Junction Creek Campground sits at 7,300 feet elevation in a ponderosa pine forest northwest of Durango, Colorado. The campground connects directly to the Colorado Trail with hiking access directly from several camping loops. The area experiences mild summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during daytime hours, though afternoon thunderstorms are common from July through August.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Several trails within reach of Junction Creek Campground offer options for mountain bikers. "There is great walking and mountain biking right from camp too! Enjoy!" writes Matt H.
River activities: The Animas River runs close to United Campground of Durango, providing water recreation options. One camper noted, "The tent sites have a table with benches. It's really close to the Durango old Town area (like 10 min drive or less) and about 45 minutes to mesa verde."
Fishing opportunities: Alpen Rose RV Park features a trout pond on site. A reviewer mentioned, "There is a very nice dog run and exercise area. They also have a trout pond. The sites are pretty level for the most part, and spaced out nicely."
What campers like
Train watching: The historic Durango-Silverton narrow gauge railway passes through some 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," notes Nick S. about United Campground.
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the site sizes at Alpen Rose RV Park. A reviewer mentioned, "The sites are super easy to navigate. This park has million dollar views of the Durango mountains and is just far enough out to get away but close enough for the convenience of 'city living' the dog park is MASSIVE."
Free camping options: For budget-conscious campers, dispersed options provide no-cost alternatives. "This spot is a little tough to find but can be worth it if you need a good free camp for the night. Located off Hwy 160, about 14 miles from Durango you will find BLM land," writes a camper about Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Cell service variations: Coverage differs significantly between campgrounds. At Lower Hermosa, "The internet reception ranges from okay to excellent, depending on the site." Meanwhile, at Junction Creek, a visitor noted, "No cell service at all for AT&T users though."
Reservation challenges: Many popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak season. "Was very lucky to get a FCFS site for Memorial Day weekend. The campground was full by Thursday afternoon," reports a Junction Creek visitor.
Weather considerations: Due to the elevation, temperatures can fluctuate dramatically. A Lower Hermosa Campground visitor shared: "High elevation and lots of shade. Was a little chilly at night in early May."
Tips for camping with families
Affordable in-town option: La Plata County Fairgrounds provides budget camping with good city access. "What a find in the middle of Durango... We had access to the trails by the river. There are only 6 spots with water and 30 or 50 amp electric. It was $28 for a night," notes a visitor.
Swimming pools: Some campgrounds offer swimming options for kids. Regarding Lightner Creek Campground, a camper shared: "We loved Lightner Creek. The creek was great, the pool was welcome relief for the kids and we enjoyed talking to fellow campers."
Dog-friendly recreation: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Durango offer specific pet amenities. At Alpen Rose, "There is a very nice dog run and exercise area... and even dog bathing station!" While the Animas River trail provides "dog walking along the Animas River trail," accessible from several campsites.
Tips from RVers
Downtown accessibility: RV sites with easy downtown access save on parking fees. "If you're planning on riding the Scenic Railroad, this is the place for you... the city free trolley stop is right at the entrance and will take you to within a block and a half of the station downtown."
Hookup options: For RVers seeking full-service options with dog-friendly policies, Madden Peak Road provides free dispersed camping. "Road is easily accessed with a low clearance car (Jetta in my case). Added bonus is good Verizon coverage," notes a camper, making it ideal for working remotely with pets.
Seasonal closures: Be aware of road access limitations during winter months. A Madden Peak visitor noted: "Closed from November to May 31st," which affects many pet-friendly dispersed camping areas around Durango.
