Camping near Rio Grande National Forest

Rio Grande National Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Rio Grande National Forest is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Colorado camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near Rio Grande National Forest (208)

    1. Big Meadows Reservoir Campground (south Central Co)

    16 Reviews
    South Fork, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 245-6521

    $29 - $103 / night

    "It's everything we wanted in a Colorado vacation. The mountains were spectacular. The water was cold and clear. It was perfect. To start, we stayed in site 38."

    "The campground was a bit off the highway and we saw countless waterfalls along the way to the campground entrance Immediately upon getting to our site my heart sank because I realized our site didn't"

    2. Park Creek Campground

    9 Reviews
    Rio Grande National Forest, CO
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 657-3321

    "Park Creek Campground Rio Grande National Forest

    Elevation: 8500

    Directions: In South Fork, Colorado, at intersection of State 149 and US 160, take Road 160 west 7.8 miles to Park Creek campground sign"

    "It will surprise you to know the campground is next to a creek (kinda gave it away in the name), which thankfully drowns out the noise of the highway."

    3. West Fork Dispersed

    19 Reviews
    Pagosa Springs, CO
    17 miles
    Website

    "There were 4 spots right near the water after the bridge then if you take the 303 road on the left right after the bridge there’s two more spots further down the road on the left hand side."

    "Te river passes right next to you and the views are amazing! There are a few trails next (like the Rainbow trail). Awesome place to stargaze!"

    4. Palisade

    7 Reviews
    Rio Grande National Forest, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 658-2556

    "Beautiful location on the Rio Grande River. 12 spots, 26$ per night. Flat parking lots for fishing and overflow parking."

    5. South Fork Lodge & RV Park

    5 Reviews
    South Fork, CO
    4 miles
    +1 (719) 873-5303

    "They also have great trails close that you can drive to via atv or ohv's. Wonderful views all around from our campsites! Great mom and pop business that is reasonably priced."

    "Only an hour from the Sand Dunes, 45 min from Creede, and close to Three Barrel Brewing Co!

    The cabin was perfect, full bathroom, half kitchen, and plenty of sweetness that makes you feel cozy!"

    6. Lower Beaver Creek Campground

    5 Reviews
    Rio Grande National Forest, CO
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 657-3321

    "Tho the road to Beaver Reservoir is close by, it is a quiet campground even during the day and pretty much dead silence at night."

    "We ended up pulling into this campground at night when we didn't feel safe driving on the road any longer. Spots were easy to find. Basic setup, table and fire pit. Bathrooms were stocked and clean."

    7. Grandview Cabins and RV

    3 Reviews
    South Fork, CO
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 873-5541

    "Close to grocery and restaurants, hiking, fishing, ATV! Internet is not great. ATT Cell phone coverage sporadic."

    8. West Fork Campground

    14 Reviews
    Pagosa Springs, CO
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 264-2268

    $32 / night

    "Annie, you've gotten the Campgrounds backwards, as there are No ATV or off road trails at Westfork and there is easy access to the river from multiple sites and a public path behind the 2nd bathroom."

    "Far enough away from the hustle of Pagosa Springs, far enough from the highway. Old growth forest reminded me of CA."

    9. Forest Road 614

    3 Reviews
    South Fork, CO
    6 miles

    "This is a great area that’s near a few private ranches. The app mentioned a steep incline but we managed no issues with a 04 Toyota sienna FWD"

    "I wanted a spot while driving north from New Mexico and this was perfect. sat right above town, it was an awesome little spot."

    10. South Fork Campground

    4 Reviews
    South Fork, CO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 873-5500

    $29 - $42 / night

    "Nestled next to the Rio Grande River hand its gorgeous. This is the Rio Grande in Colorado so there's plenty of running water for tubing, rafting and fishing."

    "There is an office at the entrance and the staff were friendly. Next to the office is a community room and laundry room.

    The RV sites have water and electric hookup."

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Recent Reviews near Rio Grande National Forest

619 Reviews of 208 Rio Grande National Forest Campgrounds


  • Jane M.
    Oct. 2, 2025

    The Last Resort RV Park & Campground

    Beautiful spot

    We are usually dispersed or National or state park campers We needed a spot on our way east and selected this RV park It was beautiful About 10 miles outside of PS We had a riverside site and could hear the stream it was quiet and in a lovely place I hiked the dirt road and it was like a trail

  • Chris S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Forest Road 37

    Quiet, easy access.

    Even coming in well after dark was smooth. Quiet, not another vehicle has been threw by 8am the next day.

  • 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

  • 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!

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Palisade

    On the Rio Grande

    I’ve stayed a couple of times both in and out of season. Love this CG, only downside is road noise but if you can nab a site on the river that’ll drown it out and at night there are few cars.

  • 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.

  • lThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Palisade

    River drowns the road noise!

    Great spot #4. Two big shade trees awesome river and Mountain View’s. Good cell service.

