SUP Adventures, Butterflies, and Hammocks
If paradise had a zip code, Miller Creek Campground in Colorado’s San Juan National Forest just might be it.
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Driving to Miller Creek Campground
After soaking in the serene beauty of Middle Mountain Campground, we packed up our camper van and made our way to Miller Creek Campground — a short, scenic drive that winds through towering trees, past glimmering water views, and into a quieter slice of lakeside heaven. Nestled just off Forest Road 600, the route is mostly well-maintained gravel with occasional potholes and narrow turns, so take it slow and enjoy the views. The distance between the two campgrounds is just over 6 miles, but it feels like a journey into a completely different experience.
We couldn’t believe our luck — a campsite right next to the lake was available when we arrived. With wide eyes and grateful hearts, we pulled in and immediately set up our camping chairs and hammocks under the cool shade of tall pine trees. The site featured a sturdy picnic table and a fire ring perfect for evening campfires. Amenities here are rustic but thoughtful: there’s drinking water available and vaulted toilets nearby, making it easy to enjoy a few days unplugged… or at least mostly unplugged.
We pumped up the stand-up paddleboard under the expansive shade trees at our site. The lake was smooth as glass, making for a dreamy paddle. As I glided along the quiet shore, I watched a mother duck lead her fuzzy ducklings in a neat line across the water — one of those simple moments that make camping unforgettable. I put on my wide-brimmed hat and packed my hiking bag filled with water and snacks, just in case I found a sunny spot worth lounging in. Which I did.
By early afternoon, the wind picked up and brought along gentle waves, adding a bit of movement and excitement to the lake. But by evening, the breeze faded, and I took the paddleboard out once more, this time to watch the sun reflect off the water’s surface. We left the SUP board inflated next to the camper van for the duration of our stay, ready for sunrise paddles and spontaneous lake moments.
The temps hovered in the mid-70s — absolute perfection for a June afternoon in the mountains. While our T-Mobile signal didn’t reach this remote spot, we were able to rely on our Starlink internet for maps and route planning for our next camping destination. It’s always good to come prepared for a total signal blackout out here.
Enjoying Miller Creek Campground
A short, peaceful path near our campsite wound its way along the lake’s edge. Wildflowers were in full bloom, dotting the green hillsides with bursts of purple, yellow, and white. The shimmering blue lake, calm bird calls, and sweet scent of pine made the perfect backdrop for hammock reading. At one point, dozens of yellow and black butterflies fluttered past and even landed around us — a magical moment we’ll never forget.
If you loved this story, be sure to check out our Middle Mountain Campground experience — another gem in the San Juan National Forest!
