Fitton Guard Station Cabin

Forest Service Road 656, San Juan NF, CO, USA

Tucked away in the tranquil wilderness just 15 miles southeast of Pagosa Springs, Blanco River Group Campground offers an intimate escape where the gentle murmur of the river sets the rhythm for unforgettable gatherings. This hidden gem provides generous, shaded spaces perfect for family reunions and group adventures, where privacy meets the pristine beauty of Colorado's backcountry. Here, the outside world fades away, replaced by the simple pleasures of campfire stories and starlit nights along the banks of the Blanco River.

Rio Grande National Forest

Nestled at 8,700 feet in the heart of Colorado's wilderness, Spectacle Lake Campground beckons adventurers with 24 thoughtfully designed campsites, including 13 convenient pull-through sites perfect for RVs and trailers. This mountain sanctuary comes equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay: sturdy picnic tables, stone fireplaces with limited firewood available, clean vault toilets, refuse containers, and two hand-pump water spigots delivering crisp mountain water. What truly sets this campground apart are the breathtaking panoramic views of towering cliff walls that greet you from most campsites. Located steps away from the pristine waters of Spectacle Lake and the rushing Conejos River, you'll have premier access to some of Colorado's finest trout fishing—and when winter transforms the landscape, the frozen lake becomes an ice angler's paradise. Adventure seekers will find themselves perfectly positioned to explore the untamed South San Juan Wilderness, with trailheads practically at your doorstep: the scenic Spectacle Lake Trail #730 lies just half a mile away, while the challenging Ruybalid Trail #855 and the dramatic Notch Trail #729 offer endless opportunities for backcountry exploration.

15571 County Road T5 La Jara, CO 81140

Tucked away in the heart of the Rio Grande National Forest, Conejos Campground serves as a hidden gem for those seeking a more intimate camping experience. While originally designed as an overflow area for the busier Mix Lake and Spectacle Lake campgrounds, this cozy loop has developed its own devoted following among anglers and nature enthusiasts. The campground's prime location offers direct access to the pristine waters of the Conejos River, where trout dance beneath the surface, and provides an easy gateway to the mirror-like waters of nearby Spectacle Lake.

RIO GRANDE-SAN JUAN NF

Escape to Lake Fork Campground, where the pristine wilderness of Rio Grande National Forest unfolds at 9,500 feet above sea level. This remote mountain sanctuary offers an authentic high-country camping experience, where crystal-clear river waters meet ancient forests and wildflower meadows. Visitors consistently praise the campground's immaculate maintenance and breathtaking natural beauty, though the occasional buzz of flies during wet periods and sounds of fellow adventurers remind you that you're sharing this slice of paradise with nature and neighbors alike.

Conejos Peak Ranger District, 15571 County Road T.5

Step into a piece of Colorado history at Platoro Cabin 1, where modern comfort meets rustic charm in the heart of Rio Grande National Forest. This beautifully preserved cabin invites adventurers to experience the best of mountain living with thoughtful amenities including propane-powered lighting, cozy heating, full refrigerators, hot showers, and flush toilets. Whether you're casting a line in crystal-clear streams, exploring endless hiking trails, pursuing game through ancient forests, or carving fresh powder on pristine slopes, this high-altitude haven serves as your perfect basecamp for year-round outdoor adventures.

Conejos Peak Ranger District, 15571 County Road T.5, La Jara, CO, 81140, USA

Step back in time at Platoro Cabin 2, where the rugged spirit of Colorado's high country meets modern comfort. Perched at a breathtaking 10,000 feet in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, this authentic 1963 Forest Service cabin invites you to experience the raw beauty of downtown Platoro. Once home to hardworking forest crews who protected these wild lands, the cabin now opens its doors to adventurers seeking an authentic mountain escape where the air is thin, the stars are bright, and the wilderness beckons just beyond your doorstep.

Mix Lake Campground, Antonito, CO 81120

Perched at a breathtaking 10,000 feet elevation, Mix Lake Campground offers 21 pristine campsites where adventure meets tranquility. Wake up to panoramic views of shimmering Mix Lake, surrounded by towering spruce and whispering aspen groves. Each site comes equipped with sturdy tables and fireplaces for memorable evening gatherings, while modern vault toilets and fresh potable water ensure comfort in the wilderness. Whether you're casting a line in nearby fishing holes, exploring mountain trails, or making a day trip to the expansive Platoro Reservoir, this high-altitude haven serves as your perfect basecamp for Rocky Mountain adventures.

