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Established Camping

West Fork Campground

Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect

There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!

The Stage 2 Fire Ban has been rescinded as of 12:01am on 9/05/2025. You may now have a campfire in your campsite again!

ALERT: STAGE 2 FIRE BAN NOW IN EFFECT! Due to increased risk of wildfires, the San Juan National Forest fire managers have issued restrictions on campfires, smoking, and other activities within the forest. These restrictions begin August 8, 2025.This is from Order #02-13-00-25-13 and is in effect until December 31, 2025 or unless rescinded earlier.Restrictions include:

  • Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, including a charcoal fire and pellet fire on all National Forest System lands. Portable cooking stoves, lanterns, and heating devices using liquefied or bottled fuel, such as propane, are allowed as they can be switched off instantly.
  • Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a designated campground, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
  • Possessing, discharging, or using any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic device is prohibited year-round on national forest lands.
  • Operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained, and in effective working order.
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

West Fork Campground, near Pagosa Springs, Colorado, is a compact yet charming spot that offers a peaceful escape surrounded by nature. With sites that provide a decent buffer between campers, you can enjoy the tranquility of the nearby West Fork San Juan River, just a short stroll away.

This campground is known for its well-maintained restrooms and a reliable potable water source, making it a comfortable choice for your outdoor adventure. Many visitors have praised the spacious sites, with some even spotting deer wandering through the area. As one camper noted, “Peaceful, spacious sites” are a highlight here, and the adjacent stream offers a refreshing dip on warm days.

For those eager to explore, the Rainbow Hot Springs trailhead is just a mile away, promising a rewarding hike with stunning views. Just be prepared for a workout; it’s a 12-mile round trip! Campers have shared tips about bringing snacks and plenty of water for the trek, ensuring you’re ready for the journey ahead.

While the campground doesn’t offer electric hookups or showers, it does allow fires, so you can roast marshmallows under the stars. With its beautiful surroundings and access to outdoor activities, West Fork Campground is a solid choice for anyone looking to unwind in the great outdoors.

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Location

West Fork Campground is located in Colorado

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Pagosa Springs, Colo., travel east on U.S. Highway 160 for about 13 miles, then turn northwest on Forest Road 684 and continue more than a mile to the campground entrance on the West Fork Road.

Address

West Fork Rd (FS Road 648)
San juan nf, CO

Coordinates

37.4447222 N
106.9030556 W

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Connectivity

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Drive Time

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Connectivity

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    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites
  • Big Rig Friendly

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Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

14 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 27, 2022

Well maintained sites near beautiful West Fork San Juan River

Compact campground but decent buffer between each site. Only a short distance to the river. Very well maintained restrooms and potable water source. Sites 16, 17 and 18 closest to river. 16 and 17 are pull throughs.

A mile or so from Rainbow Hot Springs trailhead

Site#18
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Jay H., June 27, 2022
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Jay H., June 27, 2022
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Jay H., June 27, 2022
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Jun. 27, 2022

Great Stay

Far enough away from the hustle of Pagosa Springs, far enough from the highway. Old growth forest reminded me of CA.

Site17
Month of VisitJune
  • Play button icon
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Chad S., June 27, 2022
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Chad S., June 27, 2022
Reviewed May. 15, 2022

Forest Camping

Beautiful, small campground near a a rapidly flowing stream/creek. Campsites are relatively large, on dirt, no utilities, but fresh water and restrooms.

Site16
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Donna H., May 15, 2022
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Donna H., May 15, 2022
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Donna H., May 15, 2022
Reviewed Jul. 11, 2021

Scenic and spacious sites with lots of trails.

Peaceful, spacious sites. Spectacular Rainbow Hot Springs trail is worth the work-out of 12 miles out and back (6 miles each way, don't let anyone tell you it's less). Deer came into our site. The adjacent stream is shallow enough in areas if you want an icy dip. Rainbow Hot Springs Trail is spectacular in spite of the massive forest damage. Go for the hike, not the springs, though you'll probably enjoy them as a break before returning to camp. If you're more adventurous you could even camp a night hear the springs. Regardless, bring snacks or lunch and plenty of water.

Site23
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Camp Comet , July 11, 2021
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Camp Comet , July 11, 2021
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Camp Comet , July 11, 2021
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Jul. 10, 2021

Great spot near Pagosa springs

The River/creek was really pretty. If you want to hike to rainbow hot springs, drive to the trailhead. We turned it into a 14 mile trek and ended up hiking back in the dark. (We had lights but weren’t prepared for the close encounter with a mountain lion family) Dont be like us… also bring snacks and water for that hike, it’s a long one. And the trail is well worn until you get to the rainbow springs campsite. Once there, you’ll have to get down to the river level and stay along the wall to find the springs. We would’ve never found it without a map.

