Camping Near Rico, CO, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2025

Looking to embark on an unforgettable camping adventure near Rico, Colorado? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 650 options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. Whether you're seeking a cozy tipi haven at Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven, breathtaking views at The Views at Gateway, or a serene stay at Bright Star Campground, you'll discover options to fit your preferences and budget. These top campsites have garnered rave reviews, with Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven boasting 245 reviews, The Views at Gateway with 243 reviews, and Bright Star Campground with 211 reviews. Enjoy popular amenities such as toilets, showers, and trash facilities, and indulge in thrilling activities like climbing, swimming, and paddling. Average price per night is $45, with options as low as $15, so start planning your camping getaway today!

98% (2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to embark on an unforgettable camping adventure near Rico, Colorado? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 650 options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. Whether you're seeking a cozy tipi haven at Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven, breathtaking views at The Views at Gateway, or a serene stay at Bright Star Campground, you'll discover options to fit your preferences and budget. These top campsites have garnered rave reviews, with Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven boasting 245 reviews, The Views at Gateway with 243 reviews, and Bright Star Campground with 211 reviews. Enjoy popular amenities such as toilets, showers, and trash facilities, and indulge in thrilling activities like climbing, swimming, and paddling. Average price per night is $45, with options as low as $15, so start planning your camping getaway today!

98% (2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Down at the Hop Yard Camping

99%

(137)

50mi from Rico · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Montrose, CO

Wake up to the fresh aroma of hops, enjoys beers made with the hops grown next to your sleeping bag, have a campfire with an incredible view of the San Juan Mountains and open night sky, take a tour and learn about the unique world of hops, walk around an 18-foot tall, 32-acre hop trellis, and adventure in all that the Western Slope of Colorado has to offer. We also have 'Fridays on the Farm' every Friday until October 3rd from 4-9pm serving beer with our hops, a local food truck, live music, and yard games. Check our website for more details! We can open the beer barn on other nights, as well as offer tours, upon request! This is a perfect basecamp for adventure! The attractions are endless: Exploring Black Canyon NP, Curecanti NRA, and Gunnison Gorge NCA; fly fishing in gold metal waters; hunting; hiking, climbing, and traversing the Via Ferrata in the San Juan Mountains; rafting, kayaking, or SUPing on three different rivers, including a wave park right in town, as well as on reservoirs and lakes; relaxing in mineral-rich hot springs; shopping for unique souvenirs and gifts; and enjoying the activities, restaurants, and shopping of nearby Ouray and Telluride! If we're booked out, message us and we may have some backup spots! ; )

2. Hartwork Ranch

97%

(29)

24mi from Rico · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Placerville, CO

Elk are in rut and you can hear them bugling from your campsite. The aspen groves are peaking and we’re surrounded by orange scrub oak for fall. Oh, we have views! You may have a campfire and we have free wood! We also have delicious duck eggs! A beautiful 40 acre ranch on Hastings Mesa with views of Alder Canyon and Hayden’s Peak. You can hear Alder Creek flowing through the canyon from the comfort of your campsite. Many nearby options for bicycling, hiking, kayaking and skiing in the area. Once you pull out the driveway you are a few minutes from Last Dollar Ranch Road (hike, bike, or 4x4) and about a 25 minute drive to Telluride, 30 minutes to Ridgway, and 30 minutes to Norwood. Just outside of Ridgway is Orvis Hot Springs, and more hot springs can be found in Ouray. The property offers access to Alder Creek and our beaver ponds down in the canyon. The fields are blanketed with Iris and clematis flowers in May and June and other wild flowers throughout the summer including pentstemon, larkspur, and wild roses. There are patches of scrub oak and fields with cinquefoil bushes in the camping areas, and as you go down in the canyon there’s aspen groves, blue spruce, and ponderosa pines. As mentioned before, we have delicious farm fresh duck eggs from our happy free-ranging ducks!

