Vinny D.
Ranger
RangerEdward Sargeant Wildlife Management Area
Great spot
Nice and quiet plenty of space.
Camping near Arboles, CO
188 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
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.
Best Campgrounds near Arboles (188)
1. Rosa Campground — Navajo State Park
"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 Availability2. Ute Campground
"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."
"It was a great stop as the campground is only $20 and it is only about 25 mins from Pagosa Springs so you can easily drive into the town and soak in the springs and then spend a semiquiet night in the"
from $22 - $100 / night
Check Availability3. Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping
"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."
4. Navajo Lake Resort RV Park and Campground
"Very convenient for trips to the lake. Easy to get in and out. Plenty of shade. Loved our stay!"
from $35 - $85 / night
Check Availability5. Arboles Point Campground — Navajo State Park
"The views from our campsite overlooked the lake. The bathroom and showers were clean."
from $20 / night
Check Availability6. Sims Mesa Campground — Navajo Lake State Park
"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 Availability7. Fossett Gulch Rd Dispersed
"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."
8. Durango RV Resort
"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 Availability9. Tiffany Campground — Navajo State Park
from $20 - $120 / night
Check Availability10. Carracas Campground — Navajo State Park
from $36 - $41 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 1 hr 24 min from Farmington, NM
- 3 hrs 8 min from Santa Fe, NM
- 3 hrs 44 min from Albuquerque, NM
- 4 hrs 2 min from Grand Junction, CO
Recent Camping Photos near Arboles, CO
215 Photos of 188 Arboles Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Rosa Campground — Navajo State Park
Tiffany Campground — Navajo State Park
Fossett Gulch Rd Dispersed
Tent on the rocks Navajo Lake Retreat Wild-u-canD
Navajo Dam Glamping Retreat Wild-u-canD
Lower Piedra River Camp
Navajo Lake Relax Wild-u-can (group campsite)D
Ute Campground
Sims Mesa Campground — Navajo Lake State ParkJ
Pine Juniper Campground — Navajo Lake State ParkK
Cottonwood Campground — Navajo Lake State ParkD
Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping
Recent Reviews near Arboles, CO
897 Reviews of 188 Arboles Campgrounds
Morgan D.
ScoutDurfield BLM Boondocking
Sufficient, ample space near Durango
Very pleased with this option. Not far off the main road, less than 20 minute drive from Durango. Decent cell service with Verizon. Plenty of available spaces, even though it’s Labor Day weekend. There are spaces that can fit bigger rigs if you have one, and the road is passable for any vehicle type. We only drove in less than a mile before having plenty to choose from. Only downside is it’s not beautiful, no views - just a place to camp.
Stephen M.
TravelerAlberta Park Reservoir
Very quite, lots of wild lifr
Only one site but another camped close by. No problem. Short walk to lake. Saw signs of fish but did not get a bite didn't try hard. Saw fox, chipmunks, birds at site. No hiking trails.
- llora B.Scout
Target Tree Campground
If You Don’t Mind Highway Noise -A Lot
The campgrounds themselves are very nice and the camp host is fabulous. I was in a tent. Fire ring with dousing water provided. Lots of spigots. Hwy 160 runs just south of the grounds. Trucks engine breaking, etc. heavy until 1100 at night and starts up again at 0500 AM. I think this would be best for people in RVs. Try to stick to the back furthest away from the highway.
- MMarty D.Scout
Angel Peak Scenic View Campground
The campsite is great getting to it is not.
Badly washboarded road with sand pockets and the workers at the mine just about ran me over. Just don't drive it without 4x4 when it's wet.
Tymika B.
GuideTurkey Springs
Quiet and clean
Great spot to stop on our way to Sand Dunes NP. Easy drive-in, with good dirt roads. The site I'm at is shaded, and there's a fire pit. There is plenty of room for my GSD to run around off leash, and far enough from other campers.
- Tymika B.Guide
Durfield BLM Boondocking
Close too durango
Directions take you directly to the opening, but a few different roads I drive down before figuring out where the sites were. A little road noise in the morning, but peaceful and close to town.
- MMerrily J.Guide
Sauls Creek Dispersed Camping
Quiet and Convenient
Sauls Creek is located southeast of Bayfield, Colorado and approximately 25 miles east of Durango. Access is via LaPlata County Road 566partly gravel) off Highway 160. Big rigs traveling westbound should use the east end of 566 off of the Bayfield Parkway as the east end has a hairpin right turn which our 41’ 5th wheel would never have made without a lot of maneuvering and blocking traffic to accomplish it. From 566 take 557, also gravel, and enter the “park” on 558. 558 is FSR 755. Campsites are widely separated and vary in size from car/van camper to a couple which fit large rigs. Sites are back in, pull through or park and walk in. Terrain is hilly with pine forest or open meadow. We camped in the first large keyhole pull off on 755A, nestled in a pine grove on a hill overlooking meadows on two sides. Minimal traffic even on weekends - mostly equine, walkers and a few vehicles including dirt bikes and quads. The area is popular with hikers and cyclists as they have “off road” trails to themselves.
Our site was perfect for us and could have accommodated multiple RVs. No amenities. Pack in; pack out.
Brandy S.ScoutVallecito Campground
Peaceful
We got here at 2 and there was a hand full of first come first serve. They have signs for bear activity everywhere.
Guide to Arboles
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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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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