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San Juan/Target Tree
Overview
Overview
San Juan/Target Tree is a public campground managed by the U.S. Forest Service, situated within the beautiful San Juan National Forest. This location offers a classic, rustic camping experience that emphasizes natural beauty over modern resort-style luxury. It serves as an ideal basecamp for travelers looking to unplug and immerse themselves in the high-altitude environment of southwestern Colorado, providing primitive camping conditions that allow for a quiet and restorative escape from busy highways.
Location & Surroundings
Located near the town of Mancos, Colorado, the park is nestled in a landscape defined by dense forest canopy and mountain air. The high elevation creates a cool, refreshing atmosphere even during the height of summer. The surrounding area is characterized by rolling hills and vast public lands, offering visitors a true sense of seclusion. It is a perfect spot for those who appreciate being surrounded by untouched mountain wilderness while remaining relatively accessible.
Amenities & Park Features
This campground is designed for self-contained units, focusing on the basics of outdoor living. While it does not offer extensive modern utilities, it provides essential comforts such as vault toilets and fire rings at each designated site. Guests should plan to be self-sufficient as there are no electric or water hookups available. The park features spacious, wooded campsites that accommodate a range of equipment, making it a favorite for those who value privacy and space.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The proximity to Mesa Verde National Park is a major draw for visitors, offering world-class archaeological experiences and cliff dwellings just a short drive away. Additionally, the region is a gateway to outdoor adventure activities including miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails that wind through the San Juan National Forest. Local fishing spots and scenic driving routes provide plenty of ways to enjoy the breathtaking Colorado landscape during your stay.
Who This Park Is Best For
San Juan/Target Tree is best suited for self-sufficient RVers and tent campers who prefer a quiet, natural environment over highly developed campgrounds. If you enjoy boondocking or dry camping in peaceful, shaded forest settings, this site will feel like home. It is an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and those looking to explore the rich history of the Mesa Verde region without the noise and crowds of commercial RV parks.
Features & Amenities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
Reviews
Jonathan Moore
Go to road 306 .5 miles away and there's much better free dispersed camping. Came here specificity bcs they advertised water and I needed to fill my tanks. Stayed 2 nights ($48) and when I was leaving I went to top up my tanks. As soon as I hook up the hose this old man comes running up yelling at me that I need to stop. He then accused me of not staying there, so i proved I did THEN he changed his story and told me it's illegal to get water from there and it's a huge fine. I've searched - NOTHING matches what the old geezer said. His excuse "we have to pay for this water". Well old man, it's 2025 and water isn't free, but my 5 gallon tank isn't taking $48 worth. It's less expensive to buy gallon jugs and funnel into your tanks and stay at the dispersed area. Don't give these concessionaires your money. You get NOTHING additional there for your $24 nightly than you'll get next-door for free. .. unless you like being harassed. The campground is empty. 99% chance you'll get in without reservation, but what's the point. Had water and rude hosts not been included with my stay it may had been a decent usfs concessionaire site in the state - but after finding out that you don't get what you pay for, this should have been a normal $12 forestry site.
Lori Young
Nice small campground. No hookups. Plenty of faucets with drinking water. Immaculately maintained by camp host. Pads for tents or pops at each site in addition to pad with large table with BBQ extension and a fire pit with grill. A water jug at each fire pit to properly put out your evening fire. Only negative, can be a bit of highway noise heard, but you cannot see the highway. Cash or check only, if you don't book online. Wood bundles available from host, $10 each or $28 for 3.
L Dodge
Very clean! Not crowded, space between sites, bathrooms checked multiple times a day. Hiking trail right out of camp site.
kurt reist
We are having a great time here! Some traffic noise from the nearby highway 160, but all the sites look very good with easy access. Tim, the current host is awesome.
Amanda Smith
In the trees. Well marked tent sites. Able to see the stars at night. Quiet. Spot for tent is pebbles, so bring something to lay on. Potable water, firewood, and pit toilets.