Best Dog-Friendly Camping near San Juan National Forest
Hermosa Park Road Dispersed camping areas permit pets throughout their secluded sites near creeks and meadows, offering free camping with natural water sources for dogs. Junction Creek Campground and Lower Hermosa Campground provide pet-friendly options with established facilities including fire rings, picnic tables and toilets. Most dispersed sites have ample space between them, ensuring privacy even during busy summer weekends. Pets must remain leashed in developed campgrounds, though some dispersed areas offer more flexibility for well-behaved dogs. Campers report finding excellent spots along streams with room for multiple tents and vehicles, perfect for families camping with dogs. Visitors use The Dyrt to find real feedback on camping near San Juan National Forest, Colorado.
Several dispersed camping areas along Hermosa Creek feature pet-friendly trails directly accessible from campsites, making morning dog walks convenient without driving. The creek provides clean water for pets to cool off during summer months when daytime temperatures reach the mid-70s. Nighttime temperatures can drop to 30-40°F even in summer, requiring warm sleeping arrangements for pets. Wildlife encounters are common, so keeping dogs properly secured prevents problems with bears, elk, and fox frequently spotted in the area. Road conditions vary significantly—most sites are accessible with standard vehicles, though higher clearance is beneficial for reaching more remote locations. One campsite area approximately four miles down Hermosa Park Road offers particularly spacious sites overlooking the valley with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
