Best Camping in and near Navajo Lake State Park

100% (5 reviews)

Navajo Lake State Park: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.

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Community favorites near Navajo Lake State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Navajo Lake State Park

Cottonwood Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Navajo Lake State Park

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Cedar Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents In Navajo Lake State Park

Juniper Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Navajo Lake State Park

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Pine Campground

35 sites · RVs, Tents In Navajo Lake State Park

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Pinon Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Navajo Lake State Park

Sims Mesa

18 sites · RVs, Tents In Navajo Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Navajo Lake State Park

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Tranquility @ The Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents600 acres · Hesperus, CO

5th generation, 600 Acre working farm, with two miles of the La Plata River running through it and spectacular views of the La Plata Mountains and Sleeping Ute Mountain. You will find a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife; Southwest Sage, Cactus, Ponderosa, Pinion, and Pine trees, Mule Deer, Turkey, Fox, Rabbits, Bald Eagles, and Red Tail Hawks to name a few. Learn more about this land: 600 Acre working farm, with two miles of the La Plata River running through it and spectacular views of the La Plata Mountains and Sleeping Ute Mountain. You will find a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife (Southwest Sage, Cactus, Ponderosa, Pinion, and Pine trees, Mule Deer, Turkey, Fox, Rabbits, Bald Eagles, and Red Tail Hawks to name a few) . Guests are encouraged to explore this beautiful piece of the southwest. The Farm is located just 12 miles from La Plata Canyon, 15 miles from Durango, 15 miles from Lake Nighthorse, and 35 miles from Mesa Verde National Park. There is one large campground that can hold up to 5 RV's and 1 secluded tent small camper site to choose from. Guest are welcome to purchase vegetables and fresh farm eggs.

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Nakation Group Booking

11 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · La Plata, NM

Step out of your tent in the morning, and the sun kisses your cheeks... All of them. Private adult only (18+) Clothing Optional dry tent camping set on 20 rural acres. Book the entire campground for your Group Stay, for those who are looking for a private Getaway. Re-use, Re-purpose, Up-cycle... We are committed to making great treasures from one man's trash! Our sites have tables and chairs created from old tires. We are re-using old pallets to create tent platforms, benches and signs. Our little campground is primitive, but we are a work in progress, with amenities coming in the future. Property butts up against a large BLM area, with plenty of room to take a walk in the buff. We have an above ground pool if you would prefer to relax and skinny dip. Or if you're preferring to sight see, there are numerous places to go around our area. In New Mexico, in 45 minutes or less you can be at one of the following: Navajo Lake State Park, Aztec Ruins, Glade Run Recreational area, Jackson Lake Wildlife Refuge, Farmington Lake Recreational area. San Juan Quality Waters in the San Juan River offers world class fishing. The Animas River offers fun river floats. Chaco Canyon National Park is only 2 hours away. In Colorado, we are about an hour from these attractions: Mesa Verde National Park, McPhee Reservoir, Canyon of the Ancients, Lake Nighthorse Day Use Recreation area, Chimney Rock and Purgatory Ski Resort. La Plata Canyon has great mountain hiking and is only 30 minutes away. We look forward to assisting you in a memorable Getaway!

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Horse-Thief Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · NM

From U.S. Highway 550 (north of Nageezi), follow the signs that say Chaco Canyon National Monument Park (County Road 7900). From County Road 7900 and County Road 7950 (turn right on 7950). After 3 miles, at the end of pavement, you will see a sign that says "Dry Camp", with a long dirt driveway. Our campground is 13 miles before the hazardous road to Chaco Canyon. We like to say the we are "The Gateway to Chaco Canyon". Save the wear and tear on your trailers, camp with us! Horse-Thief Campground is an upcoming camp; located on 5 acres of land and more, for campers to enjoy. In a quiet; serene, beautiful landscape area of the Dine Nation. With beautiful sunrise; sunsets and night sky is out of this world. There are trails in which visitors may walk or bike, as well as a Look Out Point. Horse-Thief is currently a Dry Camp with no Electricity or running water however generators are welcome. There is one portable restroom. We look forward to Meeting and Greeting you! We think you will enjoy your stay with us, and hope you give us a great review!

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Bear springs

1 site · RV35 acres · Durango, CO

Beautiful mountain views, trails and only 10 minutes to downtown Durango! 35 acre gated community property with miles of private trails to explore. Friendly pets welcome. Complementary firewood fire restrictions permitting. Owners live on property and are available to help or answer questions. Great setup and location.

