- San Juan National Forest
The best glamping in San Juan National Forest, CO
97% (41)
Hike through the rugged wilderness or take a scenic drive in this expansive national forest.
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near San Juan National Forest
Junction West Durango
Junction West Durango
95%
(33)
6.5mi from San Juan National Forest · 97 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
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from
$59
/ night
Lazy Rooster Ranch
Lazy Rooster Ranch
97%
(104)
18mi from San Juan National Forest · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging
The ranch was the site of a sawmill in the early 1900s when the old Rio Grande Southern and Galloping Goose Railroads ran through the property along the Dolores River. All that’s left now is a little shack in the middle of the meadow and some remnants of the railroad tracks in the river.
Pets
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from
$60
/ night
HTR Durango
HTR Durango
98%
(27)
20mi from San Juan National Forest · 73 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
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from
$35
/ night
Lavender Farm Stay
Lavender Farm Stay
100%
(52)
39mi from San Juan National Forest · 3 sites
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!
Pets
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from
$85
/ night
Bright Star Campground
Bright Star Campground
98%
(779)
43mi from San Juan National Forest · 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.
Pets
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from
$40
/ night
Camping in the Mesas
Camping in the Mesas
94%
(234)
43mi from San Juan National Forest · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
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from
$33
/ night
Meadow View Vacation Home
Meadow View Vacation Home
13mi from San Juan National Forest · 1 site
Spacious home with gorgeous meadow view in a quiet and peaceful location. This property is located at the North end of the Vallecito valley near the Vallecito Creek. With 6 Bedrooms and 4 Bathrooms, this home is perfect for a large family/gathering in the mountains of Colorado. And you can walk to the Vallecito Creek Trailhead.
Pets
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from
$350
/ night
Riverside Glamping Retreat
Riverside Glamping Retreat
83%
(3)
13mi from San Juan National Forest · 3 sites
Looking for an epic camping spot with easy access to both the outdoors and some local adventure? This tent site in the Animas Valley, right on the banks of the Animas River, is perfect for you. Imagine waking up to the sight of elk or mule deer casually grazing nearby while red-tailed hawks cruise the skies. It’s super chill and ideal for anyone who loves wildlife.
But that’s just the start—you're also a quick drive from Durango’s cool local scene and all the hiking, biking, and exploring the San Juan Mountains have to offer. Spend your days hitting the trails, rafting the river, or checking out Durango’s breweries and cafes, then come back to relax by your campfire under the stars. It’s the perfect mix of wild and town vibes!
Pets
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from
$120
/ night
Bear Paw Lodge Ponderosa Creekside
Bear Paw Lodge Ponderosa Creekside
13mi from San Juan National Forest · 2 sites
Welcome to Bear Paw Lodge, ideally located near the scenic Vallecito Lake and surrounded by the majestic San Juan Mountains. We offer private, secluded mountain cabins and spacious vacation homes, each equipped with the amenities essential for a peaceful, relaxing stay. Stay with us and discover the perfect blend of natural beauty and comfortable accommodations in the stunning landscape of Southwest Colorado.
Explore Bear Paw Lodge's selection of two to four bedroom vacation homes by Lake Vallecito. Each home is fully equipped with a kitchen, barbeque grills, fireplaces, and TVs. Many homes offer private outdoor picnic areas. Furnished with sheets, towels, and essential amenities, our vacation homes provide spacious and comfortable accommodations, perfect for family gatherings.
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from
$225
/ night
Grimes Creek Vacation Home
Grimes Creek Vacation Home
13mi from San Juan National Forest · 1 site
This spectacular 3-bedroom, 2-bath home sits on a large lot and has a deck right next to Grimes Creek. The decks overlook the creek on one side, and a large pond on the other side. Downstairs offers a large master bedroom with a King size bed, master bathroom with jetted tub and a separate shower, and a large walk-in closet. The second bedroom has a queen size bed and connects to the second bathroom which has a tub/shower combination. The living room has a gas fireplace and a large flat-screen smart TV. The kitchen is open to the living room and has a large commercial refrigerator, wine fridge, dishwasher, microwave, and a connecting laundry area. The upstairs has two twin beds and a sitting area with a desk. Large decks overlooking the water with a sitting area and a Bar-B-Que grill. Pets are not allowed in this vacation home. Wifi too.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$300
/ night
River Song Vacation Home
River Song Vacation Home
13mi from San Juan National Forest · 1 site
This spectacular 4-bedroom, 2 1/2-bath home sits along the Vallecito River and has a deck that is right on the water with a million dollar view of mountains and water. The primary bedroom and full bath (jetted tub and stand up shower) are located on the first floor along with the kitchen, breakfast area, dining area, half-bath, laundry room and two-story living room. The upstairs offers 3 more bedrooms and a full bathroom and sitting area. Fully equipped spacious kitchen with microwave. Fireplace and TV in living room. Covered porch in back and wraps around to the front with charcoal grill and a large stand-alone deck next to the river. Pets are allowed in this vacation home for a fee.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$350
/ night
Mountain View Vacation Home
Mountain View Vacation Home
13mi from San Juan National Forest · 1 site
This vacation home is ready to accommodate anyone interested in getting some peace and quiet in the mountains. With new appliances and smart heating installed, you will enjoy comfort just as much as the rugged outdoors the Vallecito Lake area has to offer. This cabin comes with two bedrooms with queen beds on the main floor, one loft bedroom upstairs with two twin beds, and one full bathroom on the main floor. Living room area comes with plenty of space, vaulted ceilings, large open full furnished kitchen, and a wine/liquor storage area! The large patio has a beautiful view of the pond on the property as well as the mountains surrounding the property. Two restaurants within walking distance! Starlink/wifi. Large Smart TV Washer/Dryer
Pets
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from
$290
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
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!
