Sultan & Anvil Campground

For Coloradans, the quest for a genuine wilderness experience often leads to the less-traveled paths, into the heart of our state's majestic mountains. In the breathtaking San Juan National Forest, near the charming towns of Durango and Silverton, lies Sultan & Anvil Campground. This isn't your typical developed campground with paved roads and extensive amenities; instead, it offers a more authentic, primitive, and highly rewarding dispersed camping adventure. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Sultan & Anvil Campground, highlighting why it’s a perfect fit for local outdoor enthusiasts in Colorado seeking solitude and rugged beauty.

Sultan & Anvil Campground represents a distinct kind of outdoor experience, one deeply rooted in the "Leave No Trace" principles. It's an area within the San Juan National Forest where designated dispersed camping is permitted, meaning you're immersed directly in the natural environment rather than confined to tightly packed sites. This allows for a deeper connection with the wilderness, with the sounds of a rushing creek and panoramic mountain views becoming your immediate surroundings. It’s a place for those who appreciate self-sufficiency and the raw beauty of the Colorado backcountry.

Visitors to Sultan & Anvil often praise its natural setting. Descriptions frequently mention being "dispersed camping next to the creek," with the creek being "nice and loud," creating a soothing natural ambiance "great to fall asleep to." The "great views" of the surrounding mountains are another consistent highlight, particularly the rugged terrain that defines this part of Colorado. While some note that it can be "dusty and close to the road," this also implies relatively easy access compared to other deeply remote dispersed sites. The presence of wildlife, such as "coolest little rabbits," adds to the natural charm, though visitors should always be mindful of larger wildlife in such areas.

It’s important to understand that this is not a developed campground with extensive facilities. Reviewers emphasize that there are "no (or limited) services at this camping area." For those seeking a truly immersive experience, however, this is a distinct advantage, fostering a deeper connection with nature and encouraging self-reliance. While the specific address is given as Forest Rd 585, Durango, CO, it's more accurately described as dispersed camping along this Forest Road, often associated more directly with Silverton due to its closer proximity. This unique, unrefined beauty is precisely what draws many Coloradans to Sultan & Anvil Campground, promising an unforgettable, off-grid adventure.

Sultan & Anvil Campground is located along Forest Road 585, near Durango, CO 81301, USA. More specifically, this area is often associated with Silverton, Colorado, as Forest Road 585 (also known as South Mineral Road) branches off Highway 550 just two miles west of Silverton. This places Sultan & Anvil in the heart of the San Juan National Forest, a region renowned for its spectacular mountain scenery, rugged terrain, and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities.

For Colorado locals, reaching Sultan & Anvil involves navigating a scenic, yet sometimes challenging, mountain road. From Silverton, you travel approximately two miles west on Highway 550, then turn left (west) onto Forest Road 585. This road parallels South Mineral Creek, and while it is generally "driveable by 2WD" up to a certain point, including where Sultan and Anvil dispersed camping areas are located, it becomes "4WD" just past the developed South Mineral Campground. This distinction is crucial: while you can likely reach the dispersed camping areas in a 2WD vehicle with decent clearance, the overall area is characterized by rugged terrain.

The accessibility of Sultan & Anvil is part of its charm. It's remote enough to offer a true wilderness experience, yet still within a reasonable drive from towns like Silverton and Durango. The journey along Forest Road 585, which meanders through stunning landscapes, is part of the adventure. Visitors should be prepared for unpaved, potentially dusty, and sometimes bumpy conditions. The limited services and "no (or limited) services" at the camping area further underscore that this is a destination for self-sufficient campers who value natural beauty over extensive amenities. For Coloradans accustomed to mountain driving and prepared for primitive camping, Sultan & Anvil offers a rewarding and accessible escape into the high country.

As a dispersed camping area within the San Juan National Forest, Sultan & Anvil Campground offers a minimal set of services, emphasizing a primitive, "Leave No Trace" camping experience. This means campers should be largely self-sufficient.

• Designated Dispersed Campsites: While not a developed campground, Sultan & Anvil consists of "designated camping areas" along Forest Road 585. These are generally identified spots where camping is permitted, helping to concentrate impact and preserve the surrounding environment.
• Creek Access: Campsites are often located "next to the creek," providing convenient access to a natural water source (though water should always be filtered or treated before consumption). The "rushing" sound of the creek is a natural amenity.
• Fire Rings (User-Made): While not official amenities, many dispersed sites, including those at Sultan & Anvil, may have "fire pits made of rocks by other campers." Visitors should be aware of and adhere to any fire restrictions in place.
• No Potable Water: It's crucial to note that there are "no (or limited) services at this camping area," meaning potable water is not provided. Campers must "pack in and pack out" all their water or have a reliable filtering/purification system.
• No Developed Restrooms: There are no developed restrooms or vault toilets directly at Sultan & Anvil dispersed sites. Campers must practice proper human waste disposal (e.g., catholes, packing out waste), following "Leave No Trace" principles.
• No Trash Services: Visitors are responsible for packing out all their trash, adhering strictly to the "pack in and pack out" ethic.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed in dispersed camping areas within the national forest, though they must be leashed or physically restrained to protect wildlife and other visitors.

