The best camping near Bayfield with campfires

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In the heart of the Pine River Valley between Durango and Pagosa Springs, Bayfield is set downstream from the secluded Lake Vallecito, a draw for anglers, boaters, and other water enthusiasts. The town is well placed for accessing the rugged Weminuche Wilderness and San Juan National Forest, where you’ll find a range of wildlife and camping options, from dispersed to developed. Ancient Puebloan archaeological sites are also nearby. The fun doesn't stop in winter, when ice fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing are popular.

97% (1.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Bayfield

1. Bright Star Campground

98%
(779)
50mi from Bayfield · 33 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We have complimentary WiFi, drinking water, ice, hot showers, bathrooms, communal kitchen, and a shaded pavilion with picnic tables, art nook, ping pong, and more. We are open from April - October. All of our sites and amenities can be booked for retreats or events. There are two large covered pavilions. We customize reservations for small and large groups or longer stays. There are furnished tipis, camping cabins, tent/RV/van sites, and a Navajo Hogan (wooden yurt). Bright Star Campground: Originally established in 2012 as a church camp, it is now a place to connect, create, and rejuvenate in this spectacular high desert landscape. Bright Star Campground is located in the Great Sage Plain in the shadow of Mesa Verde National Park with panoramic views of the Four Corners region, and only 5 miles southeast of Cortez. We are a cannabis-friendly destination but ask that cannabis use stay at your campsite, cabin or tipi. There are many attractions nearby, such as Mesa Verde National Park, Canyons of the Ancients, Hovenweep National Monument and Phil's World Mountain Biking. Raft down the Dolores river, maybe rent a SUP or kayak and chill on a quiet reservoir. We are located 45 minutes from Durango, 1.5 hours from Telluride, and about 2 hours from Moab (Arches and Canyonlands National Parks). The nearest airport is in Durango. The nearest large international airports are in Salt Lake City or Albuquerque.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night

2. Durango Placer

100%
(107)
28mi from Bayfield · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land: The creek is just feet away from your tent site, with numerous waterfalls. Great hiking, or just taking in the scenery. So much to do in the immediate area: biking, hiking, fishing swimming, jeeping, exploring, rock hounding, birding, etc. Located 35 minutes from downtown Durango at 9300 feet. Visit the cool mountains and the cold creek. You will have the place to yourself. One group only on this property at a time. There are 3 tent sites to choose from, and a RV site to park. Up to 6 guests in a group allowed . Fire wood is provided free, a full kitchen with camp stove, sink , utensils, cups, and plates available. Updated privy, and hot showers. Enjoy ! The road closes in the winter so hosting is restricted from May 15th thru October 15th There is no cell service. Wifi is available. Landline is available in emergency. Happy Camping !
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$40
 / night

8. Nakation Getaway

99%
(74)
37mi from Bayfield · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Step out of your tent in the morning, and the sun kisses your cheeks... All of them. Private adult only (18+) Clothing Optional dry tent camping set on 20 rural acres. Book the entire campground for your Group Stay, for those who are looking for a private Getaway. Re-use, Re-purpose, Up-cycle... We are committed to making great treasures from one man's trash! Our sites have tables and chairs created from old tires. We are re-using old pallets to create tent platforms, benches and signs. Our little campground is primitive, but we are a work in progress, with amenities coming in the future. Property butts up against a large BLM area, with plenty of room to take a walk in the buff. We have an above ground pool if you would prefer to relax and skinny dip. Or if you're preferring to sight see, there are numerous places to go around our area. In New Mexico, in 45 minutes or less you can be at one of the following: Navajo Lake State Park, Aztec Ruins, Glade Run Recreational area, Jackson Lake Wildlife Refuge, Farmington Lake Recreational area. San Juan Quality Waters in the San Juan River offers world class fishing. The Animas River offers fun river floats. Chaco Canyon National Park is only 2 hours away. In Colorado, we are about an hour from these attractions: Mesa Verde National Park, McPhee Reservoir, Canyon of the Ancients, Lake Nighthorse Day Use Recreation area, Chimney Rock and Purgatory Ski Resort. La Plata Canyon has great mountain hiking and is only 30 minutes away. We look forward to assisting you in a memorable Getaway!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$15
 / night

