East Fork San Juan River, near Pagosa Springs, Colorado, is a fantastic spot for those who love the great outdoors and don’t mind a little roughing it. This area offers completely primitive camping, so you can expect no restroom facilities, electricity, or trash service—just you and nature.

Visitors rave about the stunning views and the proximity to the San Juan River, making it a prime location for fishing and hiking. One camper mentioned, “The sounds of raging water put me sound to sleep,” highlighting the soothing ambiance of the area. You’ll find several dispersed sites clustered near the river, perfect for setting up your tent or RV.

If you’re into adventure, there are plenty of trails nearby, including ATV paths and hiking routes that cater to all skill levels. The area is also known for its beautiful waterfalls and wildlife, making it a great choice for families looking to explore. As one reviewer put it, “With kids or wanting some beauty, this is hands down the best!”

Keep in mind that this spot can get busy on weekends, especially with off-road vehicles, but many campers appreciate the peace and quiet during the week. So, if you’re ready to disconnect and enjoy some breathtaking scenery, East Fork San Juan River is waiting for you.

East Fork San Juan River, USFS Road 667 - Dispersed Camping

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Pagosa Springs. Pagosa Springs is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Colorado camping adventure.

Pagosa Springs

The Best Camping Near Pagosa Springs, Colorado

Spent two nights here in August.  There were 4-5 spots in this area, which is right on the San Juan River.  I was here on a Sunday night / Monday night and it was not crowded.  There were a couple of other folks who were there.  There are a couple of trailheads (about 1/2 mile up the road).  I took the Quartz Ridge trail - which was nice - except having to cross a creek .20 miles into the hike).  

  

I have AT&amp;T and had no cell coverage at all.

Great spot right on the river

There was a storm coming in so I was one of the only fools out here so unsure how busy this place gets. There are several spots on the water with 2 large areas that have multiple fire rings within them. Would be to close for me if all spots were full. The ground holds rain and I had to get a ditch going around my tent. Worth it though as the sounds of raging water put me sound to sleep. 

Stunning Dispersed Camping

Waterfalls, atv trails for miles some novice some very experienced trails, hiking, creeks, fishing. Hands down my favorite CO spot. With kids or wanting some beauty this is hands down the best! We did camp passed the east fork campgrounds. All the way down to the beginning of the ranch road way you have plenty of dispersed tent areas and rv areas (no electric). 

Lots of water wild life for all rigs and all size and aged familys

Great boondocking sites about 45minues from Pagosa Springs. These sites are completely primitive. No restroom facilities, electricity, potable water or trash service.  No cell service.  Its worth it, so plan accordingly.   

  

Follow US160E about 10 miles, turn right onto USFS 667.  Pass by the entrance to East Fork Campground and continue on the forest service road.  This is where the road becomes fairly rough.  Dispersed sites begin about 2 miles further. Most sites are clustered together in pockets near the river.  

  

We arrived early in the day and found a great site near a vertical rock face.  Campsite was at 8000'.    We stayed a week and only saw other campers on the weekend.  The weather was perfect with day time temps in the 70s and overnight temps in the 50s.  Ideal hiking and fishing conditions.    

  

The forest road gets busy with Jeeps and UTvs during the day on weekends.  Our site was far enough away from the road that we weren't bothered.   

  

Access to several trails, beautiful valley views and waterfalls nearby .

Boondocking near Pagosa Springs, Colorado

There are 20+ campsites along FR667. Some can accommodate RVs, some only tents. We parked a popup at the 1st campsite past the bridge near the trailhead. 
2 waterfalls are close, Pagosa Springs is 30ish mins away. Our kids tubed down the creek. 
Lots of ATV traffic, some bikes, but overall quiet. 

Fun location 

The road was in great conditions, many sites to choose for. I stayed for 10 days and many people came and go (busy) but juts stunning with the river there and amazing lullaby for sleeping time. I got a visitors few cows snooping my site but the left right  away. 

Beautiful Boondock sites

Stayed one night by a recommendation from a local guide at the chimney rock national monument! 

A fun drive along the river and landed in a beautiful secluded solo spot just over 2 miles down the road off of 160, right before the first bridge. (There are plenty more sites as you travel further!)

The spot can be sketchy if you have a shorter clearance since there are two rocky drops that you can be avoided with a good approach

I have a subaru outback which made it in just fine.

Photos of East Fork San Juan River, USFS Road 667 - Dispersed Camping

Real photos from real campers