3. Zuma Bike Ranch & Camping in Cortez

98%

(78)

33mi from Rico · 8 sites · Tents · Cortez, CO

Zuma Bike Ranch invites you to ride.relax.repeat in the high desert of Dolores and Cortez Colorado. Surround yourself with views of Mesa Verde National Park, Sleeping Ute and the San Juan mountains straight from your tent or camper van. The ranch offers camping, and borders Phil's World mountain bike trail network. Our goal is to encourage community among campers and bikers and connection with the land and its rich history. Zuma Bike Ranch resides on native lands of Puebloan and Ute peoples. At Zuma Bike Ranch we provide professional mountain bike instruction and guided rides for individuals and groups. You have immediate access to over 60 miles of world class singletrack at Phil’s World trail network. More mountain bike trails can be found nearby at the Aquaduct trail system in Mancos, Boggy Draw in Dolores and Sand Canyon at Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. In less than an hour you can be riding high alpine terrain with access to the Colorado Trail. We’re 45 minutes from Durango and 120 minutes from Moab, UT. We keep things simple at Zuma Bike Ranch. This is to minimize impact on the land and our environment. Each camp site can accommodate one vehicle or van/truck bed camper. Camp sites fit two tents. We have a nice rinse station, potable water source, and porta potty on site. There are no lights but there are plenty of stars! Please pack out what you pack in. Visit our website for questions or to book a group or private lesson.

4. San Juan National Forest

97%

(41)

696 sites · Rico, Colorado

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

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Uncompahgre National Forest

85%

(23)

228 sites · Ophir, Colorado

Head to wild western Colorado to truly get away from it all.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

6. CLOSED FOR THE SEASON!

100%

(3)

32mi from Rico · 3 sites · RVs · Bayfield, CO

CLOSED FOR THE SEASON! L

7. Camping in the Mesas

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(234)

32mi from Rico · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Dolores, CO

This land was inhabited by the Ancient Anasazi and Pueblo people. The Anasazi Heritage Museum and archeological ruins are two miles away. There are ruins and sites on this land that have yet to be excavated. Many different ancient people came through this land, left and sites were inhabited by other people. One group of people would come and build upon the sites of another group, and taking part of their culture with them.

8. Durango Placer

100%

(107)

20mi from Rico · 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 !

9. HTR Durango

98%

(27)

27mi from Rico · 73 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Durango, CO

CLOSED FOR WINTER NOV 1, 2025 - APRIL 30, 2026. ***Dry camping is May 1-14, 2026 & October 12-31. Only electric is available. Bathhouses and pool are closed. No cabin or tent campers. Only accepting reservations for self-contained RVs during dry camping season. The only water available is at the front of the park at the fill-up station. The RV sites do not have water or sewer, but they do have electricity. Our staff is available on-call.*** Nestled in a protected box canyon surrounded by high cliffs of Douglas Fir and Ponderosa Pine and just minutes to downtown Durango, HTR Durango, formerly Lightner Creek Campground, is located on a seasonal mountain stream, making it an ideal setting for nature lovers of all ages. The paved county road off HWY 160W to our campground is well maintained, making the 1.5-mile drive easily accessible, regardless of what you bring. Enjoy various recreational activities in the Durango area, including many hiking and mountain biking trails, fishing, river rafting, rock climbing, zip-lining, off-roading, horseback riding, shopping, dining, breweries, and much more. There is so much to see and do in the Four Corners Area! If you want a memorable vacation experience in Durango, look no further than HTR Durango. Please note wood burning fires are not allowed on property. Propane and charcoal fires are permitted. We require vaccination records upon arrival if you are bringing a dog. There is a $50 pet fee for cabin rentals.

10. Mancos State Park

100%

(1)

33 sites · Mancos, Colorado

From summer kayaking to winter ice fishing, this lakeside getaway has activities for all seasons.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. Grand Mesa National Forest

87%

(23)

316 sites · Cedaredge, Colorado

Escape to a high elevation forest brimming with lakes, trails, and scenic views.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

12. Ridgway State Park

100%

(5)

257 sites · Loghill Village, Colorado

Pack up your boat or paddle-board for a camping excursion at this reservoir park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

13. Gunnison National Forest

96%

(37)

423 sites · Crested Butte, Colorado

Venture into the wild mountain wilderness of western Colorado.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

14. Bright Star Campground

98%

(779)

35mi from Rico · 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.

15. Bear springs

97%

(59)

28mi from Rico · 1 site · RV · 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.

