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Dispersed Camping

Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping, near FairPlay, Colorado, is a rugged spot that offers a true escape into nature. This area is perfect for those who prefer a more primitive camping experience, with no reservations needed and plenty of space to set up your tent or RV.

The scenery here is stunning, surrounded by towering trees and beautiful mountain views. Visitors have mentioned that the tree coverage is not too dense, making it possible to set up satellite connections if needed. There are fire rings available, so you can enjoy a cozy campfire under the stars, but remember to bring your own firewood since it’s not provided.

While the access road can be a bit rough, many campers have successfully navigated it with 2WD vehicles to reach the first few spots. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike up to higher elevations for breathtaking views. Some campers have noted that the area can feel a bit isolated, especially if you’re the only one around, but that adds to the charm for those seeking solitude.

For outdoor activities, the nearby trails are popular with hikers, and the area is closed to vehicles in winter, making it a great spot for snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Whether you’re looking for a quick overnight stay or a longer retreat, Hoosier Pass offers a peaceful and scenic getaway.

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Location

Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping is located in Colorado

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

39.362269 N
106.063653 W

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Access

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

Connectivity

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Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • 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.

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General Info


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Reviews

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11 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 9, 2025

Pretty good

Decent amount of sites, really convenient from highway and pretty well located to get to DeCaLiBron, Quandry, Breckenridge etc. Road gets pretty rough pretty quick, there’s only like a 3 of the sites I’d consider accessible with a low clearance vehicle.

Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Jul. 21, 2025

Handful of Options

After turning in past the parking lot, several spots are available on the left and right. Some more level than others, but each lovely. Glad we found it.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jul. 19, 2025

Fire Pit Building Fun

This was easy to find. I arrived around 4:00 in the afternoon on a Friday and there were still a few sites available. There is open space and trees if you’re looking to not have your tent get too wet from any rain - I came in July, monsoon season. This is next to lots of trails, so hikers walk by in the morning — not sure about afternoon as I left around 9 the next morning. I’d say any all wheel drive vehicle can make it to these sites. They aren’t far off the turn off from the highway. I have a Bronco Outer Banks, but I wouldn’t need this type of vehicle getting up the road, just AWD. There are lots of rocks everywhere, and people have built lots of fire pits to use. I decided to have a little fun and build one myself. If it’s still standing and you happen to stay at the site I set up camp, it was built for you and all the future campers!

SiteApproximately the second or third site on the right.
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping by Eric M., July 19, 2025
  • Review photo of Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping by Eric M., July 19, 2025
  • Review photo of Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping by Eric M., July 19, 2025
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Jul. 8, 2025

Quiet & Spacious

We stayed here on a Saturday after failing to find sites closer to Breck. There are probably 7 or 8 sites spread throughout this little area. Very nice, quiet space.

Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Jul. 3, 2025

Busy and road noise

This place was okay. The road was okay but I didnt go up to far. There are 3 spots right as you go in that offer very fast access to a site. You get alot of road noise and people stopping at the trail head. A little verizon signal but not great. No views. Its also very high altitude like over 11k feet so if you haven't adjusted to elevation I would not recommend this as a first stop

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping by johny R., July 3, 2025
  • Review photo of Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping by johny R., July 3, 2025
  • Review photo of Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping by johny R., July 3, 2025
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Sep. 29, 2024

Overall nice spots

We stayed one Saturday on Hoosier and we were able to find a spot. Not super private and lots of off leash dogs but beautiful walking trails!

Month of VisitSeptember
Reviewed Aug. 26, 2024

Great spots

Wonderful spots for camping off the road. Traffic noise is minimal as lots of trees and at night so peaceful. Directions say you have to walk to site but that’s false. All spots are drive up that I found. Roughly 6-7 spots and maybe more if you continue on the road up the mountain

Site5
Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Jun. 9, 2024

Easy access off road

As of 6/9/24 there are 3 spots accessible with 2wd. Up the road high clearance 4x4 is needed due to snow and washout. Pretty spot otherwise. You could possibly set up starlink as the tree coverage is not completely full.

