- Uncompahgre National Forest
The best glamping in Uncompahgre National Forest, CO
85% (23)
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Uncompahgre National Forest
Lazy Rooster Ranch
Lazy Rooster Ranch
97%
(104)
16mi from Uncompahgre 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
Junction West Durango
Junction West Durango
95%
(33)
29mi from Uncompahgre 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.
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from
$59
/ night
HTR Durango
HTR Durango
98%
(27)
39mi from Uncompahgre 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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Showers
from
$35
/ night
Lavender Farm Stay
Lavender Farm Stay
100%
(52)
45mi from Uncompahgre 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
Camping in the Mesas
Camping in the Mesas
94%
(234)
46mi from Uncompahgre 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
CampV Colorado
CampV Colorado
97%
(45)
46mi from Uncompahgre National Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
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from
$35
/ night
Bright Star Campground
Bright Star Campground
98%
(779)
50mi from Uncompahgre 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
High Camp Hut - Simply Amazing
High Camp Hut - Simply Amazing
6.5mi from Uncompahgre National Forest · 2 sites
Perched at 11,000 feet in the breathtaking mountains of southwest Colorado, High Camp Hut sits on 320 private acres surrounded by 3 million acres of national forest. Accessed by a 2.5 mile hike, ski or snowshoe in, it’s the perfect setting for couples, families, friends, and retreats — a place to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature and each other. Whether you’re star-gazing from the wood-fired hot tub in summer or unwinding in the sauna after a snowy winter adventure, High Camp offers peace, beauty, and unforgettable mountain experiences.
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Hot Tub
from
$850
/ night
Campfire Ranch Red Mountain Pass
Campfire Ranch Red Mountain Pass
8.9mi from Uncompahgre National Forest · 1 site
It’s time to reset your expectations of what a backcountry hut can be. Surrounded by the San Juan National Forest, Campfire Ranch Red Mountain Pass is your perfect launch pad for off-grid outdoor adventure, with all the comforts of home. Explore spectacular views at 11,200 ft and stunning backcountry terrain with access to world class hiking, mountain biking, trail running, alpine lake fishing and OHV trails. We offer full-hut bookings with food service, giving you space and peace of mind while staying in the backcountry.
Open for summer hut trips June 20th - October 12th, 2025.
Campfire Ranch Red Mountain Pass is located off the “Million Dollar Highway” halfway between Silverton and Ouray. You can access the hut via 4x4 road in the summer. The Hut offers 3 loft-style bedroom areas with 6 beds (sleeps 8) for you and your crew to make your own. Fresh linens and towels are provided during your stay - no need to schlep in a sleeping bag!
Campfire Ranch Red Mountain Pass also offers a modern bathroom complete with hot & cold running water, flushing toilet, and toilet paper.
No need to worry about trucking all of your food and cookware to Campfire Ranch Red Mountain Pass! Food service is included during your stay. Food service includes breakfast, mid-day snack, and dinner daily during your stay.
You’re welcome to your bring favorite snacks or beverages for your trip, keeping in mind food storage space is limited. All meals are prepared with high-quality, natural and organic ingredients. Our staff is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences - just let us know during check-out so we’re aware of any allergies or restrictions!
After a long day hiking and exploring, nothing hits quite like a sauna. Kick off the boots and get ready to sweat it out in our 6-person, wood burning sauna! We’ve got all the firewood needed already cut and ready for your crew as well.
You can check-in with us anytime after 3pm the day of your reservation, all guests will be required to sign our release of liability waiver before camping (parents/guardians will have to sign for minors in your group)
- you can review more details as well as our terms and rules on our website: CampfireRanch.co
Pets
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from
$1200
/ night
The Cabin
The Cabin
100%
(6)
21mi from Uncompahgre National Forest · 5 sites
Escape to our tranquil 66-acre family homestead, where the welcome mat is out for campers seeking serenity amidst nature's embrace. With trails for hiking and biking, ample camping spots to pitch a tent under the stars, and the promise of true disconnection from the digital world, our retreat beckons those yearning for a genuine getaway. The Dolores river is right across the street, listen for the soothing sound of flowing waters or bring your fishing pole. We invite guests to unwind, recharge, and reconnect with the simplicity of outdoor living.
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from
$145
/ night
Meadow View Vacation Home
Meadow View Vacation Home
33mi from Uncompahgre 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.
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$350
/ night
Bear Paw Lodge Ponderosa Creekside
Bear Paw Lodge Ponderosa Creekside
34mi from Uncompahgre 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.
Pets
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from
$225
/ 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 85%
23 ratings · 10 reviews
Many of the sites offer quite a bit of privacy. The campground was mostly quiet.
Lori Jean R.
23 reviews
Not recommend
· July 2019
There is no water at the cabin and, therefore, no bathroom available. There is the world's most disgusting porta potty, however. Don't do it.
Jill H.
6 years on Hipcamp
July 2019
There is no bathroom available here as there is no water available , even though it is advertised. There is a disgusting porta potty, however. Pretty cool for $120 per night.
Jill H.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· November 2018
Near empty in late October before the snowfall, beautiful scenery with the foliage changing colors.
Megan M.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· April 2018
This place was full the first few times I tried to visit. Popular place and for a good reason. Follow your bear safety protocol folks! We saw lots of bears in the area. Love the drive to the campground. Be sure to spend some time in Ouray while you’re here!
E
Erica E.
2 reviews
Recommends
· March 2017
Wild boy basin just a short drive away provides some of the most secluded alpine lake camping ever! Probably need 4x4 tho
A
Annie G.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· March 2017
This campground is gorgeous! Make sure your car is up for the trek though. We made it up in our campervan but it was a little dicey at times. Everything is well spread out and it's dispersed camping. We didn't have any issues with people being too close. Spectacular views along the way! I would absolutely recommend camping here if you want to visit Telluride. It is close enough but far enough away that you don't get stuck with crowds or big groups
Alyssa M.
9 years on Hipcamp
August 2016
Love this campsite! Just south of town on the side of a mountain. Views are incredible, and sites are spread out for maximum privacy. It's a short drive walk to Baby Bathtubs, and Lower Falls hike, and there are many more longer trails you can catch in vicinity including Ouray Perimeter trail. We stay in campsite #9, which was about 100 ft from the road, and offered tremendous privacy. Couldn't see anyone standing in the middle of the site. Also had water spigot nearby, and just a short climb to nearest bathrooms which are everywhere. One complaint - wish the bathrooms had been cleaned, bit smelly. Camp host was out of wood, but if your crafty there are usually piles of cut down beetle trees on the way up.
Mark S.
10 years on Hipcamp
June 2016
Favorite campsite of all time right here. Alta Lakes is tough to get to, but is 110% worth it. The views are stellar and the abandoned mine town you pass on the way up is pretty cool!
Madison G.
9 years on Hipcamp
September 2015
This is one of the best campgrounds in the lower 48. Bring a water purifier and make use of the natural spring that flows through the middle of the site. Bring a jacket too, even in summer I have woken up to frost on the ground. It can get chilly at 11,000'
Don't be dissuaded by the rough road. A Subaru or a brave sedan could make it no problem.
Please take care of this place. Pack your trash out, Leave no trace.
Dillon S.
10 years on Hipcamp