About THIRTY MILE
Overview Thirty Mile Campground is nestled on the banks of the Rio Grande River, just a short mile from the Rio Grande Reservoir. The location is perfect for anyone who loves to spend time fishing, canoeing and swimming. In addition, there are two trailheads and regular interpretive programs located at the campground. Across from the Thirty Mile is the Weminuche Wilderness, the largest wilderness area in Colorado. It's a famously rugged region with three mountain peaks reaching over 14,000 feet. Recreation Anglers and hikers are common campers at Thirty Mile, and the San Juan Mountains provide great fun for backpackers and horse packers. Two trailheads, Squaw Creek and Weminuche Pass, lead eager hikers into the Weminuche Wilderness and link up to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.Facilities No electric site hookups are available. Firewood is sold onsite. There is ample parking for day visitors but stock unloading and horse trailers are not permitted. Sites are designed for both tent and trailer camping. Drinking water is available. Natural Features The campground is located in a meadow among mature spruce and aspen trees, just between the Rio Grande River and Squaw Creek. All sites are nicely shaded and some overlook the creek. The Rio Grande National Forest spans 1.86 million acres in south-central Colorado. The Continental Divide runs for 236 miles along most of the forest's western border, presenting a myriad of ecosystems from alpine desert to dense wilderness. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (805) 434-1996.
How to Get There
From Alamosa, go west on US 160 to South Fork. Turn northwest on State Highway 149 through Creede. Continue on Highway 149 to mile marker 41, turn west (gravel road) on Rio Grande Reservoir Road and continue for 12 miles to Thirty Mile Campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to THIRTY MILE
Heading to THIRTY MILE? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for THIRTY MILE?
No central reservation system listed for THIRTY MILE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232338) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to THIRTY MILE?
From Alamosa, go west on US 160 to South Fork. Turn northwest on State Highway 149 through Creede. Continue on Highway 149 to mile marker 41, turn west (gravel road) on Rio Grande Reservoir Road and continue for 12 miles to Thirty Mile Campground.
How do I contact THIRTY MILE?
You can reach the park at phone: 719-658-0829 or email: customerservice@pmcparks.com.
References & Official Resources
