188 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Arboles, Colorado provides a mix of developed campgrounds and dispersed camping areas centered around Navajo State Park and Navajo Lake. The region includes several established campgrounds with cabin options, including Rosa Campground, Tiffany Campground, and Carracas Campground within Navajo State Park, as well as Navajo Lake Resort RV Park and Campground. These mixed-use campgrounds accommodate tent camping, RV camping with hookups, and cabin rentals. For those seeking more primitive experiences, dispersed camping is available on nearby public lands, including Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping areas and Fossett Gulch Road.
Camping availability in the Arboles area follows seasonal patterns, with most developed campgrounds operating year-round at Navajo State Park, while some private campgrounds like Navajo Lake Resort operate from April through November. "The campgrounds are spread all throughout the lake which reaches from Northern New Mexico into Colorado," notes one camper familiar with the area. Road access to most developed sites is suitable for standard vehicles, though dispersed camping areas may require higher clearance. Cell service can be limited in more remote areas, particularly at dispersed sites. Campers should be prepared for high desert conditions with hot summer days, cool nights, and limited shade at some lakeside camping areas.
Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors to the Arboles area, with many campers highlighting the proximity to Navajo Lake as a key feature. The lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and water recreation, with the marina offering boat rentals and other services. A reviewer mentioned that "if you don't have a boat or fancy water toys, Sims Mesa is where you should go. Much less crowded than the main marina." Several campgrounds feature electric hookups, drinking water, and shower facilities, particularly at the established sites within Navajo State Park. Campers seeking more solitude often prefer the dispersed camping options, which offer free camping but lack amenities such as drinking water, toilets, or trash service. The area's location provides convenient access to both Colorado and New Mexico attractions.
"The campgrounds are spread all throughout the lake which reaches from Northern New Mexico into Colorado. The Marina is newly remodeled and expansive."
"We prefer to disperse camp along the North Shore of the lake, basically directly North, across the lake from the marina, in the small coves that have 4×4 and dirt road access."
from $20 - $41 / night
Check Availability"Vault toilets (2 pairs on either edge of campground) were CLEAN!, well-stocked, very nice and as good as it gets for vaults. Well tree'd, quiet, not busy at all in late September."
"Pulled in around 3:30pm and still 2 tent sites left. Table fire pit and BBQ stand. Lots of trees. Pit outhouse not too far and was clean and well stocked."
from $22 - $100 / night
Check Availability"Relatively convenient for access to the town and activities in the area. The main road into the area is very easy navigable by any vehicle. Some of the side roads get significantly tougher."
"A residential area with no access to BLM land. Instead, search for Durfield dispersed camping nearby and it will take you to the correct place."
"Very convenient for trips to the lake. Easy to get in and out. Plenty of shade. Loved our stay!"
from $35 - $85 / night
Check Availability"The views from our campsite overlooked the lake. The bathroom and showers were clean."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"Several sites available right on the lake, just steps away from the water. Bathrooms available. Water and trash available just a short walk."
"Navajo Lake was a last minute reservation to escape the southern heat. SUCCESS, the sites had shelter, access to water and good Marina. Not many marked trails but you can still explore."
from $15 - $90 / night
Check Availability"The pull-off was flat and about 150ft from highway 160. There was a gate near our spot that was closed, presumably for the winter. Although we could hear road traffic it didn't keep us awake."
"We had to overnight in Durango area for one night, on our way from Colorado to Arizona."
"CUSTOMER SERVICE: Friendly staff; shuffled our stay around so we could extend and not relocate during the week. WIFI/ CELL SERVICE: Camp wifi and speed seemed to work really well!"
from $47 - $197 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $20 - $120 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $36 - $41 / night
Check Availability
LegendWe grabbed a spot off to the right with a view over the canyon and mountains. It was perfect for an overnight stop or a few days of kicking back. No amenities so come prepared. There was a fire ring so we enjoyed a night by the fire and listening to the coyotes and the elk off in the distance. The area is a popular recreational area so weekends and holidays you may have to go farther up the road to find spots.
GuidePlenty of spaces after you continue left!
GuideThis is a beautiful spot. Sites that accommodate larger campers are few. Be aware that the road in will be treacherous if it rains. There is also significant wash boarding. But the views are fabulous.
TravelerIt’s right on the dan Juan River
GuideJust pulled in trying to beat the weather there could be more spots up the rd but I found this one! Really pretty drive in and real close to the springs in town about 13 min away
TravelerCash or check only. Level gravel sites with hookup in the main section; a few dirt and less level sites with minimal or no hook ups down by river. Friendly and welcoming host. Cash or check only. Distant road noise; quiet otherwise. Aztec Ruins National Monument just down the street. Would stay here again.
ScoutSmall camp ground by the stream with metal fire rings.
ScoutThis was the perfect spot to camp in the rain. It had a nice creek and several sites available. The creek behind the site was epic. The drive in was easy and way better and secluded spots than nearby Lime Creek. Do not drive above the frost spot at lime creek it sucked! We went all the way to the top at Potato Lake and nothing was better than the first few spots which were wide open to everyone else around. We stayed in the free spots directly across from Sig creek. Not sure what that's like, but there is no way it's better especially considering the cost ($0.00). We can pack our doo out for a few bucks and privacy. The post adjacent to our (to the right) was taken but had a small and fast flowing waterfall in the rain. I'd have loved to have snagged that.
