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Best Campgrounds near Purgatory, CO

1,531 Reviews

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Purgatory, CO has a lot to offer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Purgatory is surrounded by family-friendly activities. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Purgatory, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

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Best Camping Sites Near Purgatory, Colorado (265)

    1. Junction Creek Campground

    25 Reviews
    Purgatory, CO
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (661) 702-1420

    $30 - $150 / night

    "Very nice campground in a beautiful area near Durango. The bathrooms were very clean and the lots were all in good spots. Very close to part of the Colorado Trail!"

    "The double site allowed us to put our 24-foot trailer across both spots with our front door facing the back of the campsite with nothing but beautiful national forest behind us!"

    2. United Campground of Durango

    20 Reviews
    Durango, CO
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 247-3853

    $45 - $70 / night

    "Its really close to the Durango old Town area (like 10 min drive or less) and about 45 minutes to mesa verde."

    "We did 4 campgrounds during our trip in Colorado this summer."

    3. Oasis RV Resort and Cottages

    21 Reviews
    Durango, CO
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 247-0783

    $47 - $197 / night

    "We had to overnight in Durango area for one night, on our way from Colorado to Arizona."

    "CUSTOMER SERVICE: Friendly staff; shuffled our stay around so we could extend and not relocate during the week. 

    WIFI/ CELL SERVICE: Camp wifi and speed seemed to work really well!"

    4. Alpen Rose RV Park

    17 Reviews
    Durango, CO
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 247-5540

    $65 - $1 / night

    "Its a pretty expensive park...big rigs are regularly 79.00 and they did discount it 8.00 per night for off season, but all the big rig sites line up along the entrance/exit and people are arriving as late"

    "Easy to find off the Highway. Close but not too close to downtown Durango. We were immediately greeted by CJ. He was extremely nice and he guided us to our shady site by the cafe."

    5. HTR Durango Campground

    14 Reviews
    Durango, CO
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 247-5406

    "Great spot away from the road. Steep hill into the campsite- but close to town if you have a toad/truck."

    "The creek was great, the pool was welcome relief for the kids and we enjoyed talking to fellow campers visiting from around the country and England!"

    6. Durango North-Riverside KOA

    15 Reviews
    Cascade, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 247-4499

    "Outside of Durango, away from the road, all you hear is the river running by. The sites are all large and the grounds are immaculate. We stayed 5 nights and were very sad to leave."

    "The river was right behind our site and there was a small amount of privacy. Pool was superb. My only complaints are that the bathhouse I went to (old one) was pretty rough."

    7. La Plata County Fairgrounds

    11 Reviews
    Durango, CO
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 382-6468

    $28 / night

    "Not a spectacular view, but 6 large spots close to the free shuttle, bike path and rec center (totally worth the day pass) ."

    "Yes it is dusty and really there is nothing cute about it but you can’t beat the location. We had access to the trails by the river. There are only 6 spots with water and 30 or 50 amp electric."

    8. Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping

    15 Reviews
    Bayfield, CO
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 882-7296

    "A residential area with no access to BLM land. Instead, search for Durfield dispersed camping nearby and it will take you to the correct place."

    "Located off Hwy 160, about 14 miles from Durango you will find BLM land. After crossing a cattle guard and a building you will then enter into BLM land and can camp wherever you need."

    9. Lower Hermosa Campground

    12 Reviews
    San Juan National Forest, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 247-4874

    $20 / night

    "Right next to Hermosa Creek trail. Such a beautiful place. The bathrooms are clean, the camp host is an awesome guy. Would definitely stay again."

    "Access to camp ground is on a rock dirt road that goes from single to double lane off and on. I drove a 21foot bus with a 16x7 tandem axle trailer."

    10. Haviland Lake Campground

    21 Reviews
    Cascade, CO
    15 miles
    Website

    $30 - $98 / night

    "I stayed at Haviland Lake near Durango, Colorado for three days, but could have stayed for a week or more!"

    "There are hookups at this campground and it isn't too far away from stores.  Liked the place overall.  No rushing waters but Haviland Lake took the attention. "

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Recent Camping Photos near Purgatory, CO

480 Photos of 265 Purgatory Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Purgatory, CO

1531 Reviews of 265 Purgatory Campgrounds

  • Bruce L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Fossett Gulch Rd Dispersed

    My kind of disperse camping

    Camped in a pull over on the forest Road about a mile up from the suggested disperse camping spot. Loved it

  • Chris S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Silverton Lakes RV Resort

    Convenient stop

    Great stop to do laundry, fill up water, and just conveniently located near Silverton, during our visit it was quiet, we were told it does get very busy in summer. Definitely recommend.

  • Sean G.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Capote Campground

    CLEAN AND SERENE

    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.

    There are many comfortable tents sites, and water and power hookups at several RV sites.

    There's also a shower house with a dump and fill station nearby for getting back on the road again!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Cayton Campground

    Awesome campground and hosts in the Rocky Mountains near Telluride

    Spectacular everything! Campground has electric and non. Camphosts are wonderful. On The San Juan Scenic Byway a few miles south of Telluride along the Delores river. Lots of fishing, hiking, views, and activities. Take thecSan Juan Scenic Byway and the Million Dollar Highway from Oaray to Silverton and then to Durango. Come back via Mancos to Delores. One of the best scenic drives in America. Oaray to Silverton is a tad scary if not fond of heights on high mountain roads.

