Dispersed camping near Pagosa Springs offers sites along several forest roads with varied accessibility. Turkey Creek Road contains approximately four designated dispersed sites with existing fire pits along a three-mile stretch that dead-ends in the San Juan National Forest. The road elevation ranges between 7,800-8,200 feet, creating temperature swings that can drop below 40°F even in summer nights. Most sites provide mountain valley views rather than water access, with vehicle traffic limited primarily to campers rather than day-use recreationists.
What to do
Hike to Rainbow Hot Springs: Access the trailhead at the end of West Fork Road for a challenging hike to natural springs. "The Rainbow Hot Springs trail is spectacular in spite of the massive forest damage. Go for the hike, not the springs, though you'll probably enjoy them as a break before returning to camp. If you're more adventurous you could even camp a night hear the springs," notes a visitor to West Fork Campground.
Fish the East Fork San Juan River: Multiple access points along USFS Road 667 provide fishing opportunities. A camper at East Fork San Juan River Dispersed Camping shares: "I have AT&T and had no cell coverage at all," which means uninterrupted fishing time. Pack extra water as summer temperatures at this 8,000-foot elevation often reach the 70s during the day.
Mountain bike nearby trail systems: Access extensive trail networks from dispersed sites on New Jack Road. "There's a ton of hiking and mountain biking trails in close proximity," reports a camper. The sites on this road typically remain accessible from late spring through early fall, depending on snowpack conditions.
What campers like
River access for cooling off: The sound of moving water adds to the camping experience. At Del Norte Dispersed Camping, campers appreciate "great spot! Lots of dispersed camping along the river. Fishing, hiking and swimming all right there. Great views of the Mountains." The river provides relief during summer days when temperatures typically range from 65-80°F.
Privacy between sites: Many campers value the spacing between sites at established campgrounds. "The sites are well spaced out, so you have plenty of elbow room," notes a visitor to East Fork Campground. This campground provides spaces for both tent and RV camping between May and September.
Accessibility to town amenities: Most camping areas maintain a balance between seclusion and convenience. A camper at Ute Campground mentioned it was "not that far from Pagosa Springs if you need supplies." Most dispersed and established sites in the area are within 10-30 minutes of town, allowing for supply runs or trips to the hot springs.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Some forest roads require higher clearance vehicles. "The road was in great conditions, many sites to choose for. I stayed for 10 days and many people came and go (busy) but just stunning with the river there," reports someone who camped at East Fork San Juan River. Conditions typically worsen after rain events, particularly on USFS Road 667.
Wildlife encounters are common: Both large and small wildlife frequent campsites. "We had a visitors few cows snooping my site but the left right away," notes one camper. Bear activity increases in late summer when berries ripen at higher elevations, requiring proper food storage.
Mosquito pressure can be intense: Particularly at river sites during summer months. "Do you like mosquitos come here and enjoy the feast that come when the sun starts to set! We stayed here before and forgot how bad it was," warns a camper about West Fork Dispersed. Bug pressure typically decreases after mid-August as temperatures cool.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds for amenities: Facilities make family camping easier. "Nice flat spacious campsites with picnic tables and a fire ring. Dirt roads were great for the kids to ride bikes," reports a camper at Ute Campground. Most established sites have vault toilets and trash service, unlike dispersed areas.
Look for riverside sites with shallow areas: Natural water features provide entertainment. "The creek is a perfect source of white noise at night. The ground is flat for a tent, but hard!" notes a West Fork Dispersed camper. Morning water temperatures typically range from 45-55°F, even in summer months.
Consider noise levels: Some areas experience more recreational traffic. "There are several spots on the water with 2 large areas that have multiple fire rings within them. Would be too close for me if all spots were full," notes a visitor to East Fork San Juan River Dispersed Camping, highlighting potential weekend crowding from June through August.
Tips from RVers
Assess site access before committing: Not all dispersed sites accommodate larger vehicles. "We pulled in around 3:30pm and still 2 tent sites left. Table fire pit and BBQ stand. Lots of trees," reports a visitor to Ute Campground. Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Pagosa Springs, Colorado can accommodate smaller RVs, but larger rigs should stick to established campgrounds.
Check hookup availability: Resources vary between campgrounds. At The Last Resort RV Park & Campground, "They are open year round and have River side spots for those under 26 feet long and some very large pull through spots with lots of space." Cell service is limited at most forest locations, with no Verizon coverage at some river sites.
Consider seasonal access: Winter weather limits dispersed camping options. Turkey Creek Road typically remains accessible later into the season than some higher elevation sites. "Stayed from Thursday to Tuesday in the big camping spot. It was plenty big for 2 cars, 2 tents, and a common area for us to sit around the campfire," shares one camper, noting the spaciousness that larger rigs require.
