How much does camping cost at Chris Park?

Camping fees at Chris Park range from $140-$280/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Chris Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Chris Park accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Chris Park before I book?

Yes! Chris Park has 6 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 Chris Park?

Chris Park is open May 2 to September 27, 2025, and May 8 to September 19, 2026.. 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 Chris Park?

Chris Park does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Chris Park have?

Chris Park has 3 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Chris Park?

Pets are not allowed at Chris Park. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Chris Park?

Chris Park offers: Restrooms, Potable Water. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Chris Park?

Popular activities at Chris Park include Hiking, Fishing, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Chris Park

Q: Can I have a campfire at Chris Park?

Fire policies at Chris Park: Campfire rings are provided at each site; however, any additional firewood must comply with 'Don't Move Firewood' guidelines.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.88

22 reviews

Chris Park Road, San Juan NF

Featured in:Group Camping Colorado#1 Beach Camping Colorado Spring Camping Colorado +4 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Compare availability across multiple campgrounds

Quick Facts

7,864 ft

Price

$140 - $280/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Open from May 2, 202...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Rocky Mountain Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Compare availability across multiple campgrounds

Quick Facts

7,864 ft

Price

$140 - $280/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Open from May 2, 202...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Rocky Mountain Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Chris Park

$140.00 - $280.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees vary by group size and site features. Group Standard Non-electric sites cost $140 per night, whereas Group Shelter Electric sites are $280 per...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$280.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(661) 702-1420mandy@rockymountainrec.com

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What Campers Say

4.88

Top-Rated

Based on 22 reviews

Most mentioned

clean

Some mention

reservation

"User reviews highlight the campground's suitability for group events, its well-maintained facilities, and the friendliness of the camp hosts. Positive comments center on the cleanliness of the vault toilets, the excellent group amenities, and the beauty of the natural surroundings."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Chris Park Road, San Juan NF

Chris Park

Chris Park Road, San Juan NF

Nearby places

Durango, CO: 18 miles

Nearby supplies

Nearest supplies are likely in Durango, CO, 18 miles away. Details on exact stores or locations are not provided.

Best Time to Camp at Chris Park

Summer brings the most reliable conditions for group camping, with daytime temperatures typically 65–80°F and nights dropping to the mid-30s to low-50s. The dry mountain air keeps things comfortable during the day, though afternoon thunderstorms are possible. Long daylight hours work well for group activities and evening programs around the fire. July and August weekends fill up quickly, so early reservations matter. The elevation means crisp nights even in peak summer.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season; most reviews praise summer weather and suitability for group events.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 2 to September 27, 2025, and May 8 to September 19, 2026.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 2, 2025 to September 27, 2025, and from May 8, 2026 to September 19, 2026.

About Chris Park

Chris Park Campground sits two miles from Haviland Lake in San Juan National Forest, designed specifically for group camping. The facility offers three sites accommodating 75 to 150 people, with fees ranging from $140 to $280 per night. Scattered ponderosa pines provide shade across mostly flat, open terrain at 7,864 feet elevation.

Chris Park Campground is specifically designed for group camping and events. It features three group sites with amenities suitable for gatherings such as weddings and family reunions.

Historical Significance

The historic Rico-to-Rockwood Wagon Road runs through the campground. In the late 1800s, this route connected remote mining camps with supply lines before railroad transportation reached the area.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most reliable conditions for group camping, with daytime temperatures typically 65–80°F and nights dropping to the mid-30s to low-50s. The dry mountain air keeps things comfortable during the day, though afternoon thunderstorms are possible. Long daylight hours work well for group activities and evening programs around the fire. July and August weekends fill up quickly, so early reservations matter. The elevation means crisp nights even in peak summer.

ElevationHigh in Colorado's mountainous terrain, Chris Park Campground offers that perfect alpine camping experience where the air is crisp and the stars shine brilliantly in the clear mountain sky.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies level terrain dotted with ponderosa pines, creating a mix of sun and shade across open meadow spaces. Haviland Lake lies two miles away, offering water access and mountain views. The scattered tree cover means the area isn't heavily forested. The flat topography and open layout work well for large group gatherings but don't provide much seclusion between sites.

Geological RegionPositioned within the magnificent San Juan National Forest of southwestern Colorado, Chris Park Campground occupies a remarkable geological setting where ancient forests meet mountain meadows. This region, sculpted by millennia of natural forces, presents a fascinating tapestry of Colorado's diverse ecosystems. The relatively level terrain speaks to the area's unique geological history, while the surrounding peaks remind visitors of the powerful forces that shaped these mountains. The proximity to Haviland Lake and other water features reveals the ongoing work of nature, as snowmelt and rainfall continue to carve and nurture this spectacular landscape.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

14 nights maximum stay allowed.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Sites accommodate large groups, with Site 1 and 2 hosting up to 75 people each, and Site 3 up to 150 people.

Groups

The campground offers three group sites. Sites 1 and 2 can accommodate up to 75 people each, while Site 3 can accommodate up to 150 people. Site 3 includes a picnic shelter with electricity and grills, as well as a volleyball court.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThree group sites spread across flat, open ground with ponderosa pines providing scattered shade. Site 3 includes a pavilion with electrical hookups. Each site has vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Some reviews mention cleanliness issues with facilities and occasional reservation conflicts.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit details provided about walk-up or first-come, first-served availability.

Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies for changes made before arrival, with additional penalties for late cancellations or no-shows. Late cancellations (within 14 days of check-in) forfeit the first night's fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's rate.

AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and drinking water facilities are available. The campground is located on mostly flat terrain, which may assist individuals with mobility challenges.

Site SizeThree group sites are available. Sites 1 and 2 accommodate up to 75 people each, while Site 3 accommodates up to 150 and includes additional facilities.

PrivacyThe campground is located in a mostly flat, open area with scattered ponderosa pine trees providing some shade. It is not described as particularly secluded.

Total Campsites3 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 3 is recommended for larger groups due to its capacity (up to 150 people) and the inclusion of amenities such as a covered pavilion and grills.

Need help booking Chris Park?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Chris Park Campground provides a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, canoeing, and boating. Several nearby trailheads, including the Forebay, Goulding, Elbert Creek, and Purgatory Flats trails, offer options for hikers of various skill levels. The historic Rico-to-Rockwood Wagon Road runs through the campground, providing an additional recreational and educational opportunity.

Hiking

Fishing

Boating

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsNo specific hazards, such as wildlife or terrain, are explicitly mentioned.

Fire PolicyCampfire rings are provided at each site; however, any additional firewood must comply with 'Don't Move Firewood' guidelines.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are likely located in Durango, CO, 18 miles away. Specific facilities are not explicitly mentioned.

Trash & RecyclingInformation not specifically provided, but general waste management is likely in place given the maintained vault toilets.

Water FeaturesHaviland Lake, an 80-acre no-wake lake offering fishing, canoeing, and boating opportunities, is located less than two miles from the campground.

Camp HostBarbara, the camp host mentioned by guests, is described as friendly and welcoming, contributing to a positive camping experience.

Weather at Chris Park

Trip Planning Tools

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

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.9

22 reviews

Top-Rated

Chris Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground's suitability for group events, its well-maintained facilities, and the friendliness of the camp hosts. Positive comments center on the cleanliness of the vault toilets, the excellent group amenities, and the beauty of the natural surroundings.

Review Summaries

Based on 22 reviews

What Campers Love

Many users praise the cleanliness of the vault toilets and the general maintenance of the facilities. The picnic shelter and grills at Site 3 receive high praise, and the campground is considered...

Based on 22 reviews

Common Concerns

A few users mentioned issues with the camp host allowing other groups to use reserved sites and a decline in facilities maintenance during certain visits.

Based on 22 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Book Site 3 for larger gatherings, as it includes additional amenities like a picnic shelter with electricity and grills. Bring your own firewood to avoid transporting it between locations, following...

Based on 22 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer receives the most reviews, with users noting the excellent weather and suitability for group events. Autumn reviews also highlight the good conditions, but fewer reviews were documented for...

Based on 22 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The vault toilets were kept extremely clean!' - JEFF S\n2. 'Group campground site #3 is to kill for. It has a huge shelter and lots of picnic tables throughout the shelter.' - JOEL M\n3. 'The...

Based on 22 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 3 is highlighted as the premier choice for large groups, with its picnic shelter, electricity, and grills receiving special mention. Site 1 and Site 2 are praised but noted for their slightly...

Based on 22 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground's flat terrain and accessible vault toilets make it a good option for visitors with mobility challenges. The clean and well-maintained facilities were appreciated by all users,...

Based on 22 reviews

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Last updated April 3, 2026

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