9. Junction West Durango

95%
(33)
19mi from Bayfield · 97 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
History of JW Durango Riverside Resort It all started in 1965… When this campground hosted its first guests the goal back then was simply to offer folks from around the Four Corners a place to relax and lounge along the Animas River. Today, the property boasts 73 quality RV sites, 24 cabins and 6 tent sites. We also have a heated pool, playground, convenience store, retail shop, game room, café with a large deck for dining, laundry room, paved roadways, two bath houses, and an observation deck overlooking the Animas. The property sits just south of Bakers Bridge, a local landmark made famous as the set of the climactic finale in the movie “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” – where Paul Newman and Robert Redford sat along the rocky cliffs that line the river before they famously took the plunge. As the lifeblood of this community, the Animas River winds its way under that bridge and south toward historic downtown Durango. Everyone from whitewater enthusiasts and acclaimed fly fisherman to laidback locals in inner tubes enjoy the same flowing mountain waters miners have tapped for more than a century. Back in 1965, the population of Durango was just over 10,000 and La Plata County almost 20,000. Today, the city itself is home to 20,000 residents while the county is closing in on a staggering 58,000. As more and more people discover the beauty and majesty of the San Juan National Forest and surrounding Rocky Mountain peaks, the number of people flocking to the Four Corners region continues to grow. Whether hiking, biking, horseback riding, or four-wheeling this area has an endless number of adventures to uncover. Even if it takes a lifetime to explore some of the forgotten roads in this region, these outdoor experiences offer just a glimpse of what there is to do when you visit. People come from around the world to ride the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, listen to songs and stories from the Bar D Wranglers, hit the slopes at Purgatory Resort, or hug the guardrails along the legendary Million Dollar Highway. These are just a few of the reasons people continue to come back year after year, and generation after generation. Even here at Durango Riverside, we constantly listen to stories from guests who first came here as children and now return with their own. It really is easy to find places where you can experience some of the wonders this community has to offer. But, there’s only one place where you can relax and lounge along the Animas River with friends and family, making memories that will stick with you for generations – Durango Riverside.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$59
 / night

16. Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins

96%
(88)
47mi from Bayfield · 23 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land: At the head waters of the Rio Grande River, Mineral County is 96% National Forest with 4.5M acres of National Forest lands surrounding us.  You can see the largest wilderness area in the United States from your camp site, at 9,000 ft. We are an outdoor enthusiast's playground. Wolf Creek ski area 'The Most Snow In Colorado'. Creede Repertory Theater rivals Off Broadway. We offer cabins, RV sites and Campsites at Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins. Please call our office or visit our website. RV Sites are NOT booked through hipcamp, they run $50-$60 nightly and can only be reserved through the Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins website.  We are 32728 hwy 149 Creede. 11 miles towards Lake City on hwy 149. Pull all through the Cabins and either turn left up the little hill camping anywhere, but keep the fire pit open for everyone. Or drive through the green gate past cabin #7 and camp in the pasture. Bathhouse is in the middle of the cabins. (No Bathhouse or water after September 15th.) Fire pit and picnic table are on the hill.  You can have dogs off leash anywhere away from the cabins and RV sites, just be careful as we have horses, we don't want the pup's getting kicked.  Let me know if you need anything. NO BATHHOUSE BETWEEN SEPT 15-JUNE 1 PRICE $30 BATHHOUSE AVAILABLE JUNE 1 - SEPTEMBER 14 Price $35 Dale, Anne, and Susan.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$30
 / night

