Dispersed camping options near Ault, Colorado range from prairie landscapes to mountain woodland settings. Most primitive sites sit at elevations between 4,900 and 8,500 feet, creating dramatic temperature variations between day and night. Seasonal access limitations affect many areas from November through April due to snowfall and agricultural operations.
What to do
Paddleboard at Lost Lake: The small lake at Lost Lake Dispersed provides calm waters perfect for beginners. "My fav spot to camp so far. The lake itself is small, but had enough space for many groups of people to enjoy. Folks were swimming, paddle boarding, and we enjoyed a Colorado version of a 'Beach Day,'" reports Rosa B.
Hiking at Allenspark: A network of trails connects many of the primitive camping sites, offering varying difficulty levels. "Good whitenoise from the creek," notes Kevin F. about Allenspark Dispersed Camping, where several trails begin directly from camping areas.
Wildlife observation: Early morning and dusk provide optimal viewing times for local wildlife. "Saw a young bull moose" at Lost Lake Dispersed, according to Amanda H., who recommends staying at least 100 feet away from wildlife and using binoculars for better viewing.
Stargazing: Limited light pollution makes most primitive sites excellent for night sky viewing. "Great place to star gaze on clear nights. Bugs not bad," says Kat B. about Pawnee Buttes, where the open prairie offers unobstructed 360-degree views.
What campers like
Camping creek access: Many reviewers appreciate the natural white noise and recreation opportunities. "Sites were set back from the road, in a meadow, surrounded by boulders. Loved it!" writes Rosa B. about her experience at Lost Lake Dispersed.
Rustic fire rings: Most dispersed sites include established fire rings. "There are a couple spots with fire rings before the main trailhead, and then many options if you keep driving," notes Kelda C. about Pawnee Buttes - Dispersed Camping.
Spacing between sites: Unlike developed campgrounds, dispersed sites typically offer greater privacy. "Campsites have a good amount of room, spaced to allow privacy, and easy to get in and out of. Peaceful and quiet, surrounded by mountain views," says Gary E. about Lost Lake Dispersed.
Sunset views: The eastern prairie provides unobstructed sunset panoramas. "Great views watching the sunset over the Rocky's!" shares rune W. about Hell Canyon Dispersed, though they caution "Highly need a 4x4 to get here!"
What you should know
Vehicle limitations: Many access roads deteriorate after periods of precipitation. "The road to lost lake requires high clearance. It is located 30 min away from Red Feather Lakes," notes Rosa B., while Cooper P. adds that Hell Canyon Dispersed has "Super nice spot but limited parking and a trek to get up."
Seasonal closures: Several sites close during winter months or for land management purposes. "Husband and I drove out of the way to stay here, and when we arrived, there was a barbed wire fence up and a notice stating it was closed until November 2026," reports Adela S. about Weld Road 49.
Variable conditions: Weather patterns change rapidly in this region. "Road conditions deteriorate quickly after rain or snow," warns a frequent camper. "It was very windy, especially at night (the wind rocked the car most of the night). It wasn't an issue for us sleeping in the car, but I wouldn't tent camp," advises Kris M. about camping at Pawnee Buttes.
Pack it in, pack out: No trash facilities exist at these primitive sites. "Cleaned up a little from the last people that were there (tons of glass from bottles, bottle caps, TP and clearly holes dug for #2 that were not covered up)," reports Amanda H. about the situation at Lost Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Some areas provide easier access for groups with children. "A few little pull offs with fire rings - very pretty scenery and nice sunsets / stargazing. No trees obviously because of the grassland, so no shade or wind protection," recommends Grayce F. about Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest Dispersed Camping.
Safety from wildlife: While generally not dangerous, wildlife requires respectful distance. "No bears/wildlife to be scared of! The weather was so nice we slept in hammocks all week!" shares Alicia O. about Hell Canyon Dispersed.
Prepare for limited facilities: Most primitive sites lack bathroom facilities. "The picnic area/trailhead looked to be very well maintained," notes Taylor B., referring to Pawnee Buttes where vault toilets are available at the trailhead but not at individual camping spots.
Creek-side camping with kids: The sound of running water can help children sleep. "Right next to a creek, nice to have a water feature," Danielle S. mentions about Allenspark Dispersed, though this requires extra supervision for younger children near water.
Tips from RVers
RV length limitations: Most primitive sites near Ault accommodate smaller rigs only. "The road was a little rough for a pop up camper. More for tents," explains JUSTIN H. about Hell Canyon Dispersed.
Road reconnaissance: Checking road conditions before towing is essential. "We pulled our 33' travel trailer and there were good spots off the road," shares Lorene N. about Pingree Road Dispersed Camping, where the main access road is "super well maintained" according to Nidhi S.
Watch for low clearance challenges: Even accessible roads have rough sections. "Great road, rather washboarded, but go slow and you'll be fine," advises Voyager D. about Pingree Road, noting the "first main area, and the top of the first hill is the best."
Level site selection: Finding flat parking requires advance planning. "I'd recommend at least AWD but 2wd should absolutely be able to go on the main road and access most sites (2-4) will require awd/4wd," explains Lark H. about the conditions at Pingree Road Dispersed Camping.
