Durango Camping
Tips For Camping & Backpacking Around Durango
Camping in Durango is the perfect way to take advantage of all the outdoor adventures Durango has to offer. In addition to full service campgrounds, Durango offers opportunities for backcountry camping. The nearby San Juan National Forest is one of the most popular Durango camping destinations.
Camping & Backpacking Tips
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Durango campgrounds and RV parks offer campers an amazing Colorado experience. From quiet campgrounds for visitors searching for that perfect place to relax to RV Parks and resorts with amazing amenities, there are many Durango campgrounds from which to choose. These restful retreats allow vacationers to bring their RV, campers or tents and enjoy both the Durango area and the outdoors.
Durango Campgrounds & RV Parks
Mesa Verde Camping
Morefield Campground is located within Mesa Verde National Park and is open to tents, trailers, camper vans, and RVs. Morefield Village seasonally provides guests with a gas station, RV dumping station, coin-operated laundry, complimentary showers, and a camp store. Many of the park's most popular hikes leave from Morefield campground.
Mesa Verde Camping
Free Camping Near Durango
There are quite a few places in and around Durango to camp for free. Camping on public lands away from developed recreation facilities is often referred to as dispersed camping. These spots are often not marked other than the signs of where a campsite was previously. There are often limits to how long you can stay at one camp so be sure to do your homework before setting out.
Free Camping
Tent Camping Near Durango
There are many places to go tent camping near Durango such as Vallecito Lake or the Weminuche Wilderness. Tent camping is the perfect getaway for those who would rather spend their nights under the stars. Check out the USDA Forest Service website for detailed information about camping in the San Juan National Forest.
San Juan Campground GuideDurango Camping Tips:
- Acclimatization: Durango ’s elevation is 6,512 feet above sea level, over a mile high. To avoid altitude sickness, drink copious amounts of water to better prepare yourself for the higher altitude and drier climate. Nausea and lightheadedness are common symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Water Purification No natural source of water should ever be considered safe. All water should be filtered with high quality filters, boiled, or purified with chemical tablets. Microorganisms can cause serious illness and even the most seemingly pristine water source may harbor harmful microbial populations.
- Trip Planning Leave an itinerary with friends or family. Check with the local Forest Service for the most current information or for details about public campgrounds. Call the San Juan Forest Service at (970) 247-4874 or visit their site for more information. For an online list of public campgrounds in the San Juan National Forest, visit the USDA website.
Summer in Durango is a Southwest Colorado paradise and perfect for those who love the outdoors. If you love camping you will absolutely love what Durango has to offer. All seasons are beautiful in Durango but the summers are almost always a perfect temperature for any outdoor activity you can imagine making Durango a true dream for those who love to live outdoors. Start Planning your Summer Trip to Durango with our Spring and Summer Planning Guide.
