Matterhorn Campground

For Colorado locals, the allure of the San Juan Mountains is undeniable, and finding a campground that combines breathtaking scenery with convenient amenities is a true win. Matterhorn Campground, nestled near the iconic town of Telluride, is exactly that kind of gem. It's a place where you can wake up to stunning alpine vistas, enjoy the comforts of modern facilities, and have immediate access to some of the state's most incredible outdoor adventures. If you're seeking a blend of natural beauty and practical convenience for your next mountain getaway, Matterhorn Campground is a destination you absolutely need to explore.

Matterhorn Campground consistently earns high praise from visitors for its exceptional balance of natural beauty and thoughtful amenities. Unlike many rustic mountain campgrounds, Matterhorn offers "luxuries" such as flush toilets and showers (even if they can be a bit temperamental, the option is a huge plus after a day on the trails!). Its strategic location, just a short drive from the vibrant town of Telluride, means you get the best of both worlds: serene mountain solitude and easy access to dining, shopping, and cultural events. The campground is praised for its well-designed layout, providing ample space between sites despite being relatively small, which contributes to a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a keen wildlife observer, or simply looking for a picturesque spot to relax, Matterhorn Campground delivers an unforgettable Colorado experience. Just be sure to plan your reservations, especially during peak seasons!

Matterhorn Campground is ideally located along the San Juan Skyway (Colorado Highway 145), at Priest Lake Rd, Ophir, CO 81426, USA. This places it approximately 7 to 10 miles south of Telluride, making it incredibly convenient for quick trips into town for supplies, dining, or simply to enjoy the charm of this mountain resort community. The campground's elevation is around 8,500 to 9,459 feet, offering cooler temperatures and invigorating mountain air.

Accessibility to Matterhorn Campground is generally excellent. Being situated just off a major state highway (CO 145) means that the roads leading directly to the campground are paved and well-maintained, a significant advantage for those driving larger RVs or those who prefer smoother access. This ease of access ensures that campers can reach their destination without the rough, unpaved road challenges often associated with more remote mountain campgrounds. While the campground is tucked away enough to provide a sense of peace, some sites might experience some road noise from Highway 145, particularly those closer to the road. However, for many, the trade-off for such convenient access to a prime location near Telluride and its surrounding attractions is well worth it. Cell service can be spotty (often one bar), but some campers have found success with satellite internet solutions like Starlink.

• Flush Toilets: A significant amenity, Matterhorn Campground provides flush toilets, a welcome comfort compared to pit toilets found in many other forest campgrounds.
• Showers: Included with your site fee, the campground offers shower facilities. While hot water might be inconsistent (sometimes warm, sometimes cold), having the option to clean up after a day of hiking is highly valued. Day users can also purchase showers for a fee (e.g., $8 in 2023). There are typically two shower stalls and two flush toilets in the women's bathroom.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available at the campground.
• RV Hookups: Select sites offer full RV hookups (electric, water, and sewer), making it a versatile option for various camping setups. There are typically 8 sites with full hookups out of 28 total campsites.
• Reservations and First-Come, First-Served: Sites can be booked online through recreation.gov. Additionally, some first-come, first-served spots are available for those who are lucky or arrive early.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring (often a combination fire ring and grill) for outdoor cooking and enjoyment.
• Firewood Sales: Camp hosts often sell firewood on-site for convenience (e.g., $10).
• Trash Collection: Trash dumpsters are available near the entrance for easy waste disposal.
• Camp Hosts: Friendly, helpful, and welcoming camp hosts are a consistent feature, often praised for their excellent service and for keeping the facilities impeccably clean.

• Spectacular Mountain Views: Consistently ranked as a top feature, the campground offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, with sunsets that are often described as "don't disappoint."
• Proximity to Telluride: Located just 25 minutes (or 7-10 miles) from Telluride, it provides an excellent base for exploring the town's vibrant atmosphere, shops, restaurants, and the free gondola to Mountain Village.
• Excellent Amenities for a Forest Campground: The availability of flush toilets and showers sets Matterhorn apart from many other Forest Service campgrounds, offering a more comfortable camping experience.
• Spacious and Well-Designed Sites: Despite being a smaller campground, sites are well-spaced, offering good privacy. Some walk-in tent-only sites provide especially gorgeous and secluded views.
• Direct Trail Access: The campground provides access to local streams and trails, including the Galloping Goose Trail (which connects directly to the campground), perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Visitors frequently report sightings of local wildlife, such as snowshoe hares, and the marshy area nearby attracts various bird species.
• Variety of Site Types: From full hookup RV sites to secluded tent-only sites, Matterhorn caters to a range of camping preferences.
• Access to Nearby Attractions: It's a short drive to the historic Alta Lakes Ghost Town, Priest Lake, and Trout Lake (where paddleboarding is popular), expanding recreational opportunities.

Address: Priest Lake Rd, Ophir, CO 81426, USA

Phone for Reservations (Recreation.gov): (877) 444-6777

Mobile Phone (General Inquiries/Emergencies for Recreation.gov): +1 877-444-6777

For specific campground inquiries, especially regarding local conditions or direct communication with camp hosts, it's often best to contact the local Forest Service office that manages the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests. While the general Recreation.gov number handles reservations, local insights might be obtained from the Norwood Ranger District office at (970) 327-4261.

For Colorado locals, Matterhorn Campground presents an ideal fusion of raw mountain beauty and thoughtful amenities, making it a highly desirable destination for a truly memorable escape. Its location just outside Telluride is a game-changer; it offers the stunning San Juan Mountain views and immediate trail access that we cherish, without the premium price tag or the constant hustle and bustle of staying directly in town. This allows for quick jaunts into Telluride for a meal, festival, or gondola ride, while providing a peaceful sanctuary to return to.

The "luxuries" of flush toilets and, crucially, showers, are a significant draw for local campers who appreciate a bit of comfort after a long day of hiking or exploring our rugged terrain. These amenities make multi-day trips far more enjoyable, especially for families. The ability to book online via recreation.gov provides a degree of certainty for planning, while the availability of some first-come, first-served spots still caters to that spontaneous Colorado spirit. The option for full hookups for RVs means it accommodates a wide range of local campers, from tent minimalists to those with larger rigs, and even offers dedicated tent-only sites with incredible views for those seeking true immersion.

Perhaps one of the most endearing features for locals is the consistently praised friendliness and helpfulness of the camp hosts. Their dedication to maintaining a clean and welcoming environment truly enhances the experience. The close proximity to the Alta Lakes Ghost Town, Priest Lake, and direct access to trails like the Galloping Goose, underscore its suitability as a basecamp for exploring the rich natural and historical tapestry of our region. For Coloradoans who seek a balanced camping experience—one that offers breathtaking views, practical amenities, diverse recreational opportunities, and a genuine sense of connection to our magnificent outdoors—Matterhorn Campground is unequivocally a top choice. It's a place where you can create lasting memories, recharge amidst unparalleled beauty, and truly live the Colorado lifestyle.

Matterhorn Campground

Priest Lake Rd, Ophir, CO 81426, USA