USFS•Ridgway, CO•14h from Austin

Uncompahgre NF — Owl Creek Road Dispersed

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Accessibility baseline: Sites on this platform are reviewed for access with a standard 2WD pickup truck towing a 21-foot travel trailer unless otherwise noted below.

Fee

Free

Hookups

No hookups

Trailer

Verify before trip

Cell Signal

No signal

Water

Bring your own

Toilets

None

Best Season

Jul–Sep

Reservations

None — dispersed (14-day limit)

Max Length

22 ft

Highlights

▶ San Juan Mountain panoramas from the north — Cimarron Ridge viewsheds not accessible from Ouray or Ridgway proper
▶ Free dispersed option in the same zone as Ridgway SP for campers who want the backcountry feel
▶ Uncompahgre NF is distinct from Gunnison NF despite proximity — different drainage, different ridge systems

Planning Notes

⚠️ This is the most marginal trailer entry on the CO list. Lower sections of Owl Creek Road are 2WD-capable in dry conditions; upper road toward the pass narrows and becomes rough — camp in lower sections below 9,500 ft only. A 16 ft trailer is at the edge of practical on this road. Call Ouray Ranger District (970-240-5300) for current conditions before committing. Ridgway is 12 mi for resupply.

Contact: (970) 240-5300

Always call ahead to confirm conditions, closures, and road accessibility.