The best pets off leash campgrounds near Durango, Colorado

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.

96% (362)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

96% (362)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Nakation Getaway

99%

(74)

28mi from Durango · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · La Plata, NM

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

2. Ribbit Retreat

86%

(7)

7.7mi from Durango · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Durango, CO

Scenic RV Parking & Outdoor Adventure in Southwest Colorado Welcome to our open-field RV site in beautiful Durango, Colorado! Located at Toad Road, our property offers a convenient and peaceful spot to park your rig while you explore the stunning landscapes of La Plata County and beyond. Amenities & Features: ✔️ Electrical hookups available ✔️ Spacious open field with easy access for cars of all sizes and RVs ✔️ 5+ acres, 2 new Eno hammocks! ✔️ Perfect for short stays while visiting Durango, Mesa Verde, San Juan National Forest, and more We welcome outdoor enthusiasts, but please be respectful of our neighbors and keep noise levels reasonable. No hunting allowed on site. Whether you're here for adventure, sightseeing, or a relaxing stop along your journey, this is a great place to set up for a few nights. Book your stay and enjoy all that Southwest Colorado has to offer!

3. Ponderosa Paradise

100%

(4)

17mi from Durango · 1 site · Tent, RV · Bayfield, CO

Absolutely beautiful aspen glade surrounded by 65 foot pine trees bordering national forest lands. Beautiful hiking trails and views. Absolutely gorgeous star gazing with zero light or noise pollution. 10 miles from Vallecito lake and 15 miles from Weminuche wilderness access!

4. S & S Lazy Acres

41mi from Durango · 1 site · Tent, RV · Dolores, CO

Great views of Mesa Verde, Sleeping Ute and Abajo Mountains. Close to hiking and biking trails. Only 70 minutes to Telluride, 60 minutes to Durango. Very peaceful and quiet with deer, rabbits and probably a fox or two to see plus wonderful views and sunsets.

5. Durango Placer

100%

(107)

14mi from Durango · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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 !

6. Mountain View Campground

94%

(61)

31mi from Durango · 50 sites · Tents, RVs · Aztec, NM

Learn more about this land:Enjoy majestic sunrise and sunset views as you bask in the relaxed atmosphere. Mountain biking is available at the edge of the property. Horseshoes is available onsite. Fishing, kayaking, hiking, motocross, natural arches, and so much more are just a short drive away!

7. Tranquility @ The Farm

98%

(256)

18mi from Durango · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Hesperus, CO

Dear Valued Guests, I hope this message finds you well. As we reflect on the past winter, we’ve observed that our area received minimal precipitation. While the lower elevations received almost no moisture, the higher elevations are at only 53% of the 20-year average snowpack. Given these conditions, I have made the difficult decision not to host campers this year due to the heightened fire risk. Your safety is my utmost priority, and I would never want to put any of my guests in harm's way. Please stay tuned for updates. If we receive significant rainfall this spring, I may reconsider hosting this year. Otherwise, I look forward to welcoming you in 2026. Wishing you all happy and safe camping adventures! Warm regards, Erin P.S. We can't wait to welcome you back for an even better experience in the future! 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.

8. Aimee's Social Club

100%

(2)

32mi from Durango · 1 site · RV · Aztec, NM

My home is full of charm and history in the heart of Aztec, NM. I have a spot for an RV, an outdoor bedroom on the patio or the occasional bedroom inside available. There can be water and electricity for a higher rate. I have a hammock, fire pit, inflatable hot tub that stays at 104, and an outdoor movie screen. There's a brew pub, VFW, Pizza place, Thai restaurant and others all in walking distance. I'm 20 minutes from Tico Time Resort, 40 minutes to Durango and 15 minutes to Farmington City proper. For attractions, I'm near Aztec Ruins, Bisti Badlands, Cox Arch, Farmington Lake, best fly fishing in NM at Navajo dam and plenty more! I work remotely and travel so you may be asked to water the gardens and feed the cats. Please ask if you have any questions!

9. Cottonwoods

100%

(8)

39mi from Durango · 1 site · RV · Dolores, CO

Learn more about this land: High desert solitude - you got it - rented as the only spot available at Mesa Verde Hemp - a five acre working hemp farm. The farm is on Highway 145 so you will hear traffic during the day but very quiet at night. Fantastic stars at night. One dog is ok - before 10 am and after 6 your dog can run the whole farm - if he is friendly. I have a small dog that gets along fine with other dogs.

