five walk-in campsites. Showers are available on site. During festivals and concerts, the campground is reserved for festival attendees. At other times, camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information and listing of festivals call (970) 728-2173 or visit www.telluride-co.gov.

The campground is at the east end of town just past the business district on the south side of Colorado Avenue across the San Miguel River. The entrance is well-signed.

GPS:N37.93513W109.80573

Miramonte ReservoirLocatedwithintheDanNobleStateWildlifeArea,camping

isallowedindesignatedsiteswithintheMiramonteReservoirtract.Thecampsitesarewithinsagebrushuplandsandareunshaded.Thereareopportunitiesforlakefishing,powerboating,sailsurfing,waterskiing,andwildlifeviewing.Facilitieswithinthestatewildlifeareaincluderestrooms andboatramps.MiramonteReservoirismanagedbythe ColoradoDivisionofParksandWildlife.Formoreinformationgotocpw.state.co.us/.

FromNorwood,go1.5mileseastonCO145,turnright(south)onLoneConeRd/CR44ZS(betweenMM100&101).Followthesignstothereservoir,about18milesfromCO145.

GPS:N37.97312W108.33469

10

Lone Cone Cabin, located 24 miles southeast of Norwood, is a great destination for an overnight get-away or a week-long hunting trip. This rustic cabin is available year-round and can be accessed in summer and fall by passenger vehicle or 4WD. The cabin sleeps six with two bedrooms. There is no potable water, so guests must bring water or a water filter. Amenities include electricity, refrigerator, oven, microwave oven, woodstove, cookware, dishes and utensils. During the summer, the cabin has running water, flush toilet and shower. For more information or to make a reservation visit www.recreation.gov.

Lone Cone Cabin

•

Matterhorn Cabin, located 10 miles south of Telluride along Highway 145, is a great destination for a family reunion, or a weeklong group trip to enjoy the Telluride area. This large cabin is available year-round and can be accessed by passenger vehicle. The cabin has five bedrooms (two twin beds each), and one double sleeper coach. Amenities include electricity, forced air heat, two bathrooms with flush toilets and showers, refrigerator, oven, microwave, cookware, dishes, and utensils. For more information or to make a reservation visit www.recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777.

Matterhorn Cabin

From Telluride (Jct. of CO 145 & CO 145 Spur, the “T”), travel south on CO 145 for about 11 miles to Trout Lake Road on the left (east). Follow Trout Lake Road about 0.2 miles to Priest Lake Road on the left (north). Follow Priest Lake Road north to the campground. Not recommended for RVs.

At Alta Lakes there are a number of primitive, dispersed camping sites. This scenic location with three small alpine lakes has opportunities for fishing, hiking, backpacking, picnicking, mountain biking, jeeping, and wildlife viewing all with the jagged peaks and open alpine grassland of the San Juan Mountains as the backdrop.

Uncompahgre Mountains-Ouray DistrictTheOuray Ranger District is divided into two divisions

encompassing parts of theUncompahgrePlateauand the San Juanmountains.TheSanJuanmountainrangehasfourpeaksover14,000feetandanother100peaksover13,000feetinelevation.ItincludestheUncompahgre,MountSneffels,andLizardHeadWildernessAreas.PortionsoftheMountSneffelsandUncompahgreWildernessesarelocatedonthisdistrict (see page 10 for more information).

TheOwlCreekPassRoadisascenicloopfromMontroseonHighway50totheCimarronRoadtoSilverJackReservoir,overOwlCreekPassandwesttoRidgway.Thisareagivesaccesstotrailheadsandareasfordispersedcamping.Popularrecreationactivitiesincludehiking,hunting,fishing,four-wheeldriving,sightseeing,picnicking,mountainbiking,horsebackriding,mountainclimbing,backpacking,cross-countryskiingandsnowmobiling.

Afternoonsummerthunderstormsarecommon.Snowispossibleatanytimeofyearinthehighestelevations.Thehighelevationroadsandtrailsareoftenimpassable due tosnowuntilatleastmid-July.

