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Camping near Bayfield

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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.

96% (1.6K) 3,217 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Bayfield

Bear springs

1. Bear springs

98%
(66)
13mi from Bayfield · 1 site
Beautiful mountain views, trails and only 10 minutes to downtown Durango! 35 acre gated community property with miles of private trails to explore. Friendly pets welcome. Complementary firewood fire restrictions permitting. Owners live on property and are available to help or answer questions. Great setup and location.
Pets
Full hookups
Views For Days! In Town Durango

2. Views For Days! In Town Durango

96%
(12)
15mi from Bayfield · 1 site
This is NOT an RV Park! A single RV pad on private property perched on a hill above the Animas Valley. All the perks of being in town Durango with lots of privacy and 360 degree views. Walking distance to laundromat, convenience store and restaurant. Ideal for a couple who wants a quiet home base to explore all Durango has to offer. Ample parking available next to the RV site. 50 amp hookup with sewer and water. There is a trash and recycling can at the bottom of the hill. Please no kids.
Pets
Full hookups
RV Space 1 Mile from Vallecito Lake

3. RV Space 1 Mile from Vallecito Lake

100%
(17)
15mi from Bayfield · 1 site
Learn more about this land:Get away from the crowds of the local RV parks in Vallecito Lake, Colorado. Save money and stay in our quiet neighborhood instead! This RV space is located in a quiet neighborhood just 1 mile north of Vallecito Lake, Colorado, in the San Juan National Forest. The gravel RV space has easy access to County Road 501.This RV space is easy to access. It has full hookups: 50 amp electric, water, and sewer. Wifi is included (and it’s good for streaming!). Dogs are welcome with prior approval. No camping tents, RVs and campers only. The quiet Decker Park neighborhood is just 1 mile north of Vallecito Lake. Most residents are aged 50+. This is a kid-friendly neighborhood. Features include:One mile north of Vallecito Lake. Walking distance to Vallecito Creek (fishing opportunities!), restaurants, shops & marina just minutes away, firepit (available when fire restrictions allow)Local attractions include boating, fishing, hiking, biking, kayaking, paddle boarding, ziplining, horseback riding, whitewater rafting and just about everything you need to have an authentic Colorado experience.CAMPFIRES: Portable fire pits, charcoal and propane grills are permitted when fire restrictions allow.Thank you for booking our RV space in Vallecito Lake, CO!
Pets
Full hookups
San Juan National Forest

4. San Juan National Forest

97%
(42)
National forest 23mi from Bayfield · 696 sites
Hike through the rugged wilderness or take a scenic drive in this expansive national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Navajo State Park

5. Navajo State Park

State park 19mi from Bayfield · 117 sites
Campers can hike, fish, and enjoy water sports at Colorado’s largest lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Animas River Valley red cliffs

6. Animas River Valley red cliffs

95%
(137)
18mi from Bayfield · 1 site · Tent, RV
Pitch your tent or park in the upper pasture and enjoy the view of the Animas Valley. Just 8 miles north of Durango off of the million dollar highway. Across the road from Honeyville and across the river from fun at the Bar D  Ranch or James Ranch Harvest Grille.  Durango Mountain Resort is just up the road.  Horses and cattle grazing in the pasture below and the apple trees and the honey bees are in full production this year.  No other view like it of the Mission Ridge red cliffs with the silhouettes and glow at sunset.  At night you may hear the Animas River below or some animal sounds. Name the constellations among the amazing view of the stars! Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or park in the "sloped" pasture and enjoy the view of the Animas Valley. Just 8 miles north of Durango off of the million dollar highway. Across the highway from Honeyville and across the river from fun at the Bar D  Ranch or James Ranch Harvest Grille.  Durango Mountain Resort is just up the road.  Horses and cattle grazing in the pasture below and the apple trees and the honey bees are in full production.  Mission Ridge red cliffs with the mysterious silhouettes and glow at sunset.  At night you may hear the Animas River below or some animal sounds. Name the constellations among the amazing view of the stars! Please provide what you will be driving and camping in, along with guesstimate of your arrival time for a quick booking response. Safe travels.  
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Junction West Durango

7. Junction West Durango

96%
(40)
19mi from Bayfield · 95 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
HTR Durango

8. HTR Durango

97%
(33)
20mi from Bayfield · 70 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
CLOSED FOR WINTER NOV 1, 2025 - APRIL 30, 2026. ***Dry camping is May 1-14, 2026 & October 12-31. Only electric is available. Bathhouses and pool are closed. No cabin or tent campers. Only accepting reservations for self-contained RVs during dry camping season. The only water available is at the front of the park at the fill-up station. The RV sites do not have water or sewer, but they do have electricity. Our staff is available on-call.*** Nestled in a protected box canyon surrounded by high cliffs of Douglas Fir and Ponderosa Pine and just minutes to downtown Durango, HTR Durango, formerly Lightner Creek Campground, is located on a seasonal mountain stream, making it an ideal setting for nature lovers of all ages. The paved county road off HWY 160W to our campground is well maintained, making the 1.5-mile drive easily accessible, regardless of what you bring. Enjoy various recreational activities in the Durango area, including many hiking and mountain biking trails, fishing, river rafting, rock climbing, zip-lining, off-roading, horseback riding, shopping, dining, breweries, and much more. There is so much to see and do in the Four Corners Area! If you want a memorable vacation experience in Durango, look no further than HTR Durango. Please note wood burning fires are not allowed on property. Propane and charcoal fires are permitted. We require vaccination records upon arrival if you are bringing a dog. There is a $50 pet fee for cabin rentals.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Almostaranch

9. Almostaranch

92%
(36)
24mi from Bayfield · 1 site
The Almostaranch Family welcomes you to stay with us in the San Juan Mountains located in Durango, Colorado. Our property features spectacular views and endless activities for you and your family. We look forward to seeing you! Durango is the Capitol of mountain biking in the US. Horseback riding next door and snowmobile rentals close by. Kayaking very close & hiking trails everywhere. Silverton 35 miles. RV site includes horseshoe pits and tables.
Pets
Full hookups
Rio Grande National Forest

10. Rio Grande National Forest

86%
(29)
National forest 64mi from Bayfield · 691 sites
Explore the many ecosystems of south-central Colorado in this massive national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Navajo Lake State Park

11. Navajo Lake State Park

88%
(8)
State park 30mi from Bayfield · 84 sites
Navajo Lake State Park: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Carson National Forest

12. Carson National Forest

91%
(40)
National forest 101mi from Bayfield · 463 sites
Come get lost in the wild, enchanted lands of New Mexico! One of five unearthly National Forests in this great state, Carson National Forest is open for business all year round, and never fails to bring the heat with magnificent mountain scenery and some seriously stunning natural features. If solitude is your muse than look no further! Cold mountain streams, ample trout fishing, and out of sight camping is sure to give you your fix. With over 1.5 million acres laden with high ridges, dense vegetation and some of the cleanest air you’re likely to find west of the Mississippi, Carson is simply the epitome of Southwestern frontier!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mancos State Park

13. Mancos State Park

100%
(1)
State park 39mi from Bayfield · 33 sites
From summer kayaking to winter ice fishing, this lakeside getaway has activities for all seasons.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Durango Placer

14. Durango Placer

100%
(114)
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
Campfires
The Art Shack A Tiny Glamping Cabin

15. The Art Shack A Tiny Glamping Cabin

100%
(10)
29mi from Bayfield · 1 site
We are in the rural area between Hesperus, Durango, and Mancos - An easy drive to Durango and its thrift shops, restaurants, galleries, cafes, Animas River and River Trail, and hiking and biking trails. Mancos is filled with art galleries, a wonderful bakery and cafe, beauty, and endless trails. Also within driving distance are Phil's World, Cortez, Sand Canyon, the beautiful La Plata Canyon, Mesa Verde National Park, Lake NIghthorse, and more! There are endless hiking and biking trails within driving distance of the property. Cross country skiing and snowshoeing abound and alpine skiing at Purgatory Ski Resort are popular winter activities. The views of the La Platas and Sleeping Ute are ever changing, awe inspiring, and constant from the deck of The Art Shack. On the property are cats, two dogs, two equines (you will hear our burro braying). Our neighbors have yaks, cattle, goats, sheep, dogs, horses, poultry, and other farm animals. You will also see the wild critters that inhabit our corner of La Plata County. You are welcome to wander our property beyond the Big Stick Ditch but do not go into the pasture with our burro or enter any of the out buildings. Park within steps of the Art Shack, cross the foot bridge over the bubbling irrigation ditch, and you have arrived! Please remove your shoes before entering! There is electricity, a queen bed, rustic chairs inside, an outdoor table and chairs, a composting toilet, a coffee machine, and purified drinking water for your use. An electric heater is supplied during winter months. There is no air conditioning. We are available if needed (unless we are out of town adventuring) but will not expect to interact with you as you relax. No dogs are allowed - 2 people max - No smoking of lit substances inside The Art Shack. Please remove your shoes before entering The Art Shack!
Toilets
Wifi
Potable water
Walkable downtown Pagosa property

