Ridgway State Park
00 review28555 Highway 550, Ridgway, Colorado, 81432, United States
Ridgway State Park
$28.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Tent sites are $28 per night as noted in reviews. There is an additional cost of $185 for a state park pass for extended stays.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Colorado's stunning landscape, Ridgway State Park beckons adventurers with 283 thoughtfully designed campsites and 3 cozy yurts spread across three distinct campgrounds. Whether you're casting a line into pristine waters, launching your boat for a day of exploration, or hitting scenic trails that wind through high desert terrain, this outdoor paradise delivers endless possibilities. After a day of adventure, you'll appreciate the park's exceptional amenities – from spotless bathrooms and convenient laundry facilities to welcoming visitor centers staffed with local expertise.
Ridgway State Park accommodates various camping preferences, including RVs, tents, group sites, and yurts. RV sites feature full hookups, and tent sites are gravel-based. Yurts provide a glamping experience.
Historical SignificanceWhile the park's modern amenities take center stage, the timeless landscape speaks to Colorado's enduring natural heritage.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Ridgway State Park in different hues. Summer days invite you to bask in warm sunshine before retreating to pleasantly cool evenings perfect for campfire stories. Spring and fall offer nature's sweet spot – mild temperatures ideal for hiking, punctuated by occasional refreshing rains that bring the desert landscape to life. Winter transforms the park into a crisp wonderland where snow may dust the ground, creating a serene atmosphere for those prepared to embrace the cold with proper gear and a spirit of adventure.
ElevationThe park's position in Colorado's diverse topography offers visitors a unique high-altitude experience.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a captivating high desert ecosystem where aromatic sagebrush mingles with twisted juniper and ancient piñon pines, creating a tapestry of textures and colors. Keep your camera ready – majestic mule deer often graze at dawn, coyotes sing their haunting songs at dusk, and eagles soar overhead, riding invisible thermals. The crown jewel of this natural amphitheater is the breathtaking Sneffels Range, whose jagged peaks pierce the sky and provide an ever-changing backdrop as light and shadow play across their faces throughout the day.
Geological RegionDiscover Southwest Colorado's enchanting high desert steppe, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of remarkable diversity. Here, hardy piñon pines and aromatic juniper trees dot rolling hills covered in silvery sage and resilient bitterbrush, all thriving in this unique ecosystem. The magnificent Sneffels Range dominates the horizon, its dramatic peaks serving as a constant reminder of the powerful forces that shaped this extraordinary corner of Colorado – a perfect blend of desert serenity and mountain majesty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA-accessible features include trails, campsites with ramps, widened restroom entryways, and accessible picnic tables. The park also provides floating wheelchairs and track chairs for visitors with mobility issues to enjoy swimming and hiking.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious, with some accommodating large RVs and trailers. Sites include paved drives, gravel tent pads, and concrete picnic areas.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are well-spaced, offering significant privacy. One reviewer noted, "Plenty of room between campsites - usually more than 20 or 30 feet if not more, neighbors are barely seen."
Total Campsites283 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPa-Co-Chu-Puk sites are spacious and shaded. Elk Ridge Loop offers great views and amenities.
Best CampsitesElk Ridge Loop and Pa-Co-Chu-Puk Campground were mentioned as excellent areas.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not explicitly noted.
Check-out
Check-out time is not explicitly noted.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 12 days is noted in reviews.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- One tent site is noted to accommodate up to two tents
- however, space may be limited for additional tents.
Groups
Group sites include pavilions and ample space for multiple vehicles and tents.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree separate campgrounds: Dakota Terraces, Elk Ridge, and Pa-Co-Chu-Puk. Campsites include paved drives and raised gravel tent pads.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with specific reservation windows for yurts.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Ridgway State Park website or Aspira Call Center (1-800-244-5613).
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability for campsites is limited; reservations are strongly recommended for summer months as indicated by reviews.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made 28+ days before arrival retain 25% of one night's fee. Cancellations within 7 days are non-refundable. Changes to reservations within 7 days retain 20% of one night's fee. Weather, bugs, and fire bans do not qualify for refunds.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Ridgway State Park offers a broad spectrum of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, boating, fishing, and wildlife watching. The park is known for its well-maintained trails, swimming beach, and large reservoir. "Great hiking trails, swim beach, stocked reservoir, boat rental," noted one user. Cultural programs and educational events are also available.
