How much does camping cost at Lower Hermosa Campground?

Camping fees at Lower Hermosa Campground range from $18/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Lower Hermosa Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Lower Hermosa Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. All 19 sites are walk-up and first-come, first-serve. Sites fill up later in the evening according to user reviews.

Can I see photos of campsites at Lower Hermosa Campground before I book?

Yes! Lower Hermosa Campground has 5 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Lower Hermosa Campground?

Lower Hermosa Campground is open May through September.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Lower Hermosa Campground?

Lower Hermosa Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Lower Hermosa Campground?

Fire policies at Lower Hermosa Campground: Campfires are permitted within fire rings.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Is there cell service at Lower Hermosa Campground?

Cell phone service at Lower Hermosa Campground is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Lower Hermosa Campground have?

Lower Hermosa Campground has 19 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Lower Hermosa Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Lower Hermosa Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Lower Hermosa Campground?

Lower Hermosa Campground offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Lower Hermosa Campground

4.14

57 reviews

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Stargazing

Featured in:Hiking Camping Colorado

Quick Facts

8,500 ft

Price

$18/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

19 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

8,500 ft

Price

$18/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

19 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Lower Hermosa Campground

$18.00 - $18.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Lower Hermosa Campground charges $18 per night for all campsites. Fees are paid on-site as reservations are not accepted. All sites are first-come,...

Standard Site Fee$18.00

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USFS

Provider

(970) 884-2512null

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

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Lower Hermosa Campground

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Nearby places

Durango: Approximately 14 miles and 30 minutes.

Nearby supplies

Supplies available in Durango, approximately 30 minutes away.

Driving directionsFrom Durango, CO: Travel north on Highway 550 for approximately 14 miles. Turn left (west) at Hermosa onto County Road 201 which becomes Forest Rd. 576. Head approximately 4 miles to the campground entrance.

"Keep in mind that the asphalt road turns into a 1-2 miles of gravel road to get to the camp spot." - User Review by Dalton Campbell. Roads are gravel for the last stretch but relatively smooth and passable according to users.

Weather at Lower Hermosa Campground

Current alert: No current advisories, but past fire damage is visible.

Best Time to Camp at Lower Hermosa Campground

Summer brings the most reliable access, with daytime highs in the mid-70s to low-80s°F and nights that can drop near freezing. Late June through early September works best for most visitors. May can still see snow. September means changing aspens and unpredictable weather. Afternoon thunderstorms roll through regularly in summer. Bring layers regardless of season. The 8,500-foot elevation makes mornings cold even in July. Winter lows have hit 7°F, though the campground isn't plowed for winter access. Trails reach peak condition by July after snowmelt clears.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer (late June–early Sept) is most reliable for access and activities; peak season noted.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May through September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through September 15.

About Lower Hermosa Campground

Lower Hermosa Campground sits at 8,500 feet in the San Juan National Forest, offering 19 sites along a single loop for $18 per night. The campground is a basecamp for the Hermosa Creek Trail, a 25-mile route popular with hikers and mountain bikers. There's no potable water on-site, but vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables cover the basics.

Lower Hermosa Campground offers 19 first-come, first-serve sites suitable for tent and RV camping. There is a separate area for horse camping at the nearby trailhead.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most reliable access, with daytime highs in the mid-70s to low-80s°F and nights that can drop near freezing. Late June through early September works best for most visitors. May can still see snow. September means changing aspens and unpredictable weather. Afternoon thunderstorms roll through regularly in summer. Bring layers regardless of season. The 8,500-foot elevation makes mornings cold even in July. Winter lows have hit 7°F, though the campground isn't plowed for winter access. Trails reach peak condition by July after snowmelt clears.

ElevationPerched at 8,500 feet above sea level, Lower Hermosa Campground offers a true high-country experience where the air is crisp, thin, and invigorating. At this elevation, morning coffee tastes better as you watch mist rise from the valleys below, though newcomers should pace themselves as their bodies adjust to the altitude. The thin air means cooler temperatures year-round—pack that extra layer even in July—and spectacular star viewing on clear nights when you feel closer to the cosmos. This elevated paradise rewards those who venture high with pristine air, fewer crowds, and the kind of profound quiet only found where the forest meets the sky.

Natural Features and SceneryPonderosa pines and Gambel oaks dominate the landscape, many showing fire scars from past burns. The charred trunks stand among new growth in what reviewers call a recovering forest. Steep canyon walls define the terrain, with gentler slopes covered in regenerating trees. Sunlight filters through the canopy unevenly. The elevation and pine resin create that distinct mountain smell. The campground sits within the Hermosa Special Management Area, where the forest is actively healing from fire. Some visitors appreciate the raw evidence of nature's cycles. Others just like the views and the shade.

Geological RegionSituated within the spectacular Hermosa Special Management Area of the San Juan National Forest, Lower Hermosa Campground occupies a unique ecological niche where diverse mountain ecosystems converge. This protected landscape showcases the dramatic topography of southwestern Colorado, with steep canyon walls giving way to gentler forested slopes adorned with stately Ponderosa pines and gnarled Gambel oaks. The area's geology tells an ancient story written in stone and soil, while more recent chapters are visible in the fire-adapted forest that demonstrates nature's remarkable ability to heal and thrive. This special management designation ensures that future generations will continue to experience the raw beauty and ecological importance of this recovering forest landscape, where every visit offers new discoveries among the regenerating groves.

Scenic Views"The fire damage is visible but didn't ruin any views—it was very peaceful and quiet." - User Review by Megan Kotlus.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are offered.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 pm

Check-out

12:00 pm

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is capped at 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 people allowed per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutSingle loop with 19 sites spread through the trees. Reviews describe them as big, level, and relatively private, with room for RVs up to 30 feet. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table.

