Little Molas Dispersed Campground
Seasonal access dependent on snowmelt. At 10,700 feet on Molas Pass, the campground typically opens in late May or June and remains accessible until fall snows. US 550 is maintained year-round but Little Molas Lake Road may be impassable when snow-covered.
Hydrologic Outlook issued October 9 at 10:53AM MDT by NWS Grand Junction CO
ESFGJT A strong low pressure system off the Pacific Coast will begin to draw in tropical moisture associated with Topical Storm Rachel this weekend. This strong southerly fetch will draw anomalously high moisture content across the Desert Southwest and into eastern Utah and western Colorado. The chance for widespread precipitation increases Saturday evening into Sunday. Total precipitation forecasts range from 1 to 3 inches across high terrain, with highest amounts favoring the Uintas, Tavaputs and the Southwest San Juan mountains. Embedded thunderstorms are also possible Sunday afternoon, increasing the threat for flash flooding across vulnerable terrain. While confidence in location and rainfall rates remain low at this time, the potential for rapidly rising rivers, streams, normally dry arroyos and slot canyons are possible Sunday through Monday. Please follow the evolving forecast, especially if your plans including recreating or commuting across eastern Utah and western Colorado Sunday onward. Also, keep in mind weather potential above your location and upstream, particularly for those who reside below sensitive terrain like recent burn scars.
Wheeled Vehicles in Wilderness
This order describes the prohibition of wheeled vehicles in all National Forest Wilderness Areas of the Rocky Mountain Region and any exceptions thereof.
Weed Free Forage Products
The purpose of this Order is to prevent the introduction or spread of noxious weeds.
About
Little Molas Dispersed Campground sits at approximately 10,700 feet elevation in the San Juan National Forest, about a mile off US Highway 550 on the Little Molas Lake Road. The campground is located on Molas Pass, roughly 46 miles north of Durango and 5 miles south of Silverton. This free, primitive camping area offers around 10 designated dispersed sites scattered near Little Molas Lake, with most sites featuring rudimentary fire rings and grills. Vault toilets are available, but there is no potable water, so campers must bring their own supply. The high-alpine and subalpine setting means weather can be unpredictable even in summer, with afternoon thunderstorms, hail, and occasional snow possible. About half the sites can accommodate RVs or horse trailers, though the primitive nature of the area means there are no hookups, dump stations, or other developed amenities. All camping is first-come, first-served with a 14-day maximum stay. The location provides excellent access to the Colorado Trail, which passes through the area and offers numerous hiking opportunities. Little Molas Lake is stocked annually with Colorado River cutthroat trout, making it a popular fishing destination. The surrounding Weminuche Wilderness and San Juan Mountains provide a dramatic alpine backdrop with views of peaks like Snowdon Peak.
Directions
From Durango, drive north on US Highway 550 approximately 46 miles. Pass the Molas Pass overlook parking on the right; the Little Molas Lake Road is on the left. Turn left and follow the road approximately 1 mile to the camping area. From Silverton, drive south on US 550 approximately 5 miles to the Little Molas Lake Road turnoff on the right.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (970) 884-2512 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
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