Best Campgrounds near Pagosa Springs, CO
Several campgrounds around Pagosa Springs, Colorado serve as good bases for San Juan mountain adventures. Pagosa Riverside Campground sits just a few miles from town, making it easy to fish the San Juan River during the day and grab dinner in town at night. East Fork Campground also sits near the river, with hiking trails that start right from the camping area. Many campers heading into the Rockies choose Vallecito Campground for its mountain views and proximity to the Colorado River. Most public campgrounds in the area have a 14-day stay limit and follow seasonal fire restrictions, which can be strict during dry summers. You'll want to make reservations ahead of time, especially between June and August when sites fill quickly. Some campsites have more trees between them than others, so checking the campground map helps if you want more privacy. Trees provide decent shade at most sites, though bringing a canopy still makes sense for sunny afternoons. Spring and fall camping brings milder temperatures and fewer people, while winter camping requires serious cold-weather gear. The summer months draw the biggest crowds, so book well in advance if that's when you plan to visit.
