South Mineral
Open for the 2026 season. All 26 sites are first-come, first-served with no advance reservations. Stage 1 fire restrictions are currently in effect. Full services including potable water and trash pickup are available through September.
Flood Watch issued August 30 at 7:37PM MDT until September 1 at 12:00AM MDT by NWS Grand Junction CO
* WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...Portions of Colorado, including the following areas, Central Colorado River Basin, Central Gunnison and Uncompahgre River Basin, Central Yampa River Basin, Debeque to Silt Corridor, Flat Tops, Four Corners/Upper Dolores River, Gore and Elk Mountains/Central Mountain Valleys, Grand Valley, Grand and Battlement Mesas, Northwest San Juan Mountains, Paradox Valley/Lower Dolores River, Roan and Tavaputs Plateaus, Southwest San Juan Mountains, Uncompahgre Plateau and Dallas Divide, Upper Gunnison River Valley and West Elk and Sawatch Mountains and Utah, including the following areas, Arches/Grand Flat, Canyonlands/Natural Bridges, La Sal and Abajo Mountains, Southeast Utah and Tavaputs Plateau. * WHEN...Through Monday evening. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Recent burn scars will also be especially susceptible and these include the Lee and Elk RX, Gold Mountain and Elk, Ferris, and Babylon burn scars to name a few. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Monsoonal moisture will remain across the area through Monday evening and will support thunderstorms and showers with heavy rainfall across the watch area. Several rounds of heavier rain are expected increasing the chance for flash flooding especially in our more susceptible areas. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
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
South Mineral Campground is a highly sought-after destination located along South Mineral Creek in the San Juan National Forest near Silverton. The campground offers 26 well-spaced sites shaded by spruce and fir trees, with nearby peaks displaying striking contrasts of red and gray cliffs. A waterfall on the creek just upstream adds to the scenic appeal. The campground provides vault toilets, potable water during the summer season, trash pickup, picnic tables, and fire grates at each site. Some sites are handicapped accessible and some feature larger parking areas suitable for RVs up to 35 feet. No hookups or electricity are available. Bear-safe food storage is strongly recommended. The main draw is the adjacent Ice Lake Trail, a strenuous but rewarding hike to alpine lakes surrounded by colorful peaks. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis only, with payment available via QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app.
Directions
From Silverton, follow Highway 550 two miles west. Turn left (west) onto Forest Road 585 and follow it for 4 miles to the campground entrance. The road parallels South Mineral Creek and is accessible by 2WD vehicles.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| 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 | $40 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 35ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (661) 702-1420 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| View on Recreation.gov | |
| USFS - South Mineral Campground |
Availability
Photos
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