Farm stays near Bayfield

·

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% (926)

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. The Art Shack A Tiny Glamping Cabin

100%
(7)
29mi from Bayfield · 1 site · Lodging
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
from 
$70
 / night

3. Linda M.’s Santa Rita Ranch

99%
(129)
19mi from Bayfield · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Santa Rita Ranch is located in a rural, agricultural valley south of Durango, Colorado. Originally a dairy and hay farm, the Mannix's raised all organic beef in the past. Currently it operates as a hay farm and Linda has three horses and three donkeys. Very quiet rural area with plenty of open space. Elevation 6,000 ft. Learn more about this land: The 40 acre Santa Rita Ranch has hayfields, irrigation and plenty of room to camp. Located 20 minutes south of Durango Colorado it is quiet and peaceful. Good internet access!  Porta potty available. Only 20 minutes to two wineries: Foxfire Farms in Ignacio, CO and Wines of the San Juans near Aztec, NM.  Paddleboarding and windsurfing on Lake Nighthorse. Lots of mountain bike trails near Durango and good road biking on our CR 213. Flying into Durango? We have a tent and camp chairs for you! Horses and donkeys available to pet.  Horse boarding available for those traveling with their equine friends.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night

6. Lavender Farm Stay

100%
(52)
48mi from Bayfield · 3 sites · Lodging
Welcome to Mesa Verde Lavender! We are a working lavender farm with 2000+ lavender plants, a flower garden, vegetables, and a small orchard. Hike in the canyon that splits our property, roam with the birds in our pastures, pick some fruit if in-season, or sit and enjoy wildlife, sounds of the creek, and views of the La Plata Mountains, Sleeping Ute Mountain, and Mesa Verde. Our 50 acres is situated in Southwest Colorado between Cortez, Mancos, and Dolores. 5 minutes to Phil’s World for mountain biking, 1 hour to Durango, and 2 hours to Telluride. Pay for the experience - farm tour and all the fixings. The breakfast, stay and hospitality is included with the farm tour! Note: this is NOT a commercial campground; rather an agricultural business with a focus on all things lavender. Come adventure, smell the flowers (literally!), and enjoy feeling of these ancient healing lands!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$85
 / night

8. Animas River Valley red cliffs

95%
(129)
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
from 
$50
 / night

11. Denkai Animal Sanctuary

100%
(2)
27mi from Bayfield · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled amidst 40 acres of breathtaking Mountain Views, our tranquil sanctuary offers a truly serene and peaceful retreat. Located on our nonprofit animal sanctuary property, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while knowing that your stay supports a worthy cause. Just a short ten-mile drive away lies the renowned Lake Nighthorse, a haven for water enthusiasts. And for those looking to explore the shimmering waters, we provide convenient on-site paddleboard rentals, ensuring you have everything you need for an unforgettable aquatic adventure. As you wander through our expansive grounds, you'll discover pockets of lush greenery and shaded areas, perfect for finding solace in the embrace of nature. If you're traveling with an RV, worry not, as we offer ample parking space to accommodate your vehicle. Additionally, horse owners will find our sheltered areas with larger paddocks ideal for their equine companions. Whether you're seeking a peaceful respite or embarking on an equestrian adventure, our sanctuary provides the perfect haven for both humans and horses alike. At our sanctuary, we understand that everyone has unique needs and desires. Whether you're in search of a quiet place to rejuvenate your soul or simply passing through the area, we are dedicated to catering to your individual requirements. While we don't provide amenities such as water, electricity, or septic facilities for RVs, we encourage you to come prepared for sustainability. Bring your own water and necessary items to ensure a comfortable stay. Rest assured, our idyllic surroundings and warm hospitality will make your visit a memorable one, regardless of the purpose of your stay.
Pets
from 
$25
 / night