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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.
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Deb
October 2025
With kids
Kids loved staying in the Tipi. It was a fun experience.
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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!
See moreR
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.
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K
Kelly
October 2025
With kids
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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Siva
October 2025
1 night at Lavender Farm Stay
Best hosts ever. Photos don't justify the beauty. Highly recommend
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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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A
Abigail
October 2025
With kids
Cozy cabin had everything we needed. Would definitely stay again. Right outside of Durango. Loved the closeness to the river. Peaceful few days.
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Allegra
October 2025
With kids
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.
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L
Lynsey
October 2025
With pets
Pictures do not do this place justice! The river is directly behind the tent, so it was perfect to fall asleep to the sound of the water! Community kitchen area has everything you need from seasonings, a grill, even a super neat pizza oven! 100000% recommend this gem of a place. There’s even a trail to walk to downtown if you’re feeling up to it!
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T
T
September 2025
With pets
The cabin accommodations were great. The great are nice. It was a bit further from town than I expected. There were a lot of rules that were not addressed in the original advertisement. There is a charge for pets that is not spelled out but they let it slide. I would recommend
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K
Kelley
September 2025
With kids
Absolutely loved this place. Gorgeous views - sunset and sunrise. Wonderful amenities. Friendly staff. Can’t wait to come back
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TRACY
September 2025
2 nights at Junction West Durango
Great place to stay! Peaceful and clean. The glamping cabin was awesome. Everything we needed. Bathroom facilities were very clean
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D
Destinie
September 2025
With pets
This place is absolutely stunning! I have never seen so many stars before and the campsites are spaced out far enough it felt liek a private retreat. They have restrooms, showers, and a community kitchen with every cooking utensil you may need. The restrooms were so clean and the camp manager was so kind!
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T
Thalia
September 2025
3 nights at Bright Star Campground
We enjoyed our stay. The Raven tipi was comfortable and spacious for three of us + gear. And to have the kitchen to use was fantastic! And the freezer & ice maker made our water situation for desert hiking so easy.
Bathrooms were super clean. Shower building was good too. Rustic, and walled in, but open to the air.
Chatting with folks from all parts of the US was a nice bonus too.
And our second morning there, we were greeted by a raven perched on top of the tipi.
Highly recommend.
And if you walk the trails to the bathrooms at night using a headlamp, see if you can spot the sparkles on the ground.
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Salena
September 2025
2 nights at Bright Star Campground
I loved camping on Kent’s land! Seeing the word and dedication that has been put into this property over the years by different owners. Kent does a great job of helping campers feel welcome. The pavilion and the kitchen are awesome!!! We loved meeting Kent’s puppy Rowdy!
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J
Joshua
September 2025
With pets
Hospitality was top notch. If you’re not used to camping in a community space it can feel a bit different. Lots to do there, and Telluride is about an hour and a half away and so are the bridal veil falls. If you plan on going to Mesa Verde make sure to book your in advance because some of the areas are only accessible through tours.
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J
Jennifer
September 2025
4 nights at Junction West Durango
Peaceful, beautiful environment. Would absolutely stay again.
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Stephanie
August 2025
With kids
Chill vibes, art, play, sunsets, epic experience and awesome hosts!
See more 97%
41 ratings · 24 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
Tent ·
Lower Hermosa Campground
Great place to stay in the mountains. There were a few spots with trees big enough to hammock. The paved road leading up to the campsite is not well maintained, but the last bit on gravel was fine.
Caroline H.
11 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Tent · With pets · Group trip ·
West Dolores Campground
Very unplugged and remote, but not too far to get back into things. MANY mosquitos in the summer, so plan accordingly.
A
Amanda S.
8 reviews
May 2023
Love camping and hiking at South Mineral!
K
Kristy D.
2 years on Hipcamp
May 2021
Lovely little campground that has 2 small loops. The lower loop A can accommodate larger rigs down the center and has electric for them. The spots on the outer parameter of the loop are better for smaller units such as vans, tents and small travel trailers. Loop B is set up nicely for tents and smaller trailers but there is no electric for smaller units and the bathrooms are a little bit of a walk if your tent camping. The bathrooms are situated in the center of the campground grounds. Many spots are right on the river so if you have small children I would avoid during runoff times. We just camped there and the water was running to fast to fish or let the kids get near it. Beautiful little campground, clean, well maintained, easy to access.