The emphasis here is on self-reliance and environmental responsibility. Campers should be prepared with all necessary supplies, including water, food, and methods for waste management, as they will not find conveniences like developed restrooms or trash services common in fee-based campgrounds.

Sultan & Anvil Campground, as a dispersed camping area, boasts several compelling features and highlights for outdoor enthusiasts:

• True Wilderness Immersion: This is a key highlight for those seeking an authentic, undeveloped outdoor experience. Campers are directly immersed in the "rugged terrain" of the San Juan National Forest, far from the crowds of more developed sites.
• Creek-Side Tranquility: Many campsites are situated "next to the creek," offering the soothing sounds of "rushing water" which are "nice and loud," creating a peaceful and natural ambiance perfect for relaxation.
• Spectacular Mountain Views: The location provides "great views" of the surrounding high-altitude mountains, offering breathtaking scenery for photography and appreciation of Colorado's natural grandeur.
• Proximity to Silverton and Million Dollar Highway: While offering a secluded feel, the campground is not far from the historic mining town of Silverton and the iconic Million Dollar Highway (Highway 550), providing opportunities for sightseeing and resupply.
• Access to Nearby Developed Facilities (with a short drive): While Sultan & Anvil itself is primitive, the nearby South Mineral Campground (further down Forest Rd 585) might offer vault toilets and potable water, providing a convenient option for occasional use.
• Abundant Wildlife: The natural setting supports various wildlife. Reviewers note "the coolest little rabbits," and the area is part of a larger ecosystem that supports deer, elk, and other high-country species, offering excellent viewing opportunities.
• Flexible Camping Styles: The dispersed nature of the sites allows for both tent camping and, for those with appropriate vehicles, the parking of "larger rigs" or vans, providing flexibility.
• "Leave No Trace" Ethos: This area fosters a strong "pack in and pack out" ethic, appealing to environmentally conscious campers who prioritize minimizing their impact on the wilderness.
• High-Elevation Climate: The area experiences temperatures ranging from 20°F in winter to 80°F in summer (near Silverton), offering cooler summer temperatures and distinct seasonal beauty.

As Sultan & Anvil is a dispersed camping area within the San Juan National Forest, there isn't a direct phone number or specific contact information for the "campground" itself in the traditional sense. It operates under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Forest Service.

Address: Forest Rd 585, Durango, CO 81301, USA (This address points to the general vicinity of the dispersed camping along Forest Road 585.)

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding conditions, fire restrictions, road closures (especially important for Forest Road 585), and general regulations for dispersed camping in this area, it is highly recommended to contact the local ranger district of the San Juan National Forest. The Columbine Ranger District is the most relevant office for this area.

Columbine Ranger District Office (San Juan National Forest):

Address: 367 Pearl Street, Bayfield, CO 81122 (While this is the office, not the campsite, it's the official contact.)

Phone: (970) 884-2512 (Note: Hours may vary, often limited to specific days).

Additionally, information can often be found on the USDA Forest Service website for the San Juan National Forest, or through recreation.gov for any potential permit requirements or general area details. Given the primitive nature of these sites, arriving prepared with all necessary supplies and having checked current conditions is crucial for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Sultan & Anvil Campground offers a uniquely suitable experience for Colorado locals who truly embrace the adventurous spirit of their state. Its location within the majestic San Juan National Forest, accessible from both Durango and more directly from Silverton, provides a readily available escape into the high country that feels genuinely remote. For Coloradans accustomed to navigating mountain roads and seeking solitude, the journey along Forest Road 585 (even with its potentially "dusty" stretches) is part of the appeal, leading to a quiet retreat far from the typical crowds.

This dispersed camping area is perfect for those who prioritize immersion in nature over extensive amenities. The opportunity to camp directly "next to the creek" and fall asleep to the "nice and loud" sounds of rushing water is an unparalleled sensory experience that deeply resonates with nature lovers. The "great views" of the rugged mountains provide a constant reminder of Colorado's breathtaking landscapes, offering a picturesque backdrop for hiking, photography, and simple relaxation.

Sultan & Anvil caters to the self-sufficient camper, fostering a strong "Leave No Trace" ethic which many environmentally conscious Coloradans uphold. This appeals to those who value protecting the pristine wilderness they enjoy. While services are limited to non-existent on-site, the proximity to towns like Silverton for resupply or to the developed South Mineral Campground for vault toilets and potable water (if needed) offers a convenient balance for those who wish to venture out but remain within reasonable reach of basic facilities.

For locals seeking a break from the everyday, a chance to truly disconnect, and an opportunity to explore the less-developed, more wild side of Colorado, Sultan & Anvil Campground is an ideal choice. It offers the authentic mountain camping experience that defines the state's outdoor culture, making it a highly recommended destination for those ready for a rugged, beautiful, and profoundly peaceful adventure.

Sultan & Anvil Campground

Forest Rd 585, Durango, CO 81301, USA