If you want to camp near Denver, Colorado, and experience a peaceful few nights under the stars, it’s important to note that established campgrounds get booked quickly and can be costly, particularly in popular locations. However, you can explore free camping options near Denver that will not only save you money but also provide an opportunity to learn and practice off-grid camping skills.
Not all free camping spots are remote; some can be found near city centers like Denver. In these cases, you may not feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere because these camping areas can still have a lot of people. Colorado, with over 23 million acres of public land, is one of the best states for free camping. Now, let’s discuss some of the top free spots.
What is Dispersed Camping?
Dispersed camping, also known as dry camping or boondocking, refers to camping on public land outside of a developed campground, where it is both permitted and lawful. Despite being free, dispersed camping comes at the expense of lacking amenities such as restrooms, potable water, trash removal, and picnic tables. Additionally, there is no access to campground hosts who can provide firewood and usually no usable cell signal. Nevertheless, if you can do without these conveniences, you will be rewarded with breathtaking scenic views to enjoy before sleeping and upon waking up.
Where Can You Dispersed Camp?
Most of the time, people engage in dispersed camping on National Forest land or land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). To locate a dispersed campsite, one of the simplest methods is to drive on Forest Service or BLM roads into the woods (or desert) and look out for a spot close to a stream or with a mountain view. It is recommended to choose sites that have been clearly utilized in the past, which are usually easy to identify due to a worn-out area, often with a fire ring. Generally, this is a requirement rather than a mere friendly suggestion.
To minimize your impact on the forest, please only camp on pre-existing sites as the establishment of new campsites affects plants, soil, and wildlife. When camping, choose bare soil to prevent harm or death to plants and grass. It is important to know that dispersed camping in a motorized vehicle is limited to within 150 feet of any designated route to prevent damage to resources. Additionally, refrain from camping near developed recreation areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, trailheads, or within 200 feet of any stream or water source.
Be Mindful of the Length of Your Stay
Typically, there is a set duration for camping in a dispersed area, which is usually 7-14 days. It is important to confirm this time limit with the relevant authority managing the land, such as the National Forest or BLM office. Once you reach the maximum number of days, it is generally mandatory to relocate at least 10 miles away to camp in a different dispersed area. Although this information may not be applicable to your situation, it is beneficial to be aware of it if you are planning an extended stay.
Look Up Fire Restrictions Before Camping
In order to check if there are any fire restrictions, it is important to contact the local forest service office. In several National Forests, a valid campfire permit is necessary to have a campfire in the backcountry, and campfires are often limited to campgrounds. Having a campfire is not automatically allowed just because there is a fire ring at your site. It is your duty to investigate the fire restrictions in the camping area and it is not advisable to expect leniency from rangers if you claim to be unaware.
Denver Spots
Buffalo Creek Recreation Area
Buffalo Creek Recreation Area, situated in the Pike National Forest about an hour away from Denver, provides free dispersed camping. Due to their proximity to the Colorado Trail and Buffalo Creek Mountain Bike Area, these campgrounds are perfect for a refreshing overnight rest following an exhilarating day of excitement.
In the South Platte Ranger District, dispersed camping is only allowed at designated sites that are marked with signs indicating “Parking” and “Tent”. Campfires can be lit at overnight sites, provided that there are no fire restrictions in place. Before embarking on your trip, make sure to check for the most recent restrictions. The dirt road that leads to the camping area is well-preserved, easily accessible, and permits camping at a single site for a maximum of 14 days.
Campground Details
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: Dispersed
- RV sites: No
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
Beaver Park Reservoir
The dispersed camping sites at Beaver Park Reservoir are well-located in proximity to Brainard Lake and other attractions within Rocky Mountain National Park. Camping in this area offers a great opportunity to immerse oneself in the wilderness, and it is conveniently just a 90-minute drive from Denver.
Despite being privately owned, Beaver Reservoir Cutoff Trail offers a tranquil setting where one can engage in activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and winter skiing.
Campground Details
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: Dispersed
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
Dream Canyon Campsites
Dream Canyon Campsite is conveniently located within an hour’s drive from downtown Denver and is also within close proximity to Boulder. The most favorable camping spots are situated adjacent to a rugged area of cliffs that are highly acclaimed for their rock climbing opportunities.
To ensure a successful trip, it is important to carefully plan or be accompanied by a local who can guide you, as there is scarce water and no restrooms available. Despite the lack of facilities, the area is highly worthwhile to explore. The canyon, with its minimal vegetation and absence of water, is more suitable for experienced individuals rather than beginners.
Campground Details
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: Dispersed
- RV sites: No
- Fires allowed: No
- Pets allowed: Yes
Captain Mountain Trailhead
Located approximately an hour away from downtown Denver, the Captain Mountain Trailhead is a destination that is definitely worth the trip. Hiking along this trail will provide you with the opportunity to traverse the breathtaking Captain Mountain while offering magnificent vistas of Mt. Evans and the surrounding mountain range.
The opportunity for camping is given by the Forest Service, but it requires a minimum distance of 100 feet from trails and water sources, which makes it suitable for experienced backpackers seeking adventure. The trail leading to the mountaintop is just under 9 miles, making the climb challenging but rewarding for those who desire to witness the peak.
Campground Details
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: Dispersed
- RV sites: No
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir
If you want to have a beautiful nature experience near Denver that only takes an hour to drive to, you must visit Gross Reservoir. What’s even better is that you can camp there for free. Gross Reservoir’s Winiger Ridge provides dispersed camping without any charge, allowing you to have a budget-friendly getaway with amazing views.
If you are driving a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you will have an easier journey on the rough road leading to the campground. You are allowed to camp in one location for a maximum of 14 days, and within a 60-day period, you can only stay for a maximum of 28 days. Although there is no water available on-site, there are vault toilets. If you are prepared to endure some discomfort, you will be able to enjoy magnificent sunsets and serene lake views.
Campground Details
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: Dispersed
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Check before you visit
- Pets allowed: Yes
Rainbow Falls Dispersed Camping
Despite being located just over an hour and a half south of Denver, Rainbow Falls is a dependable option for convenient and cost-free camping. It is a well-liked spot for off-roading, which could lead to overcrowding during favorable weather conditions for ATV riding. Although the area is not specifically designed for RVs, it may be possible to find suitable parking spots in certain areas when the ground is sufficiently dry.
Despite the limited availability of water sources and restrooms, the location is conveniently close to Manitou Springs, a town filled with numerous small shops. Visitors can also consider visiting the nearby Cave of the Winds Mountain Park for activities such as zip lining and spelunking. Additionally, for those seeking a true hiking challenge, Mt. Manitou and the Manitou Incline hiking trail are worth exploring.
Campground Details
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: Dispersed
- RV sites: No
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