13. Dulce Base Tipi On The Jicarilla

40mi from Bayfield · 1 site · Lodging
Escape to the serene beauty of Northern New Mexico and experience a unique stay in our tipi nestled in the mountains on the Jicarilla Apache reservation near Archuleta Mesa, aka the Dulce UFO Underground Base. Our tipi offers a one-of-a-kind getaway where you can connect with nature and immerse yourself in the rich culture of this sacred land. You never know what kind of sighting you will discover, whether it’s underneath the stars or in broad daylight! We look forward to hosting you soon! The space The Space: Our 26 ft. tipi is designed for comfort and relaxation while providing an authentic Native American experience. Here, you'll find: •Accommodation: The tipi comfortably accommodates up to four guests with cozy sleeping arrangements. Inside the tipi, you'll find comfortable bedding, warm Pendleton blankets, and soft pillows to ensure a restful night's sleep. •Archuleta Mesa Mountain Views: Wake up to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, where you can watch the sunrise and stargaze at night from the comfort of your tipi. •Outdoor Fire Pit: Enjoy evenings around the outdoor fire pit, perfect for roasting marshmallows, storytelling, or simply taking in the peaceful ambiance. •BBQ Grill: We provide a propane grill and spatula for cooking your own meals. •Keurig Coffee Machine with Cups: We offer a selection of K-cups for our guests, including bottled water, and a snack bar. Perfect for watching the sunrise while listening to the ambiance created by the birds. •Solar-Powered Lights: We offer solar-powered lights outside the tipi, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere as the sun sets. •Outhouse Bathroom: A clean and well-maintained outhouse is located nearby for your convenience. The local Dulce laundry mat provides showers. Guest access Location: Our tipi is on the Jicarilla Apache reservation, offering a unique cultural experience. Explore the area's natural beauty by fishing at Mundo Lake, bird watching, or simply meditating in the tranquility of the surroundings. Don't forget to respect the land and the local traditions during your stay. A fishing permit is required by the Jicarilla Game & Fish Department. Nearby Attractions: •Archuleta Mesa: Explore the mystical Archuleta Mesa, which has been featured on national TV shows for being known as the Dulce UFO Underground Base. Non-tribal members are not allowed to explore the reservation without a Jicarilla Apache member. You can drive from County Road 357 to Highway 84 towards Pagosa Springs, Colorado to explore the area. •Rio Chama River: Take a short drive to the Rio Chama River for fly-fishing, or simply picnicking by the water's edge. Chama is also a great place to grab some delicious New Mexican food! •Carson National Forest: Embark on hiking trails through the Carson National Forest and discover the diverse flora and fauna of the region. •Jicarilla Apache Cultural Heritage Center: Visit to purchase authentic Jicarilla Apache baskets, beadwork, and artwork. •Pagosa Springs Hot Springs: Pagosa is in Colorado and is about a 48-minute drive from the tipi’s location. You can take the main Highway or County Road 357 to get there. The County Road is known to the locals as the “shortcut”. Either way, both routes are very beautiful. Other things to note Important Information: •This is a semi-remote and off-grid location. Please be prepared for a rustic experience with access to electricity inside the tipi. We recommend bringing a cooler with food and drinks. •Respect for the land and its cultural significance is of utmost importance. Please follow any guidelines or restrictions provided by the local Jicarilla Apache Nation. •Note that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so come prepared with appropriate clothing and gear. Extra blankets, if you get cold easily. •Please be aware of wildlife in the area.
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$140
 / 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% (926)

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. The Art Shack A Tiny Glamping Cabin

100%
(7)
29mi from Bayfield · 1 site · Lodging
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
from 
$70
 / night

3. Linda M.’s Santa Rita Ranch

99%
(129)
19mi from Bayfield · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Santa Rita Ranch is located in a rural, agricultural valley south of Durango, Colorado. Originally a dairy and hay farm, the Mannix's raised all organic beef in the past. Currently it operates as a hay farm and Linda has three horses and three donkeys. Very quiet rural area with plenty of open space. Elevation 6,000 ft. Learn more about this land: The 40 acre Santa Rita Ranch has hayfields, irrigation and plenty of room to camp. Located 20 minutes south of Durango Colorado it is quiet and peaceful. Good internet access!  Porta potty available. Only 20 minutes to two wineries: Foxfire Farms in Ignacio, CO and Wines of the San Juans near Aztec, NM.  Paddleboarding and windsurfing on Lake Nighthorse. Lots of mountain bike trails near Durango and good road biking on our CR 213. Flying into Durango? We have a tent and camp chairs for you! Horses and donkeys available to pet.  Horse boarding available for those traveling with their equine friends.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night

6. Lavender Farm Stay

100%
(52)
48mi from Bayfield · 3 sites · Lodging
Welcome to Mesa Verde Lavender! We are a working lavender farm with 2000+ lavender plants, a flower garden, vegetables, and a small orchard. Hike in the canyon that splits our property, roam with the birds in our pastures, pick some fruit if in-season, or sit and enjoy wildlife, sounds of the creek, and views of the La Plata Mountains, Sleeping Ute Mountain, and Mesa Verde. Our 50 acres is situated in Southwest Colorado between Cortez, Mancos, and Dolores. 5 minutes to Phil’s World for mountain biking, 1 hour to Durango, and 2 hours to Telluride. Pay for the experience - farm tour and all the fixings. The breakfast, stay and hospitality is included with the farm tour! Note: this is NOT a commercial campground; rather an agricultural business with a focus on all things lavender. Come adventure, smell the flowers (literally!), and enjoy feeling of these ancient healing lands!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$85
 / night

8. Animas River Valley red cliffs

95%
(129)
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
from 
$50
 / night

