The best cave campgrounds near Pagosa Springs, Colorado

Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking to camp near Pagosa Springs, Colorado and explore caves, we've got you covered. With over 100 options specifically near Pagosa Springs, Colorado that offer cave terrain, you'll have plenty of choices to find the perfect camping spot. Looking for some top-rated campsites? Check out Animas River Valley red cliffs (73 reviews), Sand Dunes Base Camp (72 reviews), and Beautiful Mountain Views (6 reviews). Average price per night is $35, with options as low as $25. Plus, popular amenities like cooking equipment, pets, and campfires are available, along with exciting activities such as biking, paddling, and boating. Happy camping!

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Top-rated campgrounds near Pagosa Springs

Welcome to Hipcamp! If you're looking to camp near Pagosa Springs, Colorado and explore caves, we've got you covered. With over 100 options specifically near Pagosa Springs, Colorado that offer cave terrain, you'll have plenty of choices to find the perfect camping spot. Looking for some top-rated campsites? Check out Animas River Valley red cliffs (73 reviews), Sand Dunes Base Camp (72 reviews), and Beautiful Mountain Views (6 reviews). Average price per night is $35, with options as low as $25. Plus, popular amenities like cooking equipment, pets, and campfires are available, along with exciting activities such as biking, paddling, and boating. Happy camping!

98% (132)

Top-rated campgrounds near Pagosa Springs

1. AIYM Camp Riverfront Duplex Cabin!

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(24)

36mi from Pagosa Springs · 32 sites · Tents, Lodging

The AIYM Camp serves as a wonderful base camp and Christian Retreat for families wanting to recreate in the Rio Grande National Forest. Cabin rentals and Tent Campsites. You are invited to stay on 185 acres surrounded by beautiful mountains in the Rio Grande National Forest. Escape the crowds and relax in the quiet mountains. Easy Alamosa River access. Close to outdoor adventures; fishing, hiking, biking, atv trail access. Come enjoy a secluded and unforgettable mountain experience! The camp is in a wilderness setting with electricity supplied by a diesel generator that operates from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. No cell service in the canyon but the camp does have a regular phone for special usage and satellite Wi-Fi for $10. The most unique quality is the beauty and cleanliness of the forest. The quiet peaceful atmosphere of the canyon is hard to believe. This is the perfect place for families to unplug, get outside but still have some of the comforts we all enjoy!

2. Animas River Valley red cliffs

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(129)

46mi from Pagosa Springs · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pitch your tent or park in the upper pasture and enjoy the view of the Animas Valley. Just 8 miles north of Durango off of the million dollar highway. Across the road from Honeyville and across the river from fun at the Bar D  Ranch or James Ranch Harvest Grille.  Durango Mountain Resort is just up the road.  Horses and cattle grazing in the pasture below and the apple trees and the honey bees are in full production this year.  No other view like it of the Mission Ridge red cliffs with the silhouettes and glow at sunset.  At night you may hear the Animas River below or some animal sounds. Name the constellations among the amazing view of the stars! Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or park in the "sloped" pasture and enjoy the view of the Animas Valley. Just 8 miles north of Durango off of the million dollar highway. Across the highway from Honeyville and across the river from fun at the Bar D  Ranch or James Ranch Harvest Grille.  Durango Mountain Resort is just up the road.  Horses and cattle grazing in the pasture below and the apple trees and the honey bees are in full production.  Mission Ridge red cliffs with the mysterious silhouettes and glow at sunset.  At night you may hear the Animas River below or some animal sounds. Name the constellations among the amazing view of the stars! Please provide what you will be driving and camping in, along with guesstimate of your arrival time for a quick booking response. Safe travels.  

3. Silver Thread Basecamp

37mi from Pagosa Springs · 62 sites

Nestled between the stunning landscapes of South Fork and Gunnison, Silver Thread Basecamp offers a unique blend of history and adventure, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This scenic campground invites you to explore the rich heritage of old mining towns and forgotten logging camps while surrounded by breathtaking views of pristine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and the expansive Blue Mesa. At Silver Thread Basecamp, you can choose from a variety of accommodations, whether you prefer RV camping, pitching a tent under the stars, or reserving a cozy cabin. The Rio Grande River flows nearby, providing a perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures. With ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and swimming, this location is ideal for those seeking both relaxation and excitement. Experience the charm of the area with nearby restaurants and shops that showcase local culture. Adventure awaits you at Silver Thread Basecamp, where the beauty of nature and the thrill of exploration come together in perfect harmony.

4. San Juan National Forest

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(41)

696 sites · Rico, Colorado

Hike through the rugged wilderness or take a scenic drive in this expansive national forest.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

5. Rio Grande National Forest

85%

(27)

691 sites · Alpine, Colorado

Explore the many ecosystems of south-central Colorado in this massive national forest.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. Carson National Forest

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(40)

463 sites · La Madera, New Mexico

Come get lost in the wild, enchanted lands of New Mexico! One of five unearthly National Forests in this great state, Carson National Forest is open for business all year round, and never fails to bring the heat with magnificent mountain scenery and some seriously stunning natural features. If solitude is your muse than look no further! Cold mountain streams, ample trout fishing, and out of sight camping is sure to give you your fix. With over 1.5 million acres laden with high ridges, dense vegetation and some of the cleanest air you’re likely to find west of the Mississippi, Carson is simply the epitome of Southwestern frontier!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

7. Gunnison National Forest

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(37)

423 sites · Crested Butte, Colorado

Venture into the wild mountain wilderness of western Colorado.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Pagosa Springs

Great soft campsites, with pull-ins, pull-throughs, and tent camping.

East Fork Campground

10mi from Pagosa Springs · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

Blanco River Group Campground

11mi from Pagosa Springs · 1 site · Tent, RV · in San Juan National Forest

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West Fork Campground

14mi from Pagosa Springs · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

Adventuring around our back country campsite as everyone else takes a cat nap.

Ute Campground

15mi from Pagosa Springs · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

Bridge Campground

18mi from Pagosa Springs · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

Lost Trail Campground

18mi from Pagosa Springs · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rio Grande National Forest

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Lower Piedra Campground

19mi from Pagosa Springs · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

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Williams Creek Campground

20mi from Pagosa Springs · 67 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

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Tucker Ponds Campground

21mi from Pagosa Springs · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rio Grande National Forest

Teal Campground

21mi from Pagosa Springs · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

Palisades Horse Campground

22mi from Pagosa Springs · 12 sites · in San Juan National Forest

Cimarrona Campground

22mi from Pagosa Springs · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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.

S

Sarah

July 2025

With pets

2 nights at AIYM Camp Riverfront Duplex Cabin!

AIYM Camp is an amazing place; I highly recommend it. It’s a beautiful setting, every aspect of the facilities is in amazing condition, clean, functional and seems brand new. But, what really made our stay special was the hospitality of Jim and Melony. The are so warm and welcoming, giving us insight about the valley and activities in the area. This is a special place that we plan on returning to. I give it my highest recommendation.