Sunshine Campground sits at 9,500 feet in a thick spruce forest along the San Miguel River, about 8 miles up from Telluride. Fifteen sites scattered through the trees, each with table and fire ring. The river provides constant background noise and ice-cold water for cooling drinks. Popular with climbers heading to Bear Creek and overlanders running the high passes.
Access via paved road turns to gravel for the final few miles. Sites fill quickly on summer weekends — first-come basis only. Vault toilets but no drinking water. Usually open June through September depending on snow. Black Bear Pass trailhead is about 20 minutes drive from here.
Spruce forest camp near Telluride high country
Place Details
| Type | Established Campground |
|---|---|
| Street address | Sunshine Campground Road, Colorado 81320 Get directions → |
| Elevation (ft) | 9500 ft |
| Nearest town | Telluride, Colorado |
| Miles from pavement | 5.2 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Gravel |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 15 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | $28.00 / night |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | June-September |
| Land manager | USFS |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Fire ring, Picnic table, Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |