Best Campgrounds near Bayfield, CO

Dispersed camping areas and established campgrounds surround Bayfield, Colorado, providing options for tent, RV, and cabin camping throughout the San Juan National Forest and along Vallecito Reservoir. The Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping area offers free primitive sites on BLM land, while developed facilities like Pine Point Campground and Vallecito Campground provide more amenities within forested settings. Several private RV parks including Outdoorsy Bayfield and Alpen Rose RV Park accommodate larger vehicles with full hookup options. The region includes both lakeside sites and mountain forest camping areas within a short drive of town.

Road conditions and seasonal closures significantly impact camping access in the Bayfield area, particularly at higher elevations where snow may linger into late spring. Many campgrounds operate seasonally, typically from May through September or October. A visitor commented, "The campground is almost entirely shaded by tall pines. There is a creek that trickles past some of the campsites which makes for a pleasant sound when lying in the tent at night." Cell service varies considerably throughout the region, with better coverage near town and limited or no service in more remote camping areas. Water levels at Vallecito Reservoir fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline camping and boat launch accessibility. Fire restrictions are common during summer months, and campers should check current regulations before planning trips.

Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors to the Bayfield area, particularly at Pine Point Campground on Vallecito Reservoir. Campers appreciate the spacious, shaded sites among ponderosa pines and the proximity to water recreation. According to one visitor, "It's right on the lake but tucked away in some towering ponderosas, with lots and lots of space between each site." Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, elk, and various bird species. The proximity to both wilderness areas and town amenities makes Bayfield camping appealing for extended stays. Temperatures remain moderate even in summer due to the elevation, though afternoon thunderstorms are common. Visitors frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere of forest campgrounds compared to the more developed RV parks closer to town.

Best Camping Sites Near Bayfield, Colorado (243)

    1. Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping

    15 Reviews
    Bayfield, CO
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 882-7296

    "there are spots up front i stayed at a spot on one of the road forks towards the end use these coordinates

    36350–36498 US-160 Bayfield, CO United States"

    "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."

    2. Oasis RV Resort and Cottages

    21 Reviews
    Durango, CO
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 247-0783

    $47 - $197 / night

    "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!"

    3. United Campground of Durango

    20 Reviews
    Durango, CO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 247-3853

    $45 - $70 / night

    "Its really close to the Durango old Town area (like 10 min drive or less) and about 45 minutes to mesa verde."

    "We did 4 campgrounds during our trip in Colorado this summer."

    4. Junction Creek Campground

    25 Reviews
    Purgatory, CO
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (661) 702-1420

    $32 - $150 / night

    "Very nice campground in a beautiful area near Durango. The bathrooms were very clean and the lots were all in good spots. Very close to part of the Colorado Trail!"

    "The double site allowed us to put our 24-foot trailer across both spots with our front door facing the back of the campsite with nothing but beautiful national forest behind us!"

    5. Vallecito Campground

    19 Reviews
    Cascade, CO
    17 miles
    Website

    $32 - $45 / night

    "One of the most beautiful in Colorado and that's saying a lot. Our site was big and it was right by Vallecito Creek. Big drought conditions going on this year so the reservoir was pretty low."

    "Stores are close to the camp area if you need supplies. The trailhead for the Vallecito river trail is right there. It’s a beautiful hike through the Weminuche Wilderness area."

    6. Alpen Rose RV Park

    17 Reviews
    Durango, CO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 247-5540

    $65 - $1 / night

    "Its a pretty expensive park...big rigs are regularly 79.00 and they did discount it 8.00 per night for off season, but all the big rig sites line up along the entrance/exit and people are arriving as late"

    "Easy to find off the Highway. Close but not too close to downtown Durango. We were immediately greeted by CJ. He was extremely nice and he guided us to our shady site by the cafe."

    7. Outdoorsy Bayfield

    6 Reviews
    Bayfield, CO
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (970) 884-2475

    $35 - $999 / night

    "The lake view spots are amazing backed right up to their private lake. Plenty of walking trails and areas to run with the pups. This place is 20 from durango but bayfield has plenty to do in town."