Reservation PlatformsReservations not accepted; all sites are first-come, first-serve.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll 19 sites are walk-up and first-come, first-serve. Sites fill up later in the evening according to user reviews.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation is not applicable as reservations are not accepted.

AccessibilityWheelchair-accessible vault toilets are available.

Site SizeUser reviews suggest the campsites are big and level, with room for RVs up to 30 feet.

PrivacySites are relatively private, with one user describing them as "private with fire rings and picnic tables.

Total Campsites19 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites 7 or 9 for proximity to trailheads and relative privacy.

Best CampsitesSites 7 and 9 get recommended in reviews. No specifics on why, but returning campers mention them by number. The loop is small enough that most sites offer decent privacy and access to the trail.

Amenities available

Potable water is not available at this site. Please note, there is no water available at this campground.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Lower Hermosa Campground provides direct access to Hermosa Creek Trail #514, a 25-mile singletrack trail popular among hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, fishermen, and motorized singletrack users. This trail offers opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to experience steep drop-offs, diverse ecosystems, and scenic views. Horse camping amenities are available just outside the campground. However, there are no designated swimming, boating, or fishing facilities on-site.

Hiking

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include wildlife presence in the area. Users recommend practicing bear-safe food storage.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. Vault toilets are provided near the trailhead parking lot, and users describe them as clean, well-maintained, and odor-free.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted within fire rings.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10pm to 6am.

Emergency ServicesColumbine Ranger District Office at 367 Pearl Street Bayfield, CO 81122. Phone: (970) 884-2512. Hours: Friday only, 10:00am-4:30pm (Closed on federal holidays).

Trash & RecyclingTrash pickup services are available. Campers are advised to follow 'pack it in, pack it out' principles.

Water FeaturesNo water bodies nearby.

Camp HostCamp hosts are described variably as friendly and welcoming: "The host was so friendly, really cared about us." - User Review by Carol Clover. However, one user noted concerns about aggressive dogs and behavior.

Cell CoverageUser reviews indicate consistently strong cellular coverage with Verizon, and at least one user confirmed AT&T service. Another user suggested there is telephone signal service at this location.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

57 reviews

Satisfactory

Lower Hermosa Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground's cleanliness, privacy, and proximity to the Hermosa Creek Trail. The absence of water on-site and occasional noise disturbances were noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 57 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean vault toilets, private and spacious campsites, friendly camp hosts, and proximity to a 25-mile trail.

Based on 57 reviews

Common Concerns

No potable water available, occasional noise disturbances, reports of homeless individuals in the area.

Based on 57 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites #7 and #9 were specifically recommended by users for their quality and location.

Based on 57 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water supply, arrive early on weekends to secure a site, and check out campsites #7 and #9 as recommended by users.

Based on 57 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Memorial Day weekend and early summer are popular times, with quieter periods observed in late summer. The campground may be less crowded during weekdays.

Based on 57 reviews

Camper Quotes

- "The vault toilets were shockingly clean, always had TP and actually smelled pretty good." (Marcella Olds) - "Spacious, private sites with fire rings and picnic tables." (Megan Kotlus) - "Clean pit...

Based on 57 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific user reviews addressing accessibility features.

Based on 57 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed, and no user reviews mentioned specific pet-related experiences.

Based on 57 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Mountain bikers and long-distance hikers who want trail access right out of camp. Sites 7 and 9 get the best marks from past campers, and the spacious, wooded sites fit rigs up to 30 feet. Cell service works on Verizon and AT&T.

Skip if

No potable water on-site is a genuine logistical problem if you're not prepared, and Durango is 30 minutes away. Reviewers have also noted homeless individuals camping in the area, and weekend sites go fast with no reservation option.

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Campgrounds

San Juan National Forest

Lower Hermosa Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Lower Hermosa Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

The Lower Hermosa Campground has 19 sites. Although horses are not allowed in the campground, the adjacent Lower Hermosa Creek Trailhead has an area with a horse corral for overnight horse camping, as well as hitching posts. The parking lot is large enough for vehicles and horse trailers.Services include vault toliet, trash pickup, campfire grates, and picnic tables. Bear-safe food storage is recommended. Please note, there is no water available at this campground.

About the campground

The elevation is 8,500 ft. This single loop, pack it in, pack it out campground, is located near the popular multi-use Hermosa Creek trail. Basically, the campground is a trailhead for campers with a horse, mountain bike or dirt bike. It is also popular for hikers and anglers. The campsites are separated for those with horses and those without. Corrals are available at some equestrian campsites and others have enough room for portable corrals. Ponderosa pine and Gambel oaks provide shade to some campsites. "Endro" events are held in in the area and pass near the campground. Contact the Ranger District office for more information. NOTE: The campground came on-line after the authors visited the area. Information provided by Ranger District office staff.

Seasons & access

Services provided Memorial Day weekend through September 15

Facilities

The vault toilet is located outside the campground next to the trailhead parking lot.

RV information

The parking aprons are gravel.

Directions

In Durango, CO, at the intersection of US Rts. 160 and 550, take Rt. 550 north 11 miles to County Rt. 201, in the community of Hermosa. Turn left onto Rt. 201 and go 4 miles to campground on left. NOTE: County Rt. 201 becomes Forest Rt. 576. Directions were developed with use of mapping software.

National Forest: Juan National Forest
Ranger District: Columbine
Elevation: 8500
Rate: $18 per day
Maximum Stay: 14
Open Season: May – September