Camping in San Juan National Forest includes sites at elevations between 7,000 and 11,000 feet, creating dramatic temperature differences even in summer months. The area receives approximately 300 sunny days annually, though afternoon thunderstorms are common from July through August. Nighttime temperatures frequently drop below 45°F even during summer camping season, requiring proper insulation regardless of daytime heat.
What to do
Kayaking at Haviland Lake: Located 30 minutes from Durango, this lake offers calm waters ideal for paddling. "The lake was great for kayaking and we saw a lot of people fishing. Great hiking trail that follows along a stream," notes a visitor at Haviland Lake Campground.
Mountain biking nearby trails: The Hermosa Creek trail system connects with several camping areas and provides technical terrain for riders. "From what we heard, weekends can get crowded... several trails leave from the area, so you can go for nice evening hikes. These trails are also mountain bike friendly," reports a camper at Lower Hermosa Campground.
Cross-country skiing in winter months: Some areas maintain seasonal access for winter recreation. "During the winter, it is a great place to use as a base for cross country skiing," mentions a reviewer about Mancos State Park Campground. This park offers year-round yurt camping options for those seeking San Juan National Forest winter experiences.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at certain campgrounds. "Spacious tent sites. Bathrooms within close range. WiFi located at each bathroom," reports a camper at Morefield Campground.
Forest immersion with creek sounds: Riverside sites provide natural white noise that enhances sleep quality. "Very nice campground with a creek running through it. Bonus if you can get the creek side so you hear it all night. Well kept grounds. Very quiet and shady," notes a visitor at HTR Durango Campground.
Proximity to town while feeling remote: Some sites balance accessibility with natural settings. "This is a free campground that's only 10 mins from downtown Durango and is so beautiful and quiet. Great hiking trails around too," mentions a camper about Lower Hermosa Campground. Yurt camping near San Juan National Forest often provides this same balanced experience of comfort with wilderness access.
What you should know
Limited water availability: Many campgrounds require bringing your own water supply. "This is a pack in pack out camp ground with vault/pit toilet. No water or shower. Sites have picnic table and fire pit with grill," states a camper at Lower Hermosa Campground.
Road noise considerations: Some otherwise picturesque sites suffer from highway proximity. "Good: Only 20 minutes from Mesa Verde NP gate. Not great: Road noise is not awesome. Try to get the sites furthest back," advises a visitor at Target Tree Campground.
Weather variability: High elevation means rapid weather changes, even in summer. "We left a night early bc we're not prepared for below freezing," reports a camper at Morefield Campground. This applies equally to tent sites and yurt camping in San Juan National Forest, where nighttime temperatures drop significantly.
Tips for camping with families
Train-viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy watching historic trains pass through. "The greatest thing about this campground though is that the Durango steam train goes right through the campground. To see the historic train right from your camper or tent window is pretty great," shares a visitor at United Campground of Durango.
Pool access for cooling off: Some private campgrounds provide swimming facilities. "The pool was welcome relief for the kids and we enjoyed talking to fellow campers visiting from around the country and England," mentions a camper at HTR Durango Campground.
Easy fishing access: Several lakes allow shore fishing without boats. "Mancos State Park has no-wake boating and is well-known for fishing, especially rainbow trout, a few brownies and yellow perch," notes a reviewer. This makes yurt camping at San Juan National Forest locations like Mancos particularly appealing for families seeking multiple activities.
Tips from RVers
Check electric system reliability: Power issues can occur at some sites. "The only ding that I'd give this place is that there may be some power issues depending on the site. Thank God we had the surge protector and that I tested the outlet before plugging into the RV," warns a visitor at HTR Durango Campground.
High elevation affects generators: Engine performance changes significantly at altitude. "Elevation is about 10,300 and posed a problem for our generator that caused severe spark-plug fouling. But, re-jetting the carburetor from a #61 to #58 solved the problem," advises an RVer at Little Molas Lake Campground.
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds have limited large sites. "We stayed for one night at one of the double priced sites above the lake. The sites are spaced far enough from each other, so it is quiet even when the campground is full," notes a visitor at Haviland Lake Campground.