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Sep. 30, 2023

I was desperate for a dispersed site

I needed a campsite close to FairPlay and prefer dispersed over paying to camp, so I was very thankful to find Hoosier Pass dispersed campground through the Dyrt! TBH I was a little creeped out just by how heavily wooded the area is and I was the only one camping there, however a site across the road from me had a toilet tent setup still with no one there. I moved my ring of rocks away from the trees before starting a campfire. The road was a bit rough so I was glad to have high clearance. The hikers coming through really enjoy the view at the top of the hill. Closed in winter for vehicles but open then for snowmobiles and snowshoeing.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping by Coco , September 30, 2023
  • Review photo of Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping by Coco , September 30, 2023
  • Review photo of Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping by Coco , September 30, 2023
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Aug. 10, 2023

100% Recommend

Great little spot right off the highway for an evening of camping, or longer. There is a bit of foot traffic with hikers coming in but still really peaceful. It says 2WD not recommended but I think you could make it up to first few spots or just park in the parking lot and walk up if you’re tent camping. Beautiful tree covered spots with fire rings in place. We pulled in on Wed evening and there were many spots available. We were 8-10 spots down the road. We towed our little 25ft RV up the road and it was pretty low key except for one slight washout. You can see us coming down it in the video I posted. I left my huffing and puffing and “oh sh*ts” in for your amusement. 😂

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping by Nicola , August 10, 2023
  • Review photo of Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping by Nicola , August 10, 2023
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping at Hoosier Pass?

Hoosier Pass dispersed camping follows standard Forest Service dispersed camping regulations. Camping is free and first-come, first-served with no reservations. Stay limits are typically 14 days within a 30-day period. Pack out all trash and practice Leave No Trace principles. Campfires may be restricted during dry periods or fire bans, so check current restrictions before your trip. Dogs are allowed but should be leashed or under control. Sites are primitive with no facilities, so come prepared with water and a way to pack out waste. Respect quiet hours and maintain appropriate distance between campsites.

Where is Hoosier Pass dispersed camping located and how do I access it?

Hoosier Pass dispersed camping is located right off the highway at Hoosier Pass, which sits at over 11,000 feet elevation. Access is via a dirt road that begins at the pass parking lot. The first few campsites are accessible with 2WD vehicles, though higher clearance is recommended. There are approximately 6-8 sites spread throughout the area, with the first 3 sites located immediately as you enter the road. For those with low clearance vehicles, you can park in the lot and walk to nearby sites if needed. The road becomes progressively rougher, requiring high clearance 4x4 vehicles to access the more remote sites.

Is dispersed camping near Quandary Peak the same as Hoosier Pass camping?

While related, dispersed camping near Quandary Peak is not exactly the same as Hoosier Pass camping, though they're in the same general area. Hoosier Pass camping is conveniently located for accessing multiple peaks including Quandary and the DeCaLiBron group (Democrat, Cameron, Lincoln, and Bross). The Hoosier Pass sites serve as an excellent basecamp for hiking Quandary Peak, located just a short drive away. Both areas offer free dispersed camping options, but Hoosier Pass provides more established sites with easier access from the highway. Hikers seeking to summit Quandary often use Hoosier Pass as their overnight spot due to its proximity and accessibility.

What is the best time of year for dispersed camping at Hoosier Pass?

The prime camping season at Hoosier Pass is summer through early fall (late June to September). Due to its high elevation above 11,000 feet, the area is often inaccessible or snow-covered until late spring. July and August offer the most reliable weather, though afternoon thunderstorms are common during monsoon season. By mid-September, temperatures begin dropping significantly at night. The road can experience closures or become difficult to navigate due to snow and washouts in spring and late fall. Always check road conditions before heading out, especially during shoulder seasons.