  • Julie K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Fawn Gulch Rd. Dispersed Camping

    Great Camping but pin is in the wrong spot

    Easy drive in camping in the trees. Some spots had good views. No water. Camping was at 371832.9N-1065637.9W

  • B
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Pagosa Riverside Campground

    Nice sites near Pagosa Springs

    Pull Thru right in front or a lake or river. Full Hook-ups. Not all sites are full hook ups.


Guide to Rio Grande National Forest

Camping near Rio Grande National Forest, Colorado, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails in the area. Many campers enjoy the Rainbow Hot Springs trail, which is a short drive from West Fork Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The spectacular Rainbow Hot Springs trail is worth the work-out of 12 miles out and back."
  • Fishing: The rivers and lakes around the campgrounds are great 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: Many campers report seeing wildlife. One camper at Del Norte Dispersed Camping shared, "Wildlife is abundant. The air is cool. One of the most beautiful spots I’ve ever camped at."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for East Fork Campground highlighted, "The bathrooms were ridiculously clean pit toilets but so clean."
  • Friendly Hosts: Many campgrounds have welcoming staff. A visitor at Williams Creek Campground mentioned, "Hosts were very friendly and kept the facilities immaculate."
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Turkey Creek Road said, "We had a great view, plenty of space and privacy."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like West Fork Dispersed, do not have amenities like showers or trash services. A camper noted, "There were a ton of mosquitoes the entire time we stayed there."
  • Seasonal Access: Many campgrounds are only open during specific months. For example, Pagosa Riverside Campground operates from April 15 to November 20.
  • Road Conditions: Some roads can be rough. A visitor at Del Norte Dispersed Camping mentioned, "The road is bumpy and rutted but nothing your average passenger car couldn’t get to."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds. One reviewer at Woods & River RV Park said, "Fun kids area with playground and treehouse with zip line."
  • Spacious Sites: Choose campgrounds that offer larger sites for privacy. A camper at Park Creek Campground noted, "Great spots for tents and campers."
  • Plan for Noise: Some campgrounds are near highways. A visitor at Park Creek Campground mentioned, "If you get a site next to the river, that’s definitely all you are going to hear."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Woods & River RV Park appreciated the "full hookups" available.
  • Space for Big Rigs: Look for campgrounds that are big rig friendly. One camper at Turkey Creek Road mentioned, "Room enough for our T@B trailer."
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Many RVers enjoy visiting local attractions. A visitor at Williams Creek Campground said, "The lake just a mile up the road is magnificent."

Camping near Rio Grande National Forest, Colorado, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're with family or exploring solo. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there cabins for rent in Rio Grande National Forest?

While Rio Grande National Forest itself has limited cabin rental options directly managed by the Forest Service, there are several cabin accommodations near forest boundaries. Riverbend Resort offers lodging with access to 3/4 miles of private river frontage stocked with rainbow trout, perfect for fly fishing enthusiasts. Grandview Cabins and RV near South Fork provides cabin rentals with amenities including water and toilets. For those seeking a camping experience with some cabin comforts, Pagosa area resorts offer alternatives while still providing easy access to the national forest. When planning a cabin stay, reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak summer months when availability becomes limited.

Where are the best dispersed camping areas in Rio Grande National Forest?

Rio Grande National Forest offers excellent dispersed camping opportunities, with West Fork Dispersed being one of the top choices for those seeking free, primitive camping. This area provides drive-in access and is located near Pagosa Springs. Another popular option is Forest Road 614, which offers drive-in dispersed sites. For those looking to avoid crowds, dispersed camping areas near Buffalo Pass provide a more secluded experience. Remember that dispersed camping in Rio Grande National Forest typically requires you to camp at least 100 feet from water sources, stay on existing sites, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Most dispersed areas have no facilities, so come prepared with plenty of water and supplies.

Can you camp near Rio Grande Reservoir in the national forest?

Yes, camping is available near Rio Grande Reservoir in the national forest. Highway Springs Campground is located along State Highway 160 near South Fork and provides access to the reservoir area. This National Forest Service site offers basic facilities including fire rings, picnic tables, pit toilets, and bear-proof food lockers. The fall season is particularly beautiful here with golden aspen trees. For those seeking RV accommodations near the reservoir, South Fork Lodge & RV Park provides more amenities including water and toilets. Camping around the reservoir area is typically best from late spring through early fall, as mountain weather can be unpredictable and access roads may be affected by snow during winter months.

What campgrounds are available in Rio Grande National Forest?

Rio Grande National Forest features numerous developed campgrounds catering to different preferences. Park Creek Campground sits at 8,500 feet elevation and is located 7.8 miles west of South Fork along US 160. River Hill Campground offers shady sites alongside Little Squaw Creek and the upper Rio Grande River. Other options include East Fork Campground with nearby hiking trails, Highway Springs Campground with bear-proof food lockers, and West Fork Campground with river access. For those seeking more remote experiences, Buffalo Pass Campground provides a less crowded alternative. Most forest campgrounds feature basic amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, with camping fees typically ranging from $10-20 per night.