This free dispersed camping area sits along Forest Road 648, accessed via a dirt road that requires driving past the developed West Fork Campground about half a mile upstream. Campers find roughly four to six primitive sites scattered just after crossing the second bridge, approximately 2.2 miles from the main road. The sites feature stone fire rings but no other amenities.
The San Juan River flows directly alongside most camping spots, providing what April G. describes as "a perfect source of white noise at night." Sites vary considerably in size and levelness, with some accommodating larger RVs while others work better for tents. Campers report the first site on the right after the bridge offers the most space and best river access. Abundant chipmunks and hummingbirds frequent the area, though mosquitoes can be heavy during summer months, particularly near the water.
The location serves as a staging point for the Rainbow Hot Springs trailhead, which continues at the end of the road. This 12-mile round-trip hike attracts many visitors to the area. Fire restrictions may apply seasonally, limiting campers to small camping stoves only during dry periods.
Road conditions remain manageable for most vehicles, though the surface is dirt and can become challenging in wet weather. Austin and Christel S. notes temperatures in the low 80s during summer days with lows in the 50s, plus predictable wind patterns that shift from south during the day to north each evening. Cell service is limited in this canyon setting.
The area operates on pack-in, pack-out principles with no trash collection or water sources. Sites fill quickly during peak season, and private land begins about a mile beyond the dispersed camping zone. For those seeking more amenities, campgrounds just outside Pagosa Springs provide additional options with full facilities.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsWest Fork Dispersed is located in Colorado near Pagosa Springs
Coordinates
37.440192 N
106.894957 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 5/7/26
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTEGood CoverageVerified by 13 usersLast on 5/7/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 5/7/26
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTEGood CoverageVerified by 13 usersLast on 5/7/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if West Fork Dispersed needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 3 hrs 18 min from Pueblo, CO
- 3 hrs 41 min from Santa Fe, NM
- 4 hrs 46 min from Farmington, NM
- 4 hrs 47 min from Grand Junction, CO











































