Junction Creek Campground
4.67261 reviews1499 FDR 171, DURANGO, CO 81301, USA
Junction Creek Campground
$32.00 - $150.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$32.00
Hookup Site Fee$45.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$125.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season nightly rates range from $32 for standard non-electric sites to $150 for group picnic areas. Electric sites range from $45 to $82 depending on site type and size.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Colorado's wilderness near Durango, Junction Creek Campground beckons adventurers to a serene mountain retreat where towering ponderosa pines and graceful gambel oaks create a natural cathedral. This hidden gem serves as your personal basecamp for exploring the legendary Colorado Trail, where morning hikes reveal misty mountain vistas and afternoon bike rides wind through sun-dappled forests. The melodic waters of Junction Creek provide a soundtrack for anglers seeking rainbow trout, while families gather around evening campfires beneath star-studded skies.
Junction Creek Campground caters to a range of camping preferences, including tent, RV, and group camping. Specific loops like Loop E offer electric hookups, making them suitable for larger rigs and RVs.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds in a landscape steeped in Western heritage, where the haunting whistle of the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad still echoes through the valleys as it has since 1882. The Colorado Trail, stretching 486 miles from Denver to Durango, passes right through this historic corridor, following paths once traveled by Ute tribes, Spanish explorers, and determined prospectors. Each campfire circle connects you to generations of adventurers who've found solace and inspiration in these ancient forests.
Weather and SeasonsAt 7,300 feet, Junction Creek transforms with the seasons in spectacular fashion. Summer brings golden days perfect for exploration, though wise campers pack layers for the crisp mountain evenings that remind you why sleeping bags were invented. Nature adds her own drama with afternoon thunderstorms that roll through like clockwork, washing the forest clean and filling the air with the intoxicating scent of rain on pine needles. As autumn approaches, the gambel oaks burst into fiery displays, while early spring visitors might wake to find their tents dusted with fairy-tale snow.
ElevationPerched at 7,300 feet where the air is crisp and pine-scented, Junction Creek Campground offers that perfect sweet spot of mountain elevation. High enough to escape summer's heat and provide those refreshingly cool nights that make morning coffee taste extraordinary, yet gentle enough for most visitors to adjust comfortably. The thin mountain air adds an extra sparkle to the stars and makes every sunset a masterpiece painted across the Colorado sky.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to sunlight filtering through a canopy of majestic ponderosa pines, their vanilla-scented bark warming in the morning sun. Junction Creek Campground cascades down a south-facing hillside, where each thoughtfully placed campsite offers its own private forest sanctuary. The babbling waters of Junction Creek provide a natural lullaby, while stands of gambel oak create intimate groves perfect for hammock-hanging and afternoon reading. Wildlife watchers delight in frequent visits from curious deer, chattering squirrels, and the occasional black bear reminder that you're truly in the wild.
Geological RegionCarved into a sun-kissed hillside within the magnificent San Juan National Forest, Junction Creek Campground showcases Colorado's geological poetry in motion. The south-facing slopes capture warming rays that nurture a diverse ecosystem where ponderosa pines stretch skyward and gambel oaks dance in the mountain breezes. At 7,300 feet, you're camping in the transition zone where montane forests meet the sky, creating a unique microclimate that supports an incredible diversity of plant and animal life. The ancient rocks beneath your feet tell stories of volcanic upheavals and patient erosion that sculpted this mountain paradise over millions of years.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible vault toilets and a large-group picnic shelter with electricity. Some reviews highlight convenient access to potable water and parking for RVs.
Sites SizeThe campsites are large and spacious, with options for single, double, and group setups. Loop E sites are particularly praised for accommodating RVs and trailers.
Sites PrivacySites are generally well-spaced, offering privacy due to tree cover and thoughtful layout. Visitors describe them as secluded and peaceful.
Total Campsites185 campsites
Recommended CampsitesElectric sites are preferred for RVs, especially in Loop E, which accommodates larger rigs. Tent campers should avoid slope-prone sites like C-9, which lack tent pads.