Holly W.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2020
Great campsite for exploring around the Pagosa Springs area. We spent two nights and it was about half full each night. Overall, quiet and clean and the other campers were respectful without much noise. Most had RVs (we were the only tent campers) so a bit of noise from generators/motors but nothing to complain about. Zero service available so great to disconnect and relax.
This is a great place to stay if you want to hike to Rainbow Hot Springs. The trailhead is a short drive (about 1.5 miles) from the driveway for the campground.
Cara H.
5 years on Hipcamp
December 2019
The campsites are close but not too bad as it has more of a forest vibe. I camped here in June 2016 and it was fairly quite considering the time of year and number of campsites. The lake was a cool walk and our pups loved the area!
Meghan N.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2018
Brilliant hiking. What views..breath taking
Maggie S.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2018
built-in equipment
Gantsetseg G.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2018
Nice place, no hookups, at the end of the Colorado trail, no dump station but access to potable water
Michael C.
7 years on Hipcamp
May 2018
Loved this lakeside campground, camped here in october, no host, no bugs but lots of hunters. Lovely spot right on the lake, Hermosa is a hood place to shop for farm fresh goodies and the amazing million doller highway to Silverton makes for an awesome day trip.
Sally P.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· February 2018
This campsite was an absolute gem! Just off the highway, but tucked away enough to not hear any road noise and have complete peace. I planned to be there for 2 days and extended to 4. It was wonderful. Clean spots, also private spots. I felt comfortable changing in the openness of my spot because there were enough trees to deter any onlookers. Vault toilets and drinking water provided. Trash collection, as well! Which I loved, having been on the road for a week prior to this stay.
Dani G.
7 years on Hipcamp
October 2017
Too good to spread the word...I camped here in 1975...Take your breath away...Not just the almost 9,000 foot altitude. Absolutely beautiful late season.
M
Michael H K.
8 years on Hipcamp
October 2017
Primitive, tent, and hookups available. Not expensive. Was able to get two sites next to each other: one the Grandpa site the other everybody else, what's that about??? 🤷🏽♂️
The hosts were great, my age 65. But alas new hosts this year haven't met them.
Remember, closed after Oct 15.
B
Bob W.
8 years on Hipcamp
September 2017
great place ! close to Silverton and the Alpine loop...
Marty E.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2017
Take bug spray!
Sue M.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2017
Gorrrrrgeous river/hike. We car camped, literally no spots to setup a tent. Still worth itttt
Mioara D.
8 years on Hipcamp
November 2016
Wonderful campground! I have camped and backpacked at many places in Colorado, in the wilderness and at campsites. I can honestly say this is my favorite campsite in the region. Everything was close by (restrooms, trailheads, the river, water faucets, etc) the camp hosts are very nice and accommodating, if you've got any questions feel free to ask them. This is (to me) the most beautiful and awe-inspiring part of Colorado, and this campsite in right in the center of it all. Vallecito reservoir is just a 5 minute drive from the camp, and it offers fantastic fishing, stores, restaurants, etc. Weminuche Wilderness trail begins at the north side of the camp, I suggest a hike. I spent 2 weeks backpacking on that trail on a previous trip, amazing
Jacob G.
9 years on Hipcamp
August 2016
Camped here with my pup in tow - great access to fishable water, nestled in a forest of trees. Wasn't there for long, so didn't explore more up the road, but a great spot, I'm assuming, if I had more time. We did the campsite spot, so listened to a neighbor's generator until 10pm, and then at 8am sharp it started up again. Something to keep in mind, if you're not going backcountry, and want peace and quiet. :)
Ashlee N.
4 reviews
August 2016
Great campground. Nice and quiet. A few trails around the campground and lake that are easy in experience level. There are a lot of mosquitoes in the summer so bring plenty of spray or candles. Firewood bundles are available for purchase from the camp host. This campground is directly in between downtown Durango and Silverton. It's a great jumping off point for both cities, the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, and all other activities in the area.
Seamus O.
9 years on Hipcamp
May 2016
This site is marked by closed according to the reservation site.
E
Eva P.
10 years on Hipcamp
October 2015
18 EarthRoamers and their owners camped near this location for a beautiful and relaxing day and evening. We were participating in the 11th Annual EarthRoamer Owners Rally.
Craig F.
10 years on Hipcamp
September 2015
We towed our 23' Airstream into Sig Creek in Aug 2015. We do a lot of boondocking in BLM & NF sites. The access road was no problem, but the campground itself was heavily rutted and overgrown. It looked like an abandoned NF campground. Several dispersed sites along the access road offered much nicer settings.
J
Joseph D.
10 years on Hipcamp
July 2015
Note that temperatures were regularly 10-15 degrees lower than Durango. Lots of free firewood to collect.
Mark S.
10 years on Hipcamp
July 2015
Cows often run through this camp, so be ready for morning Moos. Right side of road campsites are all near the river - can't go wrong with any of these. I say people 4 wheeling near river. Love this campsite, especially #4.
Mark S.
10 years on Hipcamp