Camp at South Mineral Campground

Some general notes: South Mineral Campground does not take reservations - all sites are first come first served. There are an assortment of designated areas along South Mineral Road where dispersed camping is allowed so there is plenty of camping in the canyon on all but the busiest days, but you must camp in one of these designated areas if this is the case.

South Mineral Campground is the last developed camping area along U.S. Highway 550 in the San Juan National Forest. Two miles west of Silverton, Forest Road 585 heads west along the South Mineral Creek and is four miles from Highway 550. The road to the campground is driveable by 2WD, but immediately after the campground it becomes 4WD and driving off-road is prohibited.

The campground has 26 sites that are mostly level, at 9,800 feet. Some sites are handicap-accessible. Several camping loops and well-spaced sites offer plenty of privacy while spruce and fir trees give lots of shade, but there are some sunny sites. A few sites are along the creek, and some have large parking areas.

The campground is open from May - September and is run by a concessionaire. The price for a campsite per night is $19. In the off-season no services are available and all trash is pack-in pack-out.

There are picnic tables, 2 composting vault toilets, fire grates, trash disposal, and potable water all available during the open season.

Nearby peaks have cliffs of brilliant color-contrasting reds and grays. A waterfall on the creek just upstream from the campground adds to the attraction of the area. The campground receives heavy usage due to its proximity to the Ice Lakes Basin Trail, a strenuous, steep, and popular hike.