The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Camping near San Juan National Forest

1,593 Reviews

Dispersed camping near San Juan National Forest in Colorado offers campers extensive options across public lands ranging from primitive backcountry sites to developed campgrounds with modern amenities. The area includes established facilities like Haviland Lake Campground and Junction Creek Campground near Durango, plus numerous free dispersed camping areas along forest roads. Hermosa Park Road Dispersed and Madden Peak Road provide popular alternatives for those seeking more remote experiences without fees or reservations. Several locations accommodate various camping styles including tent sites, RV parking with hookups, and even cabin rentals at locations such as Priest Gulch Campground and Echo Basin Cabin and RV Resort.

Most dispersed camping areas near San Juan National Forest remain accessible from May through October, though high-elevation sites may have shorter seasons due to snow conditions. "This is a beautiful area and many camp sites at the bottom by the creek. However during 4th of July it was packed. We went up the mountain and found a beautiful pond to camp next to," noted one visitor about the Hermosa Creek area. Road conditions vary significantly, with some areas requiring high-clearance 4WD vehicles, particularly after creek crossings or during spring runoff periods. Cell service is virtually non-existent in many camping areas, making advance planning essential. Visitors should be prepared for wildlife encounters, including bears, and follow proper food storage protocols. Fire restrictions frequently impact the region during summer drought conditions.

Campers consistently praise the waterfront sites along creeks and rivers throughout the forest. Many dispersed sites along Hermosa Park Road offer creek-side camping with stunning mountain views, making them highly sought-after during peak season. The combination of solitude and scenic beauty makes these areas particularly appealing to those willing to venture farther from town. According to reviews, the remoteness provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, with visitors reporting sightings of elk, fox, and marmots. During busy summer weekends and holidays, arriving early proves essential for securing prime locations, especially at no-fee sites. Several campgrounds close to trailheads serve as convenient base camps for exploring the extensive trail network, with the Hermosa Creek Trail being particularly popular for hiking, biking and fishing opportunities.

Map showing campgrounds near San Juan National Forest, ColoradoExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near San Juan National Forest (268)

    1. Haviland Lake Campground

    22 Reviews
    Cascade, CO
    10 miles
    Website

    $30 - $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

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

    $30 - $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. Priest Gulch Campground and RV Park Cabins and Lodge

    13 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."

    4. Hermosa Park Road Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Rico, CO
    9 miles

    "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"

    5. 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."

    6. Lower Hermosa Campground

    12 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. Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park

    104 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."

    8. 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."

    9. Alpen Rose RV Park

    17 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. Echo Basin Cabin and RV Resort

    20 Reviews
    Mancos, CO
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 533-7000

    "Tucked away from the highway and far enough from any big city, you want nature and stars at night? This is the place! We backed up to a huge green field."

    "It is easy to sit back and relax or play a game of pickleball while the squirrels are running around."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 268 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

San Juan National Forest Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Camping Photos near San Juan National Forest

517 Photos of 268 San Juan National Forest Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near San Juan National Forest

1593 Reviews of 268 San Juan National Forest Campgrounds

  • VanRumschpringa V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 3, 2025

    Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping

    Easy access to Durango, some sites better than others

    The series about 18 minutes south west of Durango. Relatively convenient for access to the town and activities in the area. The main road into the area is very easy navigable by any vehicle. Some of the side roads get significantly tougher. The sites in the middle tend to be better because they’re away from the highway and some sort of pumping station further on. The rhythmic sound of that pumping station can be maddening. We camps just beyond that and though we could hear it, our site was spacious and relatively quiet.

  • VanRumschpringa V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 2, 2025

    Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land)

    Good free camping, some road noise

    There are 15 campsites. At the end of the trail is a turnaround. The sites are relatively large. Any vehicle could get up here without any problem. We stayed in site seven and had great views of the mountains.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Boggy Draw 1

    Boggy Draw area

    Lots of dispersed camping off of Boggy Draw road. We found one further off the road and close to where the Boggy Draw loop and Maverick loop intersect. Pretty level, has a fire ring, very quiet mid-October. Wouldn’t be good if muddy. Some sites need a vehicle with clearance. Lots of sites for tent camping. No view but surrounded by Ponderosa Pine, very pretty. We were able to get to our site in our Ekko.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Bay City Campground

    Great dispersed spot!

    This is our second time here. We were here in June and despite it being a small campground we’re able to secure two spots. We are back in October. The river is more shallow and the air more crisp, yet still gives the feel of such a natural feel and sound. Private, cozy, and secluded. Only 25 minutes from Durango. Hate to promote it because more people will seek it out.

  • Crystal B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park

    Great campground in National Park that was open during government shutdown !

    Thanks to the non-government workers at MVNP some of the services were still available! Campground offers many different options for sites with flush toilets nearby most sites. Showers at central location. 24 hour laundry. 2 restaurant/gift shop locations. Of course the scenery is beautiful!

  • Hillary B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Matterhorn — Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre And Gunnison National Forest

    Quick comfortable stay

    We stayed here between Telluride Town Park and Ridgway State Park. Main attraction was the fact that it had full hookups so we could reset and dump our tanks. It turned out to be quiet and beautiful, even though the sites are quite close together.

  • R
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area

    Beautiful spot, accessible by 2WD

    Beautiful campground, very quiet. Up a dirt road but passable with a 2WD (in Oct, no snow). The shorter route in is via the trout lake entrance- less time on dirt road. Toilet block was locked when we were there (but there’s a vault toilet up at Trout Lake).

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)

    Amazing

    One of the best dispersed campsites. The road leading to the site could be rough for low clearance vehicles, but my Tacoma had no problems. The views from my site were amazing. I will definitely be returning.

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 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.

Keep Exploring