Camping at Amphitheater Colorado Campground

Location

Amphitheater Campground is located in the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests in Colorado, close to the town of Ouray. This scenic campground is nestled in the San Juan Mountains and is named for the natural rock amphitheater that surrounds it.

Camping Facilities

The campground provides a variety of facilities designed for camper convenience and comfort, which include:

• Campsites: There are multiple campsites available, some of which can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs. Each campsite typically offers a picnic table, fire ring, and tent pad.
• Restrooms: Vault toilets are available in the campground, but there are no shower facilities.
• Water: Drinking water is provided through hand pumps or faucets distributed throughout the campground.
• Accessibility: Some campsites are specifically designed and located to be accessible to people with disabilities.

Activities

Given the campground's prime location, there are several activities you can enjoy:

• Hiking: There are numerous trails near the campground that offer both easy walks and challenging hikes.
• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding area is rich with wildlife, providing excellent opportunities for viewing animals like deer, elk, and various bird species.
• Fishing: There are angling opportunities at nearby rivers and creeks, with chances to catch trout and other species.
• Scenic Drives: The Million Dollar Highway, part of the San Juan Skyway, is a renowned scenic drive that offers spectacular views that can be accessed from the Ouray area.

Things to Know

Before heading to Amphitheater Campground, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

• Reservations: Sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis, but reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
• Season: The campground is typically open from late May to early September. Outside these times, the roads and campsites may be covered in snow or inaccessible.
• Pets: Pets are usually allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times and managed responsibly.
• Bear Safety: The area may be frequented by bears, so it is important to follow bear-safety practices, which include properly storing food and disposing of waste.
• Altitude: The campground is at a high elevation, so visitors should be prepared for the effects of altitude sickness by staying hydrated and acclimatizing properly.

Getting There

Access to the campground from Ouray is straightforward:

• Directions: Drive south from Ouray on the Million Dollar Highway (US-550 S) for about 2 miles. The turn-off for the campground will be on your left, marked by signage.

Contact Information

For the most current information, or specific inquiries regarding your visit, it's best to contact the GMUG National Forest's ranger district directly:

• Phone: Contact numbers for specific ranger districts within the GMUG can be found on the USDA Forest Service website.
• Website: Visit the official USDA Forest Service website or recreation.gov for more details and to make reservations.