Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
KOA sign on highway.
From Montrose, turn right on County Road 23 (mile marker 98)
From Ouray, turn left on County Road 23.
The prime window for peak aspen color in the San Juan Mountains—including Ouray—is mid-September to early October, with the last week of September often hitting peak brilliance.
Stroll the charming streets of historic Ouray, where Victorian-era architecture is framed by golden foliage—a stunning, easy-access backdrop.
Venture to Box Canyon Falls, just outside downtown: the vibrant fall colors enhance the dramatic 285-ft waterfall and its narrow canyon walls.
Don’t miss Cascade Falls—a short, family-friendly walk delivering rich autumnal tones in an intimate setting.
Million Dollar Highway (US 550) between Ouray and Silverton is legendary for a reason. Golden aspens burst alive alongside red-rock peaks of Red Mountain—perfect for photo stops.
Corkscrew Gulch (Ironton Park): A moderate drive just south of Ouray featuring sweeping views into the Aspen-rich Ironton Valley—just ‘look down’ to catch its magic.
Alpine Loop Back Country Byway: For a more rugged experience, this 63-mile loop includes alpine meadows, mountain passes, ghost towns, and sweeping fall panoramas. High-clearance, 4WD recommended.
Owl Creek Pass and Chimney Rock offer serene, high-elevation aspen groves with dramatic mountain backdrops.
Yankee Boy Basin: A gorgeous alpine basin accessible via a rugged road—ideal for wildlife sighting and seasonal aspen color near Ouray.
Ouray Perimeter Trail: A 6.5-mile loop around town with sweeping views, waterfalls, bridges, and lush aspens—all without needing a high-clearance vehicle.
After exploring, soak in the Ouray Hot Springs—a perfect way to wind down, with mineral-rich water surrounded by colorful fall foliage.
Morning: Enjoy a cozy stroll or quick hike to Box Canyon Falls or Cascade Falls.
Midday: Cue up the engine for a scenic drive on the Million Dollar Highway or a twisty ascent via Corkscrew Gulch.
Afternoon: If you’re up for it, approach the high country via Owl Creek Pass or the Alpine Loop; otherwise, opt for the Ouray Perimeter Trail.
Evening: Unwind back at Ouray KOA Holiday with a soak in the hot springs under golden canopies and mountain dusk.
Early mornings or late afternoons deliver the best light—and fewer crowds—for foliage gazing.
Vary your vantage points—town, hills, passes, basins—to enjoy layered color perspectives.
Layer up for temperature swings and bring a good camera. These golden landscapes are meant to be captured (and remembered).
That doesn't mean this area has to always be empty. When you start reviewing camping options, your history will display here to help compare sites and find the best stay. You will be able to share your stay information with friends or family and save it for a later time if you have a KOA Account.
Make checkout easy by booking all your reservations at once. Add your sites from different campgrounds into your shopping cart* and then choose checkout.
