San Juan National Forest stretches across 1.8 million acres with elevations ranging from 5,000 to over 14,000 feet, creating diverse camping climates throughout the region. Summer temperatures typically range from 40°F at night to 80°F during daytime, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. Cell reception varies dramatically with terrain, with higher elevation campgrounds often having limited or no service outside of designated wifi zones.
What to do
Trail access from camp: At Priest Gulch Campground and RV Park, campers can access the short Toehole Trail directly from the property. "There is a short trail on site (Toehole Trail) that's super easy for kids and only goes about a quarter mile," notes one reviewer who appreciated the convenience for younger hikers.
Hot springs relaxation: Westerly RV Park provides convenient access to thermal waters right across the road. "We were at the edge of the campground backed up to a stream which was nice and provided some nature sounds. However, the grounds sat very close to the highway and also the road behind up to the springs," shares one guest who enjoyed the proximity to Durango Hot Springs Resort.
River activities: Dolores River RV Resort offers direct river access for water recreation. "This campground was great - right next to the river and ponds. People were super friendly and they offered breakfast on stay and Sunday if you wanted," writes one camper who enjoyed the waterfront location.
What campers like
Free amenities: Stoner RV Resort provides surprising complimentary services. "From the welcome basket that had eggs coffee and banana nut bread, to the clean restrooms and showers. They have 2 little dog parks. A basketball court. The onsite Laundry was amazing, and free to use," reports one visitor who was impressed with the included perks.
Clean facilities: The Views RV Park & Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. "Very well-kept and the views are amazing. Most sites are huge (center sites a little close together) and they offer full hookup, pull thru, and back-in sites. Park is very quiet and friendly... they even rake the gravel sites between guests!" shares one reviewer.
Proximity to attractions: Mesa Verde RV Resort positions campers strategically near national parks. "Located 1/2 mile east of the National Park entrance. Sites are roomy, property very clean and staff friendly," notes a visitor who appreciated the convenience for exploring Mesa Verde National Park.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most rv campgrounds in the San Juan National Forest region close during winter months. "We were at site 13 with our 30' Grand Design bumper pull trailer. Plenty of room. Our site backs up to a fishing pond (catch and release). The town of Dolores is a 5 minute drive," reports a camper at Dolores River RV Resort by Rjourney, which operates from mid-April through October.
Size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "Did have full hookups. Campers stacked on top of each other. No showers or bathrooms. Very urban feeling," shares one guest about Westerly RV Park, highlighting the importance of confirming site dimensions before booking.
Connectivity challenges: While many campgrounds offer wifi, cellular coverage depends on location and carrier. "We stayed at blue spruce for a week while working remotely which required good cell coverage. We have Verizon and despite having no service on the drive to blue spruce, once we arrived the bars lit up!" writes a camper at Blue Spruce RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several RV parks near San Juan National Forest feature dedicated play areas. "Lots of toys for the kids and adults to play with. We will definitely make this a must stay in the future," mentions a visitor at Stoner RV Resort about the family-friendly amenities.
Budget-friendly activities: Priest Gulch Campground offers complimentary firewood to all guests. "We have always enjoyed my stays at the Silverton Lakes Campground, and will continue to stay there when I am in the area," writes a camper who appreciated the cost savings on supplies.
Swimming options: Durango RV Resort maintains a pool for family recreation. "They have a swimming pool, laundry facilities, a small dog park, and a very basic playground. They also have a little Caboose from which they serve simple breakfast items," notes a reviewer about amenities that keep children entertained.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Alpen Rose RV Park, experienced RVers recommend specific site areas. "All are buddy sites, so you can face a friend, and all but ours (A-B) have a nice grass area... we would come back, but would take a back in next time so we aren't so close to the entrance," advises one camper about optimizing location within the park.
Electrical reliability: Check power supply capabilities before booking. "These people had pedestals with faulty wiring. Fried my $300 surge protector. Told me they couldn't move us to another site because they had several bad pedestals," warns a visitor at Westerly RV Park, highlighting the importance of surge protection equipment.
Road noise considerations: Mesa Verde RV Resort provides convenient access but with some highway exposure. "A beautiful location just across the road from Mesa Verde National Park. Spotless, modern bathrooms with enough showers and stalls to not have to wait," explains a camper who found the location worth the occasional traffic sounds.
