BASECAMP 550: Your Premier Gateway to San Juan Mountain Adventures in Ridgway, CO

BASECAMP 550 Introduce

Hello, fellow Colorado adventurers! Are you seeking a memorable escape that combines the rugged beauty of the San Juan Mountains with modern comfort and convenience? Look no further than BASECAMP 550, a thoughtfully designed campground nestled in the charming valley between Ridgway and Ouray. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's a meticulously curated experience aimed at enhancing your outdoor explorations, providing a cozy and well-appointed base from which to launch your next Colorado adventure.

BASECAMP 550 has redefined the traditional camping experience by offering a variety of unique accommodations, ensuring there's a perfect fit for every traveler, from RV enthusiasts to those seeking a touch of luxury in their outdoor stay. Our mission is to simplify your mountain living, allowing you to focus on the breathtaking scenery and countless activities that the surrounding region offers. Let’s dive into what makes BASECAMP 550 an indispensable part of your Colorado journey.

Location and Accessibility

Strategically positioned at 20725 US-550, Ridgway, CO 81432, USA, BASECAMP 550 boasts an enviable location that serves as the perfect hub for exploring Southwestern Colorado. The campground is situated directly on US-550, famously known as a segment of the Million Dollar Highway, which connects Ridgway with the iconic towns of Ouray and Silverton. This prime roadside access ensures a quick "get in, get out, and go exploring" experience, as many delighted visitors have noted.

While the highway proximity offers unparalleled convenience, BASECAMP 550 is designed to minimize any potential noise, with many accommodations featuring thoughtful touches like sound machines to ensure a peaceful night's rest. The campground is just a two-mile drive south of Ridgway, placing you mere minutes from its quaint downtown, local eateries, and unique shops. Traveling further afield is a breeze; Ouray, known for its hot springs and stunning Box Canyon Falls, is only about 10 minutes away, while the world-renowned ski resort town of Telluride is approximately a 55-minute drive. Silverton, another historic mining town offering incredible mountain vistas and the famous Narrow Gauge Railroad, is also about 55 minutes away. Montrose, a larger hub with more extensive services and an airport, is also within easy reach. This central location makes BASECAMP 550 an ideal launchpad for day trips to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Ridgway State Park, and countless hiking and biking trails within the Uncompahgre and San Juan National Forests. The stunning views of the San Juan Mountains from the property itself are a constant reminder of the majestic landscape you're immersed in, making the drive to and from the campground as much a part of the adventure as the destination itself.

Services Offered

Diverse Accommodations: BASECAMP 550 offers a range of lodging options, including quaint RV sites (suitable for rigs 28' or less with full hookups), comfortable glamping tents equipped with modern amenities, and charming tiny homes (Casitas and Rustic Cabin, accommodating 2-4 campers) with varying levels of comfort and features.
Full Hookup RV Sites: All 25 RV sites are equipped with full hookups, including water, sewer, and electric (30/20/15 Amp), ensuring a convenient and comfortable stay for RV travelers.
Modern Bathhouse: A clean, comfortable, and modern bathhouse is available to all guests, featuring private showers (quarter-operated hot showers), toilets, and sinks for freshening up after a day of adventures.
On-Site Laundry Facility: For added convenience, a quarter-operated laundry facility is available, allowing guests to clean their clothes during their stay.
Clubhouse: The clubhouse serves as a central gathering point, offering complimentary hot coffee and tea, a full kitchen for guest use, comfortable lounging areas with mid-century modern furniture, a wood stove, and a record player. It's a perfect spot to relax, socialize, or even work remotely.
Complimentary Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the campground, allowing guests to stay connected, whether for remote work or simply sharing their adventures with friends and family.
Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Most campsites and accommodations include picnic tables and access to fire rings or a communal propane-fueled outdoor fire pit for enjoying meals and campfires (subject to local fire restrictions).
Public Goods Bath Products: The bathhouse is stocked with sustainable bath products from Public Goods, adding a touch of eco-friendly luxury.
Outdoor BBQ Grills: (Seasonal) Shared outdoor BBQ grills are available for guest use, perfect for cooking up a delicious meal.
Sound Machines: Some accommodations, particularly the glamping tents and tiny homes, may include sound machines to help mitigate highway noise, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep.

