North Canyon Campground
4.7156 reviewsFS Road 603, San Juan NF, CO, USA
North Canyon Campground
$28.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
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
The nightly rate for standard nonelectric individual campsites is $28 during peak season (May 16 to September 6). Rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Escape to North Canyon Campground, where towering ponderosa pines frame glimpses of sparkling Vallecito Reservoir in the heart of southwestern Colorado. This tranquil mountain retreat invites you to unwind beneath a canopy of evergreens while the gentle lapping of lake waters sets the soundtrack for your adventure. Whether you're casting a line at sunrise, launching your boat for an afternoon cruise, or setting off on scenic hiking trails, North Canyon delivers the perfect blend of outdoor recreation and peaceful relaxation. Modern amenities including vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort without compromising the authentic wilderness experience.
The campground offers primitive camping options with no hookups, catering to tent campers and trailers. Group camping and other luxury options are not available.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at North Canyon brings a delightful surprise – refreshingly cool temperatures that offer respite from the heat of lower elevations. Even in July, you'll reach for a light jacket as evening approaches, thanks to the generous shade cast by towering pines and the campground's mountain elevation. The region's characteristically dry climate means more sunny days for your outdoor adventures, though afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll through, bringing dramatic skies and the sweet scent of rain on pine needles. Gentle to moderate mountain breezes keep the air fresh and help moderate temperatures throughout your stay.
ElevationPerched at 7,900 feet above sea level, North Canyon Campground offers the perfect mountain climate where crisp, clean air invigorates your senses and spectacular vistas unfold in every direction. This elevation creates an ideal escape from summer heat while positioning you perfectly to explore the surrounding high country. The thin mountain air adds a sparkle to the stars at night and brings a refreshing coolness to morning coffee enjoyed while watching the sunrise paint the peaks in alpenglow.
Natural Features and SceneryNorth Canyon reveals nature's artistry at every turn, where stately ponderosa pines mingle with shimmering aspens that dance in the mountain breeze at 7,900 feet. Along the lakeshore, dense willow thickets create natural privacy screens and wildlife corridors, their emerald leaves rustling with the movements of birds and small creatures. Turn your gaze northwest and be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of the San Juan Mountains' jagged peaks piercing the Colorado sky – a dramatic backdrop that transforms from purple shadows at dawn to golden monuments at sunset.
Geological RegionNestled in the rugged landscape of southwestern Colorado, North Canyon Campground showcases the diverse beauty of the Vallecito Reservoir region. Here, ancient ponderosa pine forests carpet the mountainsides, their vanilla-scented bark and towering presence telling stories of centuries past. Closer to the water's edge, verdant willow thickets thrive in the moist soil, creating a lush contrast to the drier upland forests. The campground serves as your basecamp for exploring this geological wonderland, where the majestic San Juan peaks dominate the northwestern horizon – remnants of volcanic activity that shaped this dramatic landscape millions of years ago.
Campsite details
AccessibilityFacilities lack full disabled accessibility; one review noted that the bathroom is not user-friendly for disabled individuals.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, but are generally spacious, providing ample room for tents and trailers as noted in user reviews.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers good privacy between sites, facilitated by a thick understory and widely spaced sites. "Sites are far apart enough that we still had privacy."
Total Campsites28 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor shade and privacy, campsite 7 is ideal, while campsite 4 is noted for proximity to water and quiet surroundings.
Best CampsitesCampsite 7 is recommended for its shade and views, with similar attributes for sites 6 and 5. Campsite 4 offers privacy and proximity to the water.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Groups
No specific details regarding group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are widely spaced and well-shaded, with privacy offered by thickets of willow and scattered ponderosa pine.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 to September 6. First-come-first-serve from June 20 to June 24.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable from June 20 to June 24 on first-come-first-serve basis. Some sites remain non-reservable during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before reservation start date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations result in a $10 service fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's rate. In emergencies, all fees are refunded.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
North Canyon Campground provides a variety of recreational activities catering to outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include fishing, hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Vallecito Reservoir enhances opportunities for water sports and scenic enjoyment.
