Tent camping near Allenspark, Colorado offers access to Roosevelt National Forest at elevations between 8,500-9,000 feet. Summer nights typically drop to 40-50°F even when days reach 70-80°F, requiring appropriate sleeping gear. Dispersed camping areas feature rocky terrain with minimal level ground except at established sites, requiring careful tent placement.
What to do
Mountain biking on interconnected trails: From sites along Ski Road, bikers can access multiple trail systems with varying difficulty levels. "We went down a good ways and found the perfect spot on a creek just below me down a hill. Very quiet And relaxing," notes a camper at Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot.
Night sky viewing: The area's distance from major light pollution makes it ideal for stargazing. At Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, one camper mentioned, "After dark, very quiet even though it was close to the road. Nederland is close enough to run into town if needed."
Creek fishing: Many sites sit adjacent to small streams with fishing opportunities. "Caught lots of trout (none big enough to keep)," reports a visitor to Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping. Bring appropriate fishing gear and license.
What campers like
Creek-side campsites: Water access provides both practical benefits and natural white noise. "The road will come to a Y go left. Once you go left down be hill you'll go back up a hill and go around the curve to the right. There's a creek on the left and great spots," advises a camper who visited Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot.
Privacy between sites: Despite popularity during peak season, most campers appreciate site separation. "The campsites are very spread out and there weren't many people there, despite it being a weekend in June when I visited," noted a camper at Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts diverse wildlife including moose, bears, and smaller mammals. "Lots of chipmunks and hummingbirds due to the many wild flowers," observed a camper at Gordon Gulch, though this comes with responsibilities for proper food storage.
What you should know
Bear activity: Bears are common and require proper precautions. "The second day staying there we ran into a bear and scared him off. Two hours later he can back and we scared him off again. He's afraid of humans but he did try to get into the car while we were sleeping," reported a camper at Allenspark Dispersed Camping.
Road conditions: Access roads deteriorate significantly after rain or snow. "Road is just about the limmit for 2wd. In a couple spots, but can be done in a car but could risk damage. Suv or van is passable," noted a camper at Allenspark Dispersed Camping.
Campsite navigation challenges: First-time visitors often struggle finding sites. "Hard to find, no signs. You will get back up in there and will come to a Fork one road appears to go downward to the left, the other goes up. Stay to the left," advised another camper.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra layers: Temperature fluctuations require adaptable clothing. At Longs Peak Campground, a camper advised, "Bring a good sleeping bag and a tent you trust in high winds, as the wind will howl and shake your tent all night."
Plan for no facilities: Lack of amenities means packing accordingly. "No water source that I know of," noted a camper at Johnny Park Road Camping, reinforcing the need to bring adequate drinking water.
Schedule arrival time carefully: Sites fill quickly on weekends. "We tried to drive in Friday night and all the campsites were full so some kind people let us share theirs. I'd suggest getting their early to get a good spot!" recommended a visitor to Winiger Ridge.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. "Not meant for travel trailers, pop ups, or anything except texts," warned a camper at Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot, highlighting the area's limitations for larger vehicles.
Consider established campgrounds: For RVers seeking hookups, established sites offer better options. "Picnic tables and fire rings included. Some reservable sites have electric hook ups," noted a camper at Brainard Lake Recreation Area.
Vehicle clearance matters: Even smaller RVs need appropriate clearance. "I wouldn't try this with a camper/RV, or anything that doesn't have high clearance and power," advised a camper about Winiger Ridge, emphasizing the challenging terrain for recreational vehicles.
