Dispersed camping areas within Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests sit at elevations ranging from 5,500 to 10,500 feet, creating significant temperature variations even during summer months. These forests span over 1.5 million acres across north-central Colorado, with camping opportunities concentrated along creeks and forest service roads. Nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F even in July at higher elevation sites.
What to do
Creek exploration and fishing: At Allenspark Dispersed Camping, campers can access multiple spots along a creek that provides natural white noise for sleeping. "The sites are very spread out and there weren't many people there, despite it being a weekend in June when I visited," notes one visitor who appreciated the isolation.
Hiking nearby peaks: Tent camping near Longs Peak Campground provides access to multiple summit trails. "This campground is located right next to the Longs Peak Trailhead, making it a great place to stay if you're planning to do one of the long hikes," explains one camper who appreciated the convenient location for alpine starts.
Wildlife observation: Many dispersed tent camping sites throughout Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests provide wildlife viewing opportunities. While beneficial for nature lovers, some locations have recurring wildlife issues. One Allenspark camper reported: "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."
What campers like
Accessibility combined with isolation: Tent campers appreciate that many Canyon Lakes Ranger District Dispersed Camping sites provide a sense of remoteness while remaining relatively accessible. "It was pretty rough driving in, there were so many 'private' lands even when you hit the national forest. The dispersed camping we found had 3 sites stacked on top of each other," notes one visitor who found the area challenging to navigate but worthwhile.
Water features: Many tent campers specifically seek sites near flowing water. "This place was slightly hard to find, but obtaining a MVUM for the region made it a lot easier," explains a camper who stayed at Allenspark. "Most spots sit on a creek that gives a good ambiance. Few spots need 4x4 or really good tires, but there's a spot for everyone."
Night sky viewing: Upper Chipmunk Backcountry Campsite and other high-elevation tent sites in the national forests offer exceptional stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. "From the campsite, the hike to Ypsilon Lake isn't far and makes for a great additional day hike once you've set up camp," mentions one backpacker who enjoyed both daytime and nighttime views.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Many dispersed tent camping areas require navigating rough forest roads. "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," warns a visitor to Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot. Another camper adds: "Decent drive and not hard to find. This is not meant for travel trailers, pop ups, or anything except texts."
Wildlife precautions required: Bear activity is common throughout Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests. One camper at Allenspark reported: "Beautiful, secluded and right next to a creek. BUT a huge bear got into my tent while I was gone for 2 hours and absolutely destroyed it." Bear canisters or proper food storage is essential at all tent camping locations.
Navigation challenges: Finding designated dispersed camping areas can be difficult. "We got to the place where the pin is and there was nothing, right there we lost service and started to be a little worried because it was getting dark, drove a little more up in the same road and found a spot right next to a trail," shared a Canyon Lakes visitor who experienced navigation issues.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites for first trips: Lory State Park Backcountry Campsites offers beginner-friendly backpacking for families. "We did a quick overnight backpacking trip to one of the backcountry sites at the top of the Timber trail. It's a beautiful meadow with wildflowers in the summer. A relatively short hike in with multiple routes so good for a quick trip or with kids," shares a family who found the experience manageable.
Prepare for temperature swings: The elevation in Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests means significant day-to-night temperature drops. Pack additional warm layers for children as temperatures can fall 30+ degrees after sunset, even in summer months.
Limited facilities mean extra planning: Most tent camping areas in the national forests lack potable water and restroom facilities. Families should bring sufficient water and portable toilet solutions. One visitor to Canyon Lakes mentioned: "It was pretty rough driving in, there were so many 'private' lands even when you hit the national forest."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions limit options: Most dispersed camping areas in Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests have tight access roads unsuitable for larger RVs. "You really want a 4x4 in this area to get to good spots," notes a camper familiar with Allenspark, highlighting the need for high-clearance vehicles.
Alternative boat-in camping: For RVers seeking alternatives, Boat In Sites at Horsetooth Reservoir offers a unique option. "We took up 3 spots for a large family. It was the best time we had all in 2020 during the pandemic. There was a toilet of sorts, but due to the pandemic and it being boat-in spots, was not well maintained," explains a visitor who found this approach worked well for a larger group.
Consider seasonal timing: RVers should plan visits during mid-summer when forest roads are most likely to be fully accessible. Spring and fall visits often encounter closed or muddy access points. One visitor noted: "The coves are great but it's a bit of a gamble as sound travels so well and yahoos are prevalent."
