Free Camping Options in Mancos/Dolores Ranger District: Explore Nature's Best
Nestled in the scenic San Juan National Forest, the Mancos/Dolores Ranger District offers a diverse array of camping options, from established campgrounds to pristine free sites, attracting outdoor enthusiasts year-round. With over 1.8 million acres of stunning wilderness, visitors can explore captivating views, lush forests, and sparkling rivers. Notable campgrounds include the popular Mancos State Park and the serene Dolores River Campground, both offering essential amenities and easy access to hiking trails and fishing spots. For those seeking a more rustic experience, free camping is available at sites like the beautiful Duck Creek and the picturesque House Creek, perfect for star-gazing and tranquility. As of 2023, the area boasts an impressive 100 miles of trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking, along with rich biodiversity that includes elk, deer, and numerous bird species. Experience the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that await in the Mancos/Dolores Ranger District, where adventure and tranquility coexist in perfect harmony.
Cayton Campground is located in the Mancos/Dolores Ranger District, San Juan National Forest (2 hrs 16 min north of Farmington, NM) with an elevation of 9,360 feet. There are a total of 16 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid May to the end of September. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 42 and 70 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. 11 sites have electric hookups. Fees range from $26.00 to $32.00. Some amenities include dump station. Activities include biking, fishing, hiking trails.
House Creek Campground is located in the Mancos/Dolores Ranger District, San Juan National Forest (1 hr 47 min northwest of Farmington, NM) with an elevation of 7,068 feet. There are a total of 12 campsites. The campground is normally open from the beginning of May to the end of September. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 30 and 50 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. 6 sites have electric hookups. Fees range from $26.00 to $100.00. Some amenities include dump station, boat ramp, swimming. Activities include boating, fishing, hiking trails, floating sports.
Mavreeso Campground is located in the Mancos/Dolores Ranger District, San Juan National Forest (1 hr 49 min north of Farmington, NM) with an elevation of 7,686 feet. There are a total of 12 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid May to the end of September. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 21 and 60 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. 4 sites have electric hookups. Fees range from $26.00 to $100.00. Activities include biking, fishing, hiking trails.
Mcphee Rec Complex Campground is located in the Mancos/Dolores Ranger District, San Juan National Forest (1 hr 35 min northwest of Farmington, NM) with an elevation of 7,093 feet. There are a total of 53 campsites including 8 tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from the beginning of May to the end of September. 44 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 24 and 99 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. 3 sites have electric and water hookups. 10 sites have electric hookups. Fees range from $26.00 to $100.00. Some amenities include flush toilets. Activities include boating, fishing, hiking trails, floating sports.
Target Tree Campground is located in the Mancos/Dolores Ranger District, San Juan National Forest (59 min north of Farmington, NM) with an elevation of 8,874 feet. There are a total of 16 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid May to the end of September. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 25 and 45 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Fees range from $22.00 to $65.00. Some amenities include restroom. Activities include horseback riding, hiking trails.
West Dolores Campground is located in the Mancos/Dolores Ranger District, San Juan National Forest (1 hr 52 min north of Farmington, NM) with an elevation of 7,743 feet. There are a total of 10 campsites. The campground is normally open from the beginning of May to the end of September. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 35 and 65 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. 3 sites have electric hookups. Fees range from $26.00 to $35.00. Activities include biking, fishing, hiking trails.
map icon in the lower right corner.
*Earn our 
Show your commitment in keeping our forests healthy and protecting our public lands by earning the Leave No Trace badge.