South Mineral Campground, named after South Mineral Creek, is a small, 26-site campground surrounded by beautiful mountains, creeks and waterfalls in Colorado's San Juan Mountains. It offers access to the popular Ice Lake Trailhead, as well as other wonderful locations nearby.
All 26 sites are first-come, first-served, so it is recommended to come early or before the weekend during the summer. If the campground is full, there are a couple other campgrounds along NF-585, and camping is also allowed in some spots along the creek. Restrooms and potable water are available between May and September.
The campground backs to Clear Creek and South Fork Mineral Creek, both of which form waterfalls worth exploring. The Ice Lake Trailhead is just across the road. The 8-mile hike with 3,000 feet in elevation gain offers wonderful views of beautiful alpine lakes and surrounded mountains. County road 12, just east of the campground, offers access to Clear Lake either by foot or four-wheel drive, high-clearance vehicles.
South Mineral Campground is a great summer destination in the San Juan Mountains. Come in the autumn as well to see Colorado fall colors in full display as aspen and willows turn to shades of yellow and red.
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