Navajo Lake offers a distinctive glamping retreat experience located about 11 miles from Arboles, Colorado. Situated at approximately 6,000 feet elevation, the area features dry, warm summers and cool winters with occasional snow. Camping options range from basic tent sites to more luxurious glamping accommodations spread across the high desert terrain that surrounds Navajo Lake and the San Juan River.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: San Juan National Forest offers excellent trout fishing at Williams Creek Campground, located near Pagosa Springs. A visitor noted, "We had a great visit and stay at this campground. Only 1.5 miles from the lake which was great." The reservoir and surrounding streams provide multiple fishing spots for anglers.
Water recreation: Navajo Lake State Park's Sims Mesa Campground provides direct lake access for boating and swimming. One camper shared, "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. We camped at the Lakeshore Camping area. Several sites available right on the lake, just steps away from the water."
Hiking trails: While many visitors come for water activities, the surrounding forest offers hiking trails with varying difficulty. "Not many marked trails but you can still explore. Temps were good with the breeze to help," mentioned one visitor about the areas around Navajo Lake, highlighting the less structured nature experiences available.
What campers like
Proximity to Pagosa Springs: When looking for glamping close to Arboles, Colorado, many visitors appreciate the easy access to nearby towns. Pagosa Riverside Campground provides water recreation with convenient town access. One camper noted, "We only stayed one night but would definitely come back. We had a nice large tent site right by the river. No trees on this site but the view and the river made up for that."
Seclusion from crowds: Many campers seek quieter alternatives to busier areas. A visitor to Sims Mesa mentioned, "Navajo Lake was a last minute reservation to escape the southern heat. SUCCESS, the sites had shelter, access to water and good Marina." The less crowded eastern side of Navajo Lake provides a more peaceful experience.
Water views: Campsites with lake or river views are highly valued. At Pine Point Campground, "It's right on the lake but tucked away in some towering ponderosas, with lots and lots of space between each site. It's quiet and beautiful, and most of the spots offer ample shade and lots of places to hang a hammock."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The area experiences significant seasonal changes affecting water levels and activities. A Sims Mesa visitor warned, "This was the first stop of 3 - 2 night stays on this search to find great camping with easy access to water... I might like to visit Sims Mesa Marina at Navajo Lake again, if it ever fills again and perhaps in the spring or fall but NOT in summer."
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require traveling on unpaved roads. About Durango RV Resort, a visitor mentioned, "My only complaint I guess would be the road in from the main highway was pretty rough and had lots of potholes. That road is about 17 miles long."
Reservation requirements: Many campsites, especially premium water-view sites, require advance booking. For Williams Creek Campground, a camper advised, "Reserve ahead of time. We got lucky that this site was available. Site #12 is the best if you can reserve it."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly facilities: Facilities specifically designed for children make luxury camping near Arboles more enjoyable for families. One visitor to Durango RV Resort noted, "The campground was relatively small so nothing was too far away... Lots of activities to do. Very clean- they even scrub the heck out of the bbq grills even when they have to stand in the heat of the day doing it."
Swimming options: Cooling off during hot summer days is essential for family trips. At Pagosa Riverside Campground, one visitor shared, "We had a tent site on the river with our puppy. The staff were very helpful and the facilities including the showers were well maintained."
Wildlife viewing: The area offers opportunities to observe deer, elk, and birds. A visitor traveling to United Campground of Durango shared an additional attraction: "What a treat to see the Durango and Silverton train run right through the campground."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: RVers seeking premium glamping experiences near Arboles should note available hookups. A visitor to United Campground mentioned, "Clean, hot showers and large laundry room. One of the more beautiful RV sites, sitting along the silverton & Durango tourist train."
Site spacing considerations: Site sizes and spacing vary significantly between campgrounds. At Pine Point Campground, a visitor observed, "The camp host kept the place immaculate. Our site was raked smooth when we arrived," highlighting the attention to detail at this location.
Access to amenities: While many glamping options focus on natural surroundings, access to modern facilities remains important. About Pagosa Riverside Campground, a visitor noted, "We lucked on a pull through spot without reservations, very friendly office crew drove us to the spot. Full hookups & Wi-Fi. Right on the river with benches spread out to enjoy the scenery."
