Tent campsites around Chimney Rock area occupy high desert terrain at 7,000-8,000 feet elevation where temperature swings of 40°F between day and night are common. The camping season typically runs May through October, with July and August bringing afternoon thunderstorms that can develop quickly. Most locations sit among ponderosa pine forests with mixed aspen stands that provide dappled shade.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Capote Campground offers prime habitat for spotting elk, deer, and numerous bird species. One camper noted, "We found Capote on the fly, while leaving West Fork Campground. Turned out to be a beautiful site, spacious, needled sites, surrounded by lodge pole pines."
Fishing access: Lower Piedra River Camp provides direct river access for anglers seeking trout. A visitor reported, "Great camping area, stayed here for just one night. There was plenty of camping areas along the river. About 8 spots."
Hot springs trips: Many campers use these sites as base camps for day trips to nearby thermal springs. A camper at Turkey Creek Road shared, "It was a perfect base camp to spend time at the hot springs in Pagosa Springs and ride some trails."
What campers like
Solitude factor: Pass Creek Road Dispersed Camping offers significant separation between sites. According to a camper, "Sufficiently distant from neighboring sites. A little local road traffic with dust from ATV haulers."
Connectivity options: Some locations provide unexpected cell service for those needing to stay connected. A Forest Road 37 visitor confirmed, "Had no issues, pretty close to town, highly recommend. T-mobile works from here."
Morning views: Several sites offer remarkable sunrise vistas over the surrounding mountains. One Turkey Creek Road camper described, "Extremely quiet campsite, not a lot of traffic, and the views….WOW! The spot I hung my hammock was amazing!"
What you should know
Seasonal wildlife activity: Grazing cattle frequently move through many camping areas during summer months. A Turkey Creek Road reviewer noted, "Kind of cool until they started mooing incessantly at 6am."
Water sources: Hermosa Park Road Dispersed sites often feature small creeks, though water should be treated. A camper observed, "Almost all are directly on a creek. Bugs are around but not too bad. One thing to be aware of- most of the area is an open grazing area for cattle."
Navigation challenges: Some areas have confusing mapping directions. One Hermosa Park visitor warned, "If Google maps has you routed to take rd 58 just north of Rico, don't do it. The real entrance is through Purgatory Resort."
Weather preparations: Afternoon thunderstorms develop quickly in summer months, requiring proper tent setup and rain gear. Temperature drops of 30-40°F between day and night are common even in summer.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose areas with natural play features for children. Forest Road 37 offers gentler terrain with "Nice quiet spots we saw maybe 6 or so as we went further on the road back a ways."
Wildlife education: Many sites provide firsthand nature observation opportunities. One camper at Kenny Flats Dispersed Camping shared, "You can hear the hwy, but nothing disturbing or constant. Didn't bother me a bit. Pack in pack out obviously, no bathroom or water or electric, just beautiful open field and pine trees."
Safety considerations: Sites vary in their proximity to emergency services. Most locations require 15-30 minute drives to reach towns with medical facilities. Prepare for limited or no cell service at many locations.
Tips from RVers
Site access assessment: Most forest roads require careful navigation for larger vehicles. A visitor to Turkey Creek Road mentioned, "Great spot right off the road! This spot had plenty of space to park our car (a small RV would fit too)."
Leveling requirements: Finding perfectly flat parking can be challenging. One camper noted, "Not PERFECTLY flat for the tent-folk" at their Turkey Creek Road site.
Turnaround space: Some dead-end roads have limited maneuvering room for larger rigs. A Turkey Creek Road reviewer observed, "The end of the road has a wide turn around which we saw someone use to camp with a pop up trailer."
