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Dispersed Camping

Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide, near Colorado Springs, Colorado, is a fantastic spot for those who crave a bit of solitude and stunning views. This area offers numerous camping spots, each with its own unique charm, making it a great choice for tent campers looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Visitors rave about the breathtaking 360-degree views, especially of Pikes Peak, which are simply unbeatable. The sites are spaced out nicely, so you won’t feel cramped, and many campers have enjoyed sightings of local wildlife like moose and deer right at their campsites. As one camper noted, “Each spot is far away from another,” ensuring a peaceful experience.

The access road can get a bit rough, but it’s manageable for most vehicles, and you’ll find plenty of rock fire pits to gather around in the evenings. Campers have mentioned that while there are dirt bikes and ATVs in the area, they don’t detract from the overall experience. Plus, you can enjoy the thrill of off-roading if that’s your thing.

If you’re looking to explore, there are plenty of trails nearby, perfect for hiking or riding. And don’t worry about being completely cut off from the world; some spots even have cell service. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, this location offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.

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Location

Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide is located in Colorado

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

39.02302967391476 N
105.14242140780931 W

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Access

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

Connectivity

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Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • 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 Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide needs a permit.

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9 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 11, 2025

Nice Campground but Terrible Neighbors

It is a nice spot to make camp.  We had plenty of spots to choose from.  We thought it was perfect at first.  Then the people with the ATVs started showing up and it got loud.  And stayed loud all night long.  Loud, with massive lights that would light up our tent every time they drove by all night long.  We will not be going back, purely because of the other people.

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Jul. 17, 2025

Pretty good

All in all, it was a good site. Flying insects caused some grumpy people.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Nov. 10, 2024

Fun in the snow

There were a lot of options for us to pull off and camp. We had gone the day after a snow storm and the road was decent. I guess snow plows go through often since there’s nearby residential. Each campsite was decently spaced and far enough from the road so that you can U turn it and it doesn’t feel like you’re just pulling off to the side (accommodated out RTT nicely) There were great views and the pups enjoyed it.

Month of VisitNovember
  • Review photo of Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide by andrew G., November 10, 2024
  • Review photo of Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide by andrew G., November 10, 2024
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Reviewed Sep. 23, 2024

Beautiful Spots

Wanted to stay for two nights but only did two days, because a mountain lion tore a deer to shreds about a day or two prior to my arrival by my campsite and i was spooked. Had two dogs but had an eerie feeling and left early but it was gorgeous. Loads of OHVs tho

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide by Linnell B., September 23, 2024
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  • Review photo of Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide by Linnell B., September 23, 2024
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Sep. 20, 2024

Great spots along ATV trail

Tons of level, large spots. Road is meant for ATV use, and was a fair amount of traffic throughout the day but tolerable. Hardly any at night. Restrooms at base of road. Found our spot 2.5 miles up the road, definitely needed AWD.

Siten/a
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide by Lily R., September 20, 2024
  • Review photo of Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide by Lily R., September 20, 2024
  • Review photo of Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide by Lily R., September 20, 2024
Reviewed Jul. 18, 2024

Remote and beautiful

Lots of camping spots and fairly easy access. The road gets rougher the further you go in but no problem for a 4x4. Even a small car could get to some nice sites. If you don’t mind all the motorized vehicles (side by sides and bikes) it’s a great place with nice views to camp and enjoy.

Siteno site numbers
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide by Cam P., July 18, 2024
  • Review photo of Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide by Cam P., July 18, 2024
  • Review photo of Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide by Cam P., July 18, 2024
  • (7) View All
Reviewed May. 27, 2024

Great views, secluded spots

This dispersed camp site has numerous spots with rock fire pits. There are a lot of dirt bikes and atvs driving during the day however I didn’t find it overly disruptive. The dirt road to get there can be tricky, but I witnessed multiple sedans driving by without issue. We had a moose and deer at our campsite during the mornings so I suggest being weary of wildlife.

Lots of places to walk and explore and there was still phone signal! Each spot is far away from another, especially if you drive further down. We didn’t hear anyone late into the night due to the distance.

Sitepassedthe first section of national forest into the second. it’s all on one road
Month of VisitMay
  • Play button icon
  • Review photo of Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide by Brianna K., May 27, 2024
  • Review photo of Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide by Brianna K., May 27, 2024
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Reviewed Jun. 24, 2022

Secluded camping with breathtaking views

If you like dispersed camping with 360 views this is the place for you. This was our second time dispersed camping and off-roading here. Depending on which site you pick, you can get amazing views of Pikes Peak. The higher up you go, the more confident of a driver you will want to be as it can be tricky especially with trailers/campers. It’s fun to watch other ITV’s and dirt bikes drive past occasionally, but not enough to be annoying. Lots of dead/fallen trees for firewood. Many spots to choose from. Just look for spots with rock fire pits. Plus was we got cell service at our spot this time. It just depends how high up you are and what side of the mountain. For more photos and video visit @boldtexplorations on tiktok and Instagram

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide by Boldt E., June 24, 2022
  • Riding one of the numerous trails
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  • Review photo of Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide by Boldt E., June 24, 2022
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Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best dispersed camping areas in Pike National Forest?

The Divide area of Pike National Forest offers numerous excellent dispersed camping spots with established fire rings. The higher elevation sites provide spectacular 360-degree views, with some offering direct views of Pikes Peak. Most camping spots are located off the main forest road, with sites available within the first few miles that are accessible to most vehicles. The further you travel up the road (about 2.5 miles in), the more secluded and scenic the sites become, though these require AWD/4x4 vehicles. Sites are generally well-spaced, providing good privacy despite the popularity of the area for OHV recreation.

Do I need a permit for dispersed camping in Pike National Forest?

No permit is required for dispersed camping in Pike National Forest's Divide area. You can simply find an available established site with a rock fire ring and set up camp. While permits aren't needed, standard dispersed camping regulations apply: camp in previously used sites, stay within 150 feet of forest roads, and follow Leave No Trace principles. During fire restrictions, you may need a fire permit if you plan to have a campfire. Always check with the local Forest Service office for current regulations before your trip.

Is there dispersed camping near Pikes Peak in Pike National Forest?

Yes, the Divide area of Pike National Forest offers excellent dispersed camping with views of Pikes Peak. Depending on which site you select, you can enjoy amazing vistas of the iconic mountain. The higher elevation sites typically provide the best Pikes Peak views. These sites combine the benefit of free camping with spectacular scenery of one of Colorado's most famous fourteeners. The area is popular among outdoor enthusiasts looking to camp near Pikes Peak without the constraints of developed campgrounds.

What are the road conditions for accessing dispersed camping in Pike National Forest?

Road conditions to dispersed camping sites in Pike National Forest's Divide area vary depending on how far you venture in. The main access road starts with relatively good conditions that even sedans can navigate to reach the initial camping areas. However, the road becomes progressively rougher and more challenging the further you travel. At about 2.5 miles in, AWD or 4x4 vehicles are recommended. During and after snowstorms, the roads are typically plowed due to nearby residential areas, making winter access possible. The roads are primarily designed for OHV use, so expect uneven terrain with rocks and possible mud depending on recent weather.

Where can I find a map of dispersed camping sites in Pike National Forest?

Maps of dispersed camping sites in Pike National Forest's Divide area can be obtained from the Pike National Forest Ranger District offices. The USFS website also provides Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs) showing roads where dispersed camping is permitted. For the most accurate information, stop by the ranger station in Woodland Park before your trip. They can provide current maps and guidance on accessible areas. Additionally, the Forest Service website offers downloadable maps and resources to help locate designated dispersed camping areas throughout the forest.