Southwest Colorado's largest national forest stretches across Durango, Pagosa Springs, Silverton, and Dolores, covering terrain from canyon grasslands at lower elevation up through subalpine zones above 13,000 feet. The range of campground types within the forest runs from developed fee sites with vault toilets and fire rings to dispersed spots on forest roads that require full self-sufficiency. San Juan National Forest RV sites cover the developed hookup-capable options within the forest for those who need electrical or water connections.
Most developed campgrounds operate from May through October, with higher-elevation sites closing earlier in fall and reopening later in spring. Dispersed camping here means no water, no restrooms, and no trash service, with a 14-day stay limit and fire restrictions that vary by zone and season. Check current fire restriction levels before arrival.
The Weminuche Wilderness inside the forest requires a separate permit for overnight backcountry use. Road quality varies significantly by access corridor, so verify current conditions with the Durango or Pagosa Ranger District before heading to higher-elevation trailhead campgrounds.
Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!
Round 1 of 5
$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. "
$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!"
"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."
"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."
"Flat grassy site, good distance away from the campground below. Had the place to ourselves"
"Dispersed camping, no amenities, but beautiful location. Little streams running nearby, wildlife viewing, the drive up the slope is beautiful as well"
"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."
$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."
"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."
$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."
$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."
GuideDirections take you directly to the opening, but a few different roads I drive down before figuring out where the sites were. A little road noise in the morning, but peaceful and close to town.
GuideSauls Creek is located southeast of Bayfield, Colorado and approximately 25 miles east of Durango. Access is via LaPlata County Road 566partly gravel) off Highway 160. Big rigs traveling westbound should use the east end of 566 off of the Bayfield Parkway as the east end has a hairpin right turn which our 41’ 5th wheel would never have made without a lot of maneuvering and blocking traffic to accomplish it. From 566 take 557, also gravel, and enter the “park” on 558. 558 is FSR 755. Campsites are widely separated and vary in size from car/van camper to a couple which fit large rigs. Sites are back in, pull through or park and walk in. Terrain is hilly with pine forest or open meadow. We camped in the first large keyhole pull off on 755A, nestled in a pine grove on a hill overlooking meadows on two sides. Minimal traffic even on weekends - mostly equine, walkers and a few vehicles including dirt bikes and quads. The area is popular with hikers and cyclists as they have “off road” trails to themselves.
Our site was perfect for us and could have accommodated multiple RVs. No amenities. Pack in; pack out.
GuideI stayed here last year. Got my same site from a year ago. Price has gone up. It’s $40 a night $20 with a senior discount. Very dusty road coming in but worth it very quiet can hear the creek. We’ll always come back.
GuideOnly a few miles from Mesa Verde NP. Easy drive-in, very clean, and great views.
ScoutWe got here at 2 and there was a hand full of first come first serve. They have signs for bear activity everywhere.
TravelerWe arrived on a Sunday afternoon and had intended on going to Priest Lake Campground, but when we arrived we learned that no trailers were allowed. We checked out Sunshine and one other nearby campground that started with an M, but neither offered much privacy or shade. So we went back up and found an amazing dispersed spot near Lizard Head Pass, on the Galloping Goose Trail. The road in was bumpy but not too bad. The entry into the site we chose was somewhat treacherous (meaning we nearly pulled the rear bumper off our pop-up camper getting in and out of there). But it was totally worth it! I've included a pic of the spot where we camped and a pic I snapped from inside the camper when I woke up the first morning of our stay. Plenty of shade. You can hear road noise from Hwy 145 during the day, but it was very quiet at night. Lots of privacy. It is dispersed, so no amenities (toilet, fire ring, picnic table, etc). There was absolutely no Verizon service if that is important to you. We loved this spot and would return, even if it does mean we have to replace the trailer bumper.
GuideCampsite 4 has privacy, table, fire ring (no fires allowed currently) and shade. The river is right in front of you. You can hear the road noise but traffic practically disappears as the sun goes down and all you hear is the river.
GuideCame up on a Wednesday without a reservation and got a spot. Hosts greet you and are kind. 40$ for a full hookup plus hot showers included. Surrounded by trees it’s beautiful makes me feel like I’m in the show “Lost”
ScoutGorgeous little spot next to a river, and hardly anyone was there.
The only downside - the Porta potties are gag-tastic. I get it, they’re Porta Johns but geez Louise yuck. I think they skipped the servicing.
San Juan National Forest campgrounds provide access to over 1.8 million acres of diverse terrain ranging from 5,000 to 14,000 feet in elevation. The region experiences significant seasonal variations, with high-elevation areas receiving heavy snowfall through late spring and summer thunderstorms typically occurring between noon and 3 p.m. Cell service becomes increasingly unreliable beyond 5 miles from major highways, with most dispersed camping areas having no reception.
Hiking from camp: Junction Creek Campground offers direct access to the Colorado Trail. "Hiking and biking trails are easy to access and provide stunning views. We can't wait to return!" notes camper Brooke C. about the pristine ponderosa pine surroundings.
Fishing opportunities: Priest Gulch Campground provides riverside camping with productive fishing. "A camper caught a 5 lb. cutthroat last week, browns, rainbows, fishing is good," reports David B. The campground's location directly on the Dolores River makes it ideal for anglers.
Wildlife viewing: Hermosa Park Road Dispersed camping areas offer excellent wildlife spotting chances. "Full of wildlife, Bear, elk, fox and the marmot highway," reports Kendrick, who stayed at a site overlooking the valley. Morning and evening hours provide the best viewing opportunities.