Features / Highlights

Spectacular Mountain Views: Every accommodation type at BASECAMP 550 offers breathtaking, unobstructed views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains, including Mount Sneffels, providing a stunning backdrop to your stay.
Variety of Accommodations: The unique offering of RV sites, glamping tents, and tiny homes caters to diverse preferences, from traditional camping with full amenities to a more luxurious "glamping" experience.
Thoughtful Amenities: The inclusion of amenities like a full kitchen in the clubhouse, complimentary coffee/tea, and on-site laundry go beyond standard campground offerings, enhancing the guest experience.
Proximity to Hot Springs: The campground is very close to Orvis Hot Springs (clothing optional) and just a short drive from the famous Ouray Hot Springs, making it an ideal spot for relaxing soaks after a day of hiking or exploring.
Gateway to Outdoor Recreation: Its location on US-550 provides direct access to world-class hiking, biking, fishing, off-roading (Jeep trails), and winter sports like ice climbing and snowboarding.
Centrally Located for Day Trips: BASECAMP 550 serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby towns like Ridgway, Ouray, Telluride, Montrose, and Silverton, each offering unique attractions and experiences.
Pet-Friendly RV Sites: While tiny homes and glamping tents generally have a no-pet policy (with the exception of service animals), RV sites are typically pet-friendly, allowing furry companions to join the adventure (with a two-pet limit and leash rules).
Comfort-Focused Design: Features like heated mattress pads in glamping tents, A/C in rustic cabins, and well-maintained heated bathhouses demonstrate a commitment to guest comfort, even in the "camping" environment.
Community Hub: The clubhouse, with its inviting atmosphere and communal spaces, fosters a sense of community among guests, encouraging shared stories and relaxation.
Cleanliness and Maintenance: Customer reviews consistently highlight the cleanliness of the facilities, from bathrooms to cabins, indicating a high standard of upkeep.

Contact Information

Address: 20725 US-550, Ridgway, CO 81432, USA

Phone: (970) 400-7275

Mobile Phone: +1 970-400-7275

For reservations and the most up-to-date information, it is highly recommended to visit the official BASECAMP 550 website or contact them directly via phone.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Coloradans, BASECAMP 550 isn't just a place to visit; it’s an extension of our adventurous spirit and a perfect embodiment of the "get out and explore" lifestyle we cherish. This campground offers an unparalleled convenience for local residents, especially those in Western Colorado or looking for a well-appointed weekend escape from the Front Range. Its location on US-550 means you’re not navigating winding, remote roads to reach your destination, making it an ideal choice for quick getaways or spontaneous trips into the mountains.

What truly resonates with locals is the thoughtful design that addresses common camping pain points. The variety of accommodations, from full-hookup RV sites (ideal for our smaller rigs) to comfortable glamping tents and charming tiny homes, means you can tailor your stay to your preference without compromising on modern amenities. Tired of roughing it? The clean, quarter-operated hot showers and on-site laundry are game-changers after a dusty hike or a day on the river. The welcoming clubhouse, with its complimentary coffee and tea, provides a cozy communal space, perfect for trading stories of local adventures or simply enjoying a quiet morning with views of Mount Sneffels. Locals also appreciate the proximity to iconic Colorado destinations like Ouray’s hot springs, the endless trails of the San Juan Mountains, and the charming towns of Ridgway, Montrose, and Telluride. BASECAMP 550 offers the ideal balance of outdoor immersion and creature comforts, allowing you to maximize your time exploring our beautiful state. It’s more than a campground; it’s a smart, comfortable, and perfectly positioned base for all your Colorado escapades, making it a true gem for those of us who call this incredible state home.

BASECAMP 550 Photos

BASECAMP 550 Location

BASECAMP 550

Colorado Ouray County Ridgway U.S. 550

20725 US-550, Ridgway, CO 81432, USA

BASECAMP 550 Reviews

This place was great, I honestly wish I could have stayed here another night. I stayed in the rustic cabin, which has a small kitchen, A/C, and a great view. Surprisingly even though it was close to the highway it was very quiet. The showers and laundry are a short walk away, but there is a toilet in the cabin. The only minor thing is the big windows in the cabin were a bit dirty.
Jun 28, 2025 · Tyler Loveday
Perfectly located. Yes there is highway noise but the place is on the highway for a quick get in get out and go exploring. I loved the addition of the sound machine! The bed was oh so comfortable. They had just the right amount of accessories and appointments to serve every need. It is very well thought out. The heater was awesome and the bunkhouse had anything you needed if you wanted to elevate your stay. The bathrooms were fine but could use an update. The canvas tent and bucolic views of cow fields were a breath of fresh air. This will be a go to spot for me and my family!
Apr 21, 2025 · Elizabeth Key
Don't be fooled by the pictures and description of this place. There is some beautiful scenery around,but the campground looks junky and rundown. Sites are very small and very difficult to get my 23 foot in. Rachel was a big help, but was not worth the risk or time,so we left. I did get a little angry when they would not give me a refund. In addition the owner had the gall to solicit a 5 star review. Correction. The owner did give me a full refund. That shows character in doing the right rhing.
Jul 07, 2025 · gary culpepper
Breathtaking views of the San Juan mountains and a beautiful open meadow! The staff was friendly and helpful. They accommodated Us in every way. We will stay there again when we head down towards Ridgeway and Ouray area. Highly recommend!
Jun 23, 2025 · David Glassmeyer
Everyone was friendly but was not very impressed. Everything from very small shower area, pay showers, not very welcoming to tent campers, power outlet at our site kept tripping, exposed wiring, and pipes coming out of the ground. The drive area needs more gravel as it’s was a bit muddy due to rain. More gravel would have made it better. Never really saw staff or were greeted. I will say the laundry was very nice. The view was very nice as well. This place has a lot of potential, but needs work in our opinion. You feel like you are on top of each other as there is very little space between campers. The outside cook area is nice as well as the kitchen in club house. We hope for future campers that some improvements can be made. We wish them the best but an honest review is needed.
Aug 24, 2024 · Dale Mcintosh