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 (203)

    1. Big Meadows Reservoir Campground (south Central Co)

    14 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

    17 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. 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."

    5. South Fork Lodge & RV Park

    4 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. 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."

    7. West Fork Campground

    12 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."

    8. Cathedral Campground

    8 Reviews
    South Fork, CO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 657-3321

    $11 / night

    "It’s about 10 miles off the highway down a narrow, dirt road, and there were plenty of empty spots over the Holiday weekend."

    "Great location, easy drive on a road, would maybe have a hard time turning into campsite with large camper. Only negative is no water. It's a really awesome free campground. Great stream."

    9. Grandview Cabins and RV

    2 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."

    10. East Fork Campground

    17 Reviews
    Pagosa Springs, CO
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 264-5255

    $32 / night

    "Camp location was as close to heaven on earth I could find! 10 min drive from town if needed— we were surrounded by forests and mountains."

    "Sound of creek in distance. Toilets extremely well kept. MANY hikes w/in walking distance. Silver Falls 8mi drive away. Some free sites outside of campground along drive to Silver Falls."

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Showing results 1-10 of 203 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Rio Grande National Forest

535 Reviews of 203 Rio Grande National Forest Campgrounds



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

What camping is available near Rio Grande National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, Rio Grande National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 203 campgrounds and RV parks near Rio Grande National Forest and 43 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Rio Grande National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Rio Grande National Forest is Big Meadows Reservoir Campground (south Central Co) with a 4.7-star rating from 14 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Rio Grande National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 43 free dispersed camping spots near Rio Grande National Forest.

What parks are near Rio Grande National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Rio Grande National Forest that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.