USA 250 Shirt →

Thistledown Campground

Open

Open seasonally from late May through late fall, depending on road accessibility. First-come, first-served only. No winter road maintenance past McNulty Lane.

Uncompahgre National Forest

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.

Uncompahgre National Forest

Weed Free Forage Products

The purpose of this Order is to prevent the introduction or spread of noxious weeds.

Uncompahgre National Forest

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.

About

Thistledown Campground occupies a scenic spot at 8,700 feet elevation in Canyon Creek, adjacent to the historic Thistledown townsite and the Weehawken Trailhead. The campground experiences heavy use from hikers accessing Mount Sneffels and other peaks in the surrounding wilderness, as well as visitors drawn to the spectacular wildflower displays in Yankee Boy Basin during summer months. This is a primitive, dispersed-style campground best suited for tent camping. Vault toilets are provided, but there is no potable water on-site, so campers must bring their own supply. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Access depends on road conditions. The campground typically opens in late May and remains accessible through late fall. Winter access is not maintained past McNulty Lane on Camp Bird Road, and visitors attempting winter camping must be prepared to traverse unplowed conditions.

Directions

From Ouray, travel south on Colorado State Highway 550. Turn right (west) at the end of town onto County Road 361 (Canyon Creek Road). Turn left at the campground sign.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi No
Pets Allowed
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store No
Price $10

Vehicle

Max RV Length
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites

Contact

Phone +1 (970) 874-6600

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile None

Community Posts

No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!