South Mineral
Closed — Closed for the season. Open late May through September. Between September and May, no services are provided.
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.
Occupancy and Use Restrictions
The purpose of this Order is to protect the public health and safety in the Rocky Mountain Region. This Order is supplemental to and does not rescind or replace those restrictions in 36 C.F.R. Part 261, Subpart A, or any Forest Supervisor Order issued under 36 C.F.R. Part 261, Subpart B.
Cave Closure and Restrictions
The purpose of this Order is to reduce the spread of the fungus that causes White nose syndrome and to protect bat species during critical biological periods.
Falls Creek Closure Area, Camping, and Motor Vehicle Travel Restrictions
Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R.
Dolores River Restoration Project Closure Order
The Dolores Ranger District has issued a Forest Closure Order for Dolores River Restoration Project located on "The Beach" for the construction of instream structures and bank improvements.
West Fork Road and Bridge Closure Order
The Pagosa Ranger District's West Fork Bridge is closed by Forest Order due to damage during the October 2025 flood events. Forest Road 648 (West Fork) is closed at location identified by this order.
Multiple roads and trails damaged by flooding on SJNF
In early October, severe flooding events created ongoing safety and access concerns for Forest users on the Columbine and Pagosa Ranger Districts of the San Juan National Forest.
Lemon Reservoir Restrictions
The following act is prohibited on the National Forest System (NFS) lands and waters on the Columbine Ranger District of the San Juan National Forest:
Cascade Flume Safety Closure
Area closure: The purpose of this Order is for public health and safety during the Cascade Tacoma Flume repair. The recent failure of the flume resulted in infrastructure damage and a landslide that has destabilized the Described Area.
McPhee Reservoir Prohibitions
The following is prohibited on the National Forest System (NFS) lands and waters on the Dolores Ranger District of the San Juan National Forest:
Mancos/Dolores Camping Restrictions
The following are prohibited on the National Forest System Lands on the Mancos-Dolores Ranger District, San Juan National Forest.
Forest Orders
Visit our Forest Order page for a list of all the current Forest Orders: Closures, Fire Restrictions, and Camping, Occupancy, and Use Restrictions.
About
South Mineral Campground sits along South Mineral Creek and is one of the most sought-after camping destinations in the San Juan National Forest. All 26 sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis and are well-spaced among spruce and fir trees, providing natural shade and privacy. Some sites are ADA accessible, and several feature large parking areas suitable for RVs up to 35 feet. The campground's spectacular setting features nearby peaks with cliffs of contrasting reds and grays, and a picturesque waterfall on the creek just upstream from the sites. The primary draw is the Ice Lake Trail, which departs adjacent to the campground. This strenuous, steep, and extremely popular 3-mile hike climbs above timberline to pristine alpine lakes surrounded by wildflower meadows and dramatic rocky peaks. Clear Lake is also accessible via a 3-mile hike north of the campground. The area serves as an excellent base for exploring the region's extensive 4WD road network. Just past the campground, Forest Road 585 transitions to 4WD terrain. North of South Mineral Creek near Red Mountain Pass, routes lead west to Ophir Pass and Black Bear Pass, which are also suitable for mountain biking and landscape photography. The campground is easily accessed via a 2WD-driveable road from Highway 550, located just two miles west of Silverton.
Directions
From Silverton, follow Highway 550 two miles west. Turn left (west) onto Forest Road 585 and continue 4 miles to the campground entrance. The road parallels South Mineral Creek and is driveable by 2WD vehicles. Just past the campground, the road becomes 4WD only.
Nearby Campgrounds
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 (970) 884-2512 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| View on Recreation.gov |
Availability
Photos
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