Hiking
The park has numerous hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Trails are well-maintained and provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains and reservoir.Fishing
Fishing is popular at the park, with species such as rainbow trout and kokanee salmon commonly caught. Pa-Co-Chu-Puk campground is noted for excellent trout fishing.Swimming
The park features a sandy swim beach near Ridgway Reservoir. Safety measures include accessible ramps and floating wheelchairs for individuals with mobility issues.Biking
Biking is available, and the paths near the lake are particularly popular. However, the trails do not circle the reservoir entirely.Boating
Boating opportunities include kayaking, paddleboarding, and motorized boating. Boat ramps and buoy rentals are available, though reservations for equipment are required in advance.Wildlife viewing
The park is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, eagles, and occasionally coyotes. Wildlife can often be seen along trails and near the reservoir.Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The sandy beach is spacious and family-friendly.Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational programs are hosted by park staff, such as evening events for children. "Carrie, who ran the educational programs, is a gem," noted one visitor.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking are popular. Rentals are available with advance reservations.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted but monitored even during rain. Firewood is available for purchase for $6 cash.
- Quiet hours after 10 PM are expected but enforcement is inconsistent.
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal hazards include yellow jackets and unpredictable weather changes such as fast-moving storms. Wildlife like deer and coyotes are present but not noted as dangerous.
Active alertsNo active alerts were mentioned.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station within the park at 970-626-5822. Additional emergency services may be available in close proximity, such as hospitals in Montrose (19 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates were not explicitly noted.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, and a user praised the park for its recycling options, describing it as "the first park that I have been at with recycling too."
Proximity to water featuresThe park includes Ridgway Reservoir, which is excellent for boating, kayaking, and fishing. However, campsites are not directly on the water.
Common complaintsComplaints noted include high pricing, lack of shade/greenery, inconsistent enforcement of regulations, and issues with certain campground hosts.
HostHosts received mixed reviews; some were praised as friendly and helpful, while others were described as rude or overly strict.
Campground Map
28555 Highway 550, Ridgway, Colorado, 81432, United States
Driving directionsPa Co Chu Puk Campground: 19 miles south of Montrose on Hwy 550, take first park entrance, below the dam. Dutch Charlie Area: 22 miles south of Montrose, take second entrance into park, first right leads to Dakota Terraces Campground, first left leads to Elk Ridge Campground.
Access is straightforward via Highway 550. Roads to the campgrounds are paved, and there are multiple entrances depending on the campground area. Seasonal conditions or closures were not indicated.Nearby places
Montrose (19 miles, approximately 25 minutes), Ouray (12 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Telluride (approximately 40 miles, around 50 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Ridgway town is nearby for groceries and essentials. Montrose has larger supply options for camping gear and fuel stations. Firewood is available within the park for $6 cash only as noted in user reviews.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Ridgway State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Ridgway State Park receives praise for its cleanliness, wide range of amenities, and scenic beauty. Visitors appreciate the spacious campsites and friendly staff, though some mention issues with strict enforcement of rules and noise at night.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean facilities, well-spaced campsites, accessible amenities, and a variety of recreational activities. "The lake is just GORGEOUS! Bring your kayaks, paddleboards, or pedal...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include limited cell service, noise issues at night, and strict rule enforcement by park staff. One visitor mentioned, "One campground host made our visit miserable. He drives...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Book reservations well in advance, especially for summer months. Bring your own gear for water sports as rentals require prior reservations. Explore the Elk Ridge loop, which is highly recommended.
Seasonal Insights
Winter sees fewer visitors due to closed facilities like bathhouses. Summer is busy, with activities like swimming and boating in full swing. Spring and fall offer moderate weather and fewer crowds.
Camper Quotes
"The campground is VERY clean and the bath house and lavatory are excellent!" "This park has it all! My third time here, and I will be back as much as I possibly can." "The park's accessibility...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Elk Ridge loop is noted for having flush toilets and laundry facilities. Pa-Co-Chu-Puk is praised for its trout fishing and clean facilities. Group sites are spacious and include pavilions.
Accessibility Features
Reviews highlight the park's excellent ADA-compliant features, such as wide restroom entryways and accessible trails. One reviewer noted, "The visitor center staff went above and beyond to...
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Pet-Friendly Features
The park is pet-friendly, and dogs are allowed in yurts. "Dog-friendly to yurt," mentioned one user.
Last updated August 10, 2025