Looking for the best dispersed camping near Palmer Lake? Dispersed camping means that no facilities or amenities are provided, so that you can truly disconnect and get back to nature. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the trees or wide open spaces, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect dispersed campsite.
Part of Pike and San Isabel National Forests Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands. Mount Herman Trail begins at a small parking area on a switchback on Mount Herman Road. This trail provides a 2-mile one-way hike to the summit of Mt. Herman.
Primitive camping off Rampart Range Road. Some fire rings.
Rampart Range Road offers a prime spot for dispersed camping in the Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands in Colorado. This area is a gem for those who crave a bit of solitude and breathtaking views. The campsites are spread out enough to give you some privacy, though don't expect complete isolation, especially on weekends.
One of the standout features here is the stunning scenery. Whether you're perched on a cliffside or nestled among the trees, the views are nothing short of spectacular. Some campers have mentioned that the sunsets and sunrises are particularly memorable, so keep your camera handy.
While the area lacks amenities like toilets, showers, and drinking water, it makes up for it with its natural beauty and the freedom to camp without a permit. Fires are allowed, so you can enjoy a cozy campfire under the stars, but remember to bring your own firewood or an axe to gather some from around the site.
Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure. Just be mindful of the local wildlife, including bears and mountain lions. It's a good idea to bear-proof your campsite and keep your food stored securely.
Cell service is spotty but available, particularly for Verizon users, which is a nice bonus if you need to stay connected. The road leading to the area can be a bit rough, so take it slow and steady, especially if you're in a two-wheel-drive vehicle.
Overall, Rampart Range Road is a fantastic spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in nature. Just be prepared for a bit of roughing it, and you'll have an unforgettable camping experience.
The Buffalo Creek Recreation Area contains over 50 miles of multi-use, non-motorized trails that tie into the Colorado Trail in several places. There are numerous options available for riding or hiking. Some of the old logging roads provide two-track while connecting trails offer single track. It takes about an 1.5 hours to drive to this area from Denver. Please know and respect local area restrictions including; parking and camping in designated sites only. Developed camping is available at nearby Forest Service campgrounds including Buffalo, Green Mountain, Kelsey, and Meadows Group Campground.
Don't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".
Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.
Please observe the following requirements when dispersed camping:
In some areas, dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers where posted. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites. BEARS and other wildlife When you go to the mountains and forest, you are in bear county. Do not leave ANY food, trash or other animal attractant unattended. Store all food and trash securely and pack out what you pack in. Failing to do so can result in a fine. Also be aware that; where not otherwise restricted, camping or leaving camping equipment at any location more than 14 days within a continuous 30 day period, and/or occupying any campsite within three miles of any prior camping or equipment location for a combined total of more than 28 days within any continuous 60 day period, is prohibited. Also, leaving camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours is not allowed. In addition; discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge. Plan your trip; phone ahead for restrictions and special regulations. Contact your local Ranger District office for more information.
Dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only on the South Platte Ranger District. Designated sites are posted with "Parking" and "Tent" symbols.
Dispersed camping is primitive, undeveloped, frontcountry "car camping". Several areas across the District allow dispersed camping, however certain areas are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activites only.
Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Please practice Leave No Trace.
Designated dispersed camping is located along NFSR 300, 502, 507, and 563.
Please observe these requirements when dispersed camping:
Plan your trip; phone ahead for restrictions and special regulations. Dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites. BEARS and other wildlife When you go to the mountains and forest, you are in bear county. Do not leave ANY food, trash or other animal attractant unattended. Store all food and trash securely and pack out what you pack in. Failing to do so can result in a fine. Be aware that where not otherwise restricted, camping or leaving camping equipment at any location more than 14 days within a continuous 30 day period, and/or occupying any campsite within three miles of any prior camping or equipment location for a combined total of more than 28 days within any continuous 60 day period, is prohibited. Also, leaving camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours is not allowed. Discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge.
Matukat Road Dispersed Camping in Colorado is a hidden gem for those who crave a more rugged and secluded camping experience. Nestled near Lake George, this area offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. The sites are spread out, providing plenty of privacy, and are surrounded by young aspens, mountain flowers, and impressive rock formations.
One of the standout features here is the abundance of firewood from fallen trees, making it easy to enjoy a cozy campfire. Just remember to bring your own water and pack out all your trash, as there are no amenities like drinking water, toilets, or trash services. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
Visitors have raved about the incredible views and the quiet, serene environment. You might spot some wildlife, including moose, coyotes, and free-range cattle. The area is also great for hiking, with plenty of trails to explore and rocks to climb. If you're lucky, you might even stumble upon a hidden spot with breathtaking vistas.
Access to the sites is relatively easy, even for sedans, though a vehicle with reasonable clearance is recommended if you want to venture further in. The road can be a bit rough, but it's manageable if you take it slow. For those looking to cool off, a short trip to the nearby Happy Meadows campground offers river access without the need to stay there.
Overall, Matukat Road Dispersed Camping is a fantastic spot for those seeking solitude, natural beauty, and a true back-to-nature experience. Just be prepared for a more primitive setup and enjoy the tranquility and stunning scenery this area has to offer.
The Rainbow Falls area offers many motorized roads and trails for four-wheel drive and off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts. This area contains several motorized trails open to motor vehicles 50 inches, or less, in overall width. The roads and trails in this area connect to the North Rampart Range OHV riding area as well. The North Rampart Range riding area is managed by the South Platte Ranger District. Be sure to consult with the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for offical Forest Service routes that are open to motorized vehicles. Free Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs) are available at your local Forest Service Ranger District office. Please pick up a MVUM before you head out. These maps identify the designated Forest Service roads, and the designated motorized trails, that are open to motorized use. They also and identify what types of vehicles are allowed on the different types of routes that are displayed on the MVUM.
The area is located 4.2 miles east of Woodland Park on Rampart Range Road, FDR 300. **Be advised that the road is a rough, rutted, washboard, native surface road and the posted speed limit is 20 mph. Hauling boat or camper trailers can make this drive especially difficult and slow.
Don't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".
Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.
Please observe the following requirements when dispersed camping:
In some areas, dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers where posted. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites. BEARS and other wildlife When you go to the mountains and forest, you are in bear county. Do not leave ANY food, trash or other animal attractant unattended. Store all food and trash securely and pack out what you pack in. Failing to do so can result in a fine. Also be aware that; where not otherwise restricted, camping or leaving camping equipment at any location more than 14 days within a continuous 30 day period, and/or occupying any campsite within three miles of any prior camping or equipment location for a combined total of more than 28 days within any continuous 60 day period, is prohibited. Also, leaving camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours is not allowed. In addition; discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge. Plan your trip; phone ahead for restrictions and special regulations. Contact your local Ranger District office for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Palmer Lake, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Palmer Lake, CO is Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping with a 4.1-star rating from 28 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Palmer Lake, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 39 dispersed camping locations near Palmer Lake, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
