Camping restrictions implemented for Navajo Lake Basin

Dolores, CO, June 29, 2026  — The San Juan National Forest and Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests (GMUG) have updated the Lizard Head Wilderness Forest Order, which implements a “designated dispersed” camping system for the Navajo Lake Basin, effective June 29. The area historically allowed dispersed camping. Under this new plan, nine designated dispersed campsites are available for camping within the Navajo Lake Basin in Lizard Head Wilderness. This change aims to improve wilderness experiences and protect critical watershed resources in this area.

Designated dispersed sites are first-come, first-served and are clearly marked. Visitors should avoid busy weekends and have a “plan B” in case they find all campsites full upon arrival. The nearest camping is at other established dispersed sites near the Kilpacker Trail Junction, 2.3 miles south of the lake. The new camping restrictions apply only to campsites within Navajo Basin. Camping outside of these designated dispersed sites is not allowed in Navajo Basin.

Navajo Basin campsite maps and details of the Lizard Head Wilderness Forest Order are available on the San Juan National Forest Website, and on the GMUG Alerts page.

Navajo Lake Basin, located within the Lizard Head Wilderness, is home to the headwaters of the West Fork of the Dolores River—an important water source for nearby communities and native fish species. Over the last several decades, Forest Service staff have worked to minimize recreation impacts in the basin. Measures have included prohibiting campfires in the late 1990s, restoring compacted campsite areas, and implementing a forest order—renewed in 2021—prohibiting camping within 100 feet of the lake, streams, and wetlands except in pre-existing sites.

Recent monitoring by wilderness specialists shows that campsite size and number continue to increase despite these efforts. This trend impacts the area’s wilderness character, reduces opportunities for solitude, and creates concerns for soil, water, and vegetation health.

To address these concerns, the San Juan and GMUG National Forests have established nine designated dispersed campsites within the Navajo Lake Basin. This decision was made following a public feedback process earlier this year. These sites were identified by an interdisciplinary team during fall 2024 and were chosen for their durability, minimal visibility, and compliance with wilderness and Forest Plan standards.

For more information, please contact Dolores Ranger District Trails, Wilderness and Dispersed Recreation Program Manager Christopher Bouton at 970-882-6831 (christopher.bouton@usda.gov), or Norwood Ranger District Recreation Staff Officer Krystina Smith, 970-327-4261 ext. 4345 (krystina.smith@usda.gov).