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San Isabel/Silver Dollar
Overview
Situated in the heart of the San Isabel National Forest, Silver Dollar Campground offers a quintessential high-country experience near Leadville, Colorado. This Forest Service facility provides a serene retreat for RVers looking to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Unlike modern RV resorts, this park emphasizes a rustic atmosphere where the sound of the wind through lodgepole pines replaces the hum of highway traffic, making it a favorite for those seeking peace and quiet.
Location & Surroundings
Located at an elevation of approximately 9,900 feet, the campground is positioned just west of the historic mining town of Leadville. The site is nestled along the eastern shores of Turquoise Lake, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding Sawatch Range. The environment is characterized by dense forest cover and cool mountain air, making it an ideal escape from the summer heat found at lower elevations in Colorado.
Amenities & Park Features
As a traditional mountain campground, Silver Dollar provides essential facilities designed for self-contained travelers. While the park does not offer electrical or sewer hookups, it provides high-quality basics including:
- Potable water spigots located at central points for easy access.
- Multiple vault toilets that are well-maintained throughout the season.
- Paved parking spurs that can accommodate motorhomes up to 35 or 40 feet.
- Individual fire rings and picnic tables at every site.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw is the massive Turquoise Lake Recreation Area, which offers world-class opportunities for trout fishing, kayaking, and sailing. Hikers and cyclists can easily access the Mineral Belt Trail, an 11-mile paved loop that winds through Leadville's historic mining district. For those seeking a challenge, the trailheads for Mount Elbert and Mount Massive, Colorado's highest peaks, are a short drive away, providing unforgettable alpine scenery and rigorous trekking opportunities.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is a perfect match for boondockers and outdoor enthusiasts who value natural beauty over luxury amenities. It is ideal for families wanting to teach their children about nature and for travelers with smaller to mid-sized rigs who are comfortable operating without full utility connections. If your travel style involves stargazing and lakefront recreation rather than high-speed internet and cable TV, Silver Dollar will likely be the highlight of your Colorado journey.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Maddy Fanning
run, don’t walk!!! go get the pulled pork sandwich — i don’t care if you’re not hungry! kidding, i kindly suggest it 🤭 wanted to stop at the legendary silver dollar saloon for a while + finally made the stop. very worth it / highly recommend it! a couple cold beers + yummy food + nice vibe. sat in the dining area but would sit at the bar next time, for sure.
Samara Overvaag
I ordered the apple french toast. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But wow! I never order french toast at restaurants, but this was legendary. It’s given me hope again! (I ate this the night before hiking Mt. Elbert) It was very warm inside this place, but it’s an old building. So I’ll cut it some slack!
Vance Scavone
The food was amazing! We got the wings, onion rings and some drinks. Everything was so uniquely flavorful and learning the history about the building was really interesting. It was cool to sit in a building Doc Holiday and Molly Brown were in.
Whitney Hall
Old saloon that serves an electic menu of modern eats that are well prepared. The staff is friendly and attentive. They have a nice bar and bottled beer. Definitely a place to stop if you're hungry in Leadville.
bob hole
A fun and lively atmosphere with great drinks and an incredible historic setting. The place has so much character and is definitely worth visiting if you appreciate history and a good time.