Privacy between sites: Junction Creek Campground receives consistent praise for spacious sites. "Our site was huge and very private. We had a great free space behind us in the forest for some fun exploring and a clearing for stargazing," explains Stacy, highlighting the campground's layout.
Clean facilities: Haviland Lake Campground maintains exceptionally clean amenities. "Camp hosts were very engaged. Clean pit toilets. Lots of hiking in area," notes Donald S. The 30-minute drive from Durango provides enough distance for a true forest experience while remaining accessible.
Free firewood: Echo Basin Cabin and RV Resort provides complimentary firewood, an unusual amenity in the region. "They offer free firewood, shower facilities, and laundry along with a camp store," mentions Jeremy M., who found the property "immaculately maintained."
Fire restrictions: Fire bans frequently impact the region, particularly during dry summer months. Always check current restrictions before planning campfires, especially at dispersed sites.
Limited cell service: Most camping areas have minimal reception. "No cell service at all for AT&T users," notes Stacy at Junction Creek. Download offline maps before arrival as navigation becomes challenging in remote areas.
Weather extremes: Morefield Campground visitors warn about sudden weather changes. "Campers should be prepared for sudden and severe weather. The high desert location can bring intense storms with strong winds. During our stay, our tent nearly flew away despite being staked down securely," cautions Paulina B.
Best campgrounds for kids: Haviland Lake Campground offers lake activities suitable for children. "The lake was great for kayaking and we saw a lot of people fishing. Great hiking trail that follows along a stream," reports H.Z., who found the experience peaceful.
Educational opportunities: Mesa Verde National Park provides unique learning experiences. "Staying here makes for an easy morning before some ranger-led tours. The park is big. If you have the option to stay here, stay here," recommends Bianca C., who visited with family.
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds offer surprising conveniences. "The all-you-can-eat pancakes for $10 is a pretty good steal," notes Bianca C. about the camp store at Morefield, which can simplify morning routines with children.
Level sites: Lower Hermosa Campground provides stable parking for various vehicles. "Sites have picnic table and fire pit with grill. Access to campground is on a rock dirt road that goes from single to double lane off and on. I drove a 21-foot bus with a 16x7 tandem axle trailer," explains David A.
Full hookup options: Madden Peak Road dispersed camping accommodates larger rigs with relatively flat terrain. "This area is big rig accessible, with relatively flat camping spots, though the access roads can be bumpy at times," notes Paulina B. These sites provide free camping with more space than established campgrounds.
Late-season availability: Many campgrounds close by early October, but some remain open year-round. "The winter rate (starting Oct) is $30. Spots are level and spacious and lots of trees to add privacy," shares Julie F. about Haviland Lake, making it suitable for shoulder-season visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at San Juan National Forest campgrounds?
San Juan National Forest campgrounds offer a range of amenities depending on the type of campground. Developed sites like Junction Creek Campground typically provide vault toilets, potable water, and picnic tables. Matterhorn Campground offers well-maintained facilities that balance comfort with outdoor adventure. Many campgrounds have fire rings, while some higher-elevation sites like Little Molas Lake offer spectacular views but more basic facilities. For those seeking more amenities, the forest's edge features full-service options like Vallecito Resort with spacious RV sites and comprehensive facilities. Most public campgrounds have vault toilets and designated parking, though water availability varies seasonally. Some campgrounds are first-come-first-served, so arriving early is recommended during peak season.
Where are the best campgrounds in San Juan National Forest?
Little Molas Lake Campground stands out as one of the best, situated at approximately 12,000 feet elevation along the Million Dollar Highway between Durango and Silverton. This first-come, first-served campground offers a peaceful setting with the Colorado Trail passing directly through it. For a scenic lakeside experience, Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area provides beautiful mountain views and the sounds of nature, with both RV/van sites and tent-only options. Other highly-rated options include Mancos State Park Campground with no-wake boating and excellent fishing, and Junction Creek Campground near Durango. For those seeking RV accommodations with full hookups, Dolores River RV Resort offers a convenient basecamp at 7,000 feet elevation with easy access to regional attractions.
When is the best time of year to camp in San Juan National Forest?
The optimal camping season in San Juan National Forest typically runs from late June through early October. Higher elevation campgrounds like Molas Lake Park & Campground may not fully open until July due to lingering snow, while some lower elevation sites open earlier. Summer brings comfortable temperatures with cool nights, but afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August, so morning activities are recommended. September offers spectacular fall colors as aspens turn golden, particularly in areas like Owl Creek Pass, with fewer crowds and stable weather. Winter camping is possible at lower elevations, with Mancos State Park offering year-round access including winter yurts. Spring can be unpredictable with muddy conditions and snowmelt-swollen streams. Always check road conditions and campground status before your trip, especially in shoulder seasons.
Is dispersed camping allowed in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado?
Yes, dispersed camping is allowed throughout much of the San Juan Mountains in Colorado. Golden Hour Dispersed offers riverside camping with access to vault toilets and trails, though privacy can be limited during busy periods. Dispersed Campsites on 591 near 550 (Lime Creek Area) provide convenient access for fishing enthusiasts, located between Durango and Silverton. The standard Forest Service regulations apply: camp at least 100 feet from water sources, use existing fire rings when possible, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Most dispersed sites are free but lack amenities like water or trash service. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as they change seasonally. Some popular dispersed areas may have specific regulations or seasonal closures, so it's advisable to check with the local ranger district office.
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