16. Durango RV Resort

100%

(2)

34mi from Rico · 253 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Durango, CO

Nestled in the heart of southwest Colorado, Durango is the perfect basecamp for outdoor adventures, family vacations, and group getaways. With endless opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and sightseeing, Durango offers something for every traveler. Located just a short drive from the iconic Four Corners Monument, where New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and Colorado meet, it’s a hub for exploring the beauty of the Southwest. At Oasis Durango RV Resort, we offer year-round accommodations, including spacious RV sites, cozy deluxe cabins, and convenient tent sites. Whether you’re seeking a long-term stay or a weekend escape, our resort has everything you need for a memorable stay in Durango.

17. Linda M.’s Santa Rita Ranch

99%

(129)

43mi from Rico · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · 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. Flying into Durango? We have a tent and camp chairs for you! Horses and donkeys available to pet. Horse boarding available for those traveling with their equine friends.

18. Outdoorsy Bayfield

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(2)

39mi from Rico · 130 sites · RVs · Bayfield, CO

Welcome to Outdoorsy Bayfield, your riverside retreat in southwestern Colorado. Nestled between Durango and Pagosa Springs along the Pine River, our park offers camping and luxury tents that bring the comfort of a hotel room right into nature. Enjoy stylish accommodations with air conditioning, plush linens, and private patios perfect for morning coffee or evening wine. Outdoorsy Bayfield boasts a 36-acre park with plenty of open space for walking, fishing, or simply relaxing. Cast a line in our private waters or explore the nearby San Juan National Forest. Whether hiking, biking, or fishing, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy. Book your stay with us for a unique getaway. With full RV hookups and luxury tents, our park is the perfect blend of comfort and adventure. Come experience the beauty of southwestern Colorado and make unforgettable memories at Outdoorsy Bayfield – the top RV park in Bayfield! Accommodation types - RV sites for all rig types (30/50 amp) - Glamping tents (Sleeps 2 & Sleeps 4) On Site Amenities - Catch & Release Fishing - Laundry facilities (pay per use) - Bath house with showers - Camp Store - Large fenced in dog park - we love dogs! - Basketball hoop - Horseshoe pits - Large open green spaces - Walking trails - Outdoors games for the summer camping season

19. Junction West Durango

95%

(33)

20mi from Rico · 97 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Durango, CO

History of JW Durango Riverside Resort It all started in 1965… When this campground hosted its first guests the goal back then was simply to offer folks from around the Four Corners a place to relax and lounge along the Animas River. Today, the property boasts 73 quality RV sites, 24 cabins and 6 tent sites. We also have a heated pool, playground, convenience store, retail shop, game room, café with a large deck for dining, laundry room, paved roadways, two bath houses, and an observation deck overlooking the Animas. The property sits just south of Bakers Bridge, a local landmark made famous as the set of the climactic finale in the movie “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” – where Paul Newman and Robert Redford sat along the rocky cliffs that line the river before they famously took the plunge. As the lifeblood of this community, the Animas River winds its way under that bridge and south toward historic downtown Durango. Everyone from whitewater enthusiasts and acclaimed fly fisherman to laidback locals in inner tubes enjoy the same flowing mountain waters miners have tapped for more than a century. Back in 1965, the population of Durango was just over 10,000 and La Plata County almost 20,000. Today, the city itself is home to 20,000 residents while the county is closing in on a staggering 58,000. As more and more people discover the beauty and majesty of the San Juan National Forest and surrounding Rocky Mountain peaks, the number of people flocking to the Four Corners region continues to grow. Whether hiking, biking, horseback riding, or four-wheeling this area has an endless number of adventures to uncover. Even if it takes a lifetime to explore some of the forgotten roads in this region, these outdoor experiences offer just a glimpse of what there is to do when you visit. People come from around the world to ride the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, listen to songs and stories from the Bar D Wranglers, hit the slopes at Purgatory Resort, or hug the guardrails along the legendary Million Dollar Highway. These are just a few of the reasons people continue to come back year after year, and generation after generation. Even here at Durango Riverside, we constantly listen to stories from guests who first came here as children and now return with their own. It really is easy to find places where you can experience some of the wonders this community has to offer. But, there’s only one place where you can relax and lounge along the Animas River with friends and family, making memories that will stick with you for generations – Durango Riverside.

