Today, I will disclose my ultimate preferred campsites in Colorado that are free of charge.
Let me clarify that the suggestions provided below are simply intended to assist you in beginning your search, considering that the Centennial State has numerous dispersed campsites spread across 11 national forests, two national grasslands, and over 8 million acres of BLM land.
Below are my preferred dispersed campsites in Colorado, all of which are free of charge.
Pros and Cons of Dispersed Camping
In order to engage in dispersed camping, it is necessary to have good knowledge and experience regarding Leave No Trace Principles. Typically, the camping experience will solely involve yourself, your tent, and the natural environment; there will be no restroom facilities, showers, or receptacles for garbage. It is important to ensure that you take with you any items you brought, and any additional litter you come across can be picked up for additional consideration.
When considering the steps, you must also be willing to take on more risks. Although USFS Rangers may be present in the vicinity, being outside of a designated campground eliminates the advantage of safety in numbers, particularly when it comes to dealing with the elements and wildlife. If you are camping in an area inhabited by bears, it is essential to bring your own bear canister and bear spray. Likewise, if you are in a desert environment, ensure you carry extra water and suitable shade. Prior to embarking on your trip, it is your duty to be aware of any fire bans and strictly adhere to them at all times.
There are numerous advantages to camping on public lands, and one of them is the cost, which is absolutely free. Furthermore, it is highly likely that you and your group will have exclusive occupancy as there is a higher probability of being the only ones present in the area. This means you will enjoy a greater level of privacy compared to a campground that has been developed, as well as a greater sense of freedom.
BLM Land
The Bureau of Land Management, which operates under the Department of Interior, has the responsibility of managing approximately 250 million acres of land that is owned by the public. This area corresponds to almost 1/8 of the entire land area in the United States, predominantly in the Western region.
It is possible to camp on most BLM land for a maximum duration of 14 days, even if there are grazing or mining claims present (be cautious of cow feces), unless stated otherwise.
The majority of BLM lands can be found in the following 12 western states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
National Forest Land
The US Forestry Service is a government agency that has the responsibility for overseeing 175 national forests and grasslands. Within these areas, they manage developed campgrounds that usually have a cost under $20. Additionally, they handle activities such as logging, grazing, maintaining mineral rights, and ensuring road and trail upkeep. The agency also takes charge of law enforcement in the designated regions.
Just like BLM land, camping is allowed for free on the majority of National Forest land for a maximum of 14 days, provided you are situated away from developed recreation areas (such as campsites, picnic areas, and trailheads) and any designated no-camping zones, while also maintaining a distance of 100-feet from any flowing stream. It is crucial to conduct preliminary research to understand the specific regulations and guidelines applicable to the particular district before choosing a location to set up your tent.
State Forest Land
State-owned land, excluding state parks, recreations areas, state forest campgrounds, or state game area campgrounds, usually permits dispersed camping. However, the regulations differ from state to state and may entail obtaining permits or paying nominal fees. Bear in mind that exploring state forest land can be slightly more challenging than federally-operated land, so conducting thorough research is advisable.
My List
Priest Lake (Uncompahgre National Forest)
Priest Lake is recognized as one of the top locations for dispersed camping in close proximity to Telluride.
Similar to numerous highly sought-after dispersed camping destinations, it is regrettable that setting up camp anywhere at your discretion is no longer permissible. Instead, you are required to camp at one of the nine specified dispersed campsites. Nevertheless, this should not deter you from visiting.
These specific dispersed campsites are situated at a considerable distance from each other, ensuring ample privacy from neighboring sites. Each individual campsite is visibly marked and equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. Moreover, there is a vault toilet available on site.
To access these campsites, you should take Priest Lake Road (FR 64B) after traveling 12.5 miles to the south of Telluride, turning off Highway 145. Although the road may be somewhat bumpy, any regular vehicle can navigate it. It is worth mentioning that although small trailers and RVs can still drive on this road, they are no longer permitted to camp in this area.
Despite being a mere bog, the lake itself, the surrounding landscape is remarkably stunning, particularly in autumn when the aspens transform into delightful shades of yellow and orange.
Weston Pass (Pike National Forest)
One of the most scenic places for dispersed camping in Colorado is Weston Pass.
Both sides of the mountain pass (with an elevation of approximately 12,000 feet) along County Road 22 offer opportunities for dispersed camping and boondocking.
Even though you can access these campsites from both Highway 24 south of Leadville and Highway 285 north of Buena Vista, my recommendation for RV boondockers is to approach from the east.
The road leading to Weston Pass from Highway 285 is made of gravel, however, it is well-maintained and does not have severe washboarding issues. Additionally, it is not as steep or winding as the western access road from Leadville.
There are numerous campsites spread out along the road, including several along the South Fork of the South Platte River. Some of these campsites are spacious and level, suitable for small to medium trailers and RVs.
Little Molas Lake (San Juan National Forest)
Are you in search of free camping near Silverton? Little Molas Lake is a reliable choice.
Located just south of the Million Dollar Highway and only 15 minutes from Silverton, this is an ideal place to make a pit stop for travelers journeying along the Highway 550 section of the remarkably breathtaking San Juan Skyway between Durango and Silverton.
While dispersed camping is not allowed and visitors must camp in designated campsites, camping in this area remains free of charge. Additionally, the primitive campsites offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and are situated close to the lake’s shore. Camping with small trailers is also permissible in this location.
Regrettably, Little Molas Lake has a limited number of 10 first-come, first-serve campsites, resulting in rapid filling during summer. However, there is a substantial amount of free dispersed camping available in the adjacent San Juan National Forest, where camping is genuinely dispersed.
By exploring the numerous forest roads branching off from the highway, you can find plenty of dispersed campsites by the roadside (having a high-clearance vehicle can increase your chances of finding more secluded spots, as the sites closest to the highway are usually crowded with RVs, trailers, and cars with low clearance).
Washington Gulch (Gunnison National Forest)
There is definitely no shortage of dispersed camping near Crested Butte. However, the free campsites located along Washington Gulch Road are exceptional compared to the others.
Despite recent rule changes mandating the usage of designated dispersed campsites, camping in the Crested Butte Valley remains unrivaled in terms of natural beauty, particularly during the wildflower season.
Although these rule changes may seem discouraging, I find that the new camping restrictions are actually beneficial. They not only reduce the negative impact of humans on the land, but also enhance privacy and solitude for fortunate campers who manage to secure a campsite for the night.
Washington Gulch Road is typically well-maintained despite being unpaved. Most vehicles, including RVs and trailers, can usually pass through without trouble. The only potential issue to be aware of is moderate washboarding/potholing, and occasional encounters with free-range cattle.
Sacred White Shell Mountain (BLM Land)
If you are seeking dispersed camping and boondocking options near Great Sand Dunes National Park, Sacred White Shell Mountain is the perfect choice.
Despite its common name, Lake Como Road actually has an official name, which is Mt. Blanca Road. This can be somewhat confusing for people. However, there is good news as the turn-off for Mt. Blanca Road (BLM 5410) is clearly indicated, making it easier to find.
As soon as you take the turn from Highway 150, you will come across dispersed campsites. For bigger RVs, it is advisable to use the initial couple of pull-outs as they are the biggest and most level. However, smaller RVs and trailers can continue up the unpaved road, which is well-graded and hard-packed with just minor washboarding.
