The best campgrounds near Aztec, New Mexico with hiking

Looking to go camping near Aztec, New Mexico and enjoy some hiking? Look no further than Star Dance High Desert Retreat! With over 665 options in the area that cater to hikers, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking for a secluded retreat or a campground with all the amenities, Hipcamp has you covered. Some of the top campsites in the area include Bright Star Campground and Hermitory. With popular amenities like toilets, potable water, and campfires, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. And if you're looking to do more than just hike, popular activities in the area include wildlife watching, horseback riding, and whitewater paddling. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the great outdoors!

96% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Aztec

Looking to go camping near Aztec, New Mexico and enjoy some hiking? Look no further than Star Dance High Desert Retreat! With over 665 options in the area that cater to hikers, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking for a secluded retreat or a campground with all the amenities, Hipcamp has you covered. Some of the top campsites in the area include Bright Star Campground and Hermitory. With popular amenities like toilets, potable water, and campfires, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. And if you're looking to do more than just hike, popular activities in the area include wildlife watching, horseback riding, and whitewater paddling. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the great outdoors!

96% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Aztec

1. Bright Star Campground

98%

(779)

45mi from Aztec · 33 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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)

41mi from Aztec · 1 site · Tent, RV

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. Horse-Thief Campground

86%

(116)

48mi from Aztec · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

From U.S. Highway 550 (mile marker 112.5), you will see the National Park sign, drive south on County Road 7900 for 5 miles. After 5 miles (the road comes to a “T”) you will see another National Park sign, on the right hand side. Turn right on County Road 7950. You cannot turn left. (If you go straight, that will take you to Pueblo Pintado). Drive 3 miles on County Road 7950. The pavement will end. On the right hand side you will see a sign that says "Dry Camp". THE CAMPGROUND IS ON THE LEFT HAND SIDE. There will be a sign that reads: “Horsethief Campground”. In front of the short road to the Campground. At the end of the short road to the campground is: a large school building, and 2 other buildings. We apologize that the road is a little uneven, but we are looking to improve this real soon. You are welcome to park inside or outside the gated area. Horse-Thief Campground is an upcoming camp; located on 5 acres of land and more, for campers to enjoy. In a quiet; serene, beautiful landscape area of the Dine Nation. With beautiful sunrises; sunsets and night sky is out of this world. There are trails in which visitors may walk or bike, as well as a Look Out Point. Horse-Thief is currently a Dry Camp with no Electricity or running water however generators are welcome. There is one portable restroom. P.S. If you have already paid on Hipcamp, you do not need to pay again. However, please sign the Waiver provided. Thank you very much! We hope you enjoy your stay. 😊

4. Navajo Lake State Park

88%

(8)

84 sites · Navajo Dam, New Mexico

Navajo Lake State Park: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Navajo State Park

117 sites · Arboles, Colorado

Campers can hike, fish, and enjoy water sports at Colorado’s largest lake.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. The Cockhouse lodge.

100%

(1)

22mi from Aztec · 16 sites · Lodging

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.

7. Nakation Getaway

99%

(74)

15mi from Aztec · 11 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

8. Bear springs

98%

(60)

36mi from Aztec · 1 site · RV

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.

9. Zuma Bike Ranch & Camping in Cortez

98%

(78)

49mi from Aztec · 8 sites · Tents

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.

10. 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

Electrical hookup

Toilets

11. Carson National Forest

91%

(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

12. 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

Toilets

Campfires

13. Mountain View Campground

94%

(61)

4mi from Aztec · 50 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

14. Linda M.’s Santa Rita Ranch

99%

(129)

19mi from Aztec · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

15. Lavender Farm Stay

100%

(52)

47mi from Aztec · 3 sites · Lodging

Welcome to Mesa Verde Lavender! We are a working lavender farm with 2000+ lavender plants, a flower garden, vegetables, and a small orchard. Hike in the canyon that splits our property, roam with the birds in our pastures, pick some fruit if in-season, or sit and enjoy wildlife, sounds of the creek, and views of the La Plata Mountains, Sleeping Ute Mountain, and Mesa Verde. Our 50 acres is situated in Southwest Colorado between Cortez, Mancos, and Dolores. 5 minutes to Phil’s World for mountain biking, 1 hour to Durango, and 2 hours to Telluride. Pay for the experience - farm tour and all the fixings. The breakfast, stay and hospitality is included with the farm tour! Note: this is NOT a commercial campground; rather an agricultural business with a focus on all things lavender. Come adventure, smell the flowers (literally!), and enjoy feeling of these ancient healing lands!

