Camping in Durango, CO, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

United States
—
Colorado
—
Durango

96% (1371 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Durango

Dog-friendly getaways

Top camping destinations

Truchas

82 campgrounds

Taylor Park Reservoir

750 campgrounds

Canyonlands National Park

315 campgrounds

San Isabel National Forest

725 campgrounds

El Valle de Arroyo Seco

85 campgrounds

Moab Field Office

318 campgrounds

This was taken (with a 400mm lens) in the parking lot at the store below the campground. The sand dunes sit on the west edge of the Sangre de Cristo mountains and so see some pretty awesome sunsets.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

688 campgrounds

Under $50

95%

(103)

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.

Camp Summit

1 site · RV95 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.

Linda M.’s Santa Rita Ranch

3 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Durango, CO

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. Canyon hiking direct from the ranch. Horses and donkeys available to pet. Horse boarding available for those traveling with their equine friends.

100%

(22)

Juniper Moon Homestead

1 site · RV4 acres · Durango, CO

We are a small start up homestead situated on 4 acres in Durango, Co. The drive to town is about 20 mins where you will find everything you need including tons of outdoor adventures (hiking, rafting, rock climbing, mountain bike trails!) There is a community pond and river within walking distance from our property. Currently we are offering 120v electric hookup and you can fill your fresh water tank. We do not have a sewer dump at this time. We are a busy family working to grow our homestead. Please reach with any questions and to book. ***We can only accept fully self-contained RVs with a bathroom inside***

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.

12 top campgrounds near Durango

97%

(15)

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.

Camp Summit

1 site · RV95 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.

Juniper Moon Homestead

1 site · RV4 acres · Durango, CO

We are a small start up homestead situated on 4 acres in Durango, Co. The drive to town is about 20 mins where you will find everything you need including tons of outdoor adventures (hiking, rafting, rock climbing, mountain bike trails!) There is a community pond and river within walking distance from our property. Currently we are offering 120v electric hookup and you can fill your fresh water tank. We do not have a sewer dump at this time. We are a busy family working to grow our homestead. Please reach with any questions and to book. ***We can only accept fully self-contained RVs with a bathroom inside***

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.

Linda M.’s Santa Rita Ranch

3 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Durango, CO

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. Canyon hiking direct from the ranch. Horses and donkeys available to pet. Horse boarding available for those traveling with their equine friends.

97%

(216)

Tranquility @ The Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents600 acres · Hesperus, CO

5th generation, 600 Acre working farm, with two miles of the La Plata River running through it and spectacular views of the La Plata Mountains and Sleeping Ute Mountain. You will find a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife; Southwest Sage, Cactus, Ponderosa, Pinion, and Pine trees, Mule Deer, Turkey, Fox, Rabbits, Bald Eagles, and Red Tail Hawks to name a few. Learn more about this land: 600 Acre working farm, with two miles of the La Plata River running through it and spectacular views of the La Plata Mountains and Sleeping Ute Mountain. You will find a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife (Southwest Sage, Cactus, Ponderosa, Pinion, and Pine trees, Mule Deer, Turkey, Fox, Rabbits, Bald Eagles, and Red Tail Hawks to name a few) . Guests are encouraged to explore this beautiful piece of the southwest. The Farm is located just 12 miles from La Plata Canyon, 15 miles from Durango, 15 miles from Lake Nighthorse, and 35 miles from Mesa Verde National Park. There is one large campground that can hold up to 5 RV's and 1 secluded tent small camper site to choose from. Guest are welcome to purchase vegetables and fresh farm eggs.

93%

(7)

High elevation San Juan camping

1 site · Tent3 acres · Durango, CO

Learn more about this land:This 3-acre forested property sits at 8,600' elevation. The site boasts ponderosa pines (great for setting up slacklines). Nearby national forest access with plenty of hiking, bouldering, and mountain biking options (Haflin Creek, Baldy Mountain, Missionary Ridge to name a few). Bring your discs and play a round of disc golf in the yard! Purgatory ski resort, Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, and the river are all less than an hour away. 25 minute drive to downtown Durango.We live and work on site with our two border collies. Please let us know if you need access to our bathroom or kitchen so we can prepare accordingly. Thank you!

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 !

100%

(37)

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!

100%

(33)

Fourth Sister Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · CO

Ten acres overlook the La Plata Mountains outside of Durango, CO. My small farm borders pinyon forest and rings with crickets, redwing blackbirds, and chorus frogs. You can find shady spots in the Forest, the orchard, or enjoy the view from the clearing. The irrigation ditch offers fun for dogs and ambient sounds. This is a working farm, and we are often in the greenhouse and garden. Leashes dogs only to protect wildlife and chickens! You’re likely to see deer, raccoons, foxes, hawks, hummingbirds, and maybe a skunk!

Booked 1 time

E-Z Access Camping

2 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Mancos, CO

Welcome to Turning Beyond Ranch, your gateway to off-grid tranquility and unparalleled stargazing experiences. Nestled in the scenic Cherry Creek Valley, our ranch offers a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As you arrive, you'll be greeted by the soothing sounds of a live stream meandering through the property year-round. While fishing may not be the primary activity, the crystal-clear waters are perfect for wading and immersing yourself in the beauty of nature. Situated behind the lush garden area and alongside the county road, our campsite offers convenient access while still preserving a sense of seclusion. While you may occasionally hear the gentle hum of passing traffic from other residents, rest assured that you're in the heart of a safe and welcoming rural farm community. Just a short distance from the main highway, our ranch provides easy access to nearby attractions and amenities. Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the LaPlata Mountains and explore the myriad outdoor adventures awaiting you in the surrounding area. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a chance to reconnect with nature, or simply a place to gaze in awe at the star-filled sky, Turning Beyond Ranch promises an unforgettable experience like no other. Come join us and discover the magic of off-grid living in the heart of Colorado's stunning landscape.