Hiking
Hiking trails are abundant. The North Canyon Trail begins across the road from the campground and traverses ponderosa pine and aspen forests, leading to a lake overlook. "There is a plethora of hiking trails close by." East Creek Trail, a quarter-mile northeast, is also notable for its scenic drainage.Fishing
Fishing at Vallecito Reservoir is a highlight, with anglers targeting German brown trout, cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and northern pike. One review mentioned mixed results due to lake water levels: "Fishing wasn't as good as I'd hoped, but on a better year it would be enjoyable."Swimming
Swimming areas are available near Vallecito Reservoir, though specific safety measures and facilities are not detailed.Boating
The lake offers opportunities for boating, canoeing, and water skiing. Boat rentals are available nearby, enhancing accessibility for campers.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with deer sighted regularly according to user reviews. "Saw lots of deer," noted one camper.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led bear talks are available, though one review cautioned about attending with small children due to potentially frightening content: "Wouldn't go to the bear talk by rangers with little kids."Winter Activities
No information is available on winter activities.Water Sports
Water skiing and canoeing are explicitly mentioned as prominent activities at Vallecito Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated, but reviews suggest quiet evenings with occasional generator noise.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include uneven terrain for tents, occasional bugs, and cows roaming into campsites near the lakeshore.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.8 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
Emergency services are located in Bayfield, Colorado, approximately 13 miles from the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 6.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information on trash and recycling facilities was provided. However, user reviews indicate the presence of occasional micro-trash left by previous campers.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located near Vallecito Reservoir, offering fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities.
Common complaintsComplaints include uneven tent sites, occasional bugs, generator noise, and issues with cows and flies near the lakeshore.
HostHosts, such as Paul, were described as friendly, attentive, and providing clean facilities.
Campground Map
FS Road 603, San Juan NF, CO, USA
Driving directionsFrom Bayfield, Colo., at the Vallecito Lake sign on U.S. Highway 160 (County Road 501), go north about 13 miles to Vallecito. Turn right on County Road 501A at the fire station and travel 4 miles to the campground.
The road to the campground is unpaved and includes a steep, unpaved hill if entering from the northern side. Cars without off-road capabilities may struggle to access from this direction, but alternative entry points are available. The campground remains accessible when approached from the other side of the road.Nearby places
Bayfield (13 miles, approximately 25 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Bayfield, Colorado, which is approximately 13 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.7
56 reviews
North Canyon Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, the campground is highly rated for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and well-maintained facilities. The average sentiment indicates satisfaction, with highlights on the helpfulness of hosts and the proximity to outdoor activities.
Review Summaries
Based on 56 reviews
What Campers Love
Common positives include clean vault toilets, friendly hosts, spacious sites, and proximity to the lake and hiking trails. "The campground was nicely spaced, with a very clean & cared for restroom,"...
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Common Concerns
Occasional complaints include uneven terrain for tents, pest issues like flies, and generator noise. "Pestilent outhouse, swarming with flies," said one reviewer.
Based on 56 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend reserving spots early for peak seasons, carrying bug spray, and being prepared for uneven terrain. "Be sure you bring everything you need because the store does not have a lot,"...
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Seasonal Insights
The campground is busier during weekends and holidays, with user reviews stating increased crowds and activity levels during these times.
Based on 56 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The lake and mountains at the campsite are beautiful." "The camp hosts were great! Very friendly." "Bathrooms were immaculate!" "We had a fantastic time camping at North Canyon 11." "Very clean and...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 7 is noted for its shade and views, while Site 5 lacks shade but offers similar views. Site 16 received criticism for its proximity to the bathroom and lack of good tent spots. Site 21 is...
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Accessibility Features
Bathrooms are not fully accessible for disabled campers, as noted in one review: "Bathroom is not disabled-user friendly."
Based on 56 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, and no significant issues regarding pet policies were mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 56 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025