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Camping near San Juan National Forest

1,436 Reviews

San Juan National Forest in Colorado spans across rugged Rocky Mountain terrain with many different camping options. Morefield Campground sits inside Mesa Verde National Park, making it easy to visit ancient cliff dwellings while staying at sites equipped with bear boxes to keep food away from mule deer and black bears that roam the area. Convenient RV Park has full hookups and large sites for RVs and trailers. The Colorado Trail runs through parts of the forest with tough climbs and great views for day hikers or backpackers. Many campers fish for trout in the Colorado River during their stay. Fire bans are common in summer and fall when conditions are dry. Some activities in the forest require permits, so it's smart to check rules before you go. The Great Sand Dunes are within driving distance if you want to see something different during your trip. Always hang food or use containers that animals can't open when camping here. Try to book campsites ahead of time, especially from June through August when the forest gets busy. San Juan National Forest attracts many visitors because of its mountains, forests, and lakes all in one place.

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Best Camping Sites Near San Juan National Forest (252)

    1. Haviland Lake Campground

    20 Reviews
    Cascade, CO
    10 miles
    Website

    $32 - $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. "

    2. Junction Creek Campground

    23 Reviews
    Purgatory, CO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (661) 702-1420

    $32 - $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!"

    3. Madden Peak Road - Dispersed

    24 Reviews
    Mancos, CO
    15 miles
    Website

    "We decided to drive further up the mountain, gaining some elevation but it was much more secluded."

    "Madden Peak dispersed camping is a fantastic option for those seeking a peaceful and scenic camping experience near Mesa Verde National Park, Cortez, and Durango."

    4. Priest Gulch Campground and RV Park Cabins and Lodge

    12 Reviews
    San Juan National Forest, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 562-3810

    "Lovely walking paths and trails right in the campground. The river was delightful for the kids to play in and to listen to through the night. So close to so many beautiful places to play all around."

    "T4 is tucked away perfectly in the trees, on the bank of the Dolores river. ATT has good reception for calling, but it is Edge service. It will not work for internet."

    5. Hermosa Park Road Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Rico, CO
    9 miles

    "Dispersed camping, no amenities, but beautiful location. Little streams running nearby, wildlife viewing, the drive up the slope is beautiful as well"

    "The real entrance is through Purgatory Resort. I somehow made it over the mountain in my 98 Econoline w/ RWD. I wouldn't recommend it. The spots were nice, the creek was nice and cool."

    6. Lower Hermosa Campground

    11 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."

    7. Durango North-Riverside KOA

    15 Reviews
    Cascade, CO
    12 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."

    8. Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park

    99 Reviews
    Mancos, CO
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 449-2288

    "Good showers, some of the camp sites have decent WiFi connection, fairly quiet, and wildlife (deer and prairie dogs) in camp side. Toilets not the best, lots of wasps"

    "I'm not sure what the hook-up situation is for campers. We were able to enjoy cool evening walks; where we would often spot deer."

    9. Alpen Rose RV Park

    16 Reviews
    Durango, CO
    15 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."

    10. Stoner RV Resort

    21 Reviews
    Dolores, CO
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 882-0120

    $30 - $60 / night

    "The mayor of Stoner, Colorado, Scott is a great host and very generous. The place is very well maintained and clean and looked after. They have RV spots right on the river, Stoner Creek!"

    "We prefer off the beaten path and when we rolled into Dolores, CO in our van late on the 25th of October we were happy to find Stoner on Dyrt, about 20 minutes outside town."

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448 Photos of 252 San Juan National Forest Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near San Juan National Forest

1436 Reviews of 252 San Juan National Forest Campgrounds

Guide to San Juan National Forest

Camping near San Juan National Forest, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning views and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore Mesa Verde National Park: Just a short drive from Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park, this park is famous for its ancient cliff dwellings. One visitor noted, "Beautiful campsite, three mule deer strolled through, munching their dinner as we cooked ours."
  • Hike the Trails: The area is filled with trails for all skill levels. A camper at Junction Creek Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms were very clean and the lots were all in good spots. Very close to part of the Colorado Trail!"
  • Enjoy Water Activities: Molas Lake Park & Campground is perfect for fishing and kayaking. One reviewer said, "It was beautiful but SO buggy in June on the lake. Probably better later in the year."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking landscapes. A visitor at The Views RV Park & Campground shared, "Every site is well thought out and has great hookups. Lots of shade. The sites along the south edge of the property have amazing views."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Many campers enjoy spotting local wildlife. At Morefield Campground, one camper noted, "Good showers, some of the camp sites have decent WiFi connection, fairly quiet, and wildlife (deer and prairie dogs) in camp side."
  • Clean Facilities: Cleanliness is a big plus for many. A camper at Cortez, Mesa Verde KOA mentioned, "The bathrooms are very clean and the showers are nice after a long day hiking."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed), lack basic amenities. A reviewer warned, "The road to get to the site is rough. You need 4x4 and high clearance vehicle and good tires."
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Expect busy campgrounds in summer. A visitor at Telluride Town Park Campground said, "It was totally packed and seemed almost too crowded."
  • Weather Changes Quickly: Be prepared for sudden weather shifts. A camper at Molas Lake Park cautioned, "Last year, we had to leave a day early when cold rain made it tough to get comfy."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities like playgrounds. Cortez, Mesa Verde KOA has a children's playground and a three-acre dog park, making it a great spot for families.
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A camper at Junction Creek Campground mentioned, "Quiet hours 10pm-6am. Generators allowed."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and games for cozy nights. A visitor at The Views RV Park said, "Attention to detail over the top; the owners obviously want to deliver an experience that is hard to beat."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A camper at Last Dollar Road advised, "Do not go if you have a 2WD or a low sitting vehicle."
  • Book Early: Popular spots fill up fast. A visitor at Junction Creek Campground recommended, "I would recommend booking at least a month out."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Services: Many campgrounds don’t have cell service. A camper at Madden Peak Road - Dispersed noted, "The GPS coordinates lead you a couple miles down the road."

Camping near San Juan National Forest, Colorado, is a fantastic way to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Just remember to plan ahead and be ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near San Juan National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, San Juan National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 252 campgrounds and RV parks near San Juan National Forest and 88 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near San Juan National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near San Juan National Forest is Haviland Lake Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 20 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near San Juan National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 88 free dispersed camping spots near San Juan National Forest.

What parks are near San Juan National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near San Juan National Forest that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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