Planning a dispersed camping trip near Grand Lake? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Grand Lake's most popular destinations.
Five miles north of Nederland, National Forest System Road (NFSR) 226, commonly known as Gordon Gulch, turns east off of Colorado Highway 72. NFSR 226 intersects other forest roads: NFSR 314, 228, 233 and their off-shoots. There are 15 numbered, designated campsites scattered along the road system within 1.5 miles east of Highway 72. Camping is permitted in designated sites only. Take care when driving in this area. Snow and mud can persist through most of the year. The free Boulder Ranger District Motor Vehicle Use Map displays National Forest System (NFS) routes open to motorized travel and is available online and at the Boulder Ranger District offfice.
Streams; treat water for drinking.
Welcome to Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed, a hidden gem in Colorado. This spot is perfect if you're looking to get away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy some peace and quiet. The area offers stunning views of the mountains and the reservoir, making it a picturesque place to set up camp.
There are about ten designated sites scattered around, so you have some options to choose from. The drive in is pretty straightforward, even if you're not in a rugged vehicle. One camper mentioned they managed just fine in a Honda Civic. However, be prepared for some wind, especially at night. It can get pretty gusty, so maybe pick a spot a bit further from the reservoir if you want a more peaceful sleep.
One of the best things about this place is that it's free to camp here. You can have a campfire, and pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Just remember, there are no amenities like toilets, showers, or drinking water, so come prepared. Pack out what you pack in, as there's no trash service either.
For those who love hiking, there are some great trails nearby. And if you're into wildlife, keep an eye out—you might spot a moose or two. Just a heads up, there's no cell service, so make sure to check the weather before you head out and let someone know your plans.
Overall, Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed offers a beautiful, rustic camping experience. It's a fantastic spot to disconnect and soak in the natural beauty of Colorado. Enjoy your stay!
With a few exceptions, dispersed camping is allowed on National Forest System lands. Restrictions protect resources, minimize road damage, and reduce conflicts between landowners and visitors. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days in one location. After 14 days, the campsite must be moved a minimum of three miles. Camping can then continue for another 14 days. Camping is restricted to 28 days in any 60-day period. Some areas may require the use of designated campsites, and some areas, such as Indian Peaks Wilderness, require camping permits. More than 40% of lands within Boulder Ranger District's boundaries are private property. It is your responsibility to know if you are on private or public land.
West Magnolia Trailhead provides access to eight miles of singletrack trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding west of the Peak-to-Peak Highway south of Nederland. An additional eight miles of Forest Roads are open seasonally (check the Road Status Table before your visit) to motorized and non-motorized activities. Along these roadways are designated campsites. Camping is allowed within 50 feet of the campsite markers. There are no facilities of any kind. The free Boulder Ranger District Motor Vehicle Use Map displays National Forest System (NFS) routes open to motorized travel and is available online and at the Boulder Ranger District offfice. Recreational shooting closures exist in this area. Click here for more information.
Free camping (dispersed) is allowed on most national forest lands except in highly developed areas - such as trailheads, campgrounds and picnic sites - and in some of our most visited places. Be sure to check for regulations in advance and look for signs in the area to indicate if camping is allowed.
Some areas allow camping in designated sites only.
Know Before You Go
Check the weather and road closures before heading up. Follow Leave No Trace principles. There are no facilities or trash receptacles. Pack out what you pack in. Make sure camping is allowed. Many lands within the national forest boundary are private or otherwise owned. Check that you’re on National Forest lands: maps. Don't stay too long. Camping is limited to 14 days.within any continuous 30-day period. at any location within the same 20-mile radius. see Order Plan on building a campfire? Campfire restrictions can occur any time of year. Check for fire restrictions and if you build a campfire, know how to extinguish it.
Williams Fork Reservoir near Parshall, Colorado, is a dispersed camping area that offers a fantastic escape into nature. This spot is perfect for those who love a bit of solitude and stunning views. The scenery around the reservoir is breathtaking, with plenty of spots to set up camp right by the water.
Visitors have raved about the clean pit toilets and the well-maintained outhouses scattered throughout the area. Even though there are no electric hookups or showers, the natural beauty more than makes up for it. The place is big rig friendly, so you can bring your RV or teardrop trailer without any hassle.
One of the highlights here is the wildlife. Campers have mentioned seeing curious animals around, adding a touch of wilderness to their stay. If you're into kayaking, the mornings are perfect for a paddle on the calm waters of the reservoir.
The area is also known for its cleanliness, thanks to the diligent maintenance workers who keep everything in top shape. Trash cans and dumpsters are available, making it easy to keep your campsite tidy.
While the nights can get pretty cold, the daytime offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're lounging by the water, exploring the surroundings, or just soaking in the views, Williams Fork Reservoir is a fantastic place to unwind and connect with nature. Just remember, starting in 2024, there will be a fee to camp here, so take advantage of the free camping while you can!
NOTE: Campers who build any fires face fines up to $5,000 and/or up to six months imprisonment for open fire violations.
Leave No Trace must be observed, as in any outdoor space.
In any season this area is prone to very strong dry winds that can pick up a hot coal from a campfire that has lain dormant for as much as three days and ignite dry vegetation, causing horrific devastation. People from outside Colorado may not understand how tinder dry this area can be. 197 homes in this area have been destroyed by wildfires. All of these fires were started by humans.
Local residents overlook this area and if they see visible flame or smoke they will call the Boulder County sheriff. Any campers who require a campfire are recommended to disperse camp near Sugarloaf Mountain where fires are permitted.
Welcome to Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping in Colorado! This spot is a gem for those who love a bit of adventure and don't mind roughing it. Nestled near Idaho Springs, this area offers some of the most stunning lakefront views you'll find in the state.
Getting here is half the fun—if you enjoy a good off-road challenge. The road up is rocky and narrow, so a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is a must. Trust me, you don't want to attempt this in a regular car. Once you make it up, you'll find plenty of dispersed campsites around the lake, each offering a peaceful retreat with plenty of space between you and your neighbors.
One of the highlights here is the sheer beauty of the surroundings. The lake is perfect for paddleboarding, fishing, or just soaking in the views. Hiking trails around the area offer a chance to explore the rugged landscape and maybe even spot some wildlife. Just be prepared for the cold nights, especially if you're camping in the fall—temperatures can drop into the 30s.
Keep in mind, this is a no-frills camping experience. There are no toilets, no drinking water, and no trash services, so you'll need to pack in and pack out everything. Fires aren't allowed, but many sites have rock fire rings for when restrictions are lifted. Cell service is spotty at best, so it's a great place to truly disconnect.
If you're looking for a quiet, scenic getaway with a bit of a challenge to get there, Chinns Lake is the place for you. Just make sure you're well-prepared, and you'll have an unforgettable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Grand Lake, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Grand Lake, CO is Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area with a 3.8-star rating from 44 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Grand Lake, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 122 dispersed camping locations near Grand Lake, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
