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The best mountainous camping near South Fork guide
Where to go
San Luis Valley
South Fork is located at the western end of the San Luis Valley, an expansive high desert valley home to towns such as Del Norte, Alamosa, San Luis, and Mineral Hot Springs. Drive along scenic byways, go wildlife spotting in designated wildernesses, climb rugged mountain peaks, chase waterfalls, soak in the hot springs, or explore the massive sand dunes of Great Sand Dunes National Park. Plenty of options let campers stay overnight, including developed campgrounds on public land, dispersed camping in the backcountry and wilderness areas, cabins, and private RV parks and glamping sites.
West
Head along the scenic Silver Thread Byway to the historic towns of Creede and Lake City. Nearly Rio Grande National Forest offers 1.8 million acres of diverse terrain, spanning woodlands, high desert, towering mountains, river canyons, geologic wonders, and more than 30 campgrounds, cabins, and dispersed camping options. Further west, San Juan National Forest offers another 1.8 million acres of forest for camping and recreation. Head southwest to the towns of Pagosa Springs, Bayfield, and Durango for culture, hot springs, and adventures. For water activities, head to Navajo State Park, just north of the New Mexico border.
North
Head north to Poncha Springs for hot springs and history or get artsy at neighboring Salida. The Sawatch Range and the San Isabel National Forest are home to Colorado’s largest concentration of 14ers, so peak baggers can take their pick or try the state’s highest peak. Explore ghost towns or fish and raft the Arkansas River. The area is home to plenty of forested, riverside, lakeside, and backcountry campgrounds. To the west, Gunnison National Forest offers more than 30 developed campgrounds, with tent sites, RV sites, and cabins.
When to go
Summers are popular times for camping and outdoor recreation near South Fork. June to October tends to be peak fishing season, though ice fishing is also popular in the winter. Leaf peeping and hunting are popular in the fall. The area also offers a wide range of winter activities, including skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.
Know before you go
- South Fork sits above 8,000 feet. Some recreation areas and campsites are at even higher elevations. Be aware of potential altitude issues.
- Campsites in national forests are often first-come first-serve, while campsites in Colorado state parks require advanced reservations.
- Permits are required to cut firewood in certain national forests.
- Be bear aware, especially when camping. Store food and other attractants in a bear proof container, away from your tent.
- Fishing licenses are required in Colorado for anyone over age 16. There are bait and other requirements for fishing in some waters near South Fork.