The best campgrounds near Durango, Colorado with swimming

Looking for the perfect camping spot near Durango, Colorado where you can indulge in some swimming? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 460 options in the area that cater to your swimming preference, you're sure to find the ideal campsite for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top-rated campsites like Bright Star Campground (211 reviews), Hermitory (202 reviews), and Sunset Campground on Ruin Road (130 reviews) to see what other campers have to say. Plus, popular amenities like potable water, trash disposal, and showers ensure a comfortable stay. So pack your swimsuit and get ready to dive into nature!

96% (796)

Top-rated campgrounds

There are 3 Tipis in The Views area, this is the biggest, The Raven.

Looking for the perfect camping spot near Durango, Colorado where you can indulge in some swimming? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 460 options in the area that cater to your swimming preference, you're sure to find the ideal campsite for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top-rated campsites like Bright Star Campground (211 reviews), Hermitory (202 reviews), and Sunset Campground on Ruin Road (130 reviews) to see what other campers have to say. Plus, popular amenities like potable water, trash disposal, and showers ensure a comfortable stay. So pack your swimsuit and get ready to dive into nature!

96% (796)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Bright Star Campground

98%

(779)

35mi from Durango · 33 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cortez, CO

We have complimentary WiFi, drinking water, ice, hot showers, bathrooms, communal kitchen, and a shaded pavilion with picnic tables, art nook, ping pong, and more. We are open from April - October. All of our sites and amenities can be booked for retreats or events. There are two large covered pavilions. We customize reservations for small and large groups or longer stays. There are furnished tipis, camping cabins, tent/RV/van sites, and a Navajo Hogan (wooden yurt). Bright Star Campground: Originally established in 2012 as a church camp, it is now a place to connect, create, and rejuvenate in this spectacular high desert landscape. Bright Star Campground is located in the Great Sage Plain in the shadow of Mesa Verde National Park with panoramic views of the Four Corners region, and only 5 miles southeast of Cortez. We are a cannabis-friendly destination but ask that cannabis use stay at your campsite, cabin or tipi. There are many attractions nearby, such as Mesa Verde National Park, Canyons of the Ancients, Hovenweep National Monument and Phil's World Mountain Biking. Raft down the Dolores river, maybe rent a SUP or kayak and chill on a quiet reservoir. We are located 45 minutes from Durango, 1.5 hours from Telluride, and about 2 hours from Moab (Arches and Canyonlands National Parks). The nearest airport is in Durango. The nearest large international airports are in Salt Lake City or Albuquerque.

2. 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 !

3. M and V's Mountain Paradise

100%

(15)

31mi from Durango · 1 site · Tent, RV · Dolores, CO

We have 1 1/2 acres, with one acre fenced in for dogs, Full RV hookups (30/50, water and sewer) We are 14 miles from the entrance to Mesa Verde National Park. Close State and County Parks too numerous to count! Hike, Bike, Run, Ski, Raft, Etc...We have it all. Amenites: VIEWS, clean air, a zillion stars, and Serenity! Durango 36 miles Telluride 48 Silverton 48.

4. The Cockhouse lodge.

100%

(1)

39mi from Durango · 16 sites · Lodging · Navajo Dam, NM

Learn more about this land: The Lodge was a historic Cockfighting arena in the 1970-90’s. Now it’s used as a blast & cast lodge. Surroundings are full of recreation options just 5 miles from Navajo Lake and San Juan River. Has a full kitchen two bathrooms and showers. Open arena with outdoor cooking options and fire pit. RV access for 5 spacious spots w Electrical. Dry camping or glamping areas are available on the 15 acres.

5. Animas River Valley red cliffs

95%

(129)

10mi from Durango · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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.

6. E-Z Access Camping

83%

(3)

19mi from Durango · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Mancos, CO

Camp spots are just off the county road, easily accessed with a car or non 4 wd vehicles. Turning Beyond Ranch is comprised of 120 acres, camp spots are situated in the garden area. The view of the La Plata mnts is beautiful to the north, with an open field to the east. Cherry creek runs year round on the east bank past the field, just below the mnts. This is a safe area with most farm and ranches of 100 + acres. Location is convenient for a short drive to Mesa Verde park - approx 20 miles to entrance, 25 miles from Durango, or 45 miles to Farmington MM.

