West Fork Campground
4.5991 reviewsWest Fork Rd (FS Road 648), San Juan NF, CO, USA
West Fork Campground
$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 (May 16 - September 27 in 2025 and similar dates in 2026) rates are $32/night. This does not include taxes, reservation service fees, or other incremental charges.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the San Juan National Forest, West Fork Campground offers an authentic wilderness retreat where the gentle murmur of the West Fork San Juan River provides nature's soundtrack. This intimate campground invites you to unwind at thoughtfully spaced single-family sites, each equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings under star-filled skies. Modern vault toilets and fresh potable water ensure comfort without compromising the natural experience. Those seeking respite from the digital world will find solace here, where towering pines whisper ancient stories and hiking trails beckon adventurers to explore the surrounding wilderness.
West Fork Campground offers a mix of tent camping, RV sites, and primitive camping. Group camping sites and luxury glamping accommodations are not available.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms West Fork into a high-altitude haven where warm days reaching 90°F give way to refreshingly cool evenings that dip to around 50°F—perfect for campfire conversations and restful sleep. While summer rains remain gentle and infrequent, they occasionally awaken the local mosquito population, so pack accordingly. Winter paints a different picture entirely, with crisp days hovering around 47°F and nights plunging to a frosty 23°F, creating a wonderland for those who embrace the cold season's stark beauty.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 8,000 feet above sea level, West Fork Campground offers the rare air and spectacular vistas that only high-altitude camping can provide. This lofty setting naturally moderates summer heat while creating crisp, invigorating mornings year-round. Visitors should allow time to acclimate to the thinner air, staying hydrated and taking it easy during their first day to fully enjoy all the adventures that await.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's architecture takes center stage at West Fork, where towering Ponderosa Pines stretch skyward like natural cathedral spires, their vanilla-scented bark perfuming the mountain air. The crystalline waters of the West Fork San Juan River wind through the landscape, offering both a scenic centerpiece and a peaceful soundtrack to your stay. Dramatic cliff faces frame the horizon, their ancient stone walls painted in sunset hues each evening, creating an ever-changing canvas that photographers and nature lovers alike will treasure.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of San Juan National Forest, West Fork Campground sits at the intersection of river and stone, where millennia of geological forces have carved a landscape of remarkable diversity. The mixed conifer forest creates a living tapestry of greens, anchored by majestic Ponderosa Pines that have witnessed centuries pass. The West Fork San Juan River has patiently sculpted its path through this terrain, while surrounding cliffs stand as monuments to the region's dynamic geological past, offering glimpses into the powerful forces that shaped this corner of Colorado.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly stated. Some reviewers have mentioned easy pull-through sites, which suggest potential accessibility but no detailed information is provided.
Sites SizeMost campsites are spacious, with reviews noting 'large and well-spaced sites.' Specific mentions include sites being suitable for large RVs and trailers.
Sites PrivacySites are described as offering good privacy, with comments like 'The sites are large and well spaced with lots of privacy' and 'Decent spacing between campsites.'
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor stream proximity, users recommend site 8 and site 16. For privacy and quiet, sites like 18 and 21 are noted.
Best CampsitesSite 16 is noted as ideal for tent campers due to proximity to the river: "Awesome white noise to sleep to." Site 8 is described as "steps away from the stream".
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 14 consecutive nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Most sites accommodate one family or RV.
Groups
Group camping is not supported at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout26 single-family sites spaced to ensure privacy. Some sites are pull-through and suitable for large RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season: May 16 to September 27. Closed for reservations outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis during designated periods in June.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10 service fee. Late cancellations also forfeit the first night’s fees. No-shows incur a $20 service fee and forfeit the first night’s fees. Refund requests must be submitted within 7 days of the reservation end date.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
West Fork Campground provides excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and relaxing in a quiet, scenic environment. The nearby trailheads, such as the West Fork Trail leading to the Weminuche Wilderness, and attractions like Treasure Falls, enhance recreational options. While fishing requires skill and patience due to heavily fished streams, the Rainbow Trail and other paths are highly recommended for hiking.
