Large RVs navigate the dirt roads at FR 48 Dispersed Camping without difficulty, though campers should expect rutted and bumpy conditions that worsen during wet weather. This free dispersed camping area sits within San Isabel National Forest, roughly half a mile from Turquoise Lake and accessible via multiple dirt spur roads that branch off the main forest route.
The camping area spreads across a substantial footprint with numerous individual sites scattered throughout the forest. Marine J. found "the area could easily accommodate 4 without being too close to each others" at just one section, highlighting the generous spacing between sites. Many spots come equipped with existing stone fire rings and level parking areas. Cell service reaches 1-2 bars for Verizon users, and the proximity to Leadville keeps supply runs manageable.
Mountain biking and hiking trails circle nearby Turquoise Lake, while fishing and water activities draw visitors to the lake itself. The back sections of the camping area provide mountain views, though tree harvesting has altered some areas. Sites closer to the entrance see more traffic, while those deeper in the forest offer increased solitude.
For campers wanting full hookups, Sugar Loafin' RV Campground and Cabins operates nearby with developed amenities.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingFR 48 Dispersed Camping is located in Colorado
Coordinates
39.24781540949971 N
106.35893562436497 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 55 usersLast on 4/24/26
VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 101 usersLast on 4/24/26- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 41 usersLast on 4/24/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 55 usersLast on 4/24/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 101 usersLast on 4/24/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 41 usersLast on 4/24/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
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.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 51 min from Denver, CO
- 2 hrs 1 min from Boulder, CO
- 2 hrs 19 min from Colorado Springs, CO
- 2 hrs 36 min from Fort Collins, CO
