Middle Mountain Campground

For those of us living in Colorado, the call of the mountains and the serenity of a pristine lake are often irresistible. Middle Mountain Campground, nestled within the breathtaking San Juan National Forest near Bayfield, offers an authentic and highly sought-after camping experience that perfectly captures the essence of Colorado's outdoor allure. It’s a destination where stunning views, refreshing waters, and the peaceful ambiance of nature converge, providing an ideal escape for individuals, families, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Middle Mountain Campground isn't just a place to set up a tent or park an RV; it's an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the majestic landscape of Southwestern Colorado. With its prime location on Vallecito Reservoir, it serves as a fantastic base for a variety of water activities, fishing adventures, and simply unwinding amidst the picturesque surroundings. For locals seeking a genuine Colorado camping experience, where natural beauty is paramount and outdoor recreation is at your fingertips, Middle Mountain Campground stands out as a truly remarkable choice.

Middle Mountain Campground is beautifully situated within the expansive San Juan National Forest, specifically on Vallecito Reservoir, near the charming town of Bayfield, Colorado. The address is given as San Juan National Forest, Forest Rd 603, Bayfield, CO 81122, USA. This places it about 23 miles northeast of Durango, making it a convenient drive for residents in Southwestern Colorado and beyond.

To reach the campground, visitors typically follow County Road 501 around the north end of Vallecito Reservoir, then south for approximately three miles. Forest Road 603 provides access to the campground. It’s important to note that while Forest Road 603 starts paved, it becomes a dirt and gravel road after about 1.1 miles. This requires drivers to be prepared for unpaved sections, though it generally remains accessible for most vehicles, including RVs up to approximately 35 feet.

The campground's location offers a desirable balance of accessibility and a feeling of being immersed in the wilderness. It's far enough from urban centers to ensure dark, star-filled night skies and a tranquil atmosphere, yet close enough to Bayfield and Durango for supplies and other conveniences. This makes it an ideal spot for Coloradoans looking for a true mountain and lake getaway without venturing too far off the beaten path.

Middle Mountain Campground provides a range of essential services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay in its natural setting.

• Campsites with Amenities: The campground offers 24 sites, each typically equipped with a picnic table, benches, and a fire pit, allowing for comfortable outdoor dining and campfires.

• Water Access: Potable water is available at the campground, ensuring campers have access to fresh drinking water.

• Vault Toilets: Clean vault toilets are provided throughout the campground, maintaining basic hygiene facilities for visitors.

• Trash Pickup: Trash collection services are available, contributing to the cleanliness and overall maintenance of the campground.

• Firewood: While firewood is available, campers are generally expected to gather it themselves. This adds to the authentic camping experience, though it's always wise to check current fire restrictions.

• Campsite Accommodations: The campground can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs up to a maximum length of 35-40 feet, though it's advised that some sites are better suited for larger rigs than others. Guests with equipment on wheels (RVs, campers, cars) must ensure they fit in the designated parking spur, as overflow parking is not available.

• First-Come, First-Served Basis: All sites at Middle Mountain Campground operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning visitors must physically arrive at the campground to claim a site. This adds to the adventurous spirit but requires early arrival during peak seasons.

• Generators Permitted (with restrictions): Generators are generally allowed between 6 AM and 10 PM, though their use should be limited to one hour at a time to maintain peace and quiet for other campers.

Middle Mountain Campground boasts several features and highlights that consistently draw campers to its beautiful location, making it a standout destination in the San Juan National Forest.

• Stunning Lake Views: A major highlight is the "beautiful views" of Vallecito Reservoir from "each site," providing a picturesque backdrop for the entire camping experience. This is a common praise from visitors.

• Well-Maintained Grounds and Friendly Staff: The campground is often described as "well maintained by Butch, the kindest groundskeeper," indicating a high level of care and a welcoming atmosphere from the staff.

• Direct Lake Access: With easy access to Vallecito Reservoir, the campground is ideal for a variety of water activities. Campers can enjoy "fishing, canoeing, kayaking" right from the lake, even if the "water is cold but still enjoyable."

• Open and Sunny Environment: The campground is "very open and sunny, with a grassy shoreline and afternoon breezes," making for a pleasant outdoor environment. Some sites also offer shade from ponderosa pines and small aspen trees.

• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting means opportunities to observe local wildlife, adding another layer of enjoyment to the camping experience.

• Proximity to Exploration: The Middle Mountain Road (Forest Rd. 724) leads to the upper Bear Creek drainages, Runlett Park (which has a trail open to OHVs 50 inches or less), and the old mining town of Tuckerville, offering additional recreational and historical exploration opportunities.

• Secluded Feel with Essential Comforts: Despite being a developed campground, it maintains a serene and peaceful atmosphere, allowing campers to truly disconnect while still having access to restrooms, water, and picnic facilities.

For more information, current conditions, or inquiries about Middle Mountain Campground, you can use the following contact details:

Address: San Juan National Forest, Forest Rd 603, Bayfield, CO 81122, USA

Phone: (970) 247-4874

Mobile Phone: +1 970-247-4874

It is highly recommended to contact the Columbine Ranger District of the San Juan National Forest directly or visit the official U.S. Forest Service website for the most up-to-date information on fees (around $26-30/night), seasonal closures (typically open May - September), fire restrictions, and any changes to amenities or accessibility before your visit. As this is a first-come, first-served campground, arriving early, especially on weekends or holidays, is advisable. Note that cell reception can be spotty in the area.

For those of us who call Colorado home, Middle Mountain Campground is an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for a multitude of reasons. It truly embodies the spirit of outdoor adventure and natural beauty that defines our state, offering an experience that resonates deeply with local preferences.

Firstly, its prime location on Vallecito Reservoir within the majestic San Juan National Forest makes it a quintessential Colorado getaway. We Coloradans are drawn to our mountains and lakes, and Middle Mountain delivers on both. The "beautiful views" from every site are a testament to the stunning landscapes we have in our backyard, providing an immediate sense of peace and connection with nature. The easy access to Vallecito Reservoir means that popular activities like fishing, canoeing, and kayaking are not just possibilities but easily achievable parts of your camping trip.

Secondly, the campground's approach to amenities strikes a perfect balance. While offering essential comforts like potable water, vault toilets, and individual site features such as picnic tables and fire pits, it still maintains a rustic, immersive feel. This allows for a genuine camping experience without the need to completely rough it, making it ideal for families, seasoned campers, and even those new to the outdoors. The positive feedback about "Butch, the kindest groundskeeper," highlights the welcoming and well-maintained environment, adding to the overall positive experience for locals who appreciate good stewardship of our public lands.

Furthermore, the first-come, first-served nature of the sites, while requiring a bit more planning or spontaneity, aligns with a certain adventurous spirit often found in Colorado. It allows for flexible travel and the satisfaction of securing a coveted spot in a beautiful location. The opportunity to explore nearby trails and the historic mining town of Tuckerville adds layers of discovery beyond just the campground itself.

In essence, Middle Mountain Campground offers an authentic, accessible, and incredibly scenic outdoor retreat that caters perfectly to the Colorado lifestyle. It's a place where we can unplug, reconnect with nature, and create cherished memories against the backdrop of our state's unparalleled natural splendor, making it a truly invaluable local treasure.

Middle Mountain Campground

San Juan National Forest, Forest Rd 603, Bayfield, CO 81122, USA