  • Hans V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Molas Lake Park & Campground

    Nice lake

    Nice spots, trees and the lake make for beautiful place with the autumn colors. Just one pit toilet for a group of spots, but was fine

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Angel Creek Campground

    Gorgeous and sloping

    Picturesque in a large clearing, surrounded by mountains. I’ve stayed twice, in August and last Sept and the place filled up both times. I stayed in site 7 and 22, both were good, 7 much bigger. The only downfall is the pit toilets are some of the foulest I’ve ever seen and it’s not because they aren’t getting cleaned bc I saw the cleaning crew on both of my stays, maybe proximity to the town brings novice campers with disgusting potty manners.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Mill Creek

    Cute campground

    Stayed in site 22, was spacious, near the cleanest pit toilet I’ve ever encountered AND on the creek. Came in FF, just out of peak season reservations. This site was big enough for me to play ball with my GSD and a decent distance from other campers. Also a very tree covered site.

Guide to Purgatory

Camping near Purgatory, Colorado, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a cozy tent site or a comfortable RV spot, there are options that cater to all kinds of campers.

What to do

  • Explore Mesa Verde National Park: Just a short drive from Purgatory, this park is famous for its ancient cliff dwellings. One camper noted, “Beautiful campsite, three mule deer strolled through, munching their dinner as we cooked ours” at Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park.
  • Fishing at Molas Lake: This lake is a great spot for fishing and enjoying the scenery. A visitor mentioned, “It was beautiful but SO buggy in June on the lake,” highlighting the natural beauty of Molas Lake Park & Campground.
  • Hiking in San Juan National Forest: There are numerous trails for all skill levels. One camper shared, “The Vallecito Trail is such a beautiful hike and was right next to our campsite” at Vallecito Campground.

What campers like

  • Wildlife sightings: Many campers enjoy the chance to see local wildlife. One reviewer at Junction Creek Campground said, “Saw deer around sunset and birds through the day.”
  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Stoner RV Resort noted, “The bathrooms were very clean and the lots were all in good spots.”
  • Scenic views: The breathtaking landscapes are a big draw. One camper at Mancos State Park Campground remarked, “The lake is pretty dried up but if you are just traveling thru and need a good spot for a night or two to rest this isn’t a bad location.”

What you should know

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land), have no drinking water or toilets. A camper advised, “Get there early to help make sure you can find a spot.”
  • Bumpy roads: Accessing some campgrounds can be tricky. A visitor at Madden Peak Road - Dispersed mentioned, “The road is bumpy, but not horrible.”
  • Wildlife precautions: Bears are known to be in the area, so it’s important to store food properly. A camper at Vallecito Campground noted, “It sounds like there is a lot of bear activity so tent camping could be a concern.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for family comfort. A reviewer at Junction Creek Campground said, “The campsites are well spaced apart with a variety of sizes for just about anyone.”
  • Plan for activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. One family at Molas Lake Park & Campground enjoyed the lake but noted, “Probably better later in year” to avoid bugs.
  • Pack snacks and drinks: Having food on hand makes for happy campers. A visitor at Oasis RV Resort and Cottages mentioned, “It has a pool, laundry, even a breakfast spot that is open on certain hours.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campground. A reviewer at Stoner RV Resort said, “The park is clean and well maintained. Lots of grassy areas for kids and dogs.”
  • Be prepared for rough roads: Some campgrounds have gravel or dirt roads. A camper at Madden Peak Road - Dispersed warned, “The gravel road leading to the campground is VERY rough wash-board.”
  • Reserve in advance: Popular spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park suggested booking at least a month out.

Camping near Purgatory, Colorado, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need reservations for camping near Purgatory Resort?

Reservations are highly recommended for camping near Purgatory Resort, especially during peak seasons. Sig Creek Campground inside Purgatory fills quickly, with Tuesday mornings being the best time to secure a spot. Sites are spacious but popular. For dispersed options, Hermosa Park Road Dispersed doesn't require reservations but can get busy during weekends and summer months. Access is through Purgatory Resort (avoid road 58 north of Rico). First-come, first-served areas fill quickly during ski season and summer weekends.

Where is the nearest campground to Purgatory Resort in Colorado?

Kendall Camping Area is located just 30 minutes from Purgatory Ski Resort, making it one of the closest camping options. This area features a basic setup with one toilet (bring your own toilet paper) and beautiful creekside spots for those lucky enough to snag them. Another nearby option is Westerly RV Park, which offers a straightforward camping experience with the advantage of being a short drive to Purgatory and conveniently located across from a hot springs resort.

What camping options are available in the Purgatory area of Colorado?

The Purgatory area offers diverse camping experiences for all preferences. For scenic views, Little Molas Lake Campground sits along the Million Dollar Highway between Durango and Silverton with the Colorado Trail passing through it. Dispersed camping enthusiasts should check out Dispersed Campsites on 591 near 550 (Lime Creek Area), which provides quick access to Lime Creek fishing just off road 550. The region also features RV parks, forest service campgrounds, and dispersed camping options with varying levels of amenities and accessibility.

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