Silver Jack Campground (Co)
4.0527 reviewsCounty Rd 858, Montrose, CO 81401
Silver Jack Campground (Co)
$20.00 - $275.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$275.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Nightly rates vary by season and site type: Standard Nonelectric sites are $20 per night, Standard Electric sites are $30 per night, and Group Standard Nonelectric sites range from $175 for 1-50 people to $275 for 51-max people.
About this campground
Nestled within three enchanting loops named after Colorado's rich heritage—Chipeta, Ouray, and Sapinero—Silver Jack Campground invites you to experience camping beneath a cathedral of towering aspens and ancient spruce trees. With 60 thoughtfully placed campsites, this woodland retreat offers both intimate single-family spots and a dedicated group camping loop for larger gatherings. Each site comes equipped with its own picnic table and campfire ring, perfect for evening storytelling under the stars. Fresh drinking water flows throughout the campground, while nearby Silver Jack Reservoir sparkles just beyond the trees, and the rugged trails of Cimarron Ridge beckon adventurers to explore.
Silver Jack Campground provides options for standard electric, standard non-electric, and group camping. The campsites are located in heavily wooded loops surrounded by Aspen trees and tall grass.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives gently at Silver Jack, bringing comfortable temperatures that make for perfect camping weather. While the warm months occasionally invite some buzzing companions to join your outdoor feast, the cool mountain air keeps conditions pleasant for hiking and relaxation. Late summer adventurers should note that wildfire season can occasionally paint the sky with a smoky haze, as witnessed during the memorable August of 2021—a reminder of nature's wild and untamed spirit in these Colorado highlands.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,100 feet above sea level, Silver Jack Campground offers a refreshing escape from summer's heat in the valleys below. This lofty elevation creates a natural air conditioning system, though visitors ascending from lower altitudes should take time to acclimate to the thinner mountain air. The high-altitude setting transforms ordinary camping into an elevated experience, where crisp mornings and cool evenings become part of the adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into what visitors have called a 'gorgeous magical Aspen forest,' where golden-barked trees create natural cathedral walls and meadows burst with Colorado wildflowers swaying in the mountain breeze. This living landscape serves as home to an impressive cast of wildlife—graceful deer picking their way through tall grass, majestic elk bugling at dawn, clever foxes darting between shadows, and if you're exceptionally fortunate, the rare sight of a magnificent moose. Adding to the authentic Western experience, free-range cattle occasionally wander through, their gentle lowing a reminder of Colorado's ranching heritage (though some campers prefer their wildlife without the cowbells). The thick aspen groves create intimate pockets of tranquility, where each campsite feels like its own private woodland sanctuary.
Geological RegionSilver Jack Campground claims its place within the spectacular Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests—a triple crown of Colorado's most stunning protected lands. This remarkable ecosystem showcases nature's diversity, from dense aspen and spruce forests to scenic overlooks revealing Silver Jack Reservoir's mirror-like waters. As part of authentic bear country, the campground offers visitors a true wilderness experience where black bears roam alongside deer, elk, and the occasional wandering moose. The landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where geological forces have sculpted a playground for both wildlife and wonder-seeking humans alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome campsites are handicap accessible.
Sites SizeSites are described as small by some reviewers.
Sites PrivacyCamp sites are spaced nicely and mostly private, surrounded by thick aspens.
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor tent campers, a more open site may be desirable due to limited flat ground and dense tree coverage. Sites closer to trails or the observation area may offer better access to scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
The campground operates on a six-month rolling basis for individual site reservations.
Groups
Group sites allow for 1-50 people at $175.00 per night and 51-max people at $275.00 per night.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree loops: Chipeta, Ouray, Sapinero. One loop designated for group camping; other loops for individual campers.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 20, 2025; closes September 13, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, contact center, or mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available during the shoulder season, September 14, 2025 - September 30, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to your reservation are subject to a $10 change fee. Cancellations are also subject to a $10 cancellation fee, and late cancellations for individual campsites will forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Late cancellations begin midnight 1 calendar day before scheduled check-in.
