About SILVER DOLLAR
Overview Silver Dollar Campground is situated near the eastern shore of Turquoise Lake in the shade of a lodgepole pine and subalpine fir forest. This family-friendly campground is a popular summer destination for boating, hiking and fishing. Recreation Hikers enjoy the 1.2-mile Turquoise Lake Nature Trail. The gentle path meanders through the forest and down to the shoreline of Turquoise Lake, and connects with the 6.4-mile Turquoise Lake Trail that parallels the shoreline from the Sugar Loaf Dam to May Queen Campground. Hikers can pick up a trail guide at the trailhead located near the entrance to Molly Brown Campground to learn about the flora and fauna along the path. On the lake, boating, sailing, canoeing and fishing are favorite activities. Anglers fish for stocked cutthroat, rainbow, brown and lake trout. Matchless Boat Ramp is located nearby.Facilities The campground offers single-family sites, each equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and trash collection are provided. Firewood is available for purchase from the Host. Parking spurs are gravel or dirt. Natural Features Campsites are nestled in the forest within walking distance of the scenic lakeshore at 10,000 feet in elevation. The Mount Massive Wilderness Area is nearby. The 30,540-acre expanse encompasses Mount Massive, Colorado's second highest peak at 14,421 feet. Much of the wilderness is above timberline with many alpine plant communities and permanent snowfields. Nearby Attractions Venture to Independence Pass for a scenic drive with breathtaking views of the Rockies and surrounding alpine tundra habitat. At 12,095 feet, it is one of the highest paved mountain passes in the country and marks where the Top of the Rockies National Scenic and Historic Byway crosses the Continental Divide. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.Charges & Cancellations Cancellations Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start da
How to Get There
From Leadville, Colorado, drive west on County Road 4 and follow signs to the Turquoise Lake Recreation Area. Turn right on County Road 9C and follow to the campground entrance on the right.
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 SILVER DOLLAR
Heading to SILVER DOLLAR? 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 SILVER DOLLAR?
No central reservation system listed for SILVER DOLLAR. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232294) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to SILVER DOLLAR?
From Leadville, Colorado, drive west on County Road 4 and follow signs to the Turquoise Lake Recreation Area. Turn right on County Road 9C and follow to the campground entrance on the right.
How do I contact SILVER DOLLAR?
You can reach the park at phone: 719-486-0749 (FOR INFORMATION ONLY, NO RESERVATIONS) or email: tbolton@goexplorus.com.
References & Official Resources
