Ophir Pass Road (FR 679) — San Juan High Alpine Dispersed Camping

Ophir Pass Road (Forest Road 679) is one of the easier high passes in the San Juans, and it has scattered dispersed pullouts on the east side as the road climbs from US 550 toward the summit. Expect rough, informal spots: flat-ish gravel shoulders, a few used fire rings, and no facilities. No tables, no toilets, no water, no trash service. Pack out everything and treat any creek water you plan to drink. Views of the high peaks around Red Mountain Pass make up for the lack of amenities.

The road is gravel and rocky in places. Most high-clearance vehicles handle it in dry weather, but a low-slung rig will not enjoy it. The pass usually stays snowed in until late June and can drop snow again by early fall, so July through September is the sweet spot. Afternoon thunderstorms roll in fast at 11,000+ feet, so plan to be settled early and stay off exposed ridges when lightning is around. Fire restrictions are common in dry summers, so check with the San Juan National Forest before you strike a match. Camp only in existing disturbed sites, and verify current rules ahead of time.

High-alpine pullouts below Ophir Pass summit