East Fork Campground (San Juan Nf - Co)
4.6699 reviewsFS ROAD 667 - SAN JUAN NF
East Fork Campground (San Juan Nf - Co)
$32.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$32.00
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
Peak season rates for standard nonelectric campsites are $32 per night. Discounts may apply for Interagency Pass holders.
About this campground
Tucked away in the majestic San Juan National Forest, East Fork Campground beckons adventurers seeking an intimate mountain escape. This hidden gem combines the thrill of riverside fishing, scenic hiking trails, and rugged off-road adventures, all while offering a peaceful sanctuary beneath towering ponderosa pines and graceful gambel oaks. Here, the soundtrack of rushing water mingles with birdsong, creating the perfect backdrop for your wilderness retreat.
East Fork Campground caters to tent campers, RV campers, and first-come, first-served visitors. "Basic forest service camping area but beautiful," noted one review.
Historical SignificanceEast Fork serves as your gateway to two of the San Juan National Forest's most captivating natural landmarks. Nearby Treasure Falls cascades dramatically through ancient rock formations, its name echoing tales of Spanish gold seekers who once traversed these mountains. Silver Falls, equally stunning, has witnessed centuries of history—from indigenous peoples to prospectors, each leaving their mark on this storied landscape that continues to inspire modern-day explorers.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 7,700 feet, East Fork enjoys a unique microclimate that surprises many visitors with its pleasantly warm days, even as neighboring peaks remain cool. Summer brings gloriously dry weather perfect for outdoor adventures, while winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland. The elevation creates ideal conditions for comfortable camping from late spring through early fall, with crisp mornings giving way to sun-dappled afternoons.
ElevationAt 7,700 feet above sea level, East Fork occupies a sweet spot in the Colorado high country. This elevation creates a rare combination of accessible mountain camping with surprisingly mild temperatures. The altitude is high enough to escape summer's heat while remaining low enough to avoid the harsh conditions of alpine environments. Wildflowers bloom prolifically at this elevation, and the air carries that distinctive mountain freshness that makes every breath feel rejuvenating.
Natural Features and SceneryDramatically positioned on a forested ridge above the East Fork of the San Juan River, this campground offers the best of both worlds—mountain vistas and riverside access. Majestic ponderosa pines tower overhead, their vanilla-scented bark perfuming the air, while gambel oaks provide dappled shade and brilliant fall colors. Adventure-seekers will discover steep, rewarding trails that wind down to the riverbank, where crystal-clear waters tumble over smooth stones, creating perfect pools for fishing or simply soaking tired feet.
Geological RegionEast Fork Campground sits within the geological wonderland of the San Juan National Forest, where ancient volcanic activity and millions of years of erosion have sculpted a landscape of breathtaking diversity. The rugged San Juan Mountains rise dramatically around you, their slopes cloaked in dense forests of ponderosa pine and gambel oak. The East Fork of the San Juan River has carved its way through this terrain, creating a riparian corridor that supports abundant wildlife and offers endless exploration opportunities for geology enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are provided, and several pull-through parking spaces are suitable for RVs. However, accessibility details for trails and other areas are not explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeCampground sites are spacious and some can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, though users like RANDY A noted difficulties due to uneven terrain and tree obstructions. Sites are often private and shaded.
Sites PrivacySites are described as private and well-spaced. "Sites are far enough removed from each other to provide some seclusion," noted one review.
Total Campsites32 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for sites near the river for scenic views and peaceful ambiance. Site 26 is recommended for privacy and accessibility.
Best CampsitesCampsite 26 is frequently praised for its proximity to the river and pull-through access. Campsite 14 is noted for waterfront views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 14:00 (2:00 PM).
Check-out
Check-out is by 11:00 (11:00 AM).
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 28 nights during a visit at this campground.