16. LaPlata View Ranch

100%

(7)

24mi from Aztec · 1 site · RV

Dryland grass ranch, with approximately 30 cow-calf pairs grazing it. Wonderful area for star-gazing, and enjoying beautiful sunsets. Our personal home is 1/4 mile away, across the pastures to the south...look for the copper-capped gate posts. If you see us working in the yard, stop by and say "hi"! Learn more about this land: Bring your camper to the country to enjoy spectacular views of the LaPlata Mountains while enjoying peaceful ranch surroundings. A large graveled camping spot, with patio & outdoor furnishings is privately located well away from others. Opportunities for walking or biking are right off of the campsite. Conveniently located near easy access to Durango and Mesa Verde/Cortez.

from

$26

/ night

17. Animas River Valley red cliffs

95%

(129)

43mi from Aztec · 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.  

18. Tranquility @ The Farm

98%

(256)

25mi from Aztec · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

19. Eagle Ridge Luxury Camps

100%

(2)

30mi from Aztec · 3 sites · Lodging

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 .

20. Story Tree Ranch 4 animal lovers!

90%

(10)

43mi from Aztec · 2 sites · RVs

Beautiful view of the La Plata mountains. 20 minute drive to Mesa Verde national park 30 minutes to Durango only 4 miles to downtown Mancos, where you can enjoy Art galleries, Mancos Brewing Company for yummy locally sourced food, and Fenceline Cidery next to a babbling creek Tales and Tails a plenty. Story Tree Guest Ranch has llamas, horses, goats, ducks, chickens and a donkey and a very friendly pig named Charlotte

Camper favorites near Aztec

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Tranquility @ The Farm

98%

(256)

25mi from Aztec · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

Eagle Ridge Luxury Camps

100%

(2)

30mi from Aztec · 3 sites · Lodging

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 .

Story Tree Ranch 4 animal lovers!

90%

(10)

43mi from Aztec · 2 sites · RVs

Beautiful view of the La Plata mountains. 20 minute drive to Mesa Verde national park 30 minutes to Durango only 4 miles to downtown Mancos, where you can enjoy Art galleries, Mancos Brewing Company for yummy locally sourced food, and Fenceline Cidery next to a babbling creek Tales and Tails a plenty. Story Tree Guest Ranch has llamas, horses, goats, ducks, chickens and a donkey and a very friendly pig named Charlotte

E-Z Access Camping

83%

(3)

34mi from Aztec · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

Ponderosa Palisades

100%

(5)

29mi from Aztec · 1 site · Lodging

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)

31mi from Aztec · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

Juniper Moon Homestead

100%

(24)

31mi from Aztec · 1 site · RV

We are a small start up homestead situated on 4 acres in Durango, Co. The drive to town is about 20 mins where you will find everything you need including tons of outdoor adventures (hiking, rafting, rock climbing, mountain bike trails!) There is a community pond and river within walking distance from our property. Currently we are offering 120v electric hookup and you can fill your fresh water tank. We do not have a sewer dump at this time. We are a busy family working to grow our homestead. Please reach with any questions and to book. ***We can only accept fully self-contained RVs with a bathroom inside***

Ramble at Mesa Verde National Park

100%

(11)

49mi from Aztec · 40 sites · Tents, RVs

Basecamp your Mesa Verde adventure at Ramble Mesa Verde—48 acres of juniper dotted red rock campsites just 15 minutes from Mesa Verde National Park and neighbors to Phil’s World mountain bike park. Choose from Adventure, Signature, Signature Plus, or Group sites, all set up with a smokeless fire pit, stove + grill (propane included), picnic setup, and easy access to hot showers + flush toilets. Wind down with wide-open mesa views, starry skies, and Friday movie nights in our amphitheater. Book your spot and camp comfortably—no RVs or trailers.

