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Best Dispersed Camping near Aguilar, CO

22 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Aguilar, Colorado centers around several primitive sites within driving distance of town. North Fork Purgatiore River provides drive-in and walk-in access for tent and RV camping, with toilet facilities and a sanitary dump available. Home Mountain Reservoir SWA hosts multiple dispersed camping areas along its shoreline, requiring a state wildlife permit for overnight stays. Additional options include Mountain Home Reservoir South for tent camping and Huerfano State Wildlife Area, which accommodates both tent and RV campers with picnic tables and toilet facilities.

Access roads to most dispersed sites require careful navigation, particularly when approaching Home Mountain Reservoir where high-clearance vehicles are recommended. Many campers note that arriving during daylight hours is essential for safely locating suitable camping areas. State Wildlife Areas typically permit camping for up to 14 days within a 45-day period. Fire restrictions vary by location and season, with established fire rings available at some sites. No drinking water is available at any of these locations, requiring campers to bring their own supplies.

The dispersed camping areas provide mountain views and lakeside settings that attract visitors seeking natural surroundings. Home Mountain Reservoir features two distinct camping areas – one with vault toilets but more crowded conditions, and another more spacious section with mountain backdrops and lake views. Reviews indicate weekdays typically offer quieter experiences with fewer visitors. According to one visitor, "This is a beautiful free place to camp but it may not be the quiet peaceful place you're looking for if the wrong crowd is here at the same time." Wildlife sightings are common, with elk herds occasionally visible in the vicinity. Many sites show evidence of previous use with rock-lined fire rings, though some areas struggle with trash management.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Aguilar, Colorado (7)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Aguilar, CO

16 Photos of 7 Aguilar Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Aguilar, CO

22 Reviews of 7 Aguilar Campgrounds

  • Jason L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2019

    Home Mountain Reservoir SWA - Dispersed Campsites

    Beautiful mountain lake

    Only a few miles from Ft. Garland, Mountain Home Reservoir is another Colorado State Wildlife Area, but no signs saying an SWA permit is needed to camp there so not sure if you need one or not, we have it so we forgot to check. We have also bought land to build on three miles from the lake, we love this area.

    There are two sides to camp on, one side has toilets, vault style, but it's more crowded on that side and less room to camp. The other side takes a little drive, but is much more open and has the mountains behind you and the lake in front of you. It gets busy on weekends, but weekdays are pretty quiet.

    The water is cold, but you could swim in August if you really want to, not too cold at all. Boats are allowed, and there boat ramps on both sides of the lake from what we could see, didn't inspect the ramps, but know one works because there was a pontoon boat on the lake one day.

    The weather changes by the minute it seems, and storms move over the area pretty quickly. If you don't like the weather wait five minutes, it'll change, and I'm not exaggerating. Still mostly nice weather, and normally sunny.

    This is a beautiful camping area, again this is a no hook up area so pack in what you need and leave no trace. Try to camp near one of the already made fire pits, makes it easier on you and they discourage building new fire pits. If you don't want a fire then you can camp anywhere you aren't blocking a road.

    Truly beautiful place to camp, you can stay 14 days in a 45 day period. RV dump and fill stations are nearby in Ft.Garland, and it's only about thirty minutes to Great Sand Dunes National Park, and Zapata Falls. Smith Reservoir is also nearby and that's another SWA we reviewed, check that one out.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2021

    Home Mountain Reservoir SWA - Dispersed Campsites

    Confusing CO state information

    Ok. First off this is Sunday Aug 1st,2021. The road in says private property. The directions using ice house rd are accurate from the north side. Here’s the problem. I have screen grabs from the official state of CO website. One reads that this is no longer an SWA and the other reads that it is an SWA. i uploaded a pic.

    The camping area is packed dirt with odd roads - paths probably created by OHVs and jeep /4x4 trucks. Homemade rock lined fire rings.

    Only come in daylight as others recommend. We had 2 different OHVs ride through our campsite. Most seem to be locals that have fun riding the perimeter of the lake. We are camped about 600yards, yes 600 yards (nice) away from others. Not big rig friendly on the north side. You need high ground clearance campers and truck in many areas. This place is best suited to small campers and tents.

    It is so beautiful and free. When we drove in the sun was high and the lake appeared emerald. I would NOT drop my trailer and leave my possessions alone / unsupervised. A couple of joy riders took interest in our solar panels and setup. Just saying

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 20, 2025

    North Fork Purgatiore River

    Real nice area

    Can’t ask for a better dispersed camping area. Don’t get confused by the state area, drive up the dirt Roy’s until you see Forest Service. There is an established campground at the end of the road with a pretty hike

    Dispersed area is free if you go to the developed area it’s $25 per night i believe

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 26, 2025

    Home Mountain Reservoir SWA - Dispersed Campsites

    Coordinates not correct

    The map location and coordinates are not correct. I was unable to find the spot. Likely supposed to be north of listed location. See dispersed sites just north.