7. Ponderosa Palisades

100%

(5)

5.5mi from Durango · 1 site · Lodging · 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.

8. Fourth Sister Farm

100%

(44)

14mi from Durango · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · 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. Leashed dogs only to protect wildlife and chickens! You’re likely to see deer, raccoons, foxes, hawks, hummingbirds, and maybe a skunk!

9. RV Space 1 Mile from Vallecito Lake

100%

(17)

21mi from Durango · 1 site · RV · Bayfield, CO

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

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. Eagle Ridge Luxury Camps

100%

(2)

30mi from Durango · 3 sites · Lodging · Navajo Dam, NM

Each luxury tent is fully furnished with plush bedding , seating , cooler with ice, power box , walkie talkies and are privately located on the property . Learn more about this land: Spend an enchanting evening Glamping under the stars at one of our beautiful Luxury camps . Each camp has their own unique beauty. Take your outdoor experience to the next level with a warm private soaking bath (prices not included ) or a evening dessert overlooking the beautiful lake or river below. Enjoy early morning paddle boarding and many other outdoor activities and experiences here at our camps .

12. RICO RIVER RANCH

100%

(7)

26mi from Durango · 6 sites · Lodging · Dolores, CO

This secluded riverfront property is located 35 miles South of Main street Telluride, Colorado. This private "campground" can host up to 16 guests, features a wood-fired sauna, 2 Rv spots with full hook-ups, two sheep wagons, two 900sq foot luxury lavvu tipi tents, a Finnish grillhouse, a santa maria grill and a large campfire ring with plenty of seating. Surrounded on both sides by National forest - you will be able to enjoy the land with no other campers nearby.

Camper favorites near Durango

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Ponderosa Palisades

100%

(5)

5.5mi from Durango · 1 site · Lodging · 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.

Fourth Sister Farm

100%

(44)

14mi from Durango · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · 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. Leashed dogs only to protect wildlife and chickens! You’re likely to see deer, raccoons, foxes, hawks, hummingbirds, and maybe a skunk!

RV Space 1 Mile from Vallecito Lake

100%

(17)

21mi from Durango · 1 site · RV · Bayfield, CO

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

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.

Eagle Ridge Luxury Camps

100%

(2)

30mi from Durango · 3 sites · Lodging · Navajo Dam, NM

Each luxury tent is fully furnished with plush bedding , seating , cooler with ice, power box , walkie talkies and are privately located on the property . Learn more about this land: Spend an enchanting evening Glamping under the stars at one of our beautiful Luxury camps . Each camp has their own unique beauty. Take your outdoor experience to the next level with a warm private soaking bath (prices not included ) or a evening dessert overlooking the beautiful lake or river below. Enjoy early morning paddle boarding and many other outdoor activities and experiences here at our camps .

RICO RIVER RANCH

100%

(7)

26mi from Durango · 6 sites · Lodging · Dolores, CO

This secluded riverfront property is located 35 miles South of Main street Telluride, Colorado. This private "campground" can host up to 16 guests, features a wood-fired sauna, 2 Rv spots with full hook-ups, two sheep wagons, two 900sq foot luxury lavvu tipi tents, a Finnish grillhouse, a santa maria grill and a large campfire ring with plenty of seating. Surrounded on both sides by National forest - you will be able to enjoy the land with no other campers nearby.