ScoutBeautiful campground, great service, but after staying for 7 days I returned to my campsite (after being gone for less than 3 hrs) and someone had stollen all my items. Reported to forest service. (Literally stole a felony amount, I have never had this happen and I camp on dispersed lands a lot)
Navajo State Park forms the centerpiece of camping near Arboles, Colorado, spanning elevations between 6,000-6,500 feet in Colorado's high desert terrain. The area experiences temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between daytime highs and nighttime lows, particularly in summer months. Campers should prepare for rocky terrain with limited natural shade at most sites around Navajo Lake.
Fishing opportunities: Rosa Campground in Navajo State Park attracts anglers year-round. "The fishing at this lake and the San Juan river are world renowned. The river has a few guided tour companies, but Abe's is the best. They have a store, gas, restaurant, and hotel," notes Justin C.
Explore historic sites: Located directly across from Chimney Rock National Monument, Ute Campground provides convenient access to cultural attractions. "Chimney rock across just across the road," mentions Brooke C., who appreciated the campground's location between Bayfield and Pagosa Springs.
Water recreation: The lake offers multiple access points for boating and paddling. "There's a marina to rent boats. Bring kayaks, SUPs, and tubes to spend the day in the water - easily accessed from every camp sight I've been to there. Then the cliff diving!" says Elizabeth V. about Navajo State Park.
Private lakeside spots: At Sims Mesa Campground, campers appreciate the quieter atmosphere. "Several sites available right on the lake, just steps away from the water. Bathrooms available. Water and trash available just a short walk," notes Charlene H., who recommends this area for those without boats.
Cooler seasons: Spring and fall camping receives higher ratings due to more comfortable temperatures. "We stayed in early April and there were only a few other campers," reports Jolene C. about Rosa Campground, noting the peaceful atmosphere and clean facilities during shoulder season.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds feature well-designed layouts. "The sites were spread out enough for privacy. Bathrooms were clean. Wasn't crowded. Really a great place to camp," shares Jim about Ute Campground, highlighting the balance between accessibility and seclusion.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly by location and carrier. "No cell service," notes Kate A. at Ute Campground, while campers at Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping report "5g internet with AT&T" at certain spots.
Water level fluctuations: Navajo Lake experiences significant changes throughout the year. "Dry camp with pit toilets at windsurf, but State Park headquarters with all amenities about 1 mile away. Usually pretty quite and secluded. On or near the lake depending on water level which can fluctuate greatly throughout the year," reports Dennis F.
Seasonal closures: Some dispersed camping areas close during winter months. "The gate was closed from Dec 1- April 30. Looked like it would have been a nice spot," reports Hannah P. about Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping.
Safety considerations: Choose appropriate camping locations based on children's ages. "I wouldn't recommend staying by the water if you have kids, it's right by a cliff," warns Katie S. about certain waterfront sites at Navajo State Park.
Recreational equipment: Plan activities that suit the lake conditions. "If you don't have a boat or fancy water toys, Sims Mesa is where you should go. Much less crowded than the main marina," advises Charlene H.
Terrain awareness: Fossett Gulch Rd Dispersed offers free camping with varying terrain accessibility. "Dirt road is in very good shape. No cell signal. A couple quick pull off sites right inside the gate would be good for a quick sleep. The other sites are 10-15 minutes drive down the dirt road," explains Johny R., noting that "a car would be fine" on the main route.
Pull-through availability: Rosa Campground accommodates larger rigs with dedicated sites. "We had no problem pulling our 30' airstream into one of its many open pull through sites. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. Our spot #136 had 50amp hookup and water," shares Jolene C.
Alternative locations: Oasis RV Resort and Cottages near Durango offers well-designed sites with amenities. "Love the 'S' curved pull thru sites. We had an 'S' shaped site with nice privacy and ease of arriving and leaving because of design. The sites all seemed to be nicely spaced from one another and private even though you are nearby," explains Julia M.
Hookup reliability: Check utility connections upon arrival. At Rosa Campground, one camper noted that their "spot #136 had 50amp hookup and water, although the water leaked pretty badly." Despite this issue, they still rated the overall experience highly due to the "beautiful and quiet" setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make reservations for Arboles Point Campground?
Reservations for Arboles Point Campground can be made through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife reservation system online or by phone. Similar to other campgrounds in the Navajo State Park area like Carracas Campground — Navajo State Park, reservations can be made up to six months in advance of your arrival date. During peak season (May through September), reservations are highly recommended as sites fill quickly. Some sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis during off-peak seasons. The reservation fee is typically non-refundable, and you'll need to pay the camping fees separately upon arrival.
What facilities are available at Arboles Point Campground?
Arboles Point Campground, located near Navajo Lake, offers standard amenities for a comfortable camping experience. Based on similar campgrounds in the area like Cottonwood Campground — Navajo Lake State Park and Tiffany Campground — Navajo State Park, you can expect shaded sites, covered picnic tables, and a mix of asphalt and concrete pads. The campground provides clean restrooms with flush toilets and drinking water. Most sites accommodate both tents and RVs, though not all may have hookups. The nearby lake offers excellent fishing and water recreation opportunities.
What camping is available near Arboles, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, Arboles, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 188 campgrounds and RV parks near Arboles, CO and 48 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Arboles, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Arboles, CO is Rosa Campground — Navajo State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 11 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Arboles, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 48 free dispersed camping spots near Arboles, CO.
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