20. Ribbit Retreat

86%

(7)

35mi from Rico · 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!

Camper favorites near Rico

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Junction West Durango

95%

(33)

20mi from Rico · 97 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Durango, CO

History of JW Durango Riverside Resort It all started in 1965… When this campground hosted its first guests the goal back then was simply to offer folks from around the Four Corners a place to relax and lounge along the Animas River. Today, the property boasts 73 quality RV sites, 24 cabins and 6 tent sites. We also have a heated pool, playground, convenience store, retail shop, game room, café with a large deck for dining, laundry room, paved roadways, two bath houses, and an observation deck overlooking the Animas. The property sits just south of Bakers Bridge, a local landmark made famous as the set of the climactic finale in the movie “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” – where Paul Newman and Robert Redford sat along the rocky cliffs that line the river before they famously took the plunge. As the lifeblood of this community, the Animas River winds its way under that bridge and south toward historic downtown Durango. Everyone from whitewater enthusiasts and acclaimed fly fisherman to laidback locals in inner tubes enjoy the same flowing mountain waters miners have tapped for more than a century. Back in 1965, the population of Durango was just over 10,000 and La Plata County almost 20,000. Today, the city itself is home to 20,000 residents while the county is closing in on a staggering 58,000. As more and more people discover the beauty and majesty of the San Juan National Forest and surrounding Rocky Mountain peaks, the number of people flocking to the Four Corners region continues to grow. Whether hiking, biking, horseback riding, or four-wheeling this area has an endless number of adventures to uncover. Even if it takes a lifetime to explore some of the forgotten roads in this region, these outdoor experiences offer just a glimpse of what there is to do when you visit. People come from around the world to ride the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, listen to songs and stories from the Bar D Wranglers, hit the slopes at Purgatory Resort, or hug the guardrails along the legendary Million Dollar Highway. These are just a few of the reasons people continue to come back year after year, and generation after generation. Even here at Durango Riverside, we constantly listen to stories from guests who first came here as children and now return with their own. It really is easy to find places where you can experience some of the wonders this community has to offer. But, there’s only one place where you can relax and lounge along the Animas River with friends and family, making memories that will stick with you for generations – Durango Riverside.

Ribbit Retreat

86%

(7)

35mi from Rico · 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!

Tranquility @ The Farm

98%

(256)

38mi from Rico · 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.

The Art Shack A Tiny Glamping Cabin

100%

(7)

35mi from Rico · 1 site · Lodging · Hesperus, CO

We are in the rural area between Hesperus, Durango, and Mancos - An easy drive to Durango and its thrift shops, restaurants, galleries, cafes, Animas River and River Trail, and hiking and biking trails. Mancos is filled with art galleries, a wonderful bakery and cafe, beauty, and endless trails. Also within driving distance are Phil's World, Cortez, Sand Canyon, the beautiful La Plata Canyon, Mesa Verde National Park, Lake NIghthorse, and more! There are endless hiking and biking trails within driving distance of the property. Cross country skiing and snowshoeing abound and alpine skiing at Purgatory Ski Resort are popular winter activities. The views of the La Platas and Sleeping Ute are ever changing, awe inspiring, and constant from the deck of The Art Shack. On the property are cats, two dogs, two equines (you will hear our burro braying). Our neighbors have yaks, cattle, goats, sheep, dogs, horses, poultry, and other farm animals. You will also see the wild critters that inhabit our corner of La Plata County. You are welcome to wander our property beyond the Big Stick Ditch but do not go into the pasture with our burro or enter any of the out buildings. Park within steps of the Art Shack, cross the foot bridge over the bubbling irrigation ditch, and you have arrived! Please remove your shoes before entering! There is electricity, a queen bed, rustic chairs inside, an outdoor table and chairs, a composting toilet, a coffee machine, and purified drinking water for your use. An electric heater is supplied during winter months. There is no air conditioning. We are available if needed (unless we are out of town adventuring) but will not expect to interact with you as you relax. No dogs are allowed - 2 people max - No smoking of lit substances inside The Art Shack. Please remove your shoes before entering The Art Shack!

