Less Than 40 Days Until Telluride Jazz Festival: Your Guide to Camping & Packing for an Unforgettable Weekend

In less than 40 days, music will once again fill Telluride Town Park as the Telluride Jazz Festival returns for another unforgettable weekend in one of the most spectacular settings in the country.

Camping is one of the best ways to experience the festival because you get to wake up in the mountains surrounded by towering San Juan peaks.

Camping transforms the festival into a different experience. In the mornings and between shows throughout the day, you can relax and have coffee or food at camp, explore Telluride's scenic trails, or sit by the river and take in the views.

Festival camping is communal and first-come, first-served, making it easy to meet new friends and become part of the unique festival community that forms each year.

Your Festival Packing List

Mountain weather can change quickly, so packing smart helps you stay comfortable from sunrise to the final encore.

Camp Essentials

  • Tent, stakes, and ground tarp

  • Sleeping bag rated for cool mountain nights

  • Sleeping pad or air mattress

  • Camp chairs

  • Headlamp or flashlight

  • Refillable water bottle

  • Cooler with food and beverages

  • Sunscreen and lip balm

  • Sunglasses

  • Portable battery pack

  • Reusable coffee mug

  • Trash bags to help keep camp clean

Festival Must-Haves

  • Festival and Camping Passes

  • Photo ID

  • Lightweight daypack

  • Refillable water bottle

  • Blanket for relaxing between sets

  • Hat and sunscreen

  • Layers for changing temperatures

  • Rain jacket or lightweight shell

  • Comfortable walking shoes

Dress for Every Season—In One Day

One of the best parts of Telluride is the mountain climate—but it also means conditions can change quickly.

A sunny afternoon can give way to a cool evening, and a passing mountain shower isn't uncommon. Dress in layers so you're ready for everything from warm afternoons to crisp nights under the stars.

Know Before You Go

A few reminders before arriving:

  • Festival camping opens Thursday afternoon.

  • Campsites are first-come, first-served.

  • Camping is communal, so expect friendly neighbors and a welcoming atmosphere.

  • Be sure to bring your Festival Pass and Camping Pass for entry.

  • Stage II Fire Restrictions are currently in effect. Please review campground rules before arriving.

Less Than 40 Days to Go!

Soon, the mountains will echo with music, late-night conversations around camp (without campfires!), early morning coffee beneath the peaks, and memories that last forever.

We'll see you in Town Park.