• Amphitheater CampgroundAmphitheaterCampgroundislocatedinaGambel

oakandmixedconiferforestonamountainsideabovethecommunityofOuray.Theareaisveryscenicwithviewsofthetownandthe“amphitheater,”ageologicfeatureformedbyavolcanicexplosion.Thereareopportunitiesforhiking,mountainbiking,andbackpackingnearby.AlsopartoftheAmphitheatercomplexisadayuseareawithfourpicnictablesandatoilet.

The35campsitesareprimarilydesignedfortentcamping.How-ever,smallRVs(under25’singleor35’combinedlength)areallowedinsites3-15.Whiletheroadsarepaved,theyarenarrowandthesitesareshort.Drinkingwaterandtoiletsareavailable.ThecampgroundisconcessionairemanagedseasonallyandsitesmaybereservedJune15–September15.Formoreinformationortomakeareservationvisitwww.recreation.govorcall1-877-444-6777.

FromOuray,fromthesouthendofMainStreet,gosouthonUS5500.9milestothewell-signedAmphitheaterentranceontheleft.Fol-lowthepavedroadtothedayuseandcampgroundarea.

GPS:N38.01682W107.66798

• Thistledown CampgroundThistledownCampground,withninesitesandatoilet,but

withoutdrinkingwater,isadjacenttothehistoricsiteofThistledownandtheWeehawkenTrailhead.ThiscampgroundisfrequentlyusedbythoseplanningtohikeintoMountSneffelsWildernessordriveupCampBirdRoadtoYankeeBoyBasintoenjoyalpineviews,wildflowers,waterfalls,abandonedminesandmillsandtheoldtownsiteofSneffels.TotravelbeyondSneffelsrequiresahigh-clearance4WDvehicle.Oftheninesites,sevenarefortentsandtwowillaccommodatesmallRVs.Acampgroundhostisondutyfrommid-Maytomid-September.

FromOuray,fromthesouthendofMainStreet,gosouthonUS5500.3milestoCampBirdRoadontheright.Drive2.6milesonCampBirdRoadtothecampgroundentranceontheleft.

GPS:N37.99363W107.70076

• Angel Creek CampgroundTheprimitiveAngelCreekCampgroundisnearYankeeBoy

Basinwherealpineviews,wildflowers,waterfalls,abandonedminesandmillsandtheoldtownsiteofSneffelsawait.Thecampgroundconsistsofeightdesignatedcampsites.Portabletoiletsareprovidedduringthesummermonths.Thereisnodrinkingwater.Trashserviceisatthecampgroundentrance.Frommid-Maytomid-September,acampgroundhostisstationedatThistledownCampground. Caution: Accesstothecamp-groundrequiresahighclearance4WDvehicle.NoRVs.

FromOuray,fromthesouthendofMainStreet,gosouthonUS 5500.3milestoCampBirdRoadontheright.Drive1.9milesonCampBirdRoadtothecampgroundentranceontherightimmediatelyaftercrossingthebridge.Gothroughtheparkingarea(downstream)andlookleftfortheshort,steeproadtothecampground.

GPS:N38.00187W107.69407

Silver Jack Recreation AreaTheSilverJackRecreationAreaislocatedonthenorthslopeof

theruggedSanJuanmountains.Elevationsrangefrom8,600feetattheNational Forestboundarytoover13,000feetatthesummitofPrecipicePeak.Viewsarespectacularastheareachangesfromaspenandmixedconiferforeststodenseconiferandeventuallyalpinetundra.TheSilverJackRecreationAreaisremotewithunpavedroadswhichmaybeim-passablewhenwet.Planaccordinglyandbepreparedforemergencies.

Day-usefacilitiesinclude:twoanglerparkingareas,anoverlookandpicnicarea,andseveralprimitivetrailheads.Onlyhand-propelledwatercraftarepermittedonSilverJackReservoir.Thebestaccesstothereservoirisfromitsanglerparkingarea.

• Silver Jack CampgroundSilverJackCampgroundhas60campsitessituatedinanaspen

grove,withafewsprucetreesandanunderstoryoftallgrassandwild-flowers Fifteenofthesitesmaybereservedforgroups.NearlyallofthesitesaresuitableforlargeRVs.Twositesaredesignedtobeuniversallyaccessible.Thereisdrinkingwaterandtherearevaulttoiletsineachloop.ThecampgroundisneartheSilverJackReservoirandanetworkoftrailsaroundCimarronRidge.Duringthesummer,aconcessionairemanagesthecampgroundandfeesarecharged.