Available this weekend

100%

(37)

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!

Linda M.’s Santa Rita Ranch

3 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Durango, CO

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. Canyon hiking direct from the ranch. Horses and donkeys available to pet. Horse boarding available for those traveling with their equine friends.

99%

(532)

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.

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.

Camp Summit

1 site · RV95 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.

Star Hosts in Durango

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.

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.

Tranquility @ The Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents600 acres · Hesperus, CO

5th generation, 600 Acre working farm, with two miles of the La Plata River running through it and spectacular views of the La Plata Mountains and Sleeping Ute Mountain. You will find a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife; Southwest Sage, Cactus, Ponderosa, Pinion, and Pine trees, Mule Deer, Turkey, Fox, Rabbits, Bald Eagles, and Red Tail Hawks to name a few. Learn more about this land: 600 Acre working farm, with two miles of the La Plata River running through it and spectacular views of the La Plata Mountains and Sleeping Ute Mountain. You will find a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife (Southwest Sage, Cactus, Ponderosa, Pinion, and Pine trees, Mule Deer, Turkey, Fox, Rabbits, Bald Eagles, and Red Tail Hawks to name a few) . Guests are encouraged to explore this beautiful piece of the southwest. The Farm is located just 12 miles from La Plata Canyon, 15 miles from Durango, 15 miles from Lake Nighthorse, and 35 miles from Mesa Verde National Park. There is one large campground that can hold up to 5 RV's and 1 secluded tent small camper site to choose from. Guest are welcome to purchase vegetables and fresh farm eggs.

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.

Linda M.’s Santa Rita Ranch

3 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Durango, CO

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. Canyon hiking direct from the ranch. Horses and donkeys available to pet. Horse boarding available for those traveling with their equine friends.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

97%

(35)

San Juan National Forest

Navajo Lake State Park

Navajo Dam, New Mexico

88%

(20)

Uncompahgre National Forest

Rio Grande National Forest

Alpine, Colorado

92%

(38)

Carson National Forest

La Madera, New Mexico

Camping near Durango guide

Overview

Things to know about camping near Durango

Durango is a beautiful mountain town tucked into the southwestern part of Colorado near Mesa Verde National Park. It’s one of Colorado’s largest mountain towns and it has the perfect combination of natural attractions, historic sites, and lively, big city entertainment. Durango offers easy access to hiking and mountain biking trails, ski runs, and whitewater fun as well as a happening downtown with shops, unique restaurants, and a lively arts scene. Campers will find plenty of convenient options near town, including glamping spots right in town, and more secluded spots in the surrounding San Juan National Forest.

Where to go

Durango

The town of Durango is a destination in itself. There are more trails running through Durango than any other city in Colorado and the Animas River flows right through town offering a range of water sports including a downtown whitewater park. Fishing is also great on several sections of the river including the seven mile stretch that flows right through town. The historic narrow-gauge railroad also runs daily from Durango to Silverton and offers stunning views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains.

La Plata Canyon

Located just west of Durrango, the La Plata Canyon Recreational Area is a popular hiking destination. The La Plata’s are an exceptionally beautiful range of the San Juan Mountains and are known to put on quite the wildflower show in early summer. The area offers numerous trails for the serious hiker including trails to several peaks above 12,000 feet. Campers will find plenty of established campgrounds and dispersed areas in La Plata Canyon.

Silverton

The old mining community of Silverton, Colorado is located about an hour north of Durango. Along the way, you’ll pass by Purgatory Resort and several trailheads including the Molas Pass section of the Colorado Trail and the popular Engineer Mountain Trail. Near Silverton, you’ll find plenty of jeep roads and hiking trails leading into the high country and several National Forest campgrounds.

Mesa Verde National Park

Located just 45 minutes west of Durango, Mesa Verde National Park preserved thousands of archeological sites including the famous multi-story dwellings built into the sides of cliffs. Visitors can tour the cliff dwellings on ranger-led tours and hike to rock art left behind by the Ancestral Puebloan people. Campers can almost always find a site at the Morefield Campground located inside the park.

When to go

The best time to hike, mountain bike, and camp in the mountains around Durango is between May and early October. Late July and early August are especially nice when the high country is blanketed with Indian paintbrush and Colorado columbine. Fall colors are typically the best during the latter half of September. Ski season typically opens in early December and runs through early April, although backcountry skiers can often visit until June.

Know before you go

Durango is a very popular outdoor destination. Book campsites and activities, like train tickets, in advance.
Pack sunscreen and plenty of layers. The Durango area boasts over 300 days of sunshine a year and can get very chilly at night at the high elevations.
Durango is very dog-friendly. Dogs are welcome on most trails in and around Durango as well as many places around town. Dogs are not allowed on trails in Mesa Verde National Park.
Bears are a common sight around Durango. Don’t leave food unattended while camping, and hike in groups if you can.