Vallecito Campground
4.74177 reviewsSAN JUAN NF
Vallecito Campground
$32.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Prices range according to peak season and off-season availability.
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About this campground
Discover one of the region's premier large-scale campgrounds, offering exceptional accessibility and spacious sites that welcome everyone from solo adventurers to large family gatherings. This expansive outdoor haven provides the perfect basecamp for exploring the surrounding wilderness while enjoying modern conveniences and easy access throughout the grounds.
Vallecito Campground accommodates diverse camping interests, offering sites for tents, RVs, and group camping. Some sites also have electrical hookups.
Historical SignificanceThis land holds centuries of stories, from ancient indigenous peoples who first called these mountains home to the miners and settlers who followed historic trails through these valleys. Evidence of their presence can still be discovered in the surrounding areas, where old mining claims and historic structures whisper tales of Colorado's rich past. The campground serves as a gateway to understanding the cultural tapestry that has shaped this remarkable landscape.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of four distinct seasons in the high country. Summer brings warm days perfect for hiking and cool nights ideal for campfires, while autumn transforms the landscape into a golden tapestry of changing aspen leaves. Spring awakens the wilderness with wildflower blooms and rushing creeks, and winter blankets the area in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for those seeking solitude and seasonal adventure.
ElevationPerched high in the majestic San Juan Mountains, this elevated sanctuary offers the crisp, clean air and cooler temperatures that make mountain camping so refreshing. The high-altitude setting provides stunning panoramic views and serves as an ideal acclimatization point for those planning to explore even higher peaks in the surrounding wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled alongside the pristine waters of Vallecito Creek, the campground is embraced by a stunning tapestry of Colorado's most beloved trees. Towering ponderosa pines provide natural shade and fill the air with their vanilla-scented bark, while groves of quaking aspen create magical golden corridors in fall. Sturdy gambel oak adds to the diverse ecosystem, supporting abundant wildlife and creating a rich, layered forest environment. The gentle sounds of Vallecito Creek provide a natural soundtrack, while the surrounding peaks frame spectacular sunrise and sunset views.
Geological RegionSet within the ancient and awe-inspiring San Juan Mountains, this campground occupies a geologically fascinating region where volcanic history meets sedimentary storytelling. The San Juans, known as Colorado's most rugged mountain range, showcase dramatic peaks, deep valleys carved by glaciers, and mineral-rich formations that paint the landscape in remarkable colors. Vallecito Creek has carved its own story through the bedrock, creating a lush riparian corridor that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding alpine terrain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair accessibility and specific features for disabled campers are not mentioned in the provided data.
Sites SizeMost sites are described as large and fairly level, accommodating a wide range of camping setups.
Sites PrivacySites offer good privacy owing to the dense forest cover, but proximity to other campers varies by site.
Total Campsites80 campsites
Recommended Campsites27 mentioned
Best Campsites27
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 nights within 30 rolling
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonMay 09-Sep 28
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable first come first serve.
Cancellation PolicyCharges are applied based on cancellations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational opportunities at Vallecito Campground are abundant and cater to a wide range of interests. Fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing are popular activities. The Vallecito Creek Trail serves as the main access point to the Weminuche Wilderness, providing scenic and challenging hiking routes.
Hiking
The Vallecito Creek Trail begins at the campground entrance and offers hiking opportunities through diverse terrain, including mountain paths and creek crossings. The trail is described as moderately demanding, and some users mention stunning views and waterfalls along the route.Fishing
Vallecito Creek provides excellent fishing opportunities for rainbow, cutthroat, and brook trout. Artificial flies and lures are required due to the creek's wilderness designation.Boating
Boating is available at Vallecito Lake, located nearby. This includes water skiing and fishing opportunities.Wildlife viewing
The densely forested surroundings support various wildlife species, and campers have reported sightings of Stellar's Blue Jays, chipmunks, beavers, and even bears.Winter Activities
Winter activities like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing are not documented in the sources.Water Sports
Vallecito Lake, four miles away, offers various water sports, including water skiing and kayaking.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Noted through
- Quiet hours are Noted from
Hazards
General hazardsBear country noted.
Active alertsBear country warnings active
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Pagosa Springs for hospitals and Durango for full emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 09, 2025,
Trash and recyclingThere is no specific mention of trash and recycling facilities, although the campground is well-maintained, suggesting basic waste management systems are in place.
Common complaintsNoise-level
Campground Map
SAN JUAN NF
Driving directionsFrom the western side of the reservoir, on County Road 501, pass through the community of Vallecito. Turn north on County Road 500 and drive about 3 miles to the campground.
Located 3 miles north of County Road 500, accessible via paved roads. Seasonal access may be impacted by moisture or snow conditions.Nearby places
Pagosa Springs (approx. 40 miles, ~1 hour drive) and Durango (approx. 30 miles, ~45-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Convenience stores located 10-15 mins away.
Camper Reviews
4.7
177 reviews
Vallecito Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Vallecito Campground is highly regarded by users for its excellent maintenance, scenic beauty, and friendly campground hosts. Common highlights include clean facilities and proximity to hiking trails. Some negative experiences include noise issues and lack of host enforcement of quiet hours.
Review Summaries
Based on 177 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback emphasizes the cleanliness of vault toilets, spacious campsites, and the helpfulness of hosts. The proximity to hiking trails and Vallecito Creek is frequently praised. Several...
Based on 177 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include noise from other campers, lack of enforcement of quiet hours, and occasional proximity of campsites to vault toilets resulting in unpleasant odors. The absence of showers and a...
Based on 177 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing plenty of bug spray due to mosquitoes, especially in wet seasons. For showers, campers are advised to visit Blue Spruce RV Park. Early arrival is suggested for first-come,...
Based on 177 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
During summer months, the campground experiences high mosquito activity and crowded conditions, especially on weekends. Spring and early fall are described as more pleasant for camping, with cooler...
Based on 177 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Camp hosts were great; helpful and considerate." - Wade S. "Lovely campground with an awesome trail accessed right from our site!" - Emily P. "We love our weekends at Vallecito! The camp hosts are...
Based on 177 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight privacy and scenic views for sites near Vallecito Creek. However, some reviewers noted noise from nearby campers and proximity to vault toilets as drawbacks.
Based on 177 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly commented on by reviewers.
Based on 177 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is described as pet-friendly, with reviewers appreciating that leashes are optional on trails if pets are well-controlled.
Based on 177 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025