10. Lower Blanco Camping Hideaway

86%

(11)

48mi from Durango · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pagosa Springs, CO

Learn more about this land:While Camping on our site you will enjoy the privacy of being one of the last property's on the road with little to no traffic whatsoever. Surrounded by Huge Ponderosa Pines and National Forest you will enjoy the serene peace that comes from being tucked away behind a mountain side. Just 30 minutes from town where you can dine and visit the famous Hot Springs. With the national forest so close by you will have many opportunities as far as hiking trails and mountain biking. There is also fishing nearby on ECHO Lake as well as the San Juan river where you can park downtown Pagosa Springs and fish there. In the Winter you are only about 45 minutes from Wolf Creek Ski Area.  There is no service or wifi available here so you will be very remote and off the grid. 

11. Camps At Kiffen Canyon

100%

(2)

27mi from Durango · 1 site · Tent, RV · Cedar Hill, NM

A beautiful campsite suitable for van or tent camping. Featuring a fire pit, bbq, picnic table, and level tent spot. Enjoy the beautiful views of the Animas River Valley below! Located only 6 miles from the historic Aztec Ruins National Monument and beautiful downtown Aztec, NM. Kiffen Canyon is an awesome place to explore by gravel bike with access to hundreds of miles of dirt roads. Or if mountain bikes are more your thing, there is plenty of single track in the area as well. If hiking is more your thing, there are tons of cool places to explore around Aztec. Including Anasazi archeological sites, natural sandstone arches, and beautiful cliff faces.

12. Dolores River Rim Camp

100%

(2)

47mi from Durango · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lewis, CO

Welcome to our high desert hideaway in Southwest Colorado with some of the best views the Four Corners has to offer! Expect warm summer days, cool nights, and some of the best sunrises and sunsets! Starry nights most of the year. The property include a spacious cabin and several dry camping site dispersed throughout the property. For the dry camping sites we keep things simple—this is rustic, off-grid camping, so come prepared with your own water and supplies. Wide open spaces with mountain views in every direction. Rolling hills and shallow canyons dotted with juniper, oak brush, pine, and sagebrush. Wildlife, including elk and deer, can be found wandering through the property. With thousands of acres for you to explore, this is the perfect destination for hiking, biking, foraging, birdwatching, wildlife photography, stargazing, and soaking in the beauty of nature. You can also explore local history including Lowry Pueblo, a fascinating ancient Ancestral Pueblo ruin, just 16 miles down the road. We’re happy to share this peaceful corner of our family ranch with you and hope you’ll love it as much as we do! Let us know if you have any questions—we’re happy to help you plan your stay!

13. Campfire Ranch Red Mountain Pass

43mi from Durango · 1 site · Lodging · Ophir, CO

It’s time to reset your expectations of what a backcountry hut can be. Surrounded by the San Juan National Forest, Campfire Ranch Red Mountain Pass is your perfect launch pad for off-grid outdoor adventure, with all the comforts of home. Explore spectacular views at 11,200 ft and stunning backcountry terrain with access to world class hiking, mountain biking, trail running, alpine lake fishing and OHV trails. We offer full-hut bookings with food service, giving you space and peace of mind while staying in the backcountry. Open for summer hut trips June 20th - October 12th, 2025. Campfire Ranch Red Mountain Pass is located off the “Million Dollar Highway” halfway between Silverton and Ouray. You can access the hut via 4x4 road in the summer. The Hut offers 3 loft-style bedroom areas with 6 beds (sleeps 8) for you and your crew to make your own. Fresh linens and towels are provided during your stay - no need to schlep in a sleeping bag! Campfire Ranch Red Mountain Pass also offers a modern bathroom complete with hot & cold running water, flushing toilet, and toilet paper. No need to worry about trucking all of your food and cookware to Campfire Ranch Red Mountain Pass! Food service is included during your stay. Food service includes breakfast, mid-day snack, and dinner daily during your stay. You’re welcome to your bring favorite snacks or beverages for your trip, keeping in mind food storage space is limited. All meals are prepared with high-quality, natural and organic ingredients. Our staff is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences - just let us know during check-out so we’re aware of any allergies or restrictions! After a long day hiking and exploring, nothing hits quite like a sauna. Kick off the boots and get ready to sweat it out in our 6-person, wood burning sauna! We’ve got all the firewood needed already cut and ready for your crew as well. You can check-in with us anytime after 3pm the day of your reservation, all guests will be required to sign our release of liability waiver before camping (parents/guardians will have to sign for minors in your group) - you can review more details as well as our terms and rules on our website: CampfireRanch.co