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.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The Silver Jack Campground provides access to a variety of recreational activities including trails to an overlook of the reservoir, hiking around the Silver Jack Reservoir, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Nearby attractions include OHV trails.
Hiking
There are trails leading to an overlook of the reservoir and around it. Some trails are described as providing beautiful views.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at nearby lakes, but some reviewers noted poor success rates when fishing in Beaver Lake or the reservoir.Boating
Boating and paddleboarding are allowed at nearby Beaver Lake.Wildlife viewing
The area is populated with wildlife, including deer, elk, and moose. Monarch butterflies are also present.Winter Activities
The campground is open during summer and fall but lacks explicit references to winter activities.Water Sports
Nearby attractions include Beaver Lake, which allows paddleboards and boats.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Campfires must be properly extinguished before leaving.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include free-range cattle wandering through campsites, bug infestations during summer, and the risk of bears due to the campground's location in bear country.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
The closest emergency services would likely be located in Montrose, CO, approximately 18 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 20, 2025 - September 13, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are mentioned but recycling is not explicitly stated. Hosts have been noted cleaning up trash left by visitors.
Proximity to water featuresClose proximity to Silver Jack Reservoir. No lakeside campsites, but trails lead to a scenic overlook of the reservoir.
Common complaintsSome campers found the campground ill-suited for tents, citing uneven ground and limited flat tent pads. Free-range cattle and cow pies were mentioned as nuisances. Bugs were also reported to be problematic.
HostCamp hosts Kathy and Jeneen have been described as laid-back and friendly, providing a relaxed atmosphere while maintaining campground tasks.
Campground Map
County Rd 858, Montrose, CO 81401
Driving directionsFrom Montrose, CO drive east on U.S. Highway 50 to County Road 858 (Forest Access/Silver Jack Reservoir sign). Turn south on County Road 858 and travel approximately 18 miles south, past Big Cimarron and Beaver Lake Campgrounds, and turn right at the Silver Jack Campground sign. Travel along road to campground loops.
The road to Silver Jack Campground is described as having "a few rough spots but passable by passenger car." Visitors noted the road in was "a nice change from highway driving." The Owl Creek pass road leading out of the campground into Ridgway was described as "incredible." During rain, road conditions may worsen, particularly for non-4WD vehicles.Nearby places
Montrose is approximately 18 miles away
Ridgway is accessible via the Owl Creek Pass road.
Nearby supplies
There are no close communities nearby to get provisions. Visitors are advised to bring all necessary supplies, including food and camping equipment, as the area is remote.
Camper Reviews
4.1
27 reviews
Silver Jack Campground (Co) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews frequently describe the campground as beautiful and peaceful, with a unique setting within an aspen forest. Hosts are often praised for being friendly and maintaining clean facilities, while criticism includes small campsites, limited tent pads, and free-range cattle in the vicinity.
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users noted the campground's serene atmosphere, clean facilities, and being surrounded by wildlife. Hosts were often described as laid-back, friendly, and accommodating.
Based on 27 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include free-range cattle roaming the campground, limited scenic views directly from campsites, difficulty accessing the reservoir, and the prevalence of bugs. Some visitors felt the...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing fire starters as the area is moist, leveling equipment for trailers, and provisions since there are no nearby communities. Hiking trails to the reservoir overlook are...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is noted as quiet earlier in the week with fewer visitors. Fall colors are highlighted as a top attraction during autumn. Seasonal issues include bugs in summer and heavy smoke from...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Gorgeous magical aspen forest. The road in was a nice change from highway driving." - Denielle Nadeau
"Bathrooms were clean and readily available. On-site custodian is a plus." - Michael...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some sites are noted for small tent pads and limited flat ground, making them less suited for tent camping. Group loops are often used for larger gatherings.
Based on 27 reviewsAccessibility Features
Some sites are handicap accessible, but further detailed reviews regarding accessibility are not available.
Based on 27 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but rules require them to be on a leash. Hosts have enforced this rule diligently as noted by some reviewers.
Based on 27 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025