Day Trips from Durango
← All Durango day tripsDay Trips from Durango: State Parks & Natural Areas
The best state parks and natural areas within driving distance of Durango, CO. Hiking, camping, swimming, and stunning scenery without the national park crowds. Real drive times, ratings, and visitor info included.
11 state parks near Durango
Black Canyon of the Gunnison Wilderness
CO 81415, USA
Just 2 hrs 56 min from Durango, rated 5.0 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
USA
Just 2 hrs 40 min from Durango, rated 4.8 stars by 5,679 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Coller State Wildlife Area
CO 81154, USA
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Durango, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Santa Fe National Forest
NM 87544, USA
Just 2 hrs 15 min from Durango, rated 4.8 stars by 4,374 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
San Juan National Forest
USA
Just 23 min from Durango, rated 4.8 stars by 4,442 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Carson National Forest
NM 87554, USA
Just 2 hrs 41 min from Durango, rated 4.8 stars by 2,948 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cibola National Forest
NM 87113, USA
Just 2 hrs 56 min from Durango, rated 4.7 stars by 6,194 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area
Montrose, CO 81401
Just 2 hrs 21 min from Durango, rated 4.5 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Mancos State Park
Mancos, CO 81328
Just 38 min from Durango, rated 4.5 stars by 455 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Billy Creek State Wildlife Area
Montrose, CO 81403
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Durango, rated 4.2 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Dolores River State Wildlife Area
CO 81331, USA
Just 1 hr 29 min from Durango, rated 4.0 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About State Parks Day Trips from Durango
What are the best state parks near Durango, CO?
The best state parks near Durango offer hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and scenic overlooks. Check the cards above for top-rated parks with drive times, ratings, and budget estimates.
How much does it cost to visit state parks near Durango?
Most state parks near Durango charge a vehicle entry fee of $5-$15 per day. Annual passes are usually available for $25-$50 and pay for themselves in 2-3 visits. Camping fees are separate and vary by site type.
Which state parks near Durango are best for camping?
Several state parks within driving distance of Durango offer campgrounds ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV sites with showers. Book early for summer weekends, as popular parks fill up months in advance.
What is the best time to visit state parks near Durango?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and smallest crowds at state parks near Durango. Summer is great for swimming and camping but parks are busiest. Winter visits are peaceful and many parks stay open year-round for hiking.
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