11. Denkai Animal Sanctuary

100%
(2)
27mi from Bayfield · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled amidst 40 acres of breathtaking Mountain Views, our tranquil sanctuary offers a truly serene and peaceful retreat. Located on our nonprofit animal sanctuary property, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while knowing that your stay supports a worthy cause. Just a short ten-mile drive away lies the renowned Lake Nighthorse, a haven for water enthusiasts. And for those looking to explore the shimmering waters, we provide convenient on-site paddleboard rentals, ensuring you have everything you need for an unforgettable aquatic adventure. As you wander through our expansive grounds, you'll discover pockets of lush greenery and shaded areas, perfect for finding solace in the embrace of nature. If you're traveling with an RV, worry not, as we offer ample parking space to accommodate your vehicle. Additionally, horse owners will find our sheltered areas with larger paddocks ideal for their equine companions. Whether you're seeking a peaceful respite or embarking on an equestrian adventure, our sanctuary provides the perfect haven for both humans and horses alike. At our sanctuary, we understand that everyone has unique needs and desires. Whether you're in search of a quiet place to rejuvenate your soul or simply passing through the area, we are dedicated to catering to your individual requirements. While we don't provide amenities such as water, electricity, or septic facilities for RVs, we encourage you to come prepared for sustainability. Bring your own water and necessary items to ensure a comfortable stay. Rest assured, our idyllic surroundings and warm hospitality will make your visit a memorable one, regardless of the purpose of your stay.
Pets
from 
$25
 / night

13. Dulce Base Tipi On The Jicarilla

40mi from Bayfield · 1 site · Lodging
Escape to the serene beauty of Northern New Mexico and experience a unique stay in our tipi nestled in the mountains on the Jicarilla Apache reservation near Archuleta Mesa, aka the Dulce UFO Underground Base. Our tipi offers a one-of-a-kind getaway where you can connect with nature and immerse yourself in the rich culture of this sacred land. You never know what kind of sighting you will discover, whether it’s underneath the stars or in broad daylight! We look forward to hosting you soon! The space The Space: Our 26 ft. tipi is designed for comfort and relaxation while providing an authentic Native American experience. Here, you'll find: •Accommodation: The tipi comfortably accommodates up to four guests with cozy sleeping arrangements. Inside the tipi, you'll find comfortable bedding, warm Pendleton blankets, and soft pillows to ensure a restful night's sleep. •Archuleta Mesa Mountain Views: Wake up to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, where you can watch the sunrise and stargaze at night from the comfort of your tipi. •Outdoor Fire Pit: Enjoy evenings around the outdoor fire pit, perfect for roasting marshmallows, storytelling, or simply taking in the peaceful ambiance. •BBQ Grill: We provide a propane grill and spatula for cooking your own meals. •Keurig Coffee Machine with Cups: We offer a selection of K-cups for our guests, including bottled water, and a snack bar. Perfect for watching the sunrise while listening to the ambiance created by the birds. •Solar-Powered Lights: We offer solar-powered lights outside the tipi, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere as the sun sets. •Outhouse Bathroom: A clean and well-maintained outhouse is located nearby for your convenience. The local Dulce laundry mat provides showers. Guest access Location: Our tipi is on the Jicarilla Apache reservation, offering a unique cultural experience. Explore the area's natural beauty by fishing at Mundo Lake, bird watching, or simply meditating in the tranquility of the surroundings. Don't forget to respect the land and the local traditions during your stay. A fishing permit is required by the Jicarilla Game & Fish Department. Nearby Attractions: •Archuleta Mesa: Explore the mystical Archuleta Mesa, which has been featured on national TV shows for being known as the Dulce UFO Underground Base. Non-tribal members are not allowed to explore the reservation without a Jicarilla Apache member. You can drive from County Road 357 to Highway 84 towards Pagosa Springs, Colorado to explore the area. •Rio Chama River: Take a short drive to the Rio Chama River for fly-fishing, or simply picnicking by the water's edge. Chama is also a great place to grab some delicious New Mexican food! •Carson National Forest: Embark on hiking trails through the Carson National Forest and discover the diverse flora and fauna of the region. •Jicarilla Apache Cultural Heritage Center: Visit to purchase authentic Jicarilla Apache baskets, beadwork, and artwork. •Pagosa Springs Hot Springs: Pagosa is in Colorado and is about a 48-minute drive from the tipi’s location. You can take the main Highway or County Road 357 to get there. The County Road is known to the locals as the “shortcut”. Either way, both routes are very beautiful. Other things to note Important Information: •This is a semi-remote and off-grid location. Please be prepared for a rustic experience with access to electricity inside the tipi. We recommend bringing a cooler with food and drinks. •Respect for the land and its cultural significance is of utmost importance. Please follow any guidelines or restrictions provided by the local Jicarilla Apache Nation. •Note that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so come prepared with appropriate clothing and gear. Extra blankets, if you get cold easily. •Please be aware of wildlife in the area.
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$140
 / night

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Farm stays near Bayfield 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.