Anasazi Sites @ Ancient Echoes

96%

(75)

48mi from Rico · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Cortez, CO

This magical place, surrounded by over 500,000 acres of protected land, is a 38 acre desert oasis near Mesa Verde, Sand Canyon and Hovenweep. Pitch your tent or park your small pop up or tiny rv (car and pull behind must be under 20 ft total) in a heritage orchard under and alongside magnificent red cliffs. We also have super clean bathroom with hot shower designated for campers. We have a fully equipped community kitchen for cooking, and a gas grill as well. We border Canyons of the Ancients immediately to the North, a 174,000 acre National Monument with the largest concentration of Ancestral Puebloan ("cliff-dweller") and archeological sites in the United States. A favorite public access point to The Canyons of the Ancients is the Sand Canyon trailhead, a five minute drive from the property up the main road. It is visited by hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders alike. We are a genuine "oasis" on exquisite high desert land with profound ancient puebloan sites within steps. Ideal home base for your Southwest adventure.

CampV Colorado

97%

(45)

49mi from Rico · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Naturita, CO

Inspired Shelter for the Spirited Wanderer CampV was established in 1942 by the Vanadium Corporation to house the engineers who worked in the uranium mines outside of Naturita, Colorado. In 2020, this historic gem was restored by StudioVille Crew to welcome wanderers to a remote and scenic corner of SW Colorado. Discover your Wild without the crowds. Beautiful with a tiny bit of dirt under the fingernails and 120 acres to explore, travelers can sleep well in one of the newly reimagined historic cabins, glamping tents, Jupes, airstreams or river front camping. Through our arts non-profit WEarts, explorers can experience our curated art and support art and creative programming in a rural community. When you’re ready for a mission, check out Planet V, our annual arts and music gathering over Memorial Day and prepare to lift off.

Twilight Falls

92%

(26)

13mi from Rico · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Silverton, CO

Twilight Falls is a 40 acres private paradise of natural forests, meadows, streams and waterfalls nestled within thousands of acres of San Juan National Forest. Come experience this amazing place. Words cannot describe it. This has been a family retreat for our family for decades, and we want to share it with you.

Campfire Dreamers (4WD or AWD)

94%

(9)

32mi from Rico · 1 site · Tent, RV · Ridgway, CO

This location is 4WD only and no trailers. Access to the site requires going down a 12% grade. Beautiful location on the side of a mountain with great views. Fire ring, firewood and water for extinguish your fire are provided.

Public campgrounds near Rico

Cayton Campground

6.4mi from Rico · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

Sig Creek Campground

8.9mi from Rico · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

100%

(1)

West Dolores Campground

14mi from Rico · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

67%

(3)

Matterhorn Campground

14mi from Rico · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Matterhorn Cabin

14mi from Rico · 1 site · in Uncompahgre National Forest

100%

(2)

Woods Lake Campground - Norwood

14mi from Rico · 46 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

West Dolores River during high flow, spring run off / loop B end of the campground.

Mavreeso Campground

15mi from Rico · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

Lone Cone Cabin

16mi from Rico · 1 site · in Uncompahgre National Forest

EarthRoamers descending Last Dollar Road towards Telluride, CO

Sunshine Campground - Norwood

16mi from Rico · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Uncompahgre National Forest

83%

(4)

South Mineral Campground

16mi from Rico · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

100%

(3)

Haviland Lake Campground

16mi from Rico · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

100%

(11)

Alta Lakes Campground

17mi from Rico · 16 sites · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Stories from the community

P

Paul

2 weeks ago

23 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Bear springs

Terrific! The spot is 10 minutes from Durango and far enough from the owners home that it felt private. And there are endless acres of forest for the dogs to explore. We had no problem accessing the site in our rwd Ford Transit. Verizon signal was adequate. Tree coverage made starlink useless.

J

Jerry

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Down at the Hop Yard Camping

It was good. I needed a place last minute and it was easy to book and find. Left first thing.

