Discover the best mountainous campgrounds near Bayfield, Colorado

United States
—
Colorado
—
Bayfield

96% (950 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Bayfield

Available this weekend

Dog-friendly getaways

90%

(5)

Camp Summit

1 site · RV75 acres · Durango, CO

Immerse yourself in nature's embrace as you find nothing but forest, endless and serene. If you're fond of scenic vistas, this site awaits you at the edge of the tree line, offering an expansive view that stretches beyond. Venture along game trails or hiking paths that crisscross the property, and with a little exploration, discover a hidden meadow nestled within the woods. The location is also a prime spot for observing hawks gracefully ride the winds. Set on a wooded mountainside, the site gazes out over Durango valley, promising breathtaking views. Over 95 acres of undisturbed forest and game trails beckon you to explore. Begin your journey with an easy-to-moderate trailhead found at the base of the driveway. For those seeking water adventures, Lemon and Vallecito reservoirs are a mere 30 minutes away, while the heart of downtown Durango is a convenient 10-15 minute drive down the road.

95%

(104)

Animas River Valley red cliffs

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Durango, CO

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.

Bright Star Campground

32 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Cortez, CO

We have COMPLIMENTARY Wifi, Drinking Water, Ice, Hot Showers, Bathrooms, Shade, and an equipped Camper's Kitchen for our guests to enjoy from April 15 - Oct 15! There are TIPIS, CAMPING CABINS, TENT and BOONDOCK SITES. WE ALSO HAVE A NAVAJO HOGAN (wood yurt) OPEN-YEAR ROUND. All of our sites are not listed here. We can also accommodate groups and small events but not public events. We have a private covered group site as well. Bright Star Campground: Once used as a church camp, it is now a Campground for all to enjoy! We are a perfectly located vacation campground on 40 acres with amenities and wide-open spaces. Amenities include hot showers, an equipped community kitchen, a pavilion with hammocks, tables, ping pong, etc. Enjoy complimentary coffee, eggs, filtered drinking water and more. Bright Star Campground is located in the Great Sage Plain in the shadow of Mesa Verde National Park with panoramic mountain/mesa views of the Four Corners region, all only 5 miles southeast of Cortez. We are in an arid desert climate. Water is scarce, stored in cisterns for use in camp. Because of this we ask that you be conservative with water use in camp. We are a cannabis-friendly destination but ask that Cannabis use stay at your campsite, cabin or tipi. There are many things to do/see nearby: 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. There are museums and cultural centers in the area as well. Durango is 45 min, Telluride is 1.5 hrs away, and Moab is about 2.5 hours away-including Arches and Canyonlands National parks. The best/nearest airport is in Durango. Cortez has Denver Air (Key Lime Air) with connections to Denver and Phoenix. The nearest large international airport is in Salt Lake City or Albuquerque.

Bear springs

1 site · RV35 acres · Durango, CO

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.

100%

(33)

Mountain Meadow

4 sites · RVs1 acres · Bayfield, CO

Mountain Meadow is a beautiful, 1.2 acre, park-like piece of land with both forest and meadow! It regularly has a variety of wildlife passing through. Only 5 minutes to the San Juan National Forest by car ATV/OHV, snowmobile, or mountain bike, This is the ideal location for someone wanting to experience the best of what Southwest Colorado has to offer! Durango is located only 35 minutes away, with tons of visitor-friendly attractions!

12 top mountainous campgrounds near Bayfield

90%

(5)

Camp Summit

1 site · RV75 acres · Durango, CO

Immerse yourself in nature's embrace as you find nothing but forest, endless and serene. If you're fond of scenic vistas, this site awaits you at the edge of the tree line, offering an expansive view that stretches beyond. Venture along game trails or hiking paths that crisscross the property, and with a little exploration, discover a hidden meadow nestled within the woods. The location is also a prime spot for observing hawks gracefully ride the winds. Set on a wooded mountainside, the site gazes out over Durango valley, promising breathtaking views. Over 95 acres of undisturbed forest and game trails beckon you to explore. Begin your journey with an easy-to-moderate trailhead found at the base of the driveway. For those seeking water adventures, Lemon and Vallecito reservoirs are a mere 30 minutes away, while the heart of downtown Durango is a convenient 10-15 minute drive down the road.

Animas River Valley red cliffs

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Durango, CO

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.

Bear springs

1 site · RV35 acres · Durango, CO

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.

