South Mineral Campground
South Mineral Campground, located along South Mineral Creek, is one of the most popular campgrounds in the San Juan National Forest. The campground has 26 sites, all of which are first-come, first-serve. Most campsites are shaded and well-spaced thanks to spruce and fir trees. Some sites are handicapped accessible. Some sites have large parking areas.
Nearby peaks have cliffs of brilliant color-contrasting reds and grays. A waterfall on the creek just upstream from the campground adds to the attraction of the area. But the main attraction is the trail adjacent to the campground, Ice Lake Trail, a strenuous, steep, and popular hike.
Nearby Dispersed Camping: South Mineral Campground does not take reservations, all sites are first come first served. Dispersed camping along Forest Rd. 585 is allowed only in designated camping areas which include Anvil, Bear and Sultan Camping Areas. Do not camp within 100 ft of any water source. Respect posted directions and instructions. Be aware that this area is extremely busy.
Reservations
Make Reservations HereGeneral Information
Late May through September. For specific open / closure dates, visit recreation.gov.
Mid-May - September
Overnight Use:
Single Site: $40 per night
Maximum number of people per site: 8
Dogs must be leashed or otherwise physically restrained. Do not leave pets unattended.
Address: 367 Pearl Street Bayfield, CO 81122
Phone: (970) 884-2512
Hours: Friday only, 10:00am-4:30pm (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 37.8056
Longitude: -107.7751
Directions
From Silverton: Follow Hwy 550 two miles west of Silverton. Turn left (west) and follow Forest Road 585 for 4 miles to the campground entrance. The road parallels South Mineral Creek the creek, and is driveable by 2WD. Just past the campground, the road becomes 4WD. South Mineral Campground is the last developed camping area along U.S. Highway 550 on the San Juan National Forest.
Driving off-road is prohibited, but many other 4WD roads in the Silverton and Red Mountain Pass areas are open to motorized use.
Parking
Equipment with wheels (RVs, campers, cars) must fit in the parking spur. There is not any overflow parking available.
Max RV size = 35 ft
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are available at this site.
Water
Potable water is available at this site.
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are available at this site.
Horse/Pack Animal Information
Horse/Pack animals are not allowed at this site.
Recreation Opportunities
Day Hikes Info
Ice Lake Trail: It leads up above timberline to high alpine lakes surrounded by meadows of wildflowers and rocky peaks.
Fishing - Lake & Pond Info
Clear Lake is a 3-mile hike north of the campground, and Ice Lake is a strenuous, steep, and popular 3-mile hike west. Mineral Creek is another option.
OHV Road RidingOHV Road Riding Info
Four-wheel-drive roads lead in all directions from Silverton. North of South Mineral Creek on Hwy 550, near Red Mountain Pass, routes lead west off U.S. Highway 550 to Ophir Pass and Black Bear Pass. These roads are also suitable for mountain biking and landscape photography.