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South Mineral Campground, located along South Mineral Creek, is one of the most popular campgrounds in the San Juan National Forest. The campground has 26 sites, all of which are first-come, first-serve. Most campsites are shaded and well-spaced thanks to spruce and fir trees. Some sites are handicapped accessible. Some sites have large parking areas.
Services include water, trash pickup, fire grates, picnic tables, and pit toilets. Bear-safe food storage is recommended. No electricity. Between September and May, this campground has no services (water, electric, trash pick up or rest rooms). Please keep them clean and pack it out.
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. But the main attraction is the trail adjacent to the campground, Ice Lake Trail, a strenuous, steep, and popular hike.
From Silverton: Follow Hwy 550 two miles west of Silverton. Turn left (west) and follow Forest Road 585 for 4 miles to the campground entrance. The road parallels South Mineral Creek the creek, and is driveable by 2WD. Just past the campground, the road becomes 4WD. South Mineral Campground is the last developed camping area along U.S. Highway 550 on the San Juan National Forest.
Driving off-road is prohibited, but many other 4WD roads in the Silverton and Red Mountain Pass areas are open to motorized use.
An absolute treasure, the waterfalls tucked away here make you feel like you have discovered another world that is untouched. There is very little foot traffic and very simple trails to these amazing locations.
UPDATE - I have since revisited after it reopened in September of 2021 (from the Ice Lake fire in 2020) and this area is nearly the same, with the exception of the falls to the north of the road now completely destroyed.
First come, first served. $34/night cash or check. Check out at noon. Really well kept sights. Not crowded at all. Fire pit with grill and picnic table at each sight. Vault toilet. Potable water. A really nice creek running right by camp. Only giving 4 stars bc it’s a little pricey.
Beautiful, spacious, well-maintained. Great camping spots, although not many dispersed options, and a friendly campground host. The views in the morning and the sky at night were spectacular.