79%

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Pagosa Mill RV Park

8 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Pagosa Springs, CO

Nestled in a grove of mature pine trees you will see wildlife most days in the meadow. The views of the East Range are not to be missed. NOTE: This RV Park is under renovation. The location is 2 miles from downtown Pagosa Springs. If you are looking for a super bougie RV Park.... THIS IS NOT IT. There are several projects under way but we are not done. Enjoy reading your book in a hammock located in the common space. Experience all that Pagosa has to offer at an extremely reasonable cost. Tall Pines Mini Golf is within walking distance. Great place to grab a snack/drink. Follow the sign up the Jeep trail on the west end of the park.

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Tent Site #12

2 sites · Tents10 acres · Bloomfield, NM

This is a nice space for a vehicle and one, max of two tents. Tent sites are located on the East side of the property. :-) This includes a picnic table, fire ring, and a 110V pedestal for cell phone charging and accessories. Located within walking distance and inside the park, are alos showers and 24/7 laundry. This space lies within a 10-acre RV park (and also the best in the County) and resides amongst other tent campers. Space has been great for cookouts and/or star gazing. Thank you for staying with us!

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(29)

Dry RV site w/ Views of Mesa Verde

1 site · RV7 acres · Mancos, CO

Learn more about this land: **You MUST have your own self contained RV with a restroom!! Sorry, NO TENTS! Please include a description of your RV setup in your booking request!** Nestled on seven acres of former ranch land, and enjoy a relatively level RV site (pull in or back in) with views of Mesa Verde, the La Plata Mountains, and the shade of mature juniper trees. Feel far from everything while only a few miles from town. Enjoy the starry skies, the company of wandering mule deer, and the sound of coyotes conversing with one another. At 7,000' above sea level, in the high desert of SW Colorado, we get over 250 sunny days a year, big beautiful snows in winter (and sometimes as late as June), and monsoon rains in late summer. Spring can be cool and windy, but you'll experience the reawakening of the plants, the lowing of mother cows and their calves on nearby ranches, and maybe even a blooming prickly pear or two! In the heart of the Mancos River Valley, you'll find yourself at the perfect basecamp for all that the area has to offer! It's just 15 minutes to the entrance gate at Mesa Verde National Park, designated in April of 2021 as the 100th Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association. Take a scenic two mile drive to historic Downtown Mancos, to find art, dining, and fun. Historic Mancos, known for its thriving creative district, is the home of the The Raven House Gallery, The Artisans of Mancos Co-op, The Painted Turtle Gallery, Bombdiggity, and Kilgore American Indian Art. Downtown Mancos is also home to dining options from local food trucks to fine dining. Fenceline Cidery and their delightful riverside cider garden host a variety of local food trucks on a rotating basis as well as their own Fencepost food truck. Family friendly eats are always on the menu at the Columbine Bar & Grill. Deco Dessert, offers something for your sweet tooth with homemade ice cream, artisan chocolates, and cakes. Just across Hwy 160, you can enjoy craft beer, delicious locally sourced food, and a variety of fun events, including live local music, weekly trivia with our local librarian, and karaoke twice a month on the expansive patio at Mancos Brewing Company. The long anticipated, Boathouse on Grand will open in Summer 2023 with fine dining fare. We even have a little bit of nightlife at the newly opened El Rio Cantina, featuring creative tequila cocktails. Other downtown offerings include locally roasted coffee at Fahrenheit Coffee Roasters, and an incredible variety of baked goods and delightful breakfast and lunch options at the renowned Absolute Bakery and Cafe. Grab take out and sit at a picnic table by the Mancos River or in the park across the street or enjoy their dining area featuring local art. Be sure to also check out local artists' work in the art vending machines at Fahrenheit Coffee Roasters and Fenceline Cider! Beyond downtown, you'll find easy access to Mancos State Park, mountain biking at Phil's World, Chutes and Ladders, Aqueduct, and the Boggy Draw trail systems, paddling at Summit Lake, paddling and boating at McPhee Reservoir, the 88 mile Canyon of the Ancients Scenic Drive, and miles of hiking and off-roading trails in the San Juan National Forest. Or head just 40 minutes into Durango for a ride on the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a run on the rapids of the Animas River, or a powder day at Purgatory (resort an hour from the site). If you want to venture further afield, Telluride, Moab, Monument Valley, and Arches and Canyonlands National Parks are all within 2.5 hours. Or take a drive along the San Juan Skyway scenic byway to see the best of Colorado's Western Slope including Silverton and Ouray. Your hosts are avid outdoor enthusiasts who can give you the details (and loan you some maps and guidebooks) on all of the great things that await you at our little slice of southwest Colorado!

