North Canyon Campground

Star4.58
118 reviews
FS Road 603, San Juan NF, CO, USA
Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Quick Facts

7,900 ft

Price

$28/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

28 campsites

Season

Open from May 16 to ...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Rocky Mountain Recreation site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
North Canyon Campground
$28.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rate for standard nonelectric individual campsites is $28 during peak season (May 16 to September 6). Rates do not include discounts,...
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Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
(661) 702-1420mandy@rockymountainrec.com
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What Campers Say

4.58

Top-Rated

Based on 118 reviews

31 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspacioushikinglake

Some mention

noisebugs

"Overall, the campground is highly rated for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and well-maintained facilities. The average sentiment indicates satisfaction, with highlights on the helpfulness of hosts and the proximity to outdoor activities."

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Campground Map

FS Road 603, San Juan NF, CO, USA

North Canyon Campground

FS Road 603, San Juan NF, CO, USA

Driving directionsFrom Bayfield, Colo., at the Vallecito Lake sign on U.S. Highway 160 (County Road 501), go north about 13 miles to Vallecito. Turn right on County Road 501A at the fire station and travel 4 miles to the campground.
The road to the campground is unpaved and includes a steep, unpaved hill if entering from the northern side. Cars without off-road capabilities may struggle to access from this direction, but alternative entry points are available. The campground remains accessible when approached from the other side of the road.
Nearby places
Bayfield (13 miles, approximately 25 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Bayfield, Colorado, which is approximately 13 miles from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at North Canyon Campground

Summer at North Canyon brings a delightful surprise – refreshingly cool temperatures that offer respite from the heat of lower elevations. Even in July, you'll reach for a light jacket as evening approaches, thanks to the generous shade cast by towering pines and the campground's mountain elevation. The region's characteristically dry climate means more sunny days for your outdoor adventures, though afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll through, bringing dramatic skies and the sweet scent of rain on pine needles. Gentle to moderate mountain breezes keep the air fresh and help moderate temperatures throughout your stay.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5

Cool summer temps, full access to fishing, boating and trails; peak season with high reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Open into early Sept; aspen color likely but fall window is short for this site.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Opens May 16; late-spring offers cool temps and fewer crowds but limited season length.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside May 16–Sept 6; winter visits not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 16 - September 6.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from May 16 to September 6. First-come-first-serve from June 20 to June 24.

About North Canyon Campground

Escape to North Canyon Campground, where towering ponderosa pines frame glimpses of sparkling Vallecito Reservoir in the heart of southwestern Colorado. This tranquil mountain retreat invites you to unwind beneath a canopy of evergreens while the gentle lapping of lake waters sets the soundtrack for your adventure. Whether you're casting a line at sunrise, launching your boat for an afternoon cruise, or setting off on scenic hiking trails, North Canyon delivers the perfect blend of outdoor recreation and peaceful relaxation. Modern amenities including vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort without compromising the authentic wilderness experience.
The campground offers primitive camping options with no hookups, catering to tent campers and trailers. Group camping and other luxury options are not available.
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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

North Canyon Campground provides a variety of recreational activities catering to outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include fishing, hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Vallecito Reservoir enhances opportunities for water sports and scenic enjoyment.
HikingHiking trails are abundant. The North Canyon Trail begins across the road from the campground and traverses ponderosa pine and aspen forests, leading to a lake overlook. "There is a plethora of hiking trails close by." East Creek Trail, a quarter-mile northeast, is also notable for its scenic drainage.
FishingFishing at Vallecito Reservoir is a highlight, with anglers targeting German brown trout, cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and northern pike. One review mentioned mixed results due to lake water levels: "Fishing wasn't as good as I'd hoped, but on a better year it would be enjoyable."
SwimmingSwimming areas are available near Vallecito Reservoir, though specific safety measures and facilities are not detailed.
BoatingThe lake offers opportunities for boating, canoeing, and water skiing. Boat rentals are available nearby, enhancing accessibility for campers.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with deer sighted regularly according to user reviews. "Saw lots of deer," noted one camper.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsRanger-led bear talks are available, though one review cautioned about attending with small children due to potentially frightening content: "Wouldn't go to the bear talk by rangers with little kids."
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include uneven terrain for tents, occasional bugs, and cows roaming into campsites near the lakeshore.

Weather at North Canyon Campground

Reviews

4.6
118 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
North Canyon Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, the campground is highly rated for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and well-maintained facilities. The average sentiment indicates satisfaction, with highlights on the helpfulness of hosts and the proximity to outdoor activities.
Review Summaries
Based on 118 reviews

What Campers Love

Common positives include clean vault toilets, friendly hosts, spacious sites, and proximity to the lake and hiking trails. "The campground was nicely spaced, with a very clean & cared for restroom,"...
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Based on 118 reviews

Common Concerns

Occasional complaints include uneven terrain for tents, pest issues like flies, and generator noise. "Pestilent outhouse, swarming with flies," said one reviewer.
Based on 118 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend reserving spots early for peak seasons, carrying bug spray, and being prepared for uneven terrain. "Be sure you bring everything you need because the store does not have a lot,"...
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Based on 118 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busier during weekends and holidays, with user reviews stating increased crowds and activity levels during these times.
Based on 118 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The lake and mountains at the campsite are beautiful." "The camp hosts were great! Very friendly." "Bathrooms were immaculate!" "We had a fantastic time camping at North Canyon 11." "Very clean and...
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Based on 118 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 7 is noted for its shade and views, while Site 5 lacks shade but offers similar views. Site 16 received criticism for its proximity to the bathroom and lack of good tent spots. Site 21 is...
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Based on 118 reviews

Accessibility Features

Bathrooms are not fully accessible for disabled campers, as noted in one review: "Bathroom is not disabled-user friendly."
Based on 118 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, and no significant issues regarding pet policies were mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 118 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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