Top Dispersed Camping near Purgatory, CO

Planning a dispersed camping trip near Purgatory? With The Dyrt, it's easy to find peaceful dispersed camping near Purgatory. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Purgatory just for you.

Best Dispersed Camping Sites Near Purgatory, CO (71)

    Camper-submitted photo from Madden Peak Road - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Madden Peak Road - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Madden Peak Road - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Madden Peak Road - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Madden Peak Road - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Madden Peak Road - Dispersed

    1.

    Madden Peak Road - Dispersed

    22 Reviews
    42 Photos
    552 Saves
    Mancos, Colorado

    Dispersed camping along Forest Service Road 316

    San Juan National Forest encompasses about 1.8 million acres in the southwestern corner of Colorado. From high-desert mesas to alpine peaks, these federal lands are managed for multiple uses and visitors are asked to respect each other and the natural resources. The San Juan National Forest Headquarters is located in Durango, Colorado, with district offices in Bayfield, Dolores and Pagosa Springs.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping

    2.

    Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping

    11 Reviews
    19 Photos
    212 Saves
    Bayfield, Colorado

    The Durango Special Recreation Management Area is comprised of isolated parcels of Public Lands surrounding Durango Colorado. Durango SRMA includes five discontinuous units that encompass 6,300 acres of land adjoining the town of Durango offering a wide range of recreational activities with plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails. Mountain bikes can be rented at shops in town.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)
    Camper-submitted photo from Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)

    3.

    Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)

    34 Reviews
    137 Photos
    1653 Saves
    Ophir, Colorado

    Alta Lakes is a popular dispersed camping area that offers fishing and camping in a spectacular alpine setting. There are 20 designated campsites that are completely undeveloped. The access road to the area is narrow and rough, requiring a high clearance vehicle. Trailers and RV's are not reccomended.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land)
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land)
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land)
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land)
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land)
    Camper-submitted photo from Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land)

    4.

    Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land)

    19 Reviews
    37 Photos
    577 Saves
    Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

    Welcome to the Mesa Verde National Park Boundary BLM Land, a fantastic dispersed camping area right on the edge of Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado. This spot is a gem for those who love a bit of adventure without the frills of a developed campground. It's free, open year-round, and offers some of the most stunning views of Mesa Verde you'll find.

    This area, often referred to as "Chutes and Ladders," has around 15-16 sites, each with a pull-in area and a fire pit. It's a great place to set up your tent or park your RV, though larger rigs might find it a bit tight. The sites are spread out enough to give you some privacy and peace, and it's generally a quiet spot without the party crowd.

    One of the best things about camping here is the proximity to Mesa Verde National Park—just a short drive away. You can wake up to breathtaking views of the park and be there in minutes to explore the ancient cliff dwellings and other archaeological wonders. Plus, if you need to stock up on supplies, there's a Walmart about a 10-minute drive away.

    A few things to keep in mind: there are no amenities like toilets, showers, or drinking water, so come prepared. Fires are allowed, but you'll need to bring your own firewood. Pets are welcome, and alcohol is allowed, making it a great spot for a relaxed, no-frills camping experience.

    Visitors have raved about the incredible views and the convenience of being so close to the park. Some have mentioned that it can get crowded during peak times, so arriving early might help you snag a prime spot. And while there are some bees around, they generally keep to themselves.

    So, if you're looking for a beautiful, free place to camp near Mesa Verde with minimal amenities but maximum natural beauty, this is the spot for you. Enjoy your stay!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermosa Park Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermosa Park Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermosa Park Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermosa Park Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermosa Park Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermosa Park Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area

    6.

    Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area

    20 Reviews
    82 Photos
    895 Saves
    Ophir, Colorado

    Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM across from Mesa Verde
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM across from Mesa Verde
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM across from Mesa Verde
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM across from Mesa Verde
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM across from Mesa Verde
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM across from Mesa Verde
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermosa Creek Trailhead - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermosa Creek Trailhead - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermosa Creek Trailhead - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermosa Creek Trailhead - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermosa Creek Trailhead - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermosa Creek Trailhead - Dispersed Camping
    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping

      10.

      Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping

      10 Reviews
      25 Photos
      434 Saves
      Ophir, Colorado

      Welcome to Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping, a no-frills camping area near Ophir, Colorado. This spot is perfect for those who enjoy the raw beauty of nature without the bells and whistles of developed campgrounds. Nestled at over 10,000 feet, the area offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and easy access to Telluride, just 11 miles away.

      This location is ideal for both tent and RV camping, though be prepared for a bit of a rough ride on the access road. The area is defined by large boulders, which means you'll be camping closer to your neighbors than you might expect for dispersed camping. But hey, that's part of the charm, right?

      One of the standout features here is the allowance of campfires, provided you use the existing fire rings. Just be mindful of the wind and always follow fire safety guidelines. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

      While there are no amenities like water, toilets, or picnic tables on-site, there is a vault toilet and a dumpster across the highway at the trailhead. This makes it a bit more convenient if nature calls in the middle of the night.

      The views here are nothing short of spectacular, especially at night when the stars come out in full force. If you're into stargazing, this is the place to be. Some visitors have mentioned that the area can get crowded, especially on weekends, so plan accordingly.

      In summary, Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping offers a raw, beautiful, and convenient spot to set up camp near Telluride. Just bring your essentials, a sense of adventure, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Dispersed
    Showing results 1-10 of 71 campgrounds

    Recent Dispersed Reviews In Purgatory

    233 Reviews of 71 Purgatory Campgrounds


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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Purgatory, CO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Purgatory, CO is Madden Peak Road - Dispersed with a 4.5-star rating from 22 reviews.

    What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Purgatory, CO?

    TheDyrt.com has all 71 dispersed camping locations near Purgatory, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.