Camper favorites near Durango

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Tranquility @ The Farm

98%

(256)

18mi from Durango · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Hesperus, CO

Dear Valued Guests, I hope this message finds you well. As we reflect on the past winter, we’ve observed that our area received minimal precipitation. While the lower elevations received almost no moisture, the higher elevations are at only 53% of the 20-year average snowpack. Given these conditions, I have made the difficult decision not to host campers this year due to the heightened fire risk. Your safety is my utmost priority, and I would never want to put any of my guests in harm's way. Please stay tuned for updates. If we receive significant rainfall this spring, I may reconsider hosting this year. Otherwise, I look forward to welcoming you in 2026. Wishing you all happy and safe camping adventures! Warm regards, Erin P.S. We can't wait to welcome you back for an even better experience in the future! 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.

Aimee's Social Club

100%

(2)

32mi from Durango · 1 site · RV · Aztec, NM

My home is full of charm and history in the heart of Aztec, NM. I have a spot for an RV, an outdoor bedroom on the patio or the occasional bedroom inside available. There can be water and electricity for a higher rate. I have a hammock, fire pit, inflatable hot tub that stays at 104, and an outdoor movie screen. There's a brew pub, VFW, Pizza place, Thai restaurant and others all in walking distance. I'm 20 minutes from Tico Time Resort, 40 minutes to Durango and 15 minutes to Farmington City proper. For attractions, I'm near Aztec Ruins, Bisti Badlands, Cox Arch, Farmington Lake, best fly fishing in NM at Navajo dam and plenty more! I work remotely and travel so you may be asked to water the gardens and feed the cats. Please ask if you have any questions!

Cottonwoods

100%

(8)

39mi from Durango · 1 site · RV · Dolores, CO

Learn more about this land: High desert solitude - you got it - rented as the only spot available at Mesa Verde Hemp - a five acre working hemp farm. The farm is on Highway 145 so you will hear traffic during the day but very quiet at night. Fantastic stars at night. One dog is ok - before 10 am and after 6 your dog can run the whole farm - if he is friendly. I have a small dog that gets along fine with other dogs.

Lower Blanco Camping Hideaway

86%

(11)

48mi from Durango · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pagosa Springs, CO

Learn more about this land:While Camping on our site you will enjoy the privacy of being one of the last property's on the road with little to no traffic whatsoever. Surrounded by Huge Ponderosa Pines and National Forest you will enjoy the serene peace that comes from being tucked away behind a mountain side. Just 30 minutes from town where you can dine and visit the famous Hot Springs. With the national forest so close by you will have many opportunities as far as hiking trails and mountain biking. There is also fishing nearby on ECHO Lake as well as the San Juan river where you can park downtown Pagosa Springs and fish there. In the Winter you are only about 45 minutes from Wolf Creek Ski Area.  There is no service or wifi available here so you will be very remote and off the grid. 

Camps At Kiffen Canyon

100%

(2)

27mi from Durango · 1 site · Tent, RV · Cedar Hill, NM

A beautiful campsite suitable for van or tent camping. Featuring a fire pit, bbq, picnic table, and level tent spot. Enjoy the beautiful views of the Animas River Valley below! Located only 6 miles from the historic Aztec Ruins National Monument and beautiful downtown Aztec, NM. Kiffen Canyon is an awesome place to explore by gravel bike with access to hundreds of miles of dirt roads. Or if mountain bikes are more your thing, there is plenty of single track in the area as well. If hiking is more your thing, there are tons of cool places to explore around Aztec. Including Anasazi archeological sites, natural sandstone arches, and beautiful cliff faces.