17. Riverwood RV Resort

100%
(2)
39mi from Bayfield · 62 sites · RVs
Riverwood RV resort accommodations at affordable rates, located in Mancos, colorado. Our RV park is close to Cortez, Durango, and Mesa Verde national park in southwest colorado. Our family-friendly RV resort is the perfect place in Southwestern Colorado to get away, camp and explore the outdoors with loved ones with all the latest amenities. Mancos is a humble town with shops and local sites to enjoy. An RV Resort is pet-friendly has full-service amenities and will make you feel at home in Mancos, CO. Easy RV access and our complimentary concierge service will help you plan your next hiking, fishing, kayaking, or sightseeing adventure in Mancos Colorado, and other southwestern surrounding cities like Durango and Cortez. Plan your next adventure at our brand-new RV resort in Colorado that has all the amenities to make you feel at home. Reserve online now to book your visit or call our expert staff with any questions or special accommodations you may need. Mancos offers a variety of outdoor activities for people of all levels. Hiking trails and mountain biking trails are available, with expert staff available to assist with repairs and equipment sales. The location also offers opportunities for white water rafting, golfing, fly fishing, and off-roading with thousands of miles of 4x4 trails in the area.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night

In the heart of the Pine River Valley between Durango and Pagosa Springs, Bayfield is set downstream from the secluded Lake Vallecito, a draw for anglers, boaters, and other water enthusiasts. The town is well placed for accessing the rugged Weminuche Wilderness and San Juan National Forest, where you’ll find a range of wildlife and camping options, from dispersed to developed. Ancient Puebloan archaeological sites are also nearby. The fun doesn't stop in winter, when ice fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing are popular.

97% (1.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Bayfield

1. Bright Star Campground

98%
(779)
50mi from Bayfield · 33 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We have complimentary WiFi, drinking water, ice, hot showers, bathrooms, communal kitchen, and a shaded pavilion with picnic tables, art nook, ping pong, and more. We are open from April - October. All of our sites and amenities can be booked for retreats or events. There are two large covered pavilions. We customize reservations for small and large groups or longer stays. There are furnished tipis, camping cabins, tent/RV/van sites, and a Navajo Hogan (wooden yurt). Bright Star Campground: Originally established in 2012 as a church camp, it is now a place to connect, create, and rejuvenate in this spectacular high desert landscape. Bright Star Campground is located in the Great Sage Plain in the shadow of Mesa Verde National Park with panoramic views of the Four Corners region, and only 5 miles southeast of Cortez. We are a cannabis-friendly destination but ask that cannabis use stay at your campsite, cabin or tipi. There are many attractions nearby, such as Mesa Verde National Park, Canyons of the Ancients, Hovenweep National Monument and Phil's World Mountain Biking. Raft down the Dolores river, maybe rent a SUP or kayak and chill on a quiet reservoir. We are located 45 minutes from Durango, 1.5 hours from Telluride, and about 2 hours from Moab (Arches and Canyonlands National Parks). The nearest airport is in Durango. The nearest large international airports are in Salt Lake City or Albuquerque.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night

2. Durango Placer

100%
(107)
28mi from Bayfield · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land: The creek is just feet away from your tent site, with numerous waterfalls. Great hiking, or just taking in the scenery. So much to do in the immediate area: biking, hiking, fishing swimming, jeeping, exploring, rock hounding, birding, etc. Located 35 minutes from downtown Durango at 9300 feet. Visit the cool mountains and the cold creek. You will have the place to yourself. One group only on this property at a time. There are 3 tent sites to choose from, and a RV site to park. Up to 6 guests in a group allowed . Fire wood is provided free, a full kitchen with camp stove, sink , utensils, cups, and plates available. Updated privy, and hot showers. Enjoy ! The road closes in the winter so hosting is restricted from May 15th thru October 15th There is no cell service. Wifi is available. Landline is available in emergency. Happy Camping !
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$40
 / night

