About this campground
East Animas/ Turtle Lake provides great rock climbing opportunities close to town. It is located north of Durango and right off of the road. Mostly known for bouldering with a scattered variety of difficulties. From there you can also access the Turtle Lake cliffs, located right above the bouldering area and is less frequently visited. The turtle lake cliffs have a variety of routes to choose from. For more information, please contact the Tres Rios Field Office.
Getting there
To reach Turtle Lake, travel north through Durango on Main Street/Highway 550. Turn West on Road 25 (to Junction Creek). Drive 3 miles to County Road 205. Turn north (right) on CR 205 and drive approximately 1 mile to the climbing area. The area is not marked/signed. Look for the boulders and access trail on the NW (left) side of CR 205. After passing the lake you will see the bouldering area of Turtle Lake on your left, and you'll know you're there. Follow the trail to the cliff band that is west above the bouldering. To reach the East Animas Climbing area, travel north through Durango on Main Street/Highway 550. Turn East on 15th Street which will become the Florida Road after 2 blocks. Follow the Florida Road Northeast 2 miles to County Road 250.Turn north (left) on CR250 and drive approximately 1.75 miles. A parking area/trailhead will be on the north (right) side of the road. Follow the trail to the cliff band that is west above the bouldering.
Activities
- CLIMBING
Nearby federal campgrounds
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East Animas/Turtle Lake RMZ doesn't take campsite reservations — but plenty of nearby Colorado campgrounds do, and we'll alert you the moment a sold-out site opens up.
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