Dolores River Rim Camp

100%

(2)

47mi from Durango · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lewis, CO

Welcome to our high desert hideaway in Southwest Colorado with some of the best views the Four Corners has to offer! Expect warm summer days, cool nights, and some of the best sunrises and sunsets! Starry nights most of the year. The property include a spacious cabin and several dry camping site dispersed throughout the property. For the dry camping sites we keep things simple—this is rustic, off-grid camping, so come prepared with your own water and supplies. Wide open spaces with mountain views in every direction. Rolling hills and shallow canyons dotted with juniper, oak brush, pine, and sagebrush. Wildlife, including elk and deer, can be found wandering through the property. With thousands of acres for you to explore, this is the perfect destination for hiking, biking, foraging, birdwatching, wildlife photography, stargazing, and soaking in the beauty of nature. You can also explore local history including Lowry Pueblo, a fascinating ancient Ancestral Pueblo ruin, just 16 miles down the road. We’re happy to share this peaceful corner of our family ranch with you and hope you’ll love it as much as we do! Let us know if you have any questions—we’re happy to help you plan your stay!

Campfire Ranch Red Mountain Pass

43mi from Durango · 1 site · Lodging · Ophir, CO

It’s time to reset your expectations of what a backcountry hut can be. Surrounded by the San Juan National Forest, Campfire Ranch Red Mountain Pass is your perfect launch pad for off-grid outdoor adventure, with all the comforts of home. Explore spectacular views at 11,200 ft and stunning backcountry terrain with access to world class hiking, mountain biking, trail running, alpine lake fishing and OHV trails. We offer full-hut bookings with food service, giving you space and peace of mind while staying in the backcountry. Open for summer hut trips June 20th - October 12th, 2025. Campfire Ranch Red Mountain Pass is located off the “Million Dollar Highway” halfway between Silverton and Ouray. You can access the hut via 4x4 road in the summer. The Hut offers 3 loft-style bedroom areas with 6 beds (sleeps 8) for you and your crew to make your own. Fresh linens and towels are provided during your stay - no need to schlep in a sleeping bag! Campfire Ranch Red Mountain Pass also offers a modern bathroom complete with hot & cold running water, flushing toilet, and toilet paper. No need to worry about trucking all of your food and cookware to Campfire Ranch Red Mountain Pass! Food service is included during your stay. Food service includes breakfast, mid-day snack, and dinner daily during your stay. You’re welcome to your bring favorite snacks or beverages for your trip, keeping in mind food storage space is limited. All meals are prepared with high-quality, natural and organic ingredients. Our staff is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences - just let us know during check-out so we’re aware of any allergies or restrictions! After a long day hiking and exploring, nothing hits quite like a sauna. Kick off the boots and get ready to sweat it out in our 6-person, wood burning sauna! We’ve got all the firewood needed already cut and ready for your crew as well. You can check-in with us anytime after 3pm the day of your reservation, all guests will be required to sign our release of liability waiver before camping (parents/guardians will have to sign for minors in your group) - you can review more details as well as our terms and rules on our website: CampfireRanch.co

Stories from the community

D

Deneen

November 2025

24 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ponderosa Paradise

We loved Brad's spot in the woods! It was absolutely beautiful. He offered free fire wood and electricity as well and our overnight stay was so peaceful!

L

Lisa

October 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Ponderosa Paradise

Sweet spot, with a sweet host, tucked away amongst sweet trees :)

We didn’t know their names so we called them Frankie and Lola.

B

Barbara

October 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at Mountain View Campground

The campsites are in a slightly hilly, brushy area, so there’s some privacy built in. We picked campsite 11 so we could watch the beautiful sunset, and sunrise. It was so quiet out there!! Beautiful stars at night. The porta potty was clean and nearby and there were trash cans next to it. It was only our 2nd time hip camping so I was surprised that there wasnt a table and fire ring, just a space to camp . There were rocks to make a fire ring and we used our camping boxes for a table, so we were fine , but we’ll get a table top for future hipcamping. The owner’s two dogs joined us in the morning and were super friendly and fun.

L

Lucas

October 2025

45 ft fifth wheel

5 nights at Dolores River Rim Camp

We stayed at Old Corrals in our 47’ fifth wheel with two dogs and loved every minute. The site sits on huge open cattle lands that back up to almost two million acres of national forest — pure space and silence. Trails go on forever, from dirt roads to faint animal paths. During the fall rut we heard elk calls echoing across the hills, and the cattle wandered by like friendly neighbors. Hiking from camp brought sweeping views of the desert below, a winding river, and distant mountains. There are ancient Pueblo ruins nearby and endless public lands to explore. Joe was a great host — friendly, helpful, and clearly proud of his land. Even though he was out working fences, we rarely saw another soul. Note for big rigs: the last few miles are on unpaved road. It’s smoother than expected, but if rain is coming, plan to head out early — it turns impassable when wet. We’ll definitely be back.

