The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Durango Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA) exemplifies the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) role in the United States. Authorized to sustain isolated sites for the “use and enjoyment of present and future generations,” BLM regulations require those visiting the Durango SRMA to minimize the effects of human presence by observing and enforcing the Leave No Trace rule.
Located near the Colorado-New Mexico border, Durango, CO, a city of nearly 20,000, lies about 50 miles north of Farmington, NM at an elevation of 6,512 feet. There are five separate SRMA parcels near Durango under BLM authority: Grandview Ridge, Animas City Mountain, Skyline, Turtle Lake, and East Animas Climbing Area. Each parcel offers a different perspective on the nearby San Juan Mountains. Hiking and mountain biking trails draw adventurers nationwide. Mountain climbers often use the East Animas Climbing Area as a training ground. For those who are looking to explore beyond Durango, the town is within 46 miles of Mesa Verde National Park, 107 miles of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, and 149 miles of Great Sand Dunes National Park.
With a trailhead just outside Durango, the Animas Mountain Trail is a loop path that gains 1,519 feet in elevation. Though the trail is easy to follow, there is little shade, especially on the south side of the track, where hikers experience continuous sun exposure. The views of Durango, the Animas River, and the surrounding mountains are spectacular at the peak of Animus Mountain. Take note that there are times when the trail is closed to protect wildlife.
Length: 6 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This is an exciting trail open to hikers, bikers, and runners that runs from a trailhead in Durango up Junction Creek to a peak 1,300 feet above Durango called Gudy’s Rest. The path is enhanced with the sounds of the creek as it bubbles down the hillside. Hikers meander through a forest where shade provides a cool respite. The views of the creek along the pathway and of Durango from Gudy’s Rest make the hike worthwhile.
Length: 9.1 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This in-and-out trail begins at a trailhead just north of Elektra Lake in the Hermosa Creek Wilderness Area. The path gains 1,800 feet over its length. The trailhead is at a high point and follows Cascade Creek to a wide area called Purgatory Flats. Most consider the return trek the hardest, with the hike being a series of switchbacks angling uphill.
Length: 10.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The Animas River runs through Durango and has multiple tributaries emptying into the river from several directions. Natural lakes filled with many species of fish are located throughout the region. Boating is allowed in all five reservoirs serving the area as flood control and a source of water for communities and agriculture.
Two parcels of the Durango SRMA feature rock climbing. The Turtle Lake parcel provides several challenging bouldering climbs. The East Animas Climbing Area offers ascents of vertical cliffs, often referred to as “technical climbing.”
The Durango SRMA protects a dense population of wildlife. Coyotes, bears, elk, deer, and big cats like mountain lions, bobcats, and lynx are commonly viewed in the area. While mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and moose are less common, hikers may observe one or more species while strolling the trails around Durango.
Picnicking is one of the favorite activities that families enjoy in the Durango SRMA. The city of Durango supports several municipal parks with views of the surrounding mountains or beside the Animas River. These parks offer picnic tables to all visitors. The trails in the SRMA often have picnic tables with sealed wastebaskets placed in areas where visitors can enjoy a snack while gazing at spectacular views.
With Durango sitting above 6,000 feet and the SRMA occupying spaces at 7,000 to 9,000 feet, the night sky is a kaleidoscope of color and texture. Though the city lights of Durango issue their share of light pollution, the effect quickly disappears at higher levels and in valleys beyond a hill or mountain.
There are no Bureau of Land Management campgrounds inside the Durango SRMA. While the Bureau of Land Management camping is limited, several private campgrounds provide RV camping sites with incredible amenities inside Durango. An example of these private campgrounds is the Oasis RV Resort Durango, which offers 78 campsites with access to laundry facilities, restrooms, showers, a heated swimming pool, a game room, and a playground. Depending on the RV site selected, the costs run from $42 to $89 per night.
The nearest Bureau of Land Management free camping site is outside Bayfield, 20 miles east of the Durango SRMA. Durfield Dispersed Camping provides an area where RV campers are welcome to park their rigs. The campsites are primitive with no water, electricity, restrooms, or other amenities. Visitors often use this area as a comfortable place to return after a day of exploring the Durango SMRA.
To seek campgrounds near the Durango SMRA, try searching the Internet using “BLM camping near me.” When you choose Durango, CO as your search center, several BLM RV camping spots appear on a list.
If you plan on staying in a Bureau of Land Management free camping area, plan your trip to survive in a primitive environment. Such camping is challenging for the uninitiated. Check your vehicle before embarking on your journey, including the hitches, the brakes, electrical hookups, and internal systems. Pack extra canned food and fill your water containers. Take extra clothing when visiting the Durango SMRA as weather changes occur swiftly at higher elevations. Before heading out on a trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Whether you are exploring inside the Durango SMRA or staying in a BLM dispersed camping area, observe the BLM Leave No Trace regulation. Minimize your impact on these fragile environments by keeping to the trails and staying in designated campsites. Clean up all your trash and restrict campfire debris by using a deep frying pan as the fire ring.
To reach Durango SRMA from Grand Junction, CO, take United States Highway 50 East (US-50 E) for 45 miles into Montrose, CO. Once in Montrose, follow US Highway 550 S (US-550 S) for 105 miles to reach Durango.
Ready to visit Durango SRMA? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night, where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
