Ward Gulch (FR 855) in CO -- Camping Rules & Access
Ward Gulch (FR 855) in CO
Road corridorRio Grande NF, Saguache Ranger District
30 mi from Salida
7.5 mi off US 50 (straight line)
Maps 9,679 ft
Dispersed camping generally allowed
U.S. Forest Service default; a local order can restrict it.
Motor-vehicle season 6/16–3/14Stay limit: 14 days · within 30 days
VerizonNONE
AT&TNONE
T-MobileNONE
StarlinkGOOD
Road Access
Difficult
- 4.7 of this road’s 11.6 miles are maintained for high-clearance vehicles, dirt the whole way.
- Estimated climb: 3,400 ft over 11.6 miles through 5 switchbacks, with sustained grades near 14% and pitches to 28%.
- Cattle guards 5.5 and 7.3 miles along the road.
Setting
Some privacy
- Moderately separated here.
- Sargents Mesa stands 2,047 ft above the map pin, 3.3 miles north.
Rules
- Camping is limited to 14 days in any 30 day period on the Rio Grande National Forest. Camp at least 150 feet from water sources. All vehicles must stay within 300 feet of the center line of a designated road. Dig a pit for your toilet needs at least 150 feet from water and cover the pit before you leave.
- Camping rules
Climate averages
October normals 28–55°F, 1.1″ precipitation. Monthly averages, PRISM 1991–2020.