Montrose is a classic small town—with national park access and tons of ways to play outside.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Great for hiking, great for kids, and one of the lesser-known national parks in Colorado.
River Bottom Park
• River access for fishing, paddling, surfing, floating, swimming.
• Paved hiking and biking trail (these trails are interconnected and accessible from our campground)
• Multiple playgrounds for kids, plus hockey rink, skate park, picnic areas, sports fields and basically everything you could want in a park.
Local Eats
Local Drinks
Roughly 20 minutes south of the campground
Ridgway State Park
A popular summer camping spot, this state park offers boating, paddling (rentals available), hiking, and swim beaches.
Top of the Pines
A favorite hidden gem is the scenic drive to Top of the Pines. The park offers cross country skiing in the winter, but in the fall it’s perfect for hiking and throwing on the 9-hole disc golf course.
Owl Creek Pass
This scenic national forest drive is a must (Check road conditions ahead of time). Be sure to bring your camera.
Fun fact: This is where many scenes from True Grit were filmed (and you’ll see why. It’s GORGEOUS).
Places to eat in Ridgway:
• GNAR
• Eatery 66
• True Grit Cafe
• Colorado Boy Pizza and Pub
Roughly 35 minutes south of the campground
Ouray Perimeter Trail
4-5 hour loop hike with multiple exit points into town. Boasts waterfalls, views of town, and panoramic mountain views.
Ouray Hot Springs
Geothermal heated mineral pools surrounded by mountains.
Pool temperatures vary throughout the day and can be confirmed by phone or upon arrival. Each pool is at a different temperature making this a family-friendly place to swim.
Million Dollar Highway
One of the best scenic drives in the country, this highway also has access to off roading trails.
Animas Forks
An abandoned mining town off the million dollar highway that you can freely tour. Accessible by most vehicles. More information here.
Rock Climbing
There are tons of ways to climb in Ouray year-round (yes, ice climbing is huge here!). Hire a guide to rock climb.
Lower Cascade Falls Hike
On a portion of the perimeter trail, this is a short but steep hike to Cascade Falls. Park at the top of 8th street or follow signs for Cascade Falls.
Box Canyon Falls Park
Paid waterfall access with short trails. More info here.
Bachelor Syracuse Mine Tours
Family friendly guided tours every hour. Walk ins welcome. More info here.