Silverton, Ouray, Denver trip from AZ

[zman-az]

After spending the weekend at Lake Powell we will be trying to find a spot near Mesa Verde NP, any suggestions for boondocking outside the park in a class A.
After that we will be on our way to Mineral Creek on 7/18-20th near Silverton. Just want to know if its still open, how crowded and if its still “free”. Was there about 4 years ago and it was busy in August. After that we will head North thru Ouray with our 36’ Class A and Jeep. Done that road in the jeep and know about the tight dropoff spots, is there any reason why I should not go this way other than “fear factor”. I have been on a few twisty roads and issues that bother me are trees in the right of way or overhanging the road, seem to collect a few tree branches in the antenna. Also any traffic / road construction issues that I should be aware of. Alternative route is to go to Ouray from Ridgeway but I don’t know of any boondocking sites north of Ouray for our Class A. We are meeting up with some other jeepers in Ouray for a couple days and plan to base camp south of town. Really don’t want to spend $30-40 a night to drycamp in a RV park but that is my worse case scenario.
After that we will work our way towards Denver to visit our daughter. Want to spend the night outside of town on hwy 285. Any recommendations on a place to stay within 50 miles of Denver. Could also come in on I70 as an alternative.

[twogypsies]

Mesa Verde has a large campground. If you have a Senior Pass it would be 1/2 price - dry camping so it would be very reasonable.

We've stayed at South Mineral Creek many times - lovely mountain view along the stream. July is the busiest time there. Hopefully, someone who's there now can help answer your question.

If you've done Silverton to Ouray in your Jeep you know what the highway is like. So only you know if you should do it with your RV. We do it all the time with our 40' motorhome and love the drive but everyone is different. You won't have any tree issues, for sure.

Have fun Jeepin'!! It's one of the very best places in the country. We wish we were joining you!