Mountain Meadow

4 sites · RVs1 acres · Bayfield, CO

Mountain Meadow is a beautiful, 1.2 acre, park-like piece of land with both forest and meadow! It regularly has a variety of wildlife passing through. Only 5 minutes to the San Juan National Forest by car ATV/OHV, snowmobile, or mountain bike, This is the ideal location for someone wanting to experience the best of what Southwest Colorado has to offer! Durango is located only 35 minutes away, with tons of visitor-friendly attractions!

Bright Star Campground

32 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Cortez, CO

We have COMPLIMENTARY Wifi, Drinking Water, Ice, Hot Showers, Bathrooms, Shade, and an equipped Camper's Kitchen for our guests to enjoy from April 15 - Oct 15! There are TIPIS, CAMPING CABINS, TENT and BOONDOCK SITES. WE ALSO HAVE A NAVAJO HOGAN (wood yurt) OPEN-YEAR ROUND. All of our sites are not listed here. We can also accommodate groups and small events but not public events. We have a private covered group site as well. Bright Star Campground: Once used as a church camp, it is now a Campground for all to enjoy! We are a perfectly located vacation campground on 40 acres with amenities and wide-open spaces. Amenities include hot showers, an equipped community kitchen, a pavilion with hammocks, tables, ping pong, etc. Enjoy complimentary coffee, eggs, filtered drinking water and more. Bright Star Campground is located in the Great Sage Plain in the shadow of Mesa Verde National Park with panoramic mountain/mesa views of the Four Corners region, all only 5 miles southeast of Cortez. We are in an arid desert climate. Water is scarce, stored in cisterns for use in camp. Because of this we ask that you be conservative with water use in camp. We are a cannabis-friendly destination but ask that Cannabis use stay at your campsite, cabin or tipi. There are many things to do/see nearby: 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. There are museums and cultural centers in the area as well. Durango is 45 min, Telluride is 1.5 hrs away, and Moab is about 2.5 hours away-including Arches and Canyonlands National parks. The best/nearest airport is in Durango. Cortez has Denver Air (Key Lime Air) with connections to Denver and Phoenix. The nearest large international airport is in Salt Lake City or Albuquerque.

100%

(3)

Vallecito Lake - RV Space

1 site · RV1 acre · Bayfield, CO

Welcome to our beautiful RV SPACE located in the heart of the great outdoors just North of Vallecito Lake. Nestled in a serene and peaceful environment, this RV SPACE is the perfect destination for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. The space The space has full hookups. Electricity (30/50amp), Water, and Sewer. Will accommodate up to a 40 ft. RV. Wifi 6 Included. 11mbs *Please note this is a SPACE Only. No RV for rent. *This RV Space is a Back-In Space

100%

(5)

Ponderosa Palisades

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Durango, CO

Solar-powered, off-grid cabin boasting a rustic layout and lovely patio. 12 minutes from Downtown Durango, 5 minutes to Lake Nighthorse, 15 minutes to Hesperus Ski Mountain, 30 minutes to Durango Airport, 40 minutes to Purgatory Ski Resort and 50 minutes to Mesa Verde NP. Fantastic mountain biking, hiking, boating and camping within a thirty-mile radius. Durango Narrow Gauge Railway runs to Silverton—a beautiful mountain town—during spring, summer and fall.Learn more about this land:Awesome little cabin with solar power. No plumbing, sink or shower. Access to an outdoor composting toilet and a hose water tap. Sometimes access to a bathroom, kitchen and living area in the main house is available for an additional fee. Beautiful forested land with Ponderosa, Gamble Oak, and Aspen.

95%

(125)

Grizzly Peak Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Hesperus, CO

Located in southwest colorado the Grizzly Peak Ranch is a beautiful 40 acre piece of land. Home to a fun loving family, horses, and dogs! We have seen Elk, Mule Deer, Black Bear, Coyotes, and even Mountain Lions on this property! Close enough to town and it's conveniences- but far enough away you won't hear or see a soul.Learn more about this land:Located an easy 15 minutes from down town Durango this beautiful property offers guaranteed privacy and secluded camping- you will be the only campers on the sprawling 40 acre property, with convenient access to all that Durango has to offer, and just 10 minutes from Lake Nighthorse- great for fishing, paddle boarding, canoeing, etc. Come pitch your tent or park your camper in the pinon and juniper trees, with magnificent views of the la plata mountains. Abundant wildlife, magnificent stars, quiet seclusion.

99%

(57)

Durango Placer

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Hesperus, CO

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 !