FromMontrose(Jct.of US50&US550),driveeastonUS50for22.7milestoCimarronRoadontheright(south).Watchforthesign“NationalForestAccessSilverJackReservoir.”ProceedsouthonCi-marronRoad/BigCimarronRoad/FS858(sameroad,varyingname)for16.9milestothecampgroundentranceontheright.Followthesignstothecampgroundloops.

GPS:N38.23812W107.53514

• Beaver Lake CampgroundBeaverLakeCampgroundsitssouthofBeaverLakewith11

nicelysecludedcampingsitesnestledundersprucetreeswithlakeviews.Thereareopportunitiesforlake,pond,riverandstreamfishin nearby.Thereisnodrinkingwater,butwaterandtrashdisposalisavail-ableseasonallyatSilverJackCampground.AfewsitesaresuitableforsmallRVs,howevermostarebettersuitedfortents/truckcampers.Dur-ingthesummer,aconcessionairemanagesthecampgroundandfeesarecharged;thehostisatSilverJackCampground.

FromMontrose(Jct.of US50&US550),driveeastonUS50for22.7milestoCimarronRoadontheright(south).Watchforthesign“NationalForestAccessSilverJackReservoir.”ProceedsouthonCi-marronRoad/BigCimarronRoad/FS858(sameroad,varyingname)for15.6milestothecampgroundentranceontheright.

GPS:N38.25021W107.54292

• Big Cimarron CampgroundBigCimarronCampgroundstretchesalongtheCimarronRiver

with12campsitesshadedbyamixofspruceandcottonwoodtrees.Severalsitesareadjacenttotheriver.Ahorsecorralacrossfromthecampgroundmaybeavailablewhennotusedbyrangepermittees.Thereisnodrinkingwater, andtrashdisposalisavailableseasonallyatSilverJackCampground.Duringthesummer,aconcessionairemanagesthecampgroundandfeesarecharged;thehostisatSilverJackCampground.

FromMontrose(Jct.of US50&US550),driveeastonUS50for22.7milestoCimarronRoadontheright(south).Watchforthesign“NationalForestAccessSilverJackReservoir.”ProceedsouthonCi-marronRoad/BigCimarronRoad/FS858(sameroad,varyingname)for14.9milestothecampgroundentranceontherightashortwaypasttheForestServiceboundary.

GPS:N38.25874W107.54537

Jackson Guard StationLocatednearSilverJackReservoir,aboutanhourfrom

Montrose,theJacksonGuardStationistuckedawayinasmallaspengrove.Thecabineasilysleepsfouradults.Amenitiesincludeapropanestoveandrefrigerator,andawoodstove.Thecabindoesnothaveelectricityorpotablewater,soguestsmustbringpotablewater.Recreationopportunitiesnearbyincludehiking,fishing,mountainbiking,horsebackriding,andhunting.Tomakeareservationvisitwww.recreation.govorcall1-877-444-6777.

11

General Information

MontrosePublicLandsCenter

Forthosewhowanttoexplore,hike,mountainbike,flatandwhitewaterboat,fish,hunt,andrideATVs,avisittotheMontrosePub-licLandsCenter,2505S.TownsendAvenue,isamust.ThevisitorcenterisopenMondaythroughFridayfrom8a.m.to4:30p.m.TheBureauofLandManagementUncompahgreFieldOfficeandForestServiceOurayRangerDistrictbothoperatefromtheMontrosePublicLandsCenter,withtheNationalParkServicerepresentedaswell.

Everydayfriendlyandknowledgeablestaffandvolunteers,whohavefirst-hand experienceexploringandpreservingthescenicsurroundings,areavailabletoassistyouinplanningyournextadventure.

TheMontrosePublicLandsCentersellstheAmericatheBeauti-fulFederalrecreationpasses,as well as permitsforfirewoodcutting,rockremoval,andChristmastreecutting.