I

Ian

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Nakation Getaway

We loved our stay at Nakation in our RV. Perfect secluded camp site in the gnarly scrub at the back of the property to enjoy some back to nature risqué quiet time 😜 …

Brooke

September 2025

19 ft travel trailer

5 nights at Ponderosa Paradise

This spot has a lot of potential. It truly is in a grove of aspens right up the hill from the host’s home. I was a week too early for the color change! I normally dry camp so I felt spoiled when the host ran both power and water to my camper. The spot was quiet and convenient to Durango, the Million Dollar Highway, and Vallecito Reservoir. I spent most of my time exploring those areas. I was in a trailer and had to back up a steep hill to get to the spot. It was not difficult, and if I had failed, the host was there to help. If I’m back in the area I will definitely stay there again!

Michelle

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Durango Placer

We had a great quick night at Joe’s place. There were so many amenities like a fully stocked camp kitchen, outhouse, shower set up, and plenty of chairs and tables. We didn’t have to unload much of our own stuff and could just use what was provided. We slept peacefully with the sound of the creek. We wish we could have stayed longer to explore more of the property and creek! Our dog was a bit anxious at first but Joe came by with a treat to say hello and she immediately was happy and relaxed. She loved playing in the creek.

R

Rashawn

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mountain View Campground

The campground is nice and quiet. I appreciate communication with the host. He is a great host! I will come back again!

S

September 2025

16 ft car

3 nights at Durango Placer

We loved the camp site its private and has all the things you need.

D

Dale

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Nakation Getaway

Sarah was very helpful. The property is very nice, I had the place to myself. Very much enjoyed it.

S

Shannon

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Nakation Getaway

We loved camping on De De's land. It was very relaxing, quiet, and private. She was a great host with many amenities. We will definitely camp there again.

T

Tiffany

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ponderosa Paradise

Such a wonderful lil spot in the middle of the trees! Lots of wildlife close by camp like turkeys and deer. Bradford was a great host- very helpful and responsive. Would stay here again for sure!

M

Mary Lin

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Durango Placer

I love this site. 3 places to set up a tent and plenty of parking near the tent spaces for my RTT. Great set up for a peaceful getaway. You can get your steps in walking around 😁

Mark

August 2025

Tent

4 nights at Nakation Getaway

This place is truely unique. Very nice (easy) hiking trails and very quiet and secluded. Can’t wait for the next trip.

C

Chip

August 2025

16 ft pop-up camper

With pets

4 nights at Durango Placer

Joe is a great host that provides everything you need to camp. This is a great site for multiple tent campers with multiple level and groomed tent pads. Also suitable for small trailers or vans. Ample group parking. Lots of places to explore in La Plata Canyon. Great stop on our San Juan Adventure!

R

Rachael

August 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Durango Placer

I loved it so much at Joe’s land I wanted to stay much longer! The layout of the kitchen area, campsites, bathroom area, shower and creek made it feel like we had the whole forest to ourselves. It was quiet, peaceful and so so beautiful. The only thing I wasn’t expecting was it was a little walk from the car but nothing we couldn’t handle and still totally worth it. I came here for a retreat and that’s exactly what it was. I wouldn’t have left the site at all if I hadn’t needed more ice. I just loved it here so much! The kitchen has everything you need for very simple cooking but you still need to bring your own cooking utensils. I can’t wait to come back!

N

Nichole

August 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Durango Placer

This is our second trip to Joe’s place and we loved it just as much this time. He provides a magical place with plenty of room to enjoy and explore as a family. The perks include how he provides water and firewood, as well as a composting toilet and outdoor shower.

Mark

August 2025

20 ft campervan

4 nights at Nakation Getaway

This place is perfect . Thankyou De De. This place is small enough for privacy between campers. The wet area is nice (pool, hot tub and solar showers). Overall, a great place to relax. I’ll definitely be back

K

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Durango Placer

Very private and peaceful. Camp site it well equipped and clean.

M

Matt

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Nakation Getaway

I had a very relaxing experience at DeDe’s campground. My tent site was clean with a nice even surface to set up. They have laid down artificial grass which was great for keeping dirt and such outside of the tent. The pool area was really nice. Spent a couple hours of pleasant conversation with DeDe and Kevin chilling next to the pool. Highly recommend this campground and would definitely stay there again.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best pets off leash camping near Durango guide

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.