Miner's Cabin Dispersed Area Campground
La Plata County Road 124 typically remains gated closed from December through May for winter conditions. Once the seasonal gate opens, the dispersed area is accessible for free camping. Fire restrictions are in effect through December 31, 2027, permitting fires only in Forest Service-provided metal fire grates.
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
Miner's Cabin Dispersed Area is a designated primitive camping zone in La Plata Canyon, approximately 6 miles north of Highway 160 via County Road 124 (La Plata Canyon Road) near Hesperus, Colorado. The site sits within the San Juan National Forest at roughly 9,000 feet elevation, surrounded by rugged mountain terrain and historic mining remnants that give the area its name. As a designated dispersed camping area, Miner's Cabin offers a rustic backcountry experience with minimal amenities. A vault toilet is provided, but there is no potable water, trash service, or other developed facilities. Campers must be self-sufficient, bringing their own water and packing out all garbage. The site accommodates tent camping and smaller RVs, though road conditions and site configuration favor high-clearance vehicles. Camping is free with a 16-day stay limit. Campfires are only permitted in Forest Service-provided metal fire grates due to area-wide fire restrictions in effect through December 31, 2027. La Plata County maintains a seasonal gate that closes the road from December through May, limiting winter access to non-motorized recreation.
Directions
From Durango, travel 12 miles west on US Highway 160. Turn north onto County Road 124 (La Plata Canyon Road) at Hesperus. Continue approximately 6 miles on the gravel road; Miner's Cabin Dispersed Area is signed 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 | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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