AvaluablepartnershipwiththeSanJuanMountainsAssociationprovidesvisitorswithabookstoreofferingalargeselectionofmaps,books, clothing, and more.Whenyoupurchaseitemsfromthebookstore10%ofallprofitscomebacktotheMontroseareatohelpoperateeducationandvolunteerprogramsbenefitingpubliclands.

IfyouvisittheMontrosePublicLandsCenterwhenitisclosed,a large outdoor kiosk is updated frequently and offers free Coloradomaps, brochures and seasonal information aboutwhat’s happening inthearea.

Welcome to Montrose and enjoy your public lands!

San Juan Mountains AssociationTheSanJuanMountainsAssociation(SJMA)

isanon-profit501(c)(3)organizationlocatedinDurango,Coloradowhosemissionistopromoteresponsiblecareofnaturalandculturalresourcesthrougheducationandhands-oninvolvementthatinspiresrespectandreverenceforourlands.

SJMAmanagesbookstoresinmanypubliclandsvisitorcenterswithallprofitsgoingbacktoeducationandoutreachefforts.

Formoreinformationvisitwww.sjma.org or contact [email protected] or (970) 247-4874.

TheBureauofLandManagement(BLM) isthestewardformanyofthegreatAmericanlandscapes.TheBLM’sNationalConservation Lands, also known as the National Landscape Conservation System,highlightsomeoftheWest’smostspectacularpubliclands so they may be protected, conserved, or restored. These lands are congressionally or presidentially designatedareaswithspecialnatural,cultural,ecologicalandscientificvalues. Nationalmonuments,nationalconservationareas,nationalscenicandhistorictrails,wildandscenicrivers,wildernessareas,andwildernessstudyareas are all part of the National Landscape Conservation System.The National Conservation Lands are managedbytheBLMasanAmericantreasureofvast,wide-openspaces and help to increase the public's awarenessof,andappreciationfor,thesepublictreasures.

ColoradoCanyonsAssociationfosterscommunitystewardshipofNationalConservationLandswithafocusonDominguez-Escalante,GunnisonGorgeandMcInnisCanyonsNationalConservationAreasinWesternColorado.Theyareanon-partisan,non-profit organizationencouragingcooperationamongallNationalConservationArea(NCA)usersandinterests.

Formoreinformationortobecomeamembervisit www.coloradocanyonsassociation.org.

Additional ContactsNorwoodRangerDistrict 1150ForestNorwood,CO81423(970)327-4261

PaoniaRangerDistrict403NorthRioGrandeAvenue Paonia,CO81428(970)527-4131

BLMGunnisonGorgeNationalConservationArea 2465SouthTownsend Montrose,CO81401(970)240-5300

BLMGunnisonFieldOffice 650South11thStreet Gunnison,CO81230 (970)642-4940

GrandMesa,Uncompahgre,andGunnisonNationalForest 2250Highway50Delta,CO81416(970)874-6600

GrandValleyRangerDistrict2777CrossroadsBlvd,Suite1GrandJunction,CO81506(970)242-8211

GrandMesaVisitorCenter (970)856-4153OpenSeasonally

GunnisonRangerDistrict 216N.Colorado Gunnison,CO 81230(970)641-0471

OurayRangerDistrict 2505S.TownsendAve Montrose,CO81401 (970)240-5300

BLMUncompahgreFieldOffice 2465SouthTownsendAvenue Montrose,CO81401(970)240-5300

BLMGrandJunctionFieldOffice 2815HRoadGrandJunction,CO81506 (970) 244-3000

ColoradoDivisionofParksandWildlife2300STownsendAvenue Montrose,CO81401(970)252-6000

NationalParkServiceBlackCanyonoftheGunnisonCurecantiNationalRecreationAreaMailingAddress:102ElkCreekGunnison,CO81230(970)641-2337 or 249-1915

OurayChamber of Commerce 1230MainStreet Ouray,CO81427 (970)325-4746

TellurideVisitorCenter 700WColoradoAveTelluride,CO81435 (866) 237-5341

DeltaChamberofCommerce 301MainSt.Delta,CO81416(970)874-8616MontroseVisitor Center

107 S. Cascade Ave Montrose,CO81401 (970) 497-8558

Uncompahgre Valley Public Lands - Camping Guide

Documents