Dispersed camping areas around Arboles, Colorado offer primitive sites throughout the San Juan National Forest at elevations ranging from 6,000 to 7,500 feet. Most accessible from May through October, these sites experience typical high desert climate conditions with dramatic temperature swings between day and night. During summer, afternoon thunderstorms frequently develop, creating potentially hazardous conditions for tent campers in exposed areas.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Lower Piedra River Camp provides streamside tent camping with convenient fishing access. "Great camping area, stayed here for just one night. There was plenty of camping areas along the river. About 8 spots," notes Ben H. about Lower Piedra River Camp.
Mountain biking: Forest Road 316 serves as an excellent base camp for mountain biking trails. "Awesome spot, TONS of places to pitch a tent or park a camper," reports Jacob D. about the Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp location.
Hot springs day trips: Sites along Turkey Creek Road provide convenient access to Pagosa Springs hot springs. Ryan T. states, "Easy drive up 160 from Pagosa. Pitched the tent in the afternoon and headed to town for a soak."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Forest Road 37 offers well-spaced campsites despite its accessibility. "Nice quiet spots we saw maybe 6 or so as we went further on the road back a ways thought at first there were only two or three spots but there are more if you continue down the road," shares Cheyanne G. about Forest Road 37.
Fall foliage viewing: The aspen groves near many sites transform during autumn. Ryan T. mentions about his Turkey Creek Road experience: "View is killer - we hit it at about peak color."
Star visibility: Minimal light pollution provides exceptional nighttime viewing. "Where we camped could fit all size rigs," mentions Karla R. about Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp, adding that the stars are remarkable from most sites in the area.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Many roads become impassable after rain. Heather H. notes about Kenny Flats: "The road has deep ruts but was manageable in my little van, just had to take it slow."
Wildlife encounters: Cattle grazing is common throughout the area. Ben H. writes about Forest Road 37: "The cows come by once in awhile to say hi."
Seasonal closures: Winter access is limited or prohibited. Jacob C. reports: "Road is currently closed. Assuming through March like most others in the area."
Tips for camping with families
Easier access sites: Kenny Flats offers family-friendly tent camping without difficult access roads. "This spot is right off the hwy," mentions Heather H. about Kenny Flats Dispersed Camping, adding "just beautiful open field and pine trees."
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies dramatically by location. Juan David M. notes about Forest Road 37: "T-mobile works from here," which can be important for families needing to stay connected.
Noise factors: Highway proximity affects some sites more than others. Heather H. reports about Kenny Flats: "You can hear the hwy, but nothing disturbing or constant. Didn't bother me a bit."
Guide