Public campgrounds near Aztec

Cottonwood Campground

17mi from Aztec · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo Lake State Park

100%

(1)

Pinon Campground

20mi from Aztec · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Navajo Lake State Park

100%

(2)

Cedar Campground

20mi from Aztec · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo Lake State Park

Juniper Campground

20mi from Aztec · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo Lake State Park

100%

(2)

Pine Campground

20mi from Aztec · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo Lake State Park

67%

(3)

Sims Mesa

22mi from Aztec · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo Lake State Park

Tiffany

34mi from Aztec · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo State Park

Cabins

34mi from Aztec · 3 sites · in Navajo State Park

Rosa

34mi from Aztec · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo State Park

Carracas

34mi from Aztec · 33 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo State Park

Primitive Campsites

34mi from Aztec · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navajo State Park

100%

(4)

Junction Creek Campground

36mi from Aztec · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

G

Gabriel

2 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Bear springs

Very convenient spot! Michael made sure we had everything that we needed and more! Can’t wait to be back!

P

Paul

November 2025

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.

M

Mia

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Lavender Farm Stay

This was the perfect, quaint and quiet setting for a weekend getaway. We loved the Wagon and the sauna and all the thoughtful little details. hospitality was 10/10!

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.

B

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 :)

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

Deb

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bright Star Campground

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

Sara

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Lavender Farm Stay

What a gem! We had a fabulous, relaxing stay in the Lavender Wagon. Travis and Katie were wonderful hosts who made us feel like we were at home. Loved the tour of the property, loved learning lavender facts, and breakfast was delicious both mornings. Will definiately recommend to others!

D

Debbie

October 2025

19 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Horse-Thief Campground

It was a beautiful sunset. No one around! So cool!

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.

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.

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,

S

Siva

October 2025

1 night at Lavender Farm Stay

Best hosts ever. Photos don't justify the beauty. Highly recommend

Entrance to property of HorseThief Campground.

T

Tommie

October 2025

18 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Horse-Thief Campground

It's close to Chaco Canyon, very remote and quiet. If rain is in the forecast, reconsider your date for camping as it gets very muddy. It was great to meet Wayne and Yolanda and hear their story of the property..

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.

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.

K

Kathy

October 2025

23 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Bear springs

Peaceful ! Wanna get away - this is a nice spot ! Good views and quiet !

A

Andrea

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Story Tree Ranch 4 animal lovers!

Loved seeing all the animals on the farm! As you might expect, there’s no/little cell phone service here, so just good to know. This was an easy place to stay one night and then get quickly to Mesa Verde!

t

tracy

October 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Linda M.’s Santa Rita Ranch

What a beautiful gem of a place! So scenic, open, private and the best host ever, Linda. She provided a great deal of suggestions on where we could spend the day. She’s an incredibly warm host that we’ll always remember.

Allegra

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lavender Farm Stay

We wish we could have stayed longer. This was a highlight of our trip for sure! Grateful to Travis and Katie and the whole family for their generosity and hospitality. Such a memorable and special place.

P

Pam

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Zuma Bike Ranch & Camping in Cortez

Here’s what I liked about Zuma…I arrived at night (which I usually never do….as a general rule to try and find a camp spot after dark) and the signage was perfect to get me where I needed to go…just when I would start to second guess myself voila there was another sign. Super clean camp spot, porta potty and a HOT shower. Not icky at all. And the best part was that the northern trails for Phil’s World were accessible right from camp. If you like quiet and are okay with a minimal camping situation this is a great place. I will definitely be back and very glad I found it.