Camping in the vicinity of Chimney Rock, Colorado offers access to the San Juan National Forest with elevations ranging from 6,500 to 7,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F to 85°F while nights can drop below freezing even in summer months. The camping season generally runs from late May through mid-October, with some private facilities extending their operations depending on weather conditions.
What to do
Fishing at Williams Creek Reservoir: Located near San Juan National Forest Williams Creek Campground, this body of water offers trout fishing throughout the summer season. "We had a great visit and stay at this campground. Only 1.5 miles from the lake which was great. Lots of space between spots and the bathrooms are good too," notes Chris P.
Historical exploration: The Chimney Rock Archaeological Area contains ancestral Puebloan ruins just minutes from camping options. "Great place lots of ruins and s nights to see," shares Paul A. from Casa Chimney Rock Bed and Breakfast.
Riverside relaxation: Set up along the San Juan River at several campgrounds for water access. "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," explains Calvin R. about his experience at Pagosa Riverside Campground.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Campers appreciate access to water features. "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. Scenery was great," reports Bret D. about his stay at Pagosa Riverside Campground.
Mountain views: The elevated terrain provides scenic vistas from several campgrounds. "We got a creekside site that was secluded and gorgeous. The restrooms may be the cleanest campsite restrooms I have ever seen! Nearby reservoir and trailheads made for an amazing trip," says Nicky A. about Williams Creek Campground.
Dispersed camping privacy: For those seeking seclusion away from established campgrounds, free options exist. "Nice free spot to pull off of the road. Climb a gravel hill (doable in my 23ft class b) to get to a 5 or so dispersed spots. Some have a view others have trails," explains Tara I. about Turkey Creek Road camping area.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many camping areas have limited connectivity. "Cell service sucks with Verizon up here and WiFi available near office area only," warns Joseph W. about his stay at Vallecito Resort.
Seasonal variations: Camping conditions change dramatically throughout the season. "Temperatures as well as opening and closing dates can vary," notes Tyler M. regarding the Williams Creek Campground area.
Yurt camping options: While traditional yurt camping at Chimney Rock, Colorado is limited, several campgrounds offer alternative sheltered accommodations. "We stayed here for 3months. It is a scenic area, within walking distance to the Lake. The sites are tight, close together," shares Mike D. about Vallecito Resort, which offers cabin and glamping options similar to yurt experiences.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: For families with children, some campgrounds offer swimming options. "The pool is pretty small, but it was clean and the kids had a great time," reports Ellen T. about her stay at Oasis RV Resort and Cottages.
Train viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy watching the historic train pass through certain campgrounds. "The greatest thing about this campground though is that the Durango steam train goes right through the campground. To see the historic train right from your camper or tent window is pretty great," explains Nick S. about United Campground of Durango.
Fishing with kids: Several lakes and streams provide opportunities for family fishing outings. "Small little pond people were fishing not many catching. The sites are pretty close together but do come with picnic table and fire ring. Very close to town fun little place," notes Jody R. about Pagosa Riverside Campground.
Tips from RVers
Level site availability: RVers recommend checking for level sites when booking. "All sites are asphalt with concrete pads for the tables. The sites are level," confirms Melody M. about her experience at Sky Ute Casino Resort.
Parking considerations: Some campgrounds offer specific advantages for various RV sizes. "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," shares Julia M. about Oasis RV Resort and Cottages.
Mountain driving preparation: Access roads to some campgrounds require careful navigation. "Reserve ahead of time. We got lucky that this site was available. Site #12 is the best if you can reserve it. Big lot and easy to get our camper trailer in with room to park both of our vehicles," advises Jeremy S. about Williams Creek Campground.
