Navajo Lake's eastern shore offers upscale tent experiences at several glamping retreats within 30 minutes of Aztec, New Mexico. These accommodations sit at elevations of 6,000 to 7,000 feet, resulting in warm days and cool evenings during peak season from April to October. The area experiences a high desert climate with limited rainfall but occasional intense summer thunderstorms that glamping operators typically prepare for with reinforced sheltering.
What to do
Fish the San Juan River: Anglers can access prime fishing spots below Navajo Dam where trout thrive in the cold water release. A visitor noted, "Navajo Lake was a last minute reservation to escape the southern heat. SUCCESS, the sites had shelter, access to water and good Marina. Not many marked trails but you can still explore."
Hike the surrounding trails: The Mancos State Park area offers multiple hiking options for all skill levels. A camper shared, "The park adjoins the San Juan National Forest, including multiple hiking trails, the Chicken Creek cross country ski area, the Sawtooth and Millwood trails, and other trails."
Water recreation: Boating and paddling opportunities abound at Sims Mesa where motorized and non-motorized watercraft can access the lake. According to one reviewer, "If you don't have a boat or fancy water toys.. Sims Mesa is where you should go. Much less crowded than the main marina. We camped at the Lakeshore Camping area. Several sites available right on the lake, just steps away from the water."
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Staying at glamping sites close to Aztec, New Mexico provides convenient access to multiple regional destinations. At Target Tree Campground, a camper noted, "Target Tree has awesome campsites. It sits between Mesa Verde and Durango and is a perfect launch for this area. All kinds of activities are nearby."
Seasonal water levels: The lake experiences fluctuating water levels throughout the year, with spring generally offering the highest water. One visitor to Sims Mesa explained, "We might like to visit Sims Mesa Marina at Navajo Lake again, if it ever fills again and perhaps in the spring or fall but NOT in summer."
Quiet camping options: The less developed areas around Navajo Lake provide more solitude than the main marina area. A camper stated, "The quieter side of Navajo Lake State Park, this is a nice, clean campground with pull through and tent sites (elec and non) close to Sims marina. Nothing spectacular and a bit remote, so not a place I would seek out necessarily."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to some glamping locations require preparation. A visitor to Lightner Creek Campground commented, "It's on a twisty, multi curved 2 lane about 7 miles from downtown Durango. It is in what is/was a beautiful small canyon with numerous aspen and other trees."
Seasonal availability: Most luxury camping options near Aztec operate seasonally. Many close during winter months, with services limited from November through March. A camper at Mancos State Park advised, "During the winter, it is a great place to use as a base for cross country skiing."
Water shortages: The region experiences drought conditions that affect camping facilities. One visitor noted, "So many of our fine bodies of water boaters and anglers have come to rely on for recreation are in serious jeopardy due to a 10 year what is termed 'Exceptional' drought conditions."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for temperature swings: The high elevation means significant day-to-night temperature changes. A camper at Durango RV Resort shared, "Pros: The campground was relatively small so nothing was too far away. Laundry facilities were nice. Lots of showers that were private stalls. Lots of activities to do."
Check for wildlife alerts: The area has bears and other wildlife, requiring proper food storage. A visitor mentioned, "Bear area, none seen. Nice stopping place," while camping at Mancos State Park during September.
Book specific site types: For glamping close to Aztec, New Mexico, request sites that match your specific needs. At United Campground of Durango, a guest advised, "If you're planning on riding the Scenic Railroad, this is the place for you. Not only does the train bisect the RV and Tent camping areas so you can watch it go by, but the city free trolley stop is right at the entrance."
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing: Plan your arrival during daylight hours, particularly for more remote glamping sites. One RVer at Target Tree mentioned, "Only 20 minutes from Mesa Verde NP gate. It is developed camping, but not right on top of each-other."
Electrical considerations: Test electrical hookups before settling in at established sites. An RVer shared, "The only ding that I'd give this place is that there may be some power issues depending on the site. Thank God we had the surge protector and that I tested the outlet before plugging into the RV."
Site selection strategy: Request specific sites when making reservations at glamping establishments. A visitor to Sims Mesa noted, "I think I would've chosen the loop with campsites 1 through 19 instead of the other loop that we stayed at. We were in campsite 26 and it was a little difficult to get our trailer into it because we had to back uphill."