Hiking
The West Fork Trail, also known as the Rainbow Trail, begins a mile from the campground and leads into the Weminuche Wilderness. The initial portion crosses private property, requiring campers to stay on the marked trail. Other nearby trails include Windy Pass and Treasure Mountain Trails.Fishing
Fishing is available at the West Fork and nearby Wolf Creek. However, streams are heavily fished, so successful fishing requires skill and patience. Seasonal conditions and water levels may also affect fishing outcomes.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, with deer frequently visiting campsites and the surrounding forest providing opportunities to observe local fauna.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned in the provided materials.Water Sports
No water sports facilities or opportunities are noted for this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings are provided at each site. Firewood must meet size standards as per host instructions.
- Quiet hours are Campground is described as quiet, with minimal noise from nearby highway traffic.
Hazards
General hazardsPoorly maintained access road described as having severe potholes. Wildlife such as deer may enter campsites.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.8 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 (~15 minutes away) offers medical services, police, and other emergency assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 27.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available at the entrance, but some reports indicate insufficient dumpster capacity during peak camping periods. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe West Fork of the San Juan River is nearby, offering serene sounds but heavily fished waters.
Common complaintsRepeated concerns about the dirt road conditions and negative experiences with some camp hosts. "The dirt road can be very rough," and "Totally overbearing camp host" were notable complaints.
HostMixed reviews on camp hosts from user feedback. Recent hosts (John and Laura) were praised in reviews for friendliness and cleanliness: "Host Laura did a great job." However, older reviews criticized hosts with comments like "Totally overbearing camp host."
Campground Map
West Fork Rd (FS Road 648), San Juan NF, CO, USA
Driving directionsFrom Pagosa Springs, Colo., travel east on U.S. Highway 160 for about 13 miles, then turn northwest on Forest Road 684 and continue more than a mile to the campground entrance on the West Fork Road.
The road from Highway 160 is described by multiple user reviews as poorly maintained, with significant potholes. "It has to be the worse dirt road I've ever driven on."Nearby places
Pagosa Springs: 13 miles (~15-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Pagosa Springs (~13 miles away) has groceries, camping supplies, and fuel options.
Camper Reviews
4.6
91 reviews
West Fork Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
West Fork Campground has a strong positive reputation among visitors, with an average sentiment rating of 4.51. Campers frequently highlight the cleanliness of facilities, helpful camp hosts, and the peaceful, scenic setting.
Review Summaries
Based on 91 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean restrooms, spacious private sites, friendly hosts, and the tranquil environment. Access to nearby trails and proximity to Pagosa Springs are additional benefits.
Based on 91 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the poorly maintained access road, occasional overbearing behavior from camp hosts, and a lack of dumpsters during peak times. Some users also pointed out the absence of...
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from reviewers include bringing mosquito repellent, traveling slowly on the dirt access road, and visiting nearby attractions like Treasure Falls and Pagosa Springs. Site-specific suggestions...
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest summer is the most popular season, with visitors appreciating cooler nighttime temperatures, clean facilities, and serene surroundings. However, occasional mosquito activity is noted...
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms were impeccably clean!' - Sarah D.
2. 'The campground host was wonderful. She was very knowledgeable and helpful!' - Craig S.
3. 'Cleanest bathrooms ever. Host, Laura, is the nicest,...
Based on 91 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight Site 16 for its proximity to the river and Site 8 for its quiet streamside location. Reviews note spacious and private setups throughout the campground.
Based on 91 reviewsAccessibility Features
No detailed accessibility reviews are provided, though pull-through sites and quiet settings are highlighted by some users.
Based on 91 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and reviews do not indicate significant issues with pet policies. Campers have not specifically commented on pet-related amenities.
Based on 91 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025