16. Walkable downtown Pagosa property

100%
(12)
31mi from Bayfield · 1 site · Tent, RV
A beautifully tucked away 2 acre property in the town Pagosa Springs. It's a heavily wooded property that's tucked away from traffic. There are mountain views, short hiking and mountain bike trails from the property, and it's a 1 mile walk to the hot springs and main Street Pagosa Springs. It's close to town, but you would never know it. You can take a short drive to many beautiful natural attractions such as Treasure Falls, the Ice caves, Four Mile Falls and much more.
Pets
Twilight Falls

17. Twilight Falls

93%
(28)
32mi from Bayfield · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Twilight Falls is a 40 acres private paradise of natural forests, meadows, streams and waterfalls nestled within thousands of acres of San Juan National Forest. Come experience this amazing place. Words cannot describe it. This has been a family retreat for our family for decades, and we want to share it with you.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Mountain View Campground

18. Mountain View Campground

93%
(67)
33mi from Bayfield · 50 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Enjoy majestic sunrise and sunset views as you bask in the relaxed atmosphere. Mountain biking is available at the edge of the property. Horseshoes is available onsite. Fishing, kayaking, hiking, motocross, natural arches, and so much more are just a short drive away!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Last Resort on the River

19. Last Resort on the River

94%
(33)
37mi from Bayfield · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Last Resort on the River is a small and quiet RV park on the Blanco River off Highway 84 between Chama, New Mexico and Pagosa Springs, Colorado. We have 23 full hook-up sites, 6 riverside sites for smaller units with electric and water only, and tent sites that sit on the river. We also have a dry cabin and a one bedroom fully-stocked cabin available. Firewood is available for purchase as are shower tokens for showers. The bathhouse has separate men’s and women’s showers/restrooms along with a washer and dryer.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Nakation Getaway

20. Nakation Getaway

99%
(93)
37mi from Bayfield · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Bare your soul (and everything else) in the Desert. Please read the full description. Step out of your tent and feel the sun kiss your cheeks…all of them. This is a private, Adult-Only (18+) clothing-optional dry tent camping experience designed for those who want to strip away the noise of the world. Because we are a hidden gem and still growing, there is a high chance that you will have the horizon to yourself. Imagine a morning coffee or sunset stroll where the only other living soul you might see are the hawks and the bunnies. We are a work in progress with a mission: turning one man’s trash into campground treasures. We work to upcycle as many materials as possible, including a former football field turned grassy landing sites for tents and RV’s. Solar showers from recycled pallets. Signage created from old drill pipe and bed boards. Our 15 acres butts up against some BLM land offering more terrain to explore in the buff. When you’re done exploring, cool off with a skinny dip in our 16’ x 32’ above ground pool. Or just lounge in the sun and work on your tan. Gateway to the 4 Corners: Within 45 minutes (New Mexico): • World-class fishing at San Juan Quality Waters, or a day at Navajo Lake State Park, or Farmington Lake. • Step back in time at Aztec Ruins, Salmon Ruins or Jackson Lake Wildlife Refuge. • Grab a tube for a fun afternoon on the Animas River Within 60 minutes (Colorado): • Hike or drive LaPlata Canyon (only 30 minutes away!) or have an adventure at Purgatory Ski Resort. • Visit world-famous Mesa Verde National Park, Canyon of the Ancients or Chimney Rock. • Check out Lake Nighthorse • Spend a day in Historical Downtown Durango. If you’re looking for a crowd, you’ll have to bring it with you. If you want a quiet, liberating sanctuary where you can be your most authentic self, we can’t wait to host you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Bayfield camping 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. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Bayfield is at its busiest in the summer, when the weather is most pleasant for outdoor activities. 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. 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. You can also explore different options for camping near Bayfield on Hipcamp.

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. 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.

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.

The fun doesn't stop in winter, when ice fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing are popular. 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.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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