Best CampsitesHighly recommended campsites include E13, E9, and E2, noted for spaciousness and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group sites accommodate up to 50 people.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate up to 50 people for overnight stays and 65 for day-use, and are equipped with picnic tables, serving tables, campfire rings, grills, and access to recreational facilities like volleyball courts and horseshoe pits.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of multiple loops, including Loop E for electric sites. Sites are spacious and offer privacy due to forest cover.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season runs from May 2 to September 27, with first-come-first-served sites available June 21–25. Out-of-season reservations are not permitted.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, accessible via its website or mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available from June 21–25, but availability may vary based on demand.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before the reservation start date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's use fee. Group site cancellations within 14 days forfeit both the $10 fee and first-night fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Junction Creek Campground offers a variety of activities including hiking, biking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and camping. The Colorado Trail, which begins nearby, is a centerpiece attraction for hiking and mountain biking, extending 500 miles to Denver. Fishing opportunities are available for rainbow and brook trout in Junction Creek and upstream.
Hiking
The Colorado Trail and Logchute Trail System provide excellent hiking opportunities. Trails feature diverse terrain, ranging from subalpine forests to alpine meadows above the timberline. Gudy's Rest is a recommended lookout on the Colorado Trail.Fishing
Fishing is available in Junction Creek and upstream, with rainbow and brook trout being common catches. Skilled anglers are advised to try locations further upstream for better prospects.Biking
Mountain biking is popular on the Colorado Trail and Logchute Trail System, with trails catering to different skill levels.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include chipmunks and birds like the ethereal hermit thrush. Be mindful of rodents like mice and chipmunks potentially entering campsites.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned, making Junction Creek more suitable for spring and summer use.Water Sports
Water sports are not available at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Firewood is available for purchase on-site.
- Quiet hours are enforced but specific times are not mentioned. Generators may only be used during the daytime.
Hazards
General hazardsThe area is home to bears, rodents, and other wildlife, requiring campers to practice safe food storage techniques.
Active alertsNo specific alerts are currently mentioned.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 16.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Emergency services are available in Durango, including a hospital, police station, and fire department. Exact distances and names are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 2–September 27.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are present, and reviews note that they are conveniently located and well-maintained.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is a quarter-mile above Junction Creek. Haviland Lake, a no-wake lake, is a 35-minute drive away for boating and fishing.
Common complaintsComplaints include rough gravel roads leading to the campground, unlevel campsites, and limited cell service.
HostHosts are frequently praised for their attentiveness and helpfulness. Beverly, a host, is noted for exceptional service.
Campground Map
1499 FDR 171, DURANGO, CO 81301, USA
Driving directionsFrom Main Street in Durango, travel west on 25th Street (across from the fairgrounds entrance) for just over three miles to the forest boundary. Continue just over a mile to the campground entrance. The day-use area loops to the left.
The road to the campground includes about 1.5 miles of gravel and washboard conditions, requiring careful navigation. Many reviews note that the road can be rough, especially in rainy conditions. It is manageable with all vehicle types, but caution is recommended for trailers and low-ground clearance vehicles.Nearby places
Durango (6 miles, approximately 15-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials are available in downtown Durango, approximately 6 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.7
261 reviews
Junction Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Junction Creek Campground receives high praise for its spacious, well-maintained sites, exceptionally clean vault toilets, and proximity to Durango and the Colorado Trail. The dirt road leading to the campground is often criticized for its washboard condition, but most visitors find the overall experience worthwhile.
Review Summaries
Based on 261 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers frequently highlight the cleanliness of the vault toilets, the helpfulness of camp hosts, spacious and private campsites, and the campground's peaceful setting. Electric hookups in Loop E...
Based on 261 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The gravel road leading to the campground is a recurring issue, described as extremely dusty and washboard. Some sites lack level ground, and solar panels may be limited due to tree cover. Cell...
Based on 261 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a booster for better cell service in Loop E. Come prepared with full water tanks for RVs, as spigots are non-threaded. Consider weekdays for quieter stays, and keep pets well-trained as...
Based on 261 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the busiest season, with some complaints about crowded sites and ATV noise. Spring and autumn provide quieter and more pleasant experiences, with fewer bugs.
Based on 261 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Vault toilets were the cleanest public bathrooms I’ve ever encountered.'
2. 'The hosts do rounds several times a day and keep everything immaculate.'
3. 'The road up is gravel and quite...
Based on 261 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Loop E is consistently praised for its electric hookups, spacious sites, and suitability for RVs. Site E8, a double site, is noted for its size but limited shade.
Based on 261 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible parking and vault toilets are available. Large-group shelters are equipped with electricity, enhancing usability for disabled campers.
Based on 261 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are common but off-leash behavior is frequently noted. Responsible pet ownership is encouraged to maintain the campground's welcoming environment.
Based on 261 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025