8. Nakation Getaway

99%
(74)
37mi from Bayfield · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Step out of your tent in the morning, and the sun kisses your cheeks... All of them. Private adult only (18+) Clothing Optional dry tent camping set on 20 rural acres. Book the entire campground for your Group Stay, for those who are looking for a private Getaway. Re-use, Re-purpose, Up-cycle... We are committed to making great treasures from one man's trash! Our sites have tables and chairs created from old tires. We are re-using old pallets to create tent platforms, benches and signs. Our little campground is primitive, but we are a work in progress, with amenities coming in the future. Property butts up against a large BLM area, with plenty of room to take a walk in the buff. We have an above ground pool if you would prefer to relax and skinny dip. Or if you're preferring to sight see, there are numerous places to go around our area. In New Mexico, in 45 minutes or less you can be at one of the following: Navajo Lake State Park, Aztec Ruins, Glade Run Recreational area, Jackson Lake Wildlife Refuge, Farmington Lake Recreational area. San Juan Quality Waters in the San Juan River offers world class fishing. The Animas River offers fun river floats. Chaco Canyon National Park is only 2 hours away. In Colorado, we are about an hour from these attractions: Mesa Verde National Park, McPhee Reservoir, Canyon of the Ancients, Lake Nighthorse Day Use Recreation area, Chimney Rock and Purgatory Ski Resort. La Plata Canyon has great mountain hiking and is only 30 minutes away. We look forward to assisting you in a memorable Getaway!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$15
 / night

9. Junction West Durango

95%
(33)
19mi from Bayfield · 97 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
History of JW Durango Riverside Resort It all started in 1965… When this campground hosted its first guests the goal back then was simply to offer folks from around the Four Corners a place to relax and lounge along the Animas River. Today, the property boasts 73 quality RV sites, 24 cabins and 6 tent sites. We also have a heated pool, playground, convenience store, retail shop, game room, café with a large deck for dining, laundry room, paved roadways, two bath houses, and an observation deck overlooking the Animas. The property sits just south of Bakers Bridge, a local landmark made famous as the set of the climactic finale in the movie “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” – where Paul Newman and Robert Redford sat along the rocky cliffs that line the river before they famously took the plunge. As the lifeblood of this community, the Animas River winds its way under that bridge and south toward historic downtown Durango. Everyone from whitewater enthusiasts and acclaimed fly fisherman to laidback locals in inner tubes enjoy the same flowing mountain waters miners have tapped for more than a century. Back in 1965, the population of Durango was just over 10,000 and La Plata County almost 20,000. Today, the city itself is home to 20,000 residents while the county is closing in on a staggering 58,000. As more and more people discover the beauty and majesty of the San Juan National Forest and surrounding Rocky Mountain peaks, the number of people flocking to the Four Corners region continues to grow. Whether hiking, biking, horseback riding, or four-wheeling this area has an endless number of adventures to uncover. Even if it takes a lifetime to explore some of the forgotten roads in this region, these outdoor experiences offer just a glimpse of what there is to do when you visit. People come from around the world to ride the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, listen to songs and stories from the Bar D Wranglers, hit the slopes at Purgatory Resort, or hug the guardrails along the legendary Million Dollar Highway. These are just a few of the reasons people continue to come back year after year, and generation after generation. Even here at Durango Riverside, we constantly listen to stories from guests who first came here as children and now return with their own. It really is easy to find places where you can experience some of the wonders this community has to offer. But, there’s only one place where you can relax and lounge along the Animas River with friends and family, making memories that will stick with you for generations – Durango Riverside.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$59
 / night

16. Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins

96%
(88)
47mi from Bayfield · 23 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land: At the head waters of the Rio Grande River, Mineral County is 96% National Forest with 4.5M acres of National Forest lands surrounding us.  You can see the largest wilderness area in the United States from your camp site, at 9,000 ft. We are an outdoor enthusiast's playground. Wolf Creek ski area 'The Most Snow In Colorado'. Creede Repertory Theater rivals Off Broadway. We offer cabins, RV sites and Campsites at Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins. Please call our office or visit our website. RV Sites are NOT booked through hipcamp, they run $50-$60 nightly and can only be reserved through the Bristol Mountain RV Park & Cabins website.  We are 32728 hwy 149 Creede. 11 miles towards Lake City on hwy 149. Pull all through the Cabins and either turn left up the little hill camping anywhere, but keep the fire pit open for everyone. Or drive through the green gate past cabin #7 and camp in the pasture. Bathhouse is in the middle of the cabins. (No Bathhouse or water after September 15th.) Fire pit and picnic table are on the hill.  You can have dogs off leash anywhere away from the cabins and RV sites, just be careful as we have horses, we don't want the pup's getting kicked.  Let me know if you need anything. NO BATHHOUSE BETWEEN SEPT 15-JUNE 1 PRICE $30 BATHHOUSE AVAILABLE JUNE 1 - SEPTEMBER 14 Price $35 Dale, Anne, and Susan.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$30
 / night

