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Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Browns Canyon Dispersed

Browns Canyon Dispersed, near Salida, Colorado, is a rugged spot that offers a true escape into nature. This area is perfect for those who appreciate wide-open spaces and stunning views of the Collegiate Peaks, making it a solid choice for boondocking.

The location features several rock fire rings and plenty of room for camping, though amenities are minimal—there's no water, trash disposal, or toilets. Visitors have noted the beauty of the surrounding landscape, with some describing it as "breath-taking" and a great place for group RV camping. Just be prepared for a bit of dust and the occasional windy day.

If you're looking to explore, you're only about ten miles from Salida, where you can find all the amenities you might need, including a Walmart. The area is also known for its wildlife, with cows occasionally wandering through the fields, adding to the rustic charm. Just remember to pack it in and pack it out, as this spot is all about leaving no trace.

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Location

Browns Canyon Dispersed is located in Colorado

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

38.55368992 N
106.11539055 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Available
  • Verizon
    Available
  • AT&T
    Available
  • T-Mobile
    Available

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Browns Canyon Dispersed needs a permit.


Reviews

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5 Reviews

Reviewed Oct. 18, 2021

The Good, The Bad, The Ugly

This is just off the CR 194 road that is going to the Arkansas Headwaters State Campground.  When you first pull in it is a very large open area with dust, dirt, weeds.  Dry looking with rock cliffs along the two sides some trees but mainly just an open parking area.  There are several rock fire rings.  A bit of trash.  Some camping units looked as if they had been there a bit but I am not questioning that. We traveled all the way to the end and you will come to a fence.  Now there is a circle drive at the end and that is the last site with a rock fire ring.  It was the ultimate site.  The bluffs on each side ended and you have the complete valley spread out in front of you with the mountains in the distance.  I would like to spend two weeks here.  I am sure it is a very safe location but I did have a few doubts.

No water, no trash, no toilets.

LNT

Pack it in pack it out

Stay safe happy travels

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Browns Canyon Dispersed by N I., October 18, 2021
  • Review photo of Browns Canyon Dispersed by N I., October 18, 2021
  • Review photo of Browns Canyon Dispersed by N I., October 18, 2021
  • (14) View All
Reviewed Jul. 13, 2021

Dino Mite

Good spot for Boondocking Salida is ten miles away with all the amenities including Walmart.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed May. 22, 2021

Beautiful BLM land

Awesome location, beautiful views of the collegiate peaks and about 20 minutes away from Salida. There are lot of spots in this area (some side roads lead you to 360 views). The cows stroll through the fields every now and then too. Some trash and broken glass in places, but overall not too bad. On a plateau, so it can get pretty windy. Dirt road up, with some sketchy areas, but we were able to make it up fine with a 2wd low clearance van. Solid cell service (Verizon and AT&T).

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Browns Canyon Dispersed by Jessica H., May 22, 2021
Reviewed Aug. 17, 2020

Lots of space, very little shade

A nice BLM area, free dispersed camping. Some loud generators in use when we came here but so much room we could get far enough away to not mind. No activities once you're here and no facilities but hey, its beautiful desert terrain and free. Some short trees but very little shade for cars or campers. Great for hammocks though!

  • Review photo of Browns Canyon Dispersed by Katie H., August 17, 2020
  • Review photo of Browns Canyon Dispersed by Katie H., August 17, 2020
  • Review photo of Browns Canyon Dispersed by Katie H., August 17, 2020
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Apr. 23, 2020

Boondockers Paradise

Follow the road off of the pavement and up into the wild lands. Occasionally you’ll be visited by horse back riders and cattle. This is a very quiet area with breath taking views of Mt. Princeton. It is a little dusty. Great for group RV Camping. Propane for pits were allowed but while on Colorado please don’t start a wildfire. Close driving distance to Nathrop and Buena Vista.

Big Rig friendly, there are some tighter turns but they weren’t the worst we’ve made it through. There are lots of wide open areas and single camping spots.

Cellular: Decent T-Mobile and AT&T

  • Review photo of Browns Canyon Dispersed by Laura H., April 23, 2020
  • Review photo of Browns Canyon Dispersed by Laura H., April 23, 2020
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of Browns Canyon Dispersed?

    Browns Canyon Dispersed is located at 8187 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Browns Canyon Dispersed?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Browns Canyon Dispersed, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Browns Canyon Dispersed?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is available, AT&T is available, and T-Mobile is available.