FS ROAD 667 - SAN JUAN NF

Tucked away in the majestic San Juan National Forest, East Fork Campground beckons adventurers seeking an intimate mountain escape. This hidden gem combines the thrill of riverside fishing, scenic hiking trails, and rugged off-road adventures, all while offering a peaceful sanctuary beneath towering ponderosa pines and graceful gambel oaks. Here, the soundtrack of rushing water mingles with birdsong, creating the perfect backdrop for your wilderness retreat.

15571 County Road T5 La Jara, CO 81140

Perched high in the Rio Grande National Forest at 9,700 feet, Stunner Campground offers a true escape into Colorado's rugged wilderness. This intimate, five-site campground provides adventurers with essential amenities including sturdy picnic tables, fire pits for evening gatherings, and a vault toilet facility. While the campground accommodates trailers with ample parking spaces, visitors should prepare for rustic road conditions that add to the authentic backcountry experience. The exposed alpine setting means you'll feel every mountain breeze, making this an ideal spot for those who appreciate nature's raw beauty over manicured comfort.

4.5 miles above Terrace Reservoir Dam, near Alamosa River, CO

Tucked away 4.5 miles above Terrace Reservoir Dam, Alamosa Campground offers an intimate escape into the heart of Colorado's wilderness. This hidden gem provides five thoughtfully placed campsites along the babbling Alamosa River, where adventurers can claim their spot for free and wake to the sound of rushing water. Each site comes equipped with a sturdy table and fire ring, while the convenient pull-through site accommodates larger rigs. Here, beneath towering peaks and endless sky, you'll discover the rare combination of accessibility and solitude that makes this compact campground a favorite among those who know where to find it.

15571 County Road T.5, La Jara, CO 81140, USA

Perched high in the majestic San Juan Mountains, Elwood Cabin stands as a testament to Colorado's rich communication heritage. This charming rustic retreat, originally constructed in 1911 as a vital link in America's first transcontinental telephone line, has evolved from a humble line shack to a beloved Forest Service station, and now welcomes modern adventurers seeking an authentic mountain escape. Here, at the edge of the sky, visitors discover a perfect blend of historical intrigue and alpine splendor.

West Fork Rd (FS Road 648), San Juan NF, CO, USA

Tucked away in the heart of the San Juan National Forest, West Fork Campground offers an authentic wilderness retreat where the gentle murmur of the West Fork San Juan River provides nature's soundtrack. This intimate campground invites you to unwind at thoughtfully spaced single-family sites, each equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings under star-filled skies. Modern vault toilets and fresh potable water ensure comfort without compromising the natural experience. Those seeking respite from the digital world will find solace here, where towering pines whisper ancient stories and hiking trails beckon adventurers to explore the surrounding wilderness.

13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132

Tucked away in the pristine Rock Creek Drainage, Comstock Campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience for those seeking solitude and simplicity. This intimate campground features just 7 sites, each equipped with the essentials: a sturdy table for evening meals under the stars, a fire ring for warming conversations, and access to vault toilet facilities. While the tight quarters make it best suited for smaller rigs rather than large trailers, what Comstock lacks in amenities it makes up for in raw mountain charm. The babbling South Fork of Rock Creek runs nearby, offering anglers a chance to cast for native trout, while an extensive trail network beckons hikers and OHV enthusiasts to explore the surrounding wilderness. Come fall, these same paths become prime territory for hunters pursuing elk and deer. True to its wilderness setting, Comstock operates on a 'Pack In, Pack Out' principle – there are no trash services here, reinforcing the campground's commitment to preserving this untouched corner of the forest.

13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132

Escape to Rock Creek Campground, where the melodic rush of crystal-clear mountain waters creates nature's perfect soundtrack for your outdoor adventure. This intimate retreat offers 12 thoughtfully positioned campsites tucked beneath a canopy of towering, mature aspens that shimmer gold in autumn and whisper secrets in summer breezes. Whether you choose one of the seven private dead-end spurs for ultimate seclusion or opt for the convenience of three pull-through sites, you'll find yourself immersed in a pristine wilderness playground. Anglers will discover their paradise here, while hikers can explore endless mountain trails, and hunters can pursue their passion during the appropriate seasons.

