With RV and tent sites, riverfront bungalows, and a lineup of events that keep the energy high, Tico Time is the kind of place where the sun shines a little brighter, the music plays a little louder, and every moment feels like a mini vacation.

Why Tico Time and Why Costa Rica?

Tico Time River Resort draws its inspiration from Costa Rica’s pura vida philosophy, which emphasizes a simple, relaxed, and joyful approach to life. This ethos is evident throughout the resort, from its design to the variety of activities waiting for you!

Days here are anything but ordinary. Race down a 130-foot waterslide, glide across the Animas River on a paddleboard, or challenge friends to a round of disc golf on an 18-hole course surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Live music festivals bring an electric energy to the space, turning weekends into celebrations that linger long after the last song fades.

And while you’re kicking back, you can feel good knowing that Tico Time is committed to keeping its slice of riverside paradise as beautiful as ever. Recycling stations, single-stream waste disposal, and refill stations for water bottles  help reduce environmental impact, so the only footprints left behind are in the sand. Choosing Tico Time means embracing a getaway that’s as fun as it is thoughtful.

About the Resort

Tico Time River Resort feels like an unexpected oasis in the place where the high desert and high alpine meet, where sandy riverbanks and lush cottonwoods and towering alpines create a setting that feels closer to a tropical escape than the Colorado-New Mexico border. 

Sprawling across 80+ acres along the Animas River, the resort’s landscape is designed for both relaxation and high-energy fun, with open fields, shaded groves, and plenty of space to spread out under the sun.

Staying at Tico Time can range from $30 per night for a campsite to $49–$99 per night for RV sites, while furnished bungalows near the water start at $149 per night. Weekly and monthly price plans are also available for RV sites.  

No matter the choice, the laid-back, beachy atmosphere invites guests to slow down, unwind, and make the most of their time by the river.

For those stopping in for the day, the resort’s day passes provide access to its signature activities and amenities, making it easy to dip into the fun without committing to an overnight stay. From floating along the river’s gentle current to stretching out in a hammock with sand between your toes, Tico Time brings an easygoing, sun-soaked energy that keeps guests coming back.

Accommodations

Tico Time River Resort is far from an ordinary campground or RV park — it’s a stay with personality. Campers can choose from shaded riverfront spots, open fields perfect for stargazing, or elevated sites with sweeping views. 

RV travelers will find full hook-ups and spacious sites, while those looking for a hassle-free stay can opt for furnished bungalows that bring a touch of home to the riverside setting. Whether roughing it or glamping it up, every option keeps guests close to the water, the action, and the easygoing energy that defines Tico Time.

Bungalows

For a more comfortable stay, the four backstage bungalows provide a stylish and cozy retreat, offering a perfect balance of convenience and charm. This fully furnished option brings a touch of luxury to your riverside escape, ensuring a restful and memorable stay.

Full Hook-up RV Sites

Tico Time’s full hook-up RV sites offer everything you need for a comfortable stay, with water, sewer, and electric connections at every site. Located along the scenic Animas River, these spacious spots allow guests to enjoy a true riverside retreat with modern conveniences.

Glamping

Tico Time’s glamping tents offer a unique blend of outdoor living with the comfort of real beds, providing an upscale camping experience. Perfect for those seeking a touch of luxury while immersing themselves in nature.

Primitive Tent and Car Camping

For those seeking a more affordable option without compromising on ease, Tico Time River Resort offers a variety of camping choices, including riverside tent sites and car camping spaces. With amenities like free Wi-Fi, river access, a dog park, and plenty of recreational activities, guests can unwind in nature while enjoying convenient perks.

Things to Do at Tico Time

Tico Time River Resort offers an abundance of activities and events to keep you engaged and entertained. With various amenities and options, there’s always something exciting happening at the resort!

Activities & Games

At Tico Time, both kids and adults can stay engaged with activities like disc golf, beach volleyball, paddleboarding, and even a 130-foot waterslide! The resort also features games like cornhole and horseshoes, providing endless options for fun-filled family moments.

