One Mile Campground

For those of us who call Colorado home, the mountains are a constant invitation to escape, explore, and rejuvenate. Finding that perfect campground that balances accessibility with genuine wilderness charm is key to a truly memorable outdoor experience. Nestled in the picturesque Taylor River Canyon near Almont, One Mile Campground stands out as a beloved spot for many local adventurers. This isn't just a place to park your rig; it's a gateway to some of Colorado's most spectacular natural beauty, offering the soothing sounds of a rushing river and breathtaking canyon views.

One Mile Campground offers a unique blend of convenience and rustic appeal, making it a favorite for both RVers and tent campers. Imagine waking up surrounded by towering trees and canyon walls, with the continuous murmur of the Taylor River just beyond your campsite. Reviews consistently praise the "amazing hosts" and the incredible natural setting, highlighting the "spectacular river" excellent for hiking or rafting. While it offers essential amenities like electric hookups, it retains the peaceful, untamed feel that Coloradans cherish in their outdoor retreats.

Whether you're an avid mountain biker eager to hit the trails, a fly-fishing enthusiast seeking pristine waters, or a family simply looking to unplug and enjoy the crisp mountain air, One Mile Campground provides an ideal basecamp. Its strategic location, coupled with thoughtful amenities, ensures a comfortable yet authentic Colorado camping experience. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into what makes One Mile Campground a must-visit for us locals, covering its exact location, the services you can expect, its most appealing features, and important contact information to help you plan your next unforgettable trip into the heart of the Rockies.

Location and Accessibility

One Mile Campground is conveniently located in Almont, CO 81210, USA, specifically within the Taylor River Canyon, approximately 18 miles from Gunnison. Its address places it firmly within the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests, ensuring a rich natural environment characterized by lodgepole pine and aspen trees, towering canyon walls, and the continuous flow of the Taylor River. The campground’s elevation is around 8,600 feet, offering cool summer temperatures and crisp mountain air.

Access to One Mile Campground is relatively straightforward. From Gunnison, travelers can take Colorado Highway 135 north for about 10 miles to Almont. From Almont, turn right onto Taylor Canyon Road (County Road 742) and proceed just over 8 miles to reach the campground entrance on the right. This route is generally well-maintained and suitable for most vehicles, including RVs and trailers up to 35-45 feet, making it an accessible option for various types of campers.

The campground's proximity to the Taylor River is a major highlight, with many sites offering direct views or easy access to the water. This provides immediate opportunities for river-based activities like fishing, rafting, and simply enjoying the soothing sounds of the flowing water. Furthermore, its location is a prime launching point for exploring the broader Gunnison and Crested Butte areas. Crested Butte is approximately 20 minutes away, offering additional dining, shopping, and recreational opportunities, while the Doctor Park mountain biking trail ends right near the campground, a huge draw for the biking community.

While the campground feels immersed in nature, its location also balances seclusion with proximity to essential services in Almont and Gunnison. Campers can easily venture out for supplies or to explore the vibrant local towns, then retreat back to the tranquility of their forested campsite.

Services Offered

• Campsites with Electric Hookups: A significant advantage of One Mile Campground is that many, if not all, sites are equipped with electric hookups (30/50 amp). This is a highly sought-after amenity for RVers, allowing them to power their vehicles and appliances comfortably.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite comes standard with a picnic table, perfect for outdoor dining, and a fire ring, allowing campers to enjoy traditional campfires (when conditions permit) and cook over an open flame.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets, which are basic, non-flush restroom facilities. Reviews highlight these facilities as being "super clean for no flush toilets," indicating good maintenance by the hosts.
• Camp Host On-Site: One Mile Campground benefits from the presence of dedicated camp hosts during its operating season. Reviews frequently praise the hosts for being "amazing" and "welcoming and helpful," providing assistance and ensuring a positive experience for campers.
• No Potable Water (as of recent information): It is crucial for campers to be aware that, as per recent information, potable (drinking) water is NOT available at this campground. Visitors must bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene, or fill up at nearby locations like Lottis Creek Campground.
• No Dump Station: One Mile Campground does not have an on-site dump station. The closest dump station is approximately 30 minutes drive northeast of the campground, notably in Crested Butte. Campers with RVs will need to plan accordingly for waste disposal.
• Shaded Sites: Most campsites offer good shade from the lodgepole pine and aspen trees, providing a comfortable environment even on sunny Colorado days.
• RV and Tent Accommodation: The campsites are designed to accommodate both tents, trailers, and RVs (ranging from 30 to 45 feet), offering flexibility for various camping styles.
• First-Come, First-Served & Reservable Sites: Some sites at One Mile Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis, while others can be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov. It’s advisable to check reservation availability, especially during peak season.
• Firewood for Sale: Firewood is typically available for purchase from the camp host, offering convenience for those planning campfires.