Rio Grande National Forest, 13308 US Highway 160, Del Norte, CO 81132

Perched in a pristine alpine meadow at 10,500 feet, Off Cow Camp Cabin offers an authentic mountain retreat deep within Rio Grande National Forest. This charming rustic cabin sleeps four in two cozy bunk beds and serves as your basecamp for endless adventure. Whether you're drawn to mountain trails on foot or horseback, seeking prime fishing spots in crystal-clear streams, or craving the thrill of ATV rides through forest roads, this high-country haven delivers. Come winter, the landscape transforms into a snowmobiler's paradise and backcountry skier's dream, with untouched powder and endless terrain to explore.

13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132

Perched at a breathtaking 9,600 feet elevation, Tucker Ponds welcomes adventurers to its intimate collection of 15 campsites nestled within a single loop. Here, where towering spruce trees frame expansive grassy meadows, you'll discover a landscape transformed by nature's own hand. Following a natural forest renewal in 2015, when spruce bark beetles prompted the removal of older trees, the campground now offers sun-drenched sites with spectacular, unobstructed views of majestic Fox Mountain rising against the alpine sky.

13308 WEST HWY 160, DEL NORTE, CO, 81132, USA

Nestled high in the sub-alpine wonderland of the San Juan Mountains, Big Meadows Reservoir Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Colorado mountain experience. This enchanting retreat combines the serenity of wildflower-dotted meadows with world-class fishing waters and miles of scenic hiking trails. Here, where the air is crisp and the views stretch endlessly, you'll discover why generations of campers have made this their favorite high-country escape.

Cross Creek Campground, Beaver Creek Rd, South Fork, CO

Nestled near the pristine inlet of Beaver Reservoir, Cross Creek Campground offers an intimate escape with just 12 secluded sites in the heart of Rio Grande National Forest. Each site comes thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Modern vault toilets and convenient trash services ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. Adventure seekers will discover the renowned Cross Creek Trail 512 right at their doorstep, where thrilling ATV routes wind through ancient forests and hiking paths lead to the forest's most magnificent natural wonder—a colossal Douglas fir that has stood sentinel for centuries.

13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132

Nestled along the melodic waters of the South Fork of the Rio Grande River, Park Creek Campground offers an intimate escape into Colorado's high country. This charming 12-site retreat beckons travelers with its gravel campsites, each thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and steel fire rings for memorable evenings under the stars. The campground's mature canopy of towering spruce and cottonwood creates a natural cathedral, while modern amenities including two vault toilets, a centralized refuse station, and seasonal hand-pump water stations ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. Though conveniently accessible from US Highway 160, the dense forest buffer transforms occasional traffic sounds into distant whispers, preserving the tranquil atmosphere.

13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132

Nestled beneath towering ponderosa pines, Upper Beaver Creek Campground offers an intimate mountain retreat with 12 thoughtfully placed campsites divided into two distinct sections. While some sites feature side-by-side parking that creates a more social atmosphere, the real draw lies just beyond the pine-scented grounds. Beaver Creek Reservoir beckons with pristine waters perfect for casting a line or launching your boat into the morning mist. During summer months, you'll enjoy the convenience of potable water and regular trash service, making your stay comfortable while you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this high-altitude haven.

13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132

Nestled in the heart of Colorado's high country, Lower Beaver Creek Campground welcomes adventurers with 18 thoughtfully designed sites that blend seamlessly into the forest landscape. Whether you prefer the convenience of pull-through sites or the seclusion of dead-end spurs, each spot comes equipped with your own picnic table and fireplace for those memorable evening gatherings under the stars. Fresh mountain water flows from seasonal hand pumps, while well-maintained vault toilets and summer trash service ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience.

13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132

Nestled within two distinct camping loops, Highway Springs Campground offers a refreshing escape into nature's embrace. The lower loop invites tent campers to pitch beneath a canopy of shimmering Aspens and towering Ponderosa pines, where dappled sunlight filters through the branches. Adventure seekers choosing the upper loop are rewarded with sweeping mountain vistas and the cool shade of ancient Ponderosas. This back-to-basics retreat features 13 well-spaced campsites, including 3 convenient pull-through spots, each equipped with sturdy tables and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings. Two vault toilets serve the campground, though visitors should come prepared with their own water and firewood for the authentic wilderness experience.

FSR 610, South Fork, CO 81154

Step back in time at Alder Guard Station, where a century of forest service history meets modern comfort. This enchanting two-story cabin, nestled just 2 miles north of South Fork, Colorado, stands as a testament to the early days of forest conservation. Built in 1910 when rangers patrolled vast wilderness territories on horseback, this lovingly preserved station has transformed from a working ranger's quarters into an extraordinary mountain retreat that seamlessly blends rustic charm with contemporary conveniences.