Sitecan’t remember but it was on the backside close to the toilet
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Abigail R., July 10, 2021
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Abigail R., July 10, 2021
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Abigail R., July 10, 2021
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Mar. 15, 2021

Dont mix em up.

Hi, everyone. My review is in response to the review of Annie C.. Annie, you've gotten the Campgrounds backwards, as there are No ATV or off road trails at Westfork and there is easy access to the river from multiple sites and a public path behind the 2nd bathroom. Eastfork has the trails and no river access. 

I hope this helps everyone. 

The Camphost

Site1
Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Apr. 1, 2020

Beautiful & Quiet

Haved came here often and love it. The bathrooms were great! Firewood is available for sale. H2O onsite.

Site4
Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Sep. 30, 2018

Dusty West Fork

If you are into off roading or four wheeling, this might be the campground for you. West Fork sits up from the main road on the way to lots of ATV trails as well as some nice #hike #getoutside #go #explore #hiking #nature #freshair #adventure #wildernessculture trails. That said, it can be very noisy throughout the day as campers as well as visitors race up and down the mountain trails. It is also very dusty. The campground is a small/tight loop with lots of trees and smaller sites, some that allow the pleasant sound of the West Fork to drift up, but none with views or access to the Creek. The back portion of the campground has sites large enough for small trailers and RV’s. When we were there the only access to water was in the back portion of the campground at a hand pump. The vault toilets were clean-ish, but in need of being emptied. The campground host did not seem to be worried about maintaining the campground or maintaining his records as he moved us twice in the same day as he double booked several sites. While we planned on staying for two or more nights at this campground, we ended up packing up and moving to much better camping at the East Fork campground.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Annie C., September 30, 2018
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Annie C., September 30, 2018
  • Review photo of West Fork Campground by Annie C., September 30, 2018
  • (10) View All
Reviewed Sep. 8, 2016

Great mountains..

I stayed here first in 1996 and I absolutely love these parts of the San Juans, these campsites are close to Pagosa and I suggest Treasure Mountain Trail and for sure check out Treasure Falls...

Reviewed Jun. 21, 2016

Awesome secluded campground!

Excellent secluded campground. Sites are huge and accommodate both tents and RVs. Some sites can be reserved. Not crowded or over run with people. Vault toilets and no bath house or sinks. Next to a river. Great hiking trails at the end of the road and in the immediate vicinity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is West Fork Campground located in Colorado?

West Fork Campground is located in the San Juan Mountains near Pagosa Springs, Colorado. The campground sits alongside a creek/river and is nestled among old growth forest. It's positioned a short distance from the Rainbow Hot Springs trailhead (about a mile) and offers a secluded setting that's far enough from the main highway to maintain a peaceful atmosphere, yet still accessible. The location provides convenient access to numerous hiking trails and outdoor recreation opportunities while being relatively close to the amenities of Pagosa Springs.

What do reviews say about West Fork Campground?

West Fork Campground is highly regarded for its peaceful, secluded setting with spacious sites situated near a scenic creek. Visitors appreciate the old growth forest, quiet atmosphere, and proximity to excellent hiking trails, particularly the Rainbow Hot Springs Trail (a challenging 12-mile round trip). The campground features well-maintained vault toilets, potable water, and some sites that can be reserved. Wildlife sightings are common, with deer sometimes wandering through. While compact, the campground offers good spacing between sites with those numbered 16, 17, and 18 being closest to the river. It's noted for being far enough from Pagosa Springs to feel remote while still being accessible.

Are there photos available of West Fork Campground?

While specific photo availability isn't mentioned, the campground features picturesque settings worth capturing, including a creek/river that runs alongside the site, old growth forest, and spacious campsites. The natural beauty includes a rapidly flowing stream, grassy areas, and wooded surroundings. For official photos, check the U.S. Forest Service website or contact the managing ranger district. Visitors often share their own photos on camping apps and websites, which can provide recent visual references of the campground's conditions and layout.

Can I bring an RV to West Fork Campground?

Yes, West Fork Campground accommodates RVs as well as tents. The sites are described as huge with ample space for recreational vehicles. Sites 16 and 17 are specifically mentioned as pull-through sites, which are typically more convenient for RVs. The campground does not offer hookups or utilities, so be prepared for dry camping. Fresh water is available on-site, and the campground has vault toilets but no bath house or sinks. While the campground can handle RVs, it's always advisable to check length restrictions with the Forest Service before arrival, as mountain campgrounds sometimes have limitations.