Features / Highlights

• Spectacular Riverfront Location: A paramount highlight is the campground’s direct proximity to the Taylor River. Campers can hear the soothing sounds of the rushing water from their sites, and the river itself offers exceptional opportunities for fishing (Gold Medal waters), kayaking, and rafting.
• Stunning Natural Surroundings: Guests are immersed in a beautiful setting surrounded by dense trees, impressive canyon walls, and the raw beauty of the Gunnison National Forest. This creates a deeply peaceful and visually stunning backdrop for any camping trip.
• Electric Hookups for Comfort: The availability of electric hookups in many sites is a significant advantage, especially for RVers who appreciate the convenience of powered amenities in a rustic mountain setting.
• Exceptional Camp Hosts: Consistently, reviews highlight the "amazing" and "great" camp hosts as a major positive, indicating a welcoming, helpful, and well-managed campground experience.
• Access to Doctor Park Trail: For mountain biking enthusiasts, the fact that the renowned Doctor Park mountain biking trail ends right next to the campground is a huge draw, offering world-class riding opportunities directly from your campsite.
• Proximity to Almont and Crested Butte: The campground's location provides easy access to the charming towns of Almont and the vibrant mountain town of Crested Butte, allowing campers to enjoy local amenities, restaurants, and other recreational activities within a short drive.
• Opportunities for Hiking and Exploration: Beyond the Doctor Park trail, the surrounding area offers abundant hiking opportunities, allowing campers to explore the beautiful Taylor Canyon and nearby wilderness areas.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite its popularity and accessibility, the campground maintains a quiet and serene environment, allowing campers to fully relax and connect with nature without the distractions of excessive noise or traffic.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, enhancing the immersive outdoor experience.

Contact Information

One Mile Campground is managed by the USDA Forest Service, specifically under the Gunnison Ranger District. While there isn't a direct phone line for the campground itself, inquiries and reservation information can be obtained through the Recreation.gov system or the local Forest Service office.

For general campground inquiries and current conditions, you can contact the Gunnison Ranger District:

Phone: (970) 642-0566

Address: Almont, CO 81210, USA (This is the general area address. For specific site information or reservations, use Recreation.gov.)

Reservations for many sites can be made online through Recreation.gov or by calling their toll-free number (1-877-444-6777). As some sites are first-come, first-served, it's always wise to check current availability and conditions, especially during peak season, to ensure you secure a spot. Remember to confirm the operating season, as it is weather-dependent (typically early June to early October).

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For us Coloradans, One Mile Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it’s an embodiment of the quintessential Colorado outdoor experience. Its suitability for locals stems from its unique blend of convenient amenities, stunning natural beauty, and access to the activities we cherish, all within a reasonable drive from various parts of our state.

Firstly, the presence of electric hookups in many sites is a significant draw for many Colorado RV owners. While we love our rugged wilderness, having the convenience of power in a beautiful, natural setting allows for a more comfortable and extended stay, especially for families or those needing to power medical devices. This feature distinguishes it from more primitive campgrounds while still providing that cherished mountain ambiance.

Secondly, the campground's direct access to the Taylor River and its surrounding canyon walls is a major highlight. For Coloradans, the sound of a rushing stream and the sight of towering pines are what define a true escape. Whether you're an avid fly-fisher drawn to Gold Medal waters, a thrill-seeker ready to raft, or simply someone who enjoys the peaceful serenity of riverside strolls, One Mile Campground delivers. The proximity to the end of the Doctor Park mountain biking trail is also a huge advantage, making it a perfect basecamp for local riders looking for world-class singletrack without a long commute.

Furthermore, the reputation for "amazing hosts" speaks to the welcoming and well-managed environment. We appreciate friendly faces and helpful guidance when exploring our vast public lands. This human element significantly enhances the camping experience, ensuring that even with the lack of on-site water or a dump station (which, as locals, we're accustomed to planning around), the stay remains enjoyable and hassle-free.

Finally, One Mile Campground strikes a perfect balance between being remote enough to feel like a true escape from city life, yet close enough to the amenities of Almont, Gunnison, and Crested Butte. This means we can immerse ourselves in nature by day and still easily access supplies or enjoy a local meal in the evening. It’s a pragmatic yet profoundly rewarding choice for any Coloradan looking for an authentic, convenient, and truly beautiful mountain camping adventure.

One Mile Campground

Almont, CO 81210, USA