13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132

Tucked into a dramatic river canyon between the mountain towns of Creede and South Fork, Palisade Campground offers a rare riverside escape along Colorado's legendary Rio Grande. This intimate 12-site campground delivers an authentic Rocky Mountain experience where anglers cast lines into trophy trout waters and rafters launch adventures right from camp. Some sites bask in sunny meadows while others nestle beneath protective canopies of ancient trees. The rhythmic rumble of passing trains and the distant hum of highway traffic remind visitors they're still connected to civilization, even while immersed in this rugged canyon sanctuary.

13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132

Perched at a breathtaking 10,800 feet, Hansen Mill Dispersed Camping offers an authentic high-country escape where solitude meets adventure. This intimate hideaway features just three thoughtfully spaced sites, each equipped with picnic tables and fire rings for those memorable evening gatherings under star-filled skies. While the campground's vault toilet provides basic comfort, the absence of potable water adds to the genuine backcountry experience. Equestrian enthusiasts will find this remote sanctuary particularly welcoming, with ample space for horses and direct access to scenic trails. From your campsite, endless possibilities unfold: explore winding OHV roads, cast a line in pristine mountain waters, or simply soak in the commanding mountain views that stretch to the horizon.

Embargo Creek Rd, Rio Grande National Forest, Colorado

Discover the serenity of Cathedral Campground, where 22 thoughtfully designed sites await your arrival on a first-come, first-served basis. Since its 2010 remodel, this mountain retreat has welcomed adventurers to its mix of 17 cozy dead-end spurs and 5 convenient pull-through sites, each stretching 35 to 45 feet to accommodate various camping setups. Whether you choose a site beside the sweeping meadow or tucked within the whispering Aspen and Blue Spruce forest, you'll understand why visitors often say 'the tranquil beauty of the place lifted spirits.' This is more than just a campground—it's a sanctuary where nature's cathedral doors are always open.

BLM San Luis Valley Field Office, 1313 U.S. Hwy 160 E., Monte Vista, CO 81144

Escape to Penitente Canyon Campground, where 15 thoughtfully designed campsites await your arrival. Choose from 3 secluded tent-only sites perfect for backpackers seeking solitude, or settle into one of 12 versatile RV/tent sites that welcome all types of adventurers. Larger groups can gather at two spacious tent camping areas or reserve the group picnic shelter for memorable outdoor celebrations. Each site comes equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay: sturdy tables for camp meals, level tent pads for restful nights, fire rings for evening storytelling, and secure food storage lockers to keep wildlife at bay.

Rio Grande National Forest, 13308 US Highway 160, Del Norte, CO 81132

Cross Creek Campground, Beaver Creek Rd, South Fork, CO

13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132

West Fork Rd (FS Road 648), San Juan NF, CO, USA

FS ROAD 667 - SAN JUAN NF

13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132

Embargo Creek Rd, Rio Grande National Forest, Colorado

Conejos Peak Ranger District, 15571 County Road T.5, La Jara, CO, 81140, USA

Conejos Peak Ranger District, 15571 County Road T.5

13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132

Mix Lake Campground, Antonito, CO 81120

13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132

FSR 610, South Fork, CO 81154

Rio Grande National Forest

RIO GRANDE-SAN JUAN NF

13308 WEST HWY 160, DEL NORTE, CO, 81132, USA

13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132

15571 County Road T.5, La Jara, CO 81140, USA

15571 County Road T5 La Jara, CO 81140

15571 County Road T5 La Jara, CO 81140

806 W. Hallam

Tucked away in the shadow of Colorado's most photographed peaks, Silver Bar Campground offers an intimate escape into the wilderness with just four secluded tent sites. This hidden gem invites adventurers to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the Rockies. Each walk-in site comes thoughtfully equipped with everything you need for a memorable stay: sturdy picnic tables for mountain-side meals, bear-proof lockers to safely store your provisions, and stone fire rings where stories come alive under starlit skies. The gentle murmur of Maroon Creek provides nature's soundtrack, while vault toilets ensure basic comfort without compromising the pristine environment.

5575 CLEORA RD

Tucked away in the breathtaking Chalk Creek Canyon at 9,000 feet, Cascade Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Colorado mountain experience. This beloved retreat features 21 thoughtfully spaced campsites, ranging from spontaneous walk-up spots to reservable havens, each equipped with sturdy picnic tables and inviting campfire rings where stories and s'mores come to life under starlit skies. Modern vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. Whether you're casting a line into pristine mountain waters, discovering hidden hiking trails, or venturing onto rugged off-road paths, Cascade serves as your perfect basecamp for mountain adventures and peaceful escapes alike.

