Within Gunnison National Forest, Lake Irwin Dispersed Sites provided free camping access before its permanent closure. The US Forest Service managed these marked dispersed sites, which campers could reach by vehicle, boat, or on foot. Basic amenities included toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, and trash service.
During busy periods like Fourth of July weekend, multiple sites remained available despite increased visitor traffic. The lake sat within walking distance, offering swimming opportunities. Campers could explore dispersed options outside Gunnison National Forest for similar free camping experiences in the area.
Description
Due to new ordinance in 2024, this is no longer a dispersed camping area.
Map & DirectionsLake Irwin Dispersed Sites is located in Colorado near Crested Butte
Coordinates
38.881435 N
107.11111 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 6/2/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 6/2/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- 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.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 19 min from Grand Junction, CO
- 3 hrs 58 min from Colorado Springs, CO
- 4 hrs 22 min from Denver, CO
- 4 hrs 31 min from Boulder, CO





