Ault is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Ault, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
"4x4 drive is a requirement. Good Verizon signal. Narrow road, however not busy at all. Stayed here for 4 days, no issue. The Google Maps directions is slightly wrong."
"Turn just before or after Yogi Bear Campground and go up the decently maintained dirt road. (You will pass RVs at the beginning of the road as you head up)."
"Multiple dispersed campsites approaching the Pawnee Buttes trailhead from the west and southwest."
"There are several areas to pull off, and if you are pulling a trailer, or you have a big rig, there is a loop parking lot at the Pawnee Buttes Trailhead that you can turn around in if you need to."
"Fire ban was in effect when we went, but lots of fire circles available otherwise. Bring bug spray, the flies are bold."
"Was super simple to access. the coordinates take you to the beginning of the rural part of Ski road."
"As long as you steer clear from the private property you'll find a site. Some roads will turn sour and require high clearance."
"The gravel road in is in very good condition. The drive is totally beautiful especially during the fall. The road is lined with aspens and large boulders and massive rock bluffs."
"If you’re going to camp & especially go to dispersed camping areas, make sure to leave no trace and pack in, pack out people!!!"
"Some sites in great conditions, others had glass everywhere and garbage left behind. Limited firewood to collect nearby so bring your own."
"Awesome scenic drive, great spacious spot. But only for one party. If someone else is there, you're outta luck. Fire road is gated off so no other options."
"Quick drive to Estes Park. No Verizon cell service."
"-Moderate to heavy foot traffic -Busy, mostly big groups staying at sites having their own fun but plan ahead for finding a site -Friendly and respectful people -Very well maintained sites, trails, signage"
"A number of sites will dot both sides of the road on the way into Pingree (take the CSU mountain campus exit off of Poudre Canyon). Most are good, some are in burn scars."
ScoutDon’t believe the navigation apps and go through lyons, it’s private property ; furthermore if you like I did make the drive though Estes park, have 4WD high clearance and a small vehicle… maybe you’ll make it to this brutally elusive last free camping spot off the main mountain roads
ScoutMy son and I joined a friend from Longmont and headed to this trail to camp for a couple days. Very accessible road, lots of spots to choose from (we showed up on Thursday, it did get a little busier on Friday and Saturday). Our spot was set back from the trail, right next to the stream. Just an amazing view, ample room for lots of tents, nice fire rings and huge logs around them for sitting. Fire wood abounds but it was all a little wet still from the rains they've been getting. Some folks didn't seem to be aware of the "leave no trace" rule when it comes to going to the bathroom, which was a little gross. Overall, great experience, pretty trail views, caught lots of trout (none big enough to keep). A great getaway.
GuideThere are tons of sites along the back roads. As long as you steer clear from the private property you'll find a site. Some roads will turn sour and require high clearance.
Guide4x4 drive is a requirement. Good Verizon signal. Narrow road, however not busy at all. Stayed here for 4 days, no issue. The Google Maps directions is slightly wrong. There is a paid camping ground at the entrance that Google Maps attempts to make you drive through. Do not follow this direction. Instead take the road directly next to the campground. Google Maps incorrectly mistakes a hiking path that connects with this dirt road.
LegendI have camped here multiple times and always have a great time. There are a few primitive sites here with fire pits, plenty of firewood for gathering, flat spots for a tent and fairly accessible with a high clearance vehicle. This campground is an especially good option for those wanting to avoid the summer crowds of the close by and popular campgrounds of Red Feather Lakes and Lost Lake. I often use this as a home base for exploring some of the trails in those areas. There are also lots of fun boulders in the campground area to climb around on or tuck your tent next to if needing protection on a windy night.
TravelerMultiple dispersed campsites approaching the Pawnee Buttes trailhead from the west and southwest. I camped (rooftop tent) on the bluff overlooking the trailhead parking lot, approached from the south. Chilly at night (10 degrees) but no wind.
Spectacular view of the Pawnee Buttes to the east. Perfect spot to catch sunrise and sunset. This area is also a “dark site,” so on clear, moonless nights the stars / Milky Way are phenomenal.
During winter snow often drifts onto the roads. If snowy, 4-wheel drive / high clearance helpful for accessing some of the dispersed sites.
Trailhead restrooms are open year-round.
Consistent 3 bars 5G (AT&T). 200 Mbps down / 16 Mbps up.
LegendThis is a beautiful area and well worth the visit. The gravel road in is in very good condition. The drive is totally beautiful especially during the fall. The road is lined with aspens and large boulders and massive rock bluffs. The road leads to several homes and there is quite