Best Campgrounds near Durango, CO

Camping near Durango, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a cozy tent spot or a more luxurious RV experience, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do

• Hiking: There are numerous trails around Durango. Many campers enjoy the nearby trails that lead to breathtaking views. One reviewer mentioned, "The campground is right above town so you can walk into Ouray and take the trails to the falls," highlighting the convenience of access to nature.
• Fishing: The rivers and lakes in the area are perfect for fishing. A visitor at Pagosa Riverside Campground noted, "The campgrounds are located on the San Juan River with good access for fishing."
• Wildlife Watching: Campers often spot deer and other wildlife. One camper shared, "Beautiful campsite, three mule deer strolled through, munching their dinner as we cooked ours," which adds to the charm of camping in this region.

What campers like

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful landscapes. A review for Molas Lake Park & Campground stated, "Great little campground with amazing views."
• Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A visitor at Junction Creek Campground remarked, "The vault toilets were super clean and had plenty of TP."
• Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts often make a big difference. One camper at Telluride Town Park Campground said, "Camp host Fred was fantastic... He ran through a dumping rainstorm to grab an extra battery pack so that we could get our awning closed."

What you should know

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Morefield Campground, have limited amenities. A reviewer mentioned, "Didn’t think it was anything special but there are showers. Good price."
• Road Conditions: Access roads can be rough. A visitor at Alta Lakes Campground warned, "The road to get to the site is rough. You need 4x4 and high clearance vehicle and good tires."
• Crowded During Peak Season: Popular spots can fill up quickly. One camper advised, "Get there early to help make sure you can find a spot," especially at Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land).

Tips for camping with families

• Choose Campgrounds with Amenities: Look for places with clean restrooms and showers. A family at Pagosa Riverside Campground appreciated the "clean bathrooms" and "plenty of space between campgrounds to have privacy."
• Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of family-friendly activities. One reviewer at Molas Lake Park & Campground noted, "We’ve been here several times and have enjoyed ourselves each time."
• Bring Games and Outdoor Gear: Keep the kids entertained with games or fishing gear. A camper at Junction Creek Campground mentioned, "The campground was perfect, very clean, the spots were very well maintained."

Tips from RVers

• Check Size Restrictions: Some campgrounds have size limitations. A visitor at Amphitheater Campground cautioned, "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. A reviewer at Pagosa Riverside Campground noted, "The amenities were plentiful with 24/7 laundry room, showers, bathrooms, hookups."
• Be Prepared for Rough Roads: Some access roads can be bumpy. A camper at Alta Lakes Campground advised, "The road to get to the site is rough. You need 4x4 and high clearance vehicle."

Camping around Durango, CO, offers a unique blend of nature and adventure. With a little planning, you can enjoy all that this beautiful area has to offer!