17. Riverwood RV Resort

100%
(2)
39mi from Bayfield · 62 sites · RVs
Riverwood RV resort accommodations at affordable rates, located in Mancos, colorado. Our RV park is close to Cortez, Durango, and Mesa Verde national park in southwest colorado. Our family-friendly RV resort is the perfect place in Southwestern Colorado to get away, camp and explore the outdoors with loved ones with all the latest amenities. Mancos is a humble town with shops and local sites to enjoy. An RV Resort is pet-friendly has full-service amenities and will make you feel at home in Mancos, CO. Easy RV access and our complimentary concierge service will help you plan your next hiking, fishing, kayaking, or sightseeing adventure in Mancos Colorado, and other southwestern surrounding cities like Durango and Cortez. Plan your next adventure at our brand-new RV resort in Colorado that has all the amenities to make you feel at home. Reserve online now to book your visit or call our expert staff with any questions or special accommodations you may need. Mancos offers a variety of outdoor activities for people of all levels. Hiking trails and mountain biking trails are available, with expert staff available to assist with repairs and equipment sales. The location also offers opportunities for white water rafting, golfing, fly fishing, and off-roading with thousands of miles of 4x4 trails in the area.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night

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The best camping near Bayfield with campfires guide

Where to go

West 

Just west of Bayfield, Durango offers plenty of cultural and outdoor activities, plus camping options from RV parks to San Juan National Forest campgrounds. Discover the Ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park, and stay at the seasonal park campground. Nearby, Mancos State Park offers a lake and woods, along with forested and lakeside campgrounds and yurts. Private RV parks and forest service campgrounds can be found near Mancos, Cortez, Dolores, including within the McPhee Reservoir Recreation Area. Continue west through high desert on your way to Four Corners Monument, where Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah meet.

North

Head north to enjoy fishing and boating on Lake Vallecito, or take the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad from Durango to the historic mining town of Silverton. Colorado’s largest wilderness, Weminuche Wilderness, is located just north of Bayfield, and offers excellent backpacking and backcountry camping options, though the surrounding San Juan National Forest also offers developed campgrounds, in addition to 1.8 million acres of forest and wilderness, peaks, and canyons to explore. For even more forest, head east for the Rio Grande National Forest, with similar options for camping.

East

Head east to explore the ruins of ancient Puebloan dwellings in the Chimney Rock Archaeological Area. Further east, enjoy hot springs and the San Juan River at Pagosa Springs. Nearby Wolf Creek Resort is known for receiving the “most snow in Colorado.” Enjoy excellent fishing at South Fork and the Rio Grande River, or drive along the Silver Thread Byway to the historic towns of Creede and Lake City. Further south, enjoy all water activities at Navajo Lake, with Navajo State Park on the Colorado side, and Navajo Lake State Park on the New Mexico side, and several campgrounds on both sides.

When to go

Bayfield is at its busiest in the summer, when the weather is most pleasant for outdoor activities. Fishing can be enjoyed year-round, though the area is known for an ice fishing tournament in February and the salmon run in late fall. Many year-round public campgrounds offer limited or no services between September and May. Chimney Rock National Monument is open from May 15 to October 15.

Know before you go

  • Bayfield is situated at nearly 7,000 feet. Other recreation areas and campsites in the region are at even higher elevations. Be aware of potential altitude issues.
  • Campsites in national forests are often first-come first-serve, while campsites in Colorado state parks require advanced reservations.
  • Motorized and mechanized vehicles are prohibited in designated wilderness areas.
  • Be bear aware, especially when camping. Store food and other attractants in a bear proof container, away from your tent.
  • Fishing licenses are required in Colorado for anyone over age 16.