    "There are an abundance of flowers, streams, fishing areas, and walking trails. Gravel sites are very level. All hookups are available at every site, including cable TV."

    8. Middle Mountain

    8 Reviews
    Bayfield, CO
    12 miles
    Website

    $32 / night

    "Our campsite was very close to the beach and the lake was ideal for paddleboardIng."

    "Walking distance to the lake for kayaking, paddleboarding, etc. The camp sites are mostly shady. There's no hookups but there's water stations and vault toilets. The camp host is wonderful as well!"

    9. Pine Point Campground

    7 Reviews
    Bayfield, CO
    12 miles
    Website

    $31 - $39 / night

    "It’s right on the lake but tucked away in some towering ponderosas, with lots and lots of space between each site."

    "This campground will always have a special place in my memories as my first camping trip in Colorado."

    10. Graham Creek Campground

    6 Reviews
    Bayfield, CO
    11 miles
    Website

    $32 / night

    "While a bit dusty, this campground is well maintained, nicely laid out, and has nice access to the lake."

    "There is good access to hiking and we rented kayaks at the local marina. Only wish we had more time here."

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Recent Reviews near Bayfield, CO

1393 Reviews of 243 Bayfield Campgrounds


  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Hermosa Park Road Dispersed

    Nice waterfall

    Flat grassy site, good distance away from the campground below. Had the place to ourselves

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Missionary Ridge Road

    Near town w/ great views

    Had to head farther uphill to scout a good spot 4wd was best for and private

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Bluffview RV Park

    Clean, Convenient, Nice Staff

    Staff and owner have been very helpful. This is a basic campground with simple amenities, but it’s clean and maintained. It’s very convenient to Bisti hiking. This is our third stay here.

  • Jim & Karen A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Mountain View Campground

    Sweeping views

    Quiet semi remote site with views of the San Juan Valley. Close to the quality fishing waters of the world famous San Juan river.

  • I
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Mill Creek

    Camping

    Beautiful views, clean toilets and fresh drinking water available

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park

    Great Campground/Location

    Had a great couple days here. Lots of sites. Campground loops have flush toilets and water, as well as WiFi modems. There are central free showers and coin-operated laundry. There are several shops and restaurants throughout the park. Great historical sites! The campground has lots of mule deer roaming thru in the morning and evening. Many sites do not have much shade.

  • John H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Pine Point Campground

    Always a favorite of ours.

    The reservoir water level is down at least 25 feet since May. A little shocking at first but the campground is still beautiful and peaceful with the cleanest vault toilets I have ever seen.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Ancient Cedars Mesa Verde RV Park

    Convenient to National Park

    This is a nice park. A little dated. The pull through spaced had 30/50 amp hook ups. Water and sewer. Our 41’ Montana’s 5 slides fit but the spaces (and trees) prevented us from opening our awning. The picnic table and fire pit were adequate but no open burning was permitted during our stay due to fire conditions . We didn’t use either showers or laundry. We had a problem with our truck and the manager was able to extend our stay by a day on short notice — also recommended a local diesel shop in Cortez. Great view of the Mesa and noise from the highway was not too bad. We would stay here again if in the area.

  • Todd S.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    CR 34 Dispersed Campground

    Very clean and maintained

    Our one night stay here on a holiday weekend was great! Very peaceful. Everything is well organized. Each camp site is numbered. It's just like a paid campground but without toilets and water. So bring your own. Enjoy


Guide to Bayfield

Camping near Bayfield, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Explore Mesa Verde National Park: Just a short drive from Bayfield, this park is famous for its ancient cliff dwellings. One camper noted, “This was such a nice spot super close to Mesa Verde national park. It was about a 5 minute drive from the park entrance” at the Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land).
  • Fishing and Water Activities: Enjoy fishing in the nearby lakes and rivers. A visitor at Pagosa Riverside Campground mentioned, “The campgrounds are located on the San Juan River with good access for fishing.”
  • Hiking Trails: There are numerous trails for hiking and exploring the beautiful scenery. One reviewer at Junction Creek Campground said, “Very nice campground in a beautiful area near Durango. The bathrooms were very clean and the lots were all in good spots.”