  • J
    Jul. 15, 2021

    Home Mountain Reservoir SWA - Dispersed Campsites

    Perfect free camping spot with views

    This was a perfect spot with great views and plenty of camp sites to choose from. Bathrooms were close by. Only bad thing was there was a little trash but not bad. Limited cell service. Easy dirt road access

  • S
    Jul. 26, 2021

    Home Mountain Reservoir SWA - Dispersed Campsites

    Great weekday camping

    We arrived here on a Sunday and neighbors around us left and it was nice and peaceful.
    A couple guys pulling a boat out said they were catching fish.

    Pulling a 21’ trailer on a maintained dirt road. Apparent evidence of flash flooding along side of the road but didn’t seem to effect a very packed main part. Drove in through large acre residential properties.

    Watched a dark storm circle around us but no rain.

    Small beautiful lake surrounded by mountains! We’re used to cold water lakes and took a dunk and it was pleasant. Disappointed to see some trash along the beach area.

    We came in on Icehouse road and it took us right to the north end camping area where there is a boat ramp. We’ll have to explore how to get to the other side of the lake as there doesn’t appear a way to drive around the lake from the north side.

    Yes Zapata Falls and the Great Sand Dunes fairly close; used our Senior lifetime park pass.
    Ft Garland 5 miles.

    Weren’t sure if this was just an overnighter but will stay a day or two more!

  • Linnell B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 20, 2025

    Home Mountain Reservoir SWA - Dispersed Campsites

    Gorgeous Weekday Camping

    I always read reviews before going camping, so like others have said - do not use the coordinates on the Dyrt. Just type in "Mountain Home Reservoir" to Apple Maps and its going to take you to Ice House Rd and then you just turn in.

    -stayed 1.5 nights and would have stayed the extra night but i forgot my gun ( 🤨🙄 ) and of course at 2 am i hear the "woman screaming" and it was more than likely a mountain lion. Next morning talking with another camper they saw big paw prints 😭

    -i could definitely see this getting super packed on any weekend so get there early. I went on tuesday and wednesday and i had no camping neighbors but there were still a few people around the lake!

    • the lake water wasnt terrible! Lots of day-fishers but i went out on my paddleboard with my dogs and it was lovely.

    • i feel like you usually hear about camping to the west of CO but man southern colorado was GORGEOUS! The spanish peaks are awesome.

    Would definitely go again. LOTS of trash and beer cans at my campsite though 🙄

  • Christina S.
    Jun. 1, 2019

    Home Mountain Reservoir SWA - Dispersed Campsites

    It would be a great place but...

    This is a beautiful area, the lake is gorgeous and on the way in we saw a huge herd of elk which was awesome. However not long after we set up some rowdy locals decided to do donuts on the beach in their truck, some playing loud music. Thankfully they left but it wasn’t the peaceful evening we were hoping for. There are two sides of the lake to camp on. One side had pit toilets but it was more crowded with lots of people on ATV’s there are tons of trails you can see where they go all over that side. On the other side of the lake there are no toilets and not as many ATV trails. It’s a great free place to camp but it may not be the quiet peaceful place you’re looking for if the wrong crowd is here at the same time.

Guide to Aguilar

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Aguilar, Colorado, where nature meets tranquility. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area offers a perfect escape for camping enthusiasts.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Aguilar

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Aguilar, Colorado

  • Always check for local regulations before setting up camp, as some areas like Huerfano State Wildlife Area may have specific rules regarding permits and camping restrictions.
  • Keep an eye on your pets, especially in areas like Home Mountain Reservoir SWA - Dispersed Campsites, where wildlife is abundant and can pose a risk to curious animals.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; for instance, Wiley Gulch offers no trash disposal, so plan to pack out what you bring in.

Scenic Spots for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience breathtaking views at Mountain Home Reservoir, where the surrounding mountains create a picturesque backdrop for your camping experience.
  • Find solitude and stunning landscapes at Blanca, CO, ideal for those seeking a more remote camping experience away from the crowds.
  • Discover the charm of Huerfano State Wildlife Area, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature while having access to basic facilities like picnic tables and restrooms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Aguilar, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Aguilar, CO is North Fork Purgatiore River with a 4.3-star rating from 8 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Aguilar, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Aguilar, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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