Adventures

For those seeking adrenaline-filled thrills, the resort offers ziplining through the treetops, tubing along the river, and whitewater rafting on the Animas. These exhilarating excursions make the most of the resort’s natural setting, delivering nonstop excitement on the water and in the air.

Hiking & Nature

Tico Time River Resort offers guests the opportunity to explore the surrounding mountains and forests through various hiking trails. These paths provide a chance to immerse oneself in the area’s natural beauty, with some trails leading to elevated spots that offer panoramic views of the resort and the Animas River valley.

Music Festivals

The resort hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the Tico Time Bluegrass Festival and the Rise & Vibes Music Festival. These events bring in renowned artists and create an electric atmosphere for attendees — more on these festivals later in the article.

Tours

Tico Time River Resort offers a variety of tours to enhance your stay. The 60-foot Tower Challenge Tour features a rock climbing wall, a “leap of faith” tower jump, and a 40-foot Tarzan swing, while the River Tubing Tour provides a family-friendly float on the lower Animas River. Combo tours are also available for those interested in both activities. 

Wellness

Guests can rejuvenate with daily yoga sessions and holistic wellness classes. The resort also offers holistic healing sessions, including meditation, to promote relaxation and well-being.

Tico Time Bluegrass Festival at Tico Time River Resort

The Tico Time Bluegrass Festival returns May 16–18, 2025, bringing live bluegrass music to the banks of the Animas River. The festival features both seasoned performers and emerging talent, blending bluegrass and Americana music for a dynamic atmosphere filled with lively melodies and infectious energy. 

Acts like Railroad Earth, Elephant Revival, and Kitchen Dwellers are among over two dozen acts performing, offering a diverse range of bluegrass and Americana sounds throughout the weekend.

Beyond the music, attendees have full access to the resort’s amenities, from riverfront camping and zip-lining to paddleboarding and food vendors, ensuring a weekend that’s as active or laid-back as they choose. The festival promises more than just a concert — it’s a space where fellow festival goers come together to celebrate music and community.

Rise and Vibes Music Festival

The Rise and Vibes Music Festival occurs from May 30 through June 1, 2025, at the Tico Time Resort near Durango, Colorado. This three-day event features over 20 acts, including Protoje, The Original Wailers, and Rising Appalachia, delivering the sweet sounds of live reggae music for unforgettable moments.

Just like the Bluegrass Festival, attendees can enjoy the resort’s amenities, including shaded riverside camping, food and craft vendors, and a relaxing beach area. With a commitment to sustainability, the festival fosters a weekend of both enjoyment and eco-consciousness, leaving all who attend with cherished memories to carry for years to come.

Getting to Tico Time

Reaching Tico Time River Resort is straightforward and convenient. Situated just 20 minutes south of Durango, Colorado, along U.S. Highway 550, the resort is easily accessible for travelers. The exact address is 20 Road 2050, Aztec, NM 87410.  

For those arriving by air, the nearest major airport is Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO), approximately 20 miles away. While the resort does not explicitly advertise a shuttle service, guests are encouraged to contact the resort directly to inquire about transportation options.

Upon arrival, guests can unwind and immerse themselves in the resort’s unique ambiance, where the mountains meet the beach. 

Tico Time: Your Next Chapter of Fun Awaits 

At Tico Time River Resort, you’ll find that no two days are quite the same. With sand beaches, a host of lively activities, and a laid-back yet adventure-filled atmosphere, it’s easy to see why visitors leave with cherished memories. Whether lounging by the river, savoring the sounds of live music, or seeking out the next thrill, you are cordially invited to return again and again. Tico Time isn’t just a place — it’s a mindset, offering the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement in every visit, making it the perfect escape from daily life. With warmer days ahead, now is the ideal time to plan your trip to Tico Time River Resort!