M

Marquitta

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Anasazi Sites @ Ancient Echoes

An absolute dream! My only regret is that we couldn’t stay longer. Sunset on property was gorgeous! The trails around camp were super fun. Friendly staff. Our pour-over site was tucked away, beautiful, felt safe. Grounds were clean and stocked.

J

JJ

October 2025

12 ft campervan

1 night at CampV Colorado

Awesome spot beneath the golden cottonwoods! Loved checking out the installations and spaces.

Diana

October 2025

1 night at Junction West Durango

Nice cabin by the river! The room was comfortable and we enjoyed hearing the sounds from the water.

A

Amy

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Junction West Durango

This was my favorite campground and campsite for my cross country trip. I would have stayed several days had my schedule permitted it. I was on site 109 and it was such a great spot for stargazing! Loved having the picnic table, fire ring, water and electrical hookup! Quiet and peaceful. Beautiful surroundings. Host was very well organized for my late arrival, and very helpful when I needed assistance. Love this place!

Brandon

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Zuma Bike Ranch & Camping in Cortez

Direct access to the north loops and a hot shower make this camp work paying for. The host, Jake, is really nice. He greeted me personally, described the private trails on his property and gave me a couple Zuma Bike Ranch stickers. Maybe it helped that I was the only guest that night.

Michael

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Down at the Hop Yard Camping

Quiet, peaceful and a perfect spot for a quick overnighter. Super clean restrooms with a hot shower! Would definitely recommend this place!

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Beck

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Linda M.’s Santa Rita Ranch

This was my second time staying here, and it will always be one of my favorite places to stop. Linda is a great communicator & even makes sure to provide curated directions, depending on which way you are coming from. Highly recommend stopping for a night (or two!) The donkeys are also a plus :)

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Ryan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Junction West Durango

I had a great time with my son here for a few days. We used it as a home base and spent most of our time exploring the area. The front office was very accommodating which I thought was very nice. There is a little camp store and a game room there too! Showers and bathrooms were clean. The sky is amazing!

Deb

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bright Star Campground

Kids loved staying in the Tipi. It was a fun experience.

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

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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.

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Rebecca

October 2025

1 night at Junction West Durango

Beautiful location with great views of the river right outside the cabin. Cabin itself was cozy and warm.

Rebecca

October 2025

32 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Junction West Durango

Great campground! Everything was clean, staff was friendly the views are amazing!!! I highly recommend the Durango Hot Springs and Spa down the street! We went for a two hour soak and it was absolutely spectacular!!! Close proximity to the Spa and downtown were convient and the peaceful less of the campground were the perfect combination! We enjoyed our stay and will be back!!

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Kelly

October 2025

With kids

4 nights at Junction West Durango

Beautiful! Staff was very nice. We had a beautiful riverside cabin. The river was raging when we arrived due to days of downpours. I was concerned about potential flooding. While it was not near flood level, they kindly and quickly moved us to a cabin several hundred feet from the river bank.

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Nicole

October 2025

25 ft campervan

2 nights at HTR Durango

Enjoyed our two night stay at HTR Durango. Beautiful surroundings with creek running through our site. Camp is well-maintained. Close proximity town.

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Katie

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Down at the Hop Yard Camping

I thoroughly enjoyed camping on this land!! Very quiet, the two farm dogs are beautiful and friendly. I also greatly appreciated the clean bathroom facilities. Lovely space, I’d love to return!!

Amanda

October 2025

1 night at Bright Star Campground

It is a remote space and you feel so small being surrounded by the mountains. Love this open, vast area that holds a space for people to be in nature safely. The kitchen is well stocked with goodies. Everything is a quick stroll away from the teepee. The bathroom has adorable art and quotes on the wall to brighten the space up. Our teepee was warm, spacious and cozy! It rained over night and listening to the rain hit the teepee was calming. Wish we were here for two nights, but we had a quick over night stay. Love this spot and would totally come back.

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Brian

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Down at the Hop Yard Camping

It was pretty close to perfect experience. The bathrooms and showers were clean, heated and private. The tent sites were flat. The location was about a 30 minute drive to Ouray, CO and Black Canyon Gunnison. The location was also 8 minutes to downtown Montrose which had every store you would want. The host Audrey was friendly. The cost was reasonable.