Public campgrounds near Durango

Rosa

31mi from Durango · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo State Park

Tiffany

31mi from Durango · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo State Park

Cabins

31mi from Durango · 3 sites · in Navajo State Park

Carracas

31mi from Durango · 33 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo State Park

Primitive Campsites

31mi from Durango · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo State Park

Juniper Campground

34mi from Durango · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo Lake State Park

Cottonwood Campground

34mi from Durango · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo Lake State Park

100%

(2)

Cedar Campground

34mi from Durango · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo Lake State Park

100%

(1)

Pinon Campground

34mi from Durango · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Navajo Lake State Park

100%

(2)

Pine Campground

34mi from Durango · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo Lake State Park

67%

(3)

Sims Mesa

34mi from Durango · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo Lake State Park

Stories from the community

2022 Lunar eclipse starting over the Mesa. Taken from Bright Star Campground (with an iPhone)

M

Meg

October 2025

19 ft campervan

2 nights at Bright Star Campground

Loved it! A high open plain ringed with mountains: Mesa Verde and Ute close, Telluride, San Juans and Bears Ears on the horizon. Immaculately clean and generous kitchen and dining/hanging out areas. The tent/RV sites are very basic but the rest makes up. Great hosts, dark sky. Didn’t see inside the cabins but the hogan was lovely.

C

Christine

October 2025

Tent

4 nights at Animas River Valley red cliffs

We loved staying on Melinda's land! It was pouring rain from a freak storm and she generously allowed us to use her mudroom and her addition downstairs. Genuinely, she saved our trip. She had great recommendations on things to do in the area and was available and communicative. I could not ask for a better host,

T

Tammy

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Animas River Valley red cliffs

We love camping at Melinda’s. Beautiful views, gracious host and close to hiking trails and Durango. This was our 2nd time there and we’ll be back our next time through Colorado.

I

Ian

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Bright Star Campground

Great location, suburb views, nicely spaced sites - it’s no wonder it’s so highly rated on Hipcamp …

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.

L

Lajehe

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Bright Star Campground

Wonderful campground with full amenities and friendly amazing staff always available for assistance and a community vibe. We loved our stay here and would highly recommend.

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.

Juliet

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Bright Star Campground

I car camped here and had a super sweet one-night stay where all my needs were met. The land is beautiful, gorgeous sunset and sunrise, and it was sweet to have communal space like the kitchen, showers, bathrooms, and more. The camp hosts were very sweet and welcoming! I would definitely camp here again and would recommend it.

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 😁

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!

Attie

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Bright Star Campground

The sky was truly a blanket of stars, and I will always remember it. This camp area is wonderful and I’ll be back for a third time someday, hopefully soon!

J

Joyce

August 2025

17 ft campervan

2 nights at Bright Star Campground

Great spot with lots of amenities. The owners really take care of the place and offer lots of nice touches. We really enjoyed our camp in Sunrise and wish we booked more time.

M

Mason S

August 2025

17 ft campervan

2 nights at Bright Star Campground

The campground has amenities that most campgrounds do not have, such as a communal kitchen and ICE 👍 Also, really appreciated the carport to provide some shade during a hot summer visit. The campground itself was well laid out and quiet, even after families arrived, for 2 middle-aged folks. There was some minor issue with the hot water in the women's shower but otherwise the bathrooms were clean, well stocked, and centrally located. We will definitely be back (when there isn't a full moon) to watch the meteor showers, Kent!

Your sunset view to the west. Mesa Verde view is to the East.

Eli

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Bright Star Campground

The views of Mesa Verde are beautiful and the facilities are great; probably some of the best amenities you could get at a campsite!

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.

James

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Bright Star Campground

I've stayed at this campground through 3 owners across the past 5+ years! I absolutely love staying here; especially with the new camp hosts who are incredibly groovy and kind. This campground is a great price and has a community kitchen, hot showers, games, a rock painting station, charging bank for phones, a hammock to read in, incredible stargazing, serenading sunsets, and a lot of cool stuff to explore within a short drive. I love this place and highly recommend it. I've stayed in the chapel, a tent site, and the cabins and I've had a wonderful stay in all of them. Thank you for having me! 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.

S

Sam

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Bright Star Campground

Wonderful place. Quiet, peaceful, well-kept. Highly recommend

B

Barry

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at Bright Star Campground

Easy to get to. Far enough from the highway to be nice and quiet. Hosts were very friendly. Great views. Will definitely stay here again if I’m in the area.