Hot springs and Colorado mountain wilderness—what could be better?.
Surrounded by 2.5 million acres of wilderness, Pagosa Springs is a mecca for camping in southwest Colorado. Explore the San Juan Mountains and ponderosa pine forests—all yours for the taking. After a day of adventure, relax in hot springs from the world's deepest geothermal aquifer. Campgrounds here are your gateway to horseback riding, rock climbing, and ATV offroading on 126 miles of trails. When the snow falls, get psyched about ice climbing, sledding, and skiing. Talk about a Colorado rush! Driving a big rig? Get nestled in at one of the RV parks with full hookups along U.S. Highway 160. Many hug the banks of the San Juan and Blanco Rivers. From there, kayaking, tubing, and fishing are right out your door. For secluded wilderness camping, venture into San Juan National Forest. Nine campgrounds are within easy reach of Pagosa Springs—take your pick. One popular spot is the East Fork Campground, boasting campsites at 7,700 feet on the San Juan River. When tent camping, remember to bring warm sleeping bags and layers. Even in the summer, temps can dip pretty low at night. Most campgrounds around Pagosa Springs, CO are seasonal, but there are ways of getting around the snow issue. (Hint—book a heated mountain cabin).