Note: This campground is permanently closed.
This free dispersed camping area operated through the US Forest Service along Gothic Road north of the established Gothic Campground. Campers could access five well-spaced fire rings via a dirt road that required 4WD and decent clearance, especially during wet conditions when the surface became extremely muddy.
The sites featured a mix of tree cover and open meadow access, with views extending across the surrounding canyon. Most spots could accommodate small to medium campers, though the narrow dirt road presented challenges for larger rigs. Courtney L. noted the area offered "tree cover, yet wide open spaces, meadows, and epic views of the canyon all around."
Hiking opportunities included nearby Judd Falls and Washington Gulch trailhead within walking distance. The drive north toward Emerald Lake provided additional scenic routes for day trips. However, seasonal restrictions limited camping to established campgrounds between June 15th and August 15th, and road closures frequently blocked access even during the supposed open season.
For current camping options in the area, campers can explore places to camp near Crested Butte or check Gothic Campground for established sites with guaranteed access.
Description
Due to new ordinance in 2024 - this area is no longer legal for dispersed camping. Please use the designated campgrounds.
Location
Dispersed CampingGothic Canyon dispersed camping 1 - PERMANENTLY CLOSED is located in Colorado
Coordinates
38.9833498 N
107.00875255 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
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 Gothic Canyon dispersed camping 1 - PERMANENTLY CLOSED needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 3 hrs 30 min from Grand Junction, CO
- 4 hrs 31 min from Colorado Springs, CO
- 4 hrs 55 min from Denver, CO
- 5 hrs 4 min from Boulder, CO