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Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests, Pines Campground offers an authentic high-country camping experience at 9,200 feet. This intimate campground features just 11 sites along the babbling South Fork of the Michigan River, where the sound of rushing water provides nature's soundtrack to your mountain retreat. While beetle kill has opened up the forest canopy, creating sun-drenched sites perfect for stargazing, visitors appreciate the campground's easy accessibility and rustic charm. As one camper noted, it's a 'great little campground' that delivers simplicity and natural beauty in equal measure.

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Perched in the heart of the Trappers Lake Recreation Area, Trapline Campground offers 11 thoughtfully arranged sites along a single loop, where the landscape opens up to endless Colorado skies. Unlike the dense forest campgrounds below, Trapline embraces its high-altitude setting with sun-drenched sites that bask in natural light from dawn to dusk. Here, the commanding presence of the Flat Tops Wilderness stretches across the horizon, creating a backdrop that transforms with each passing hour as shadows dance across ancient peaks and valleys.

46525 State Hwy 114, Saguache, CO 81149

Step back in time at Duncan Cabin, where the whispers of 1880s prospectors still echo through weathered log walls. Perched at 8,120 feet in the majestic Rio Grande National Forest, this authentic one-room sanctuary offers adventurers a rare blend of rustic charm and mountain solitude. Inside, cozy bunk beds and a crackling wood stove promise warmth after days spent exploring, while outdoor vault toilets maintain the frontier spirit. Whether you arrive on horseback to graze in nearby meadows, seek pristine dark skies for celestial photography, or use this historic haven as your basecamp for discovering the otherworldly Great Sand Dunes National Park, Duncan Cabin delivers an unforgettable high-country experience.

WHITE RIVER

Nestled in a tranquil Rocky Mountain valley, Camp Hale Memorial Campground offers 15 intimate campsites where history and wilderness converge. This hidden gem welcomes tents, trailers, and RVs alike, providing a peaceful retreat enhanced by attentive campground hosts who ensure every visitor feels at home. Adventure seekers will appreciate the direct access to the legendary Colorado Trail, making this modest campground a perfect basecamp for mountain exploration.

FS 520, CREEDE, CO 81130, USA

Nestled along the pristine banks of the Rio Grande River, River Hill Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Colorado wilderness experience. This beloved riverside retreat serves as your gateway to endless outdoor pursuits—cast a line into crystal-clear waters teeming with trout, explore winding trails that disappear into the backcountry, or launch your kayak for a peaceful paddle. Just steps from your campsite, trailheads lead directly into the magnificent Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado's largest designated wilderness area.

San Juan NF, Colorado, USA

Perched at 7,643 feet in the Colorado high country, Target Tree Campground serves as your gateway to the Southwest's most treasured destinations. Just a scenic drive from the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park and the vibrant mountain towns of Mancos and Durango, this historic campground takes its name from a fascinating chapter in Ute Indian history. Here, centuries-old Ponderosa pines still bear the distinctive scars from when Ute hunters honed their marksmanship skills, while these same majestic trees provided life-sustaining sap and bark that supplemented their traditional diet.

REDFEATHER LAKES, BELLEVUE, CO, 80512, USA

Nestled along the pristine shores of Dowdy Lake, this mountain retreat offers 70 thoughtfully designed campsites that blend modern convenience with natural beauty. Choose from 60 spacious sites equipped with electric hookups for RVs and trailers, or embrace a more traditional camping experience at one of 10 dedicated tent-only sites. Each campsite serves as your personal basecamp, complete with a sturdy picnic table for lakeside meals, a dedicated tent pad, and a campfire ring with grill where evening stories and s'mores come to life. Modern vault toilets, fresh drinking water stations, and regular trash collection ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience.

46525 ST HWY 114, Saguache, CO 81149, USA

Nestled deep within the Rio Grande National Forest at 9,500 feet, Stone Cellar Guard Station beckons adventurers seeking true mountain solitude. This remote cabin sanctuary, perched at the edge of the La Garita Wilderness, serves as your gateway to pristine fishing streams, untamed hiking trails, premier hunting grounds, and exhilarating winter sports terrain. Here, where the modern world fades away, you'll discover the Colorado high country as it was meant to be experienced.