Echo Canyon Reservoir Camping

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · CO

Beautiful forest with 5 acres of land to camp, the area is mostly flat with a secluded feel, great views available with a very short 5 minute hike. There is a reservoir that is a nice hike down and a river that is on the other side that can be walked to, but its steep and a good half mile away! This river leads to a hot springs resort that is pretty awesome but is a whole separate company. We're excited to host you! Pagosa Springs downtown and hot springs are about a 10-15 minute drive from the site. This is not a commercial property. This is an RV dry camping site so please remain self-contained and pack out whatever you pack in! No open campfires, gas stoves and enclosed fires are allowed when no fire ban.

100%

(42)

MSB Legacy Retreat

4 sites · RVs9 acres · Mancos, CO

We have 9 acres with plenty of elbow room. Located 5 minutes from Mancos, right off CO 184, there is one site in the trees with full hookups and 2 sites on top perfect for group camping. Sites on top have a beautiful view of Mesa Verde to the west and the La Plata mountains to the east. Both sites have water and electricity and sewer dump nearby. The area is full of history, from Mesa Verde National Park to Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. 3 ski areas within an hour, whitewater rafting, hiking, biking, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, stargazing or just enjoying the sunsets. With Mancos only 5 minutes away, there are dining options, brewery, parks, library, and shopping all with a small, hometown feel. Come enjoy all the 4 Corners area has to offer!

Booked 1 time

Magical Mountains

1 site · RV1 acre · Silverton, CO

Located at an impressive elevation of 9318 feet, our dirt lot sits in the heart of Silverton, offering unparalleled access to outdoor adventures. Silverton serves as the drop-off and pick-up point for the iconic Durango/Silverton Railroad, adding to the area's charm. Just a short walk from town and conveniently positioned one block away from the OHV route, our location is ideal for exploring all that Silverton has to offer. For a wealth of information about the area, feel free to click on the following link: https://www.colorado.com/cities-and-towns/silverton Additionally, we provide electric hookups for your convenience, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst the stunning scenery of Silverton.

Star Hosts in Bayfield

99%

(533)

Bright Star Campground

32 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Cortez, CO

We have COMPLIMENTARY Wifi, Drinking Water, Ice, Hot Showers, Bathrooms, Shade, and an equipped Camper's Kitchen for our guests to enjoy from April 15 - Oct 15! There are TIPIS, CAMPING CABINS, TENT and BOONDOCK SITES. WE ALSO HAVE A NAVAJO HOGAN (wood yurt) OPEN-YEAR ROUND. All of our sites are not listed here. We can also accommodate groups and small events but not public events. We have a private covered group site as well. Bright Star Campground: Once used as a church camp, it is now a Campground for all to enjoy! We are a perfectly located vacation campground on 40 acres with amenities and wide-open spaces. Amenities include hot showers, an equipped community kitchen, a pavilion with hammocks, tables, ping pong, etc. Enjoy complimentary coffee, eggs, filtered drinking water and more. Bright Star Campground is located in the Great Sage Plain in the shadow of Mesa Verde National Park with panoramic mountain/mesa views of the Four Corners region, all only 5 miles southeast of Cortez. We are in an arid desert climate. Water is scarce, stored in cisterns for use in camp. Because of this we ask that you be conservative with water use in camp. We are a cannabis-friendly destination but ask that Cannabis use stay at your campsite, cabin or tipi. There are many things to do/see nearby: 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. There are museums and cultural centers in the area as well. Durango is 45 min, Telluride is 1.5 hrs away, and Moab is about 2.5 hours away-including Arches and Canyonlands National parks. The best/nearest airport is in Durango. Cortez has Denver Air (Key Lime Air) with connections to Denver and Phoenix. The nearest large international airport is in Salt Lake City or Albuquerque.

Mountain Meadow

4 sites · RVs1 acres · Bayfield, CO

Mountain Meadow is a beautiful, 1.2 acre, park-like piece of land with both forest and meadow! It regularly has a variety of wildlife passing through. Only 5 minutes to the San Juan National Forest by car ATV/OHV, snowmobile, or mountain bike, This is the ideal location for someone wanting to experience the best of what Southwest Colorado has to offer! Durango is located only 35 minutes away, with tons of visitor-friendly attractions!

Durango Placer

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Hesperus, CO

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 !

Bear springs

1 site · RV35 acres · Durango, CO

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.