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking views. A review for Molas Lake Park & Campground highlighted, “Great little campground with amazing views.”
  • Wildlife Sightings: Many campers enjoy spotting local wildlife. One camper at Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park shared, “Beautiful campsite, three mule deer strolled through, munching their dinner as we cooked ours.”
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and well-maintained sites are a big plus. A visitor at Pagosa Riverside Campground noted, “The restrooms and showers are clean and well kept.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed), lack drinking water and showers. A camper mentioned, “The road to get to the site is rough... most sites didn’t have a flat spot for a tent or multiple tents.”
  • Bumpy Roads: Be prepared for rough access roads. A review for Junction Creek Campground warned, “The gravel road leading to the campground is VERY rough wash-board.”
  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at Ouray KOA said, “Very busy and lots of out of state campers at this campground.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities like showers and clean restrooms. A parent at Molas Lake Park & Campground appreciated, “Clean bathrooms. Pot holes weren’t that bad.”
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep kids entertained. One camper at Pagosa Riverside Campground mentioned, “They even have riverside benches to sit and enjoy the surroundings.”
  • Pack for Weather Changes: Be ready for sudden weather changes, especially in the mountains. A camper at Telluride Town Park Campground noted, “Last year, we had to leave a day early when cold rain made it tough to get comfy.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Size Restrictions: Some campgrounds have size limitations for RVs. A reviewer at Amphitheater Campground warned, “Got up to the entrance to find signs warning of overall length limitations.”
  • Look for Electric Hookups: If you need power, choose campgrounds that offer electric hookups, like Junction Creek Campground, which has sites with electricity.
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds can be cramped. A visitor at Ouray KOA mentioned, “Some of the sites are on top of each other but the sites I had were exceptional.”

Camping near Bayfield, Colorado, is a great way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin, there's a spot waiting for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds in Bayfield, CO?

The Bayfield area offers several excellent campgrounds, with Pine Point Campground being a standout choice. Located on Vallecito Reservoir, it features spacious sites nestled among towering ponderosa pines with ample shade and plenty of room between campsites—perfect for hammock camping. For RV travelers, Outdoorsy Bayfield provides well-maintained grounds with grassy sites, reliable WiFi throughout the park, and exceptionally clean facilities. The staff is known for being helpful and friendly, and the sites can accommodate larger rigs up to 38 feet. Both locations offer beautiful settings that showcase the natural beauty that makes the Bayfield area a popular camping destination.

What outdoor recreational activities can I enjoy while camping in Bayfield?

The Bayfield area offers abundant outdoor recreation opportunities centered around Vallecito Reservoir and the surrounding mountains. Water activities include fishing, boating, and swimming, though water levels can fluctuate seasonally. Hikers can enjoy numerous trails, with Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area providing access to rewarding hikes like San Bernardo Peak. For anglers, the Dispersed Campsites on 591 near 550 offer quick access to Lime Creek fishing. The region is also popular for wildlife viewing, photography, mountain biking, and off-roading adventures. During winter months, nearby areas provide opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, making Bayfield a year-round outdoor recreation destination.

What camping options are available near Bayfield, Colorado?

Bayfield offers diverse camping options to suit various preferences. For those seeking free camping, Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping provides accessible sites along US-160. Another dispersed option is Chutes and Ladders Dispersed, which features 15 designated sites with varying levels of highway noise. Those preferring established campgrounds can enjoy Vallecito Resort, a well-maintained RV park with friendly staff and seasonal residents. For campers willing to venture slightly farther, the Durango area offers additional options including established campgrounds with full amenities and more remote forest service sites, providing choices ranging from primitive experiences to full-service RV parks.