San Juan National Forest

USDA Forest Service
San Juan National Forest
15 Burnett Court
Durango, CO 81301
970-247-4874

Telephone for the
Hearing Impaired
970-385-1257

Location

The Chris Park Group Campground, 19 miles north of Durango and a mile south of Haviland Lake Campground on Forest Rd. 166, is available through advance reservation only.

Facilities

Two of the group sites accommodate 75 campers each. A third group site has a pavillion, volleyball court, horseshoe pits, electricity, and RV access.

Mostly flat and open, partly shaded by a few large ponderosa pines.

Water, trash pickup, vault toilets.

Attractions & Considerations

The Rico-to-Rockwood wagon road, which passed through Chris Park in the late 1800s, was in use for 6 years until the railway opened. A historical marker near the entrance tells the story.

Related Activities: Hiking, Cycling, Horseback Riding

Graysill Trail - This trail is a quick and easy way out of Cascade Canyon. The main attraction of this trail is to get to the Rico-Silverton Trail instead of going all the way to the end of Cascade Creek.

Rico-Silverton Trail - This trail ascends two high mountain passes, affording excellent views and good opportunities for photography.

Salt Creek Trail - The trail switchbacks down through meadows and aspen glades. The bottom of the trail is a bit rougher and steeper, so watch your step.

Other nearby trails are suitable for mountain biking. For road cyclists, Highway 550 has wide shoulders, scenic views, and some challenging climbs.

A commercial stable next to the entrance road offers horseback rides.

Map of Area