Grizzly Peak Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Hesperus, CO

Located in southwest colorado the Grizzly Peak Ranch is a beautiful 40 acre piece of land. Home to a fun loving family, horses, and dogs! We have seen Elk, Mule Deer, Black Bear, Coyotes, and even Mountain Lions on this property! Close enough to town and it's conveniences- but far enough away you won't hear or see a soul.Learn more about this land:Located an easy 15 minutes from down town Durango this beautiful property offers guaranteed privacy and secluded camping- you will be the only campers on the sprawling 40 acre property, with convenient access to all that Durango has to offer, and just 10 minutes from Lake Nighthorse- great for fishing, paddle boarding, canoeing, etc. Come pitch your tent or park your camper in the pinon and juniper trees, with magnificent views of the la plata mountains. Abundant wildlife, magnificent stars, quiet seclusion.

Under $50

95%

(104)

Animas River Valley red cliffs

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Durango, CO

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.

Bright Star Campground

32 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Cortez, CO

We have COMPLIMENTARY Wifi, Drinking Water, Ice, Hot Showers, Bathrooms, Shade, and an equipped Camper's Kitchen for our guests to enjoy from April 15 - Oct 15! There are TIPIS, CAMPING CABINS, TENT and BOONDOCK SITES. WE ALSO HAVE A NAVAJO HOGAN (wood yurt) OPEN-YEAR ROUND. All of our sites are not listed here. We can also accommodate groups and small events but not public events. We have a private covered group site as well. Bright Star Campground: Once used as a church camp, it is now a Campground for all to enjoy! We are a perfectly located vacation campground on 40 acres with amenities and wide-open spaces. Amenities include hot showers, an equipped community kitchen, a pavilion with hammocks, tables, ping pong, etc. Enjoy complimentary coffee, eggs, filtered drinking water and more. Bright Star Campground is located in the Great Sage Plain in the shadow of Mesa Verde National Park with panoramic mountain/mesa views of the Four Corners region, all only 5 miles southeast of Cortez. We are in an arid desert climate. Water is scarce, stored in cisterns for use in camp. Because of this we ask that you be conservative with water use in camp. We are a cannabis-friendly destination but ask that Cannabis use stay at your campsite, cabin or tipi. There are many things to do/see nearby: 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. There are museums and cultural centers in the area as well. Durango is 45 min, Telluride is 1.5 hrs away, and Moab is about 2.5 hours away-including Arches and Canyonlands National parks. The best/nearest airport is in Durango. Cortez has Denver Air (Key Lime Air) with connections to Denver and Phoenix. The nearest large international airport is in Salt Lake City or Albuquerque.

Vallecito Lake - RV Space

1 site · RV1 acre · Bayfield, CO

Welcome to our beautiful RV SPACE located in the heart of the great outdoors just North of Vallecito Lake. Nestled in a serene and peaceful environment, this RV SPACE is the perfect destination for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. The space The space has full hookups. Electricity (30/50amp), Water, and Sewer. Will accommodate up to a 40 ft. RV. Wifi 6 Included. 11mbs *Please note this is a SPACE Only. No RV for rent. *This RV Space is a Back-In Space

Camp Summit

1 site · RV75 acres · Durango, CO

Immerse yourself in nature's embrace as you find nothing but forest, endless and serene. If you're fond of scenic vistas, this site awaits you at the edge of the tree line, offering an expansive view that stretches beyond. Venture along game trails or hiking paths that crisscross the property, and with a little exploration, discover a hidden meadow nestled within the woods. The location is also a prime spot for observing hawks gracefully ride the winds. Set on a wooded mountainside, the site gazes out over Durango valley, promising breathtaking views. Over 95 acres of undisturbed forest and game trails beckon you to explore. Begin your journey with an easy-to-moderate trailhead found at the base of the driveway. For those seeking water adventures, Lemon and Vallecito reservoirs are a mere 30 minutes away, while the heart of downtown Durango is a convenient 10-15 minute drive down the road.

Grizzly Peak Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Hesperus, CO

Located in southwest colorado the Grizzly Peak Ranch is a beautiful 40 acre piece of land. Home to a fun loving family, horses, and dogs! We have seen Elk, Mule Deer, Black Bear, Coyotes, and even Mountain Lions on this property! Close enough to town and it's conveniences- but far enough away you won't hear or see a soul.Learn more about this land:Located an easy 15 minutes from down town Durango this beautiful property offers guaranteed privacy and secluded camping- you will be the only campers on the sprawling 40 acre property, with convenient access to all that Durango has to offer, and just 10 minutes from Lake Nighthorse- great for fishing, paddle boarding, canoeing, etc. Come pitch your tent or park your camper in the pinon and juniper trees, with magnificent views of the la plata mountains. Abundant wildlife, magnificent stars, quiet seclusion.

Mountainous camping near Bayfield guide

Overview

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.

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.