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Moore's RV Park and Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Bloomfield, NM

We are an active RV park that resides on 10-acres and has ample space for camping activities. We have tent sites, RV sites, horseshoes, pool (seasonal), and laundry and gift shop amenities. We hope you book with us! Lots to see to include Aztec Ruins, city of Farmington, and Chaco Canyon. Hope to talk soon!

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E-Z Access Camping

2 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Mancos, CO

Welcome to Turning Beyond Ranch, your gateway to off-grid tranquility and unparalleled stargazing experiences. Nestled in the scenic Cherry Creek Valley, our ranch offers a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As you arrive, you'll be greeted by the soothing sounds of a live stream meandering through the property year-round. While fishing may not be the primary activity, the crystal-clear waters are perfect for wading and immersing yourself in the beauty of nature. Situated behind the lush garden area and alongside the county road, our campsite offers convenient access while still preserving a sense of seclusion. While you may occasionally hear the gentle hum of passing traffic from other residents, rest assured that you're in the heart of a safe and welcoming rural farm community. Just a short distance from the main highway, our ranch provides easy access to nearby attractions and amenities. Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the LaPlata Mountains and explore the myriad outdoor adventures awaiting you in the surrounding area. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a chance to reconnect with nature, or simply a place to gaze in awe at the star-filled sky, Turning Beyond Ranch promises an unforgettable experience like no other. Come join us and discover the magic of off-grid living in the heart of Colorado's stunning landscape.

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Mountain View Campground

50 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · Aztec, NM

Learn more about this land:Enjoy majestic sunrise and sunset views as you bask in the relaxed atmosphere. Mountain biking is available at the edge of the property. Horseshoes is available onsite. Fishing, kayaking, hiking, motocross, natural arches, and so much more are just a short drive away!

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The Cockhouse lodge.

16 sites · Lodging15 acres · Navajo Dam, NM

Learn more about this land: The Lodge was a historic Cockfighting arena in the 1970-90’s. Now it’s used as a blast & cast lodge. Surroundings are full of recreation options just 5 miles from Navajo Lake and San Juan River. Has a full kitchen two bathrooms and showers. Open arena with outdoor cooking options and fire pit. RV access for 5 spacious spots w Electrical. Dry camping or glamping areas are available on the 15 acres.

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(5)

Ponderosa Palisades

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Durango, CO

Solar-powered, off-grid cabin boasting a rustic layout and lovely patio. 12 minutes from Downtown Durango, 5 minutes to Lake Nighthorse, 15 minutes to Hesperus Ski Mountain, 30 minutes to Durango Airport, 40 minutes to Purgatory Ski Resort and 50 minutes to Mesa Verde NP. Fantastic mountain biking, hiking, boating and camping within a thirty-mile radius. Durango Narrow Gauge Railway runs to Silverton—a beautiful mountain town—during spring, summer and fall.Learn more about this land:Awesome little cabin with solar power. No plumbing, sink or shower. Access to an outdoor composting toilet and a hose water tap. Sometimes access to a bathroom, kitchen and living area in the main house is available for an additional fee. Beautiful forested land with Ponderosa, Gamble Oak, and Aspen.

The best camping near Navajo Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

Get ready to romp and play in New Mexico’s second largest lake at Navajo Lake State Park! Wanna hit the water? Whether you boat, kayak, jet ski, canoe, or sail, Navajo Lake has got your back for an awesome day on the water (just don’t forget the sunscreen)! Anglers can show off their fly fishing skills on the San Juan River, some of the best in the southwest. From the riverside trails, hikers can check out a panorama of folks casting their rods as well as some beautiful scenery and birding. There’s two marinas, docks, and several comfy campgrounds in the park for you to enjoy, and with amenities like these, it’s easy to see why the locals love to come and play at Navajo Lake!

Notable campgrounds

Pine Main Campground: Offers a mix of electric and water sites, perfect for RVs and tents alike.
Juniper Campground: Ideal for groups, with facilities that cater to both comfort and convenience.
Cottonwood Campground: A serene spot for beach camping and boat-in access, surrounded by nature's beauty.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, especially for peak season, to secure your ideal campsite.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Keep an eye on cancellations for last-minute opportunities.
Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding a spot.

When to go

The best time to visit Navajo Lake State Park is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is warm and the lake is bustling with activity. Winter months can be cold, with some facilities closed or limited, so check park alerts before planning a winter visit.

Know before you go

Check the park alerts for any closures or restrictions during your visit.
Life jackets are a must for all boating activities – safety first!
Accessible piers and facilities ensure an enjoyable visit for everyone.
Remember to pack out your trash and keep the park pristine for all.
Visitor center exhibits provide insights into the park's natural and cultural history.