Cayton Campground

About

Cayton Campground is a National Forest campground situated along the Dolores River and Colorado Highway 145, approximately 6 miles north of Rico and accessible from Durango. Located at an elevation of roughly 9,400 feet, the site sits in a grassy meadow surrounded by fir and aspen trees. The campground contains 27 single-family campsites divided into two loops. The lower loop features 14 mostly level sites with limited shade, situated near the river. The upper loop consists of 13 gently sloping sites. Both loops offer pull-through options and shady tent spots. Many sites are positioned directly along the riverbank. Facilities include vault toilets, drinking water, a dump station, picnic tables, and campfire rings. Eighteen of the 27 sites provide electric hookups. The area is popular for river fishing, particularly for rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout, though the river can be crowded on summer weekends. Nearby recreational access includes the Barlow Creek Road, which leads to Bolam Pass and often requires four-wheel drive due to road conditions. The Colorado Trail, Lizard Head Trail, and Cross Mountain Trail are accessible for hiking. The campground is open from May through September and allows pets.