Groups
Group sites are not specifically mentioned in the available materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are well-spaced and shaded by tall pines. Layout includes pull-through options and scattered vault toilets.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations May 2 to September 27. First-come, first-served from June 20 to June 24.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served from June 20 to June 24. Limited walk-up sites are available outside peak reservation periods.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations will incur additional fees, including forfeiting the first night's use fee. No-shows are assessed a $20 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
East Fork Campground provides numerous recreational activities, including fishing in the East Fork of the San Juan River, hiking, biking, and access to OHV trails. Nearby attractions like Silver Falls and Treasure Falls offer additional opportunities for exploration. "There are trails that lead down from the back edge of the campgrounds down to the San Juan River," noted one camper.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include trailheads for the Coal Creek Trail and Quartz Ridge Trail located 2-5 miles beyond the campground. "Lots of trails in the area," mentioned one camper.Fishing
Fishing is available upstream from the campground in the East Fork of the San Juan River. "The fishing was exciting," wrote one user.Biking
Mountain bikers often ride to nearby Silver Falls. Bike trails are accessible and cater to various skill levels.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is common, with deer sightings noted by campers. "A deer graced us with a visit," wrote one camper.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned but seasonal use may be impacted by snow conditions.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not explicitly mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted following U.S. Forest Service rules; campers are encouraged to use local firewood to prevent tree pests.
- Quiet hours are observed during nighttime.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep trails to the river can pose hazards for unprepared hikers. Wildlife, including bears, may be present; proper food storage is required.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Pagosa Springs, approximately 11 miles away, including medical facilities and police.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 2 to September 27.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available within the campground, with Tuesday noted as the trash pickup day. Recycling options are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground overlooks the East Fork of the San Juan River, with steep trails leading to the riverbanks.
Common complaintsIssues with the water pump's functionality and its sulfur smell have been reported. Some guests mentioned overbearing or hovering camp hosts.
HostHosts are available and generally well-reviewed for being helpful and attentive, although some guests have reported them as overbearing.
Campground Map
FS ROAD 667 - SAN JUAN NF
Driving directionsFrom downtown Pagosa Springs, travel 11 miles east on Highway 160 to the junction with East Fork Road (Forest Road 667). Turn right and continue less than a mile to the campground on the right.
The access road to the campground is relatively good but can have some rough patches near the entrance. Beyond its junction with Forest Road 684, the East Fork Road is negotiable only by 4WD.Nearby places
Pagosa Springs - 11 miles, approximately 15-minute drive.
Nearby supplies
Pagosa Springs (11 miles away) has groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.7
99 reviews
East Fork Campground (San Juan Nf - Co) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for East Fork Campground are largely positive, highlighting the natural beauty, cleanliness, and helpfulness of the camp hosts. Complaints mostly related to the water pump and occasional overbearing hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 99 reviews
What Campers Love
Spacious campsites with privacy, clean vault toilets, and proximity to Pagosa Springs. "Clean, spacious sites," and "Hosts were great," are recurring themes.
Based on 99 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues with water supply, overbearing hosts, and uneven terrain at some sites. "No signs or information regarding the water," noted one review.
Based on 99 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water, expect no cell service, and reserve online for the best spots. "Good spot that is close to everything," noted one camper.
Based on 99 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months receive the most positive feedback due to favorable weather and accessible amenities. Winter use may be limited due to snow.
Based on 99 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "The sites are clean, spacious, and surrounded by tall pines." - Numerous users.
2. "Vault toilets are the cleanest I’ve ever seen." - Brittny P.
3. "The sound of the river raging below was the...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 26 is praised for its river views and spacious layout. Site 18 is noted for its proximity to clean pit toilets but has less privacy in the afternoon sun. Site 14 is described as accommodating...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Pull-through RV sites like Site 001 provide accessibility but challenges exist in maneuvering large vehicles.
User review: 'The site took a bit of maneuvering with our trailer, but we made it work.'
Based on 99 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed, but specific amenities for pets are not detailed.
Based on 99 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025