187 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"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 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
ScoutEnjoyable park. Long windy road to get here but good pavement. Park seems a little crowded, streets are narrow. Full hook ups are adequate, spaces are small, but far enough from neighbors for privacy. Lots of very large pine trees add to the beauty God created in this area.
GuideLittle washboards but not too bad. No pot holes. I tow a 30 foot toy hauler. Peaceful campsite.
ScoutThe area has lots of decent dispersed camping, but most good spots were taken so we camped at Snowslide campground. We had two vehicles. Sprinter van and a Canpulance. Lots of space spots weren’t right in top of each other. Dogs were very happy.
Also just 25 minutes from Durango
TravelerWe camped in a grove of pine trees about 4.5 miles from 160. The road is rough; lots of washboard, but absolutely worth it. There are dozens of dispered sites in the 5 miles after the nfs campground. Almost all have some kind of river access. Great wading river. Interesting rock formations/caves for exploring on the other side of the road. Pagosa Springs is 12 miles down the road for supplies. Dont miss Silver falls. Its 8 miles from the main road. Short steep hike behind the old guardhouse to beautiful waterfall
GuideStayed here one night. You get a bunch of semi-improved sites on two levels up above what appears to be a municipal water impoundment. No water or electric, some pit toilets. I didn’t use those as they smelled a bit “ripe”. Canopies over picnic tables and pretty level gravel sites.
I’d stay here again.
ScoutI'm all for national forest, but this place is decently priced, and when it's hot, just jump in the San Juan.
GuideThe views are breathtaking; you’re really in the high country up here. The drive in on the dirt road was fine and I passed a lot of the dispersed camping sites, which I almost took. In the end, I liked having a table. My dog and I sleep in the back of the car, so the tent issue wasn’t applicable. The campground was almost empty of other campers. Wildlife spotting: deer, osprey, lots of birds. Stargazing was incredible. Recommend.
TravelerMany spots near the creek and in the aspen trees. Loads of birds and animals. The ponds are teeming with wildlife and birds.
ScoutNice calm spot that’s peaceful, not crowded, and the stars are beautiful. Makeshift fire pits exist in the form of rock circles. Basically any vehicle with decent tires can make it in here. It’s flat packed gravel roads and dirt
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 187 campgrounds and RV parks near Arboles, CO and 47 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 47 free dispersed camping spots near Arboles, CO.
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