Ghost Towns of the Rockies

Camp Bird

Ghost town in Ouray County, Colorado · San Juan Mountains district

Founded
1896
Peak Population
~400
Elevation
9,800 ft
Primary Industry
gold
County
Ouray
Coordinates
37.9828, -107.7406
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History

Thomas Walsh discovered the Camp Bird Mine here in 1896, which became one of the richest gold mines in Colorado, producing over $27 million. Walsh used the profits to buy the Hope Diamond for his daughter Evalyn. The mine operated intermittently into the 1990s.

Visiting Camp Bird

What remains: Mine structures remain. Some private property.

Access: Camp Bird Road from Ouray (about 6 miles). Passenger car OK to certain point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Camp Bird?

Camp Bird is located in Ouray County, Colorado, in the San Juan Mountains area at an elevation of 9,800 ft, coordinates 37.9828, -107.7406.

Can you visit Camp Bird today?

Camp Bird Road from Ouray (about 6 miles). Passenger car OK to certain point.

What remains at Camp Bird?

Mine structures remain. Some private property.

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