Dispersed camping near Allenspark allows pets with certain limitations not found at established campgrounds in the area. The Roosevelt National Forest campsites sit at elevations between 8,500-9,500 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than lower elevation sites. Dogs must be leashed or under voice control at dispersed sites, but trails in adjacent Rocky Mountain National Park prohibit pets entirely.
What to do
Hiking from campsite access points: The Pawnee Campground offers several trailheads directly from the camping area. "Several trails in the area provide access to the adjacent Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. Hiking is allowed on all trails; mountain biking is allowed outside the wilderness area," explains one visitor. Another camper notes, "We walked by Brainard Lake and then up around Long Lake, about 6 miles altogether. All pretty flat."
Kayaking and fishing opportunities: At Arapaho Bay, campers can access multiple water activities. "Canoeing, kayaking and fishing" are popular according to visitor reports. One reviewer mentioned, "Nice sized spaces, many sites close to the water, good wildlife sittings (moose, bald eagles, bear) beautiful large lake with Colorado River headwaters." The bay provides calm waters ideal for paddling with dogs along shorelines.
Wildlife viewing with caution: Roosevelt Forest offers excellent wildlife viewing, particularly at dawn and dusk. "The elk were traveling away from us, so we felt like we would wait by the trees until he was farther away," reports one visitor at Moraine Park. Another camper at Gordon Gulch noted "Moose visitors at dawn and evening, and hungry bears scavenging for food at night is a common occurrence."
What campers like
Creek-side camping for pet cooling: Allenspark Dispersed Camping provides creek access for pets. "Lots of spots available. Just keep driving along Ski Road and pick one that looks good. Lots of fire pits already build and most camp spots are along the creek," notes one camper. Another visitor adds, "Right next to a creek, nice to have a water feature."
Less crowded weekday options: Camping during weekdays offers significantly more site choices. "First come, first serve sites fill up by early Thursday. Get there earlier in the week and you will have a better chance of getting a spot," advises a visitor to the Pawnee area. A Gordon Gulch camper confirms, "Throughout the summer they are all frequently occupied so it may be hard to find a spot at times."
Natural barriers between sites: Some Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area sites offer better privacy than others. "I spent multiple days at this site due to its remote beauty. Campsites far apart, and it was quiet other than the occasional atv," notes one reviewer. This spacing provides separation for reactive dogs or pets that need distance from others.
What you should know
Bear awareness requirements: Bears actively search for food at campsites throughout the area. "A huge bear got into my tent while I was gone for 2 hours and absolutely destroyed it," reported an Allenspark camper. At Moraine Park Campground, a visitor advises, "You ARE in bear country - be bear smart and safe and use your bear box! We had our own bear box in our campsite - I believe each site has its own food locker."
Variable road conditions: Access roads deteriorate significantly during and after rain. "Road is passable by standard cars. No cell service," notes one camper about Beaver Park Reservoir. For Allenspark, a visitor cautions, "Road gets tougher the further back you go, but my low clearance vehicle made it by driving slow."
Seasonal considerations: High elevation sites have very short seasons. A Pawnee reviewer notes, "Cons - very limited season, due to its high elevation. Hard to get a site, especially at peak season in July." Snow can remain at some sites into June, with one Moraine Park visitor mentioning, "Still some snow on the ground in late May."
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated play areas: East Portal Campground provides dedicated areas for children. "The playground was small but my kids were satisfied. There was a rock climbing wall and swings," notes one family. Another mentions, "My kids enjoyed playing with sticks and rocks in this little field-something every kid should get to do!"
Pet-friendly amenities check: Not all campgrounds offer equal pet amenities. At Glacier Basin, a visitor observed, "We bought our dogs and found out they are only welcome in the campground. Still worth the stay." In contrast, Allenspark dispersed sites allow pets to access all areas, including trails.
Family-friendly wildlife education: Wildlife viewing creates learning opportunities for children. One East Portal visitor shares, "We saw some beautiful Elk very close by, which was definitely a highlight." Another camper at Camp Dick mentions, "We also experienced nature at its finest when the Moose walked through our campsite on their evening trek."
Tips from RVers
Limited clearance in dispersed areas: Most dispersed sites restrict larger vehicles. At Beaver Park Reservoir, a camper with a modest RV notes, "Beautiful lake with several good sized RV spots. We have a 25 foot camper and feet nicely in. Road in was good as well." Longer RVs face significant access challenges on forest roads.
Hookup availability constraints: Full-hookup sites are limited to specific campgrounds. At Mary's Lake, "Very clean and well maintained campground. Price is good compared to other campgrounds near by. A couple down falls, no shade trees for RV full hookup sites and lower sites are a little crowded when filled up."
Generator limitations: National Forest campgrounds restrict generator use. "Campsites are quite close together, but there are quiet hours and limits to generator use," notes a camper at Glacier Basin. This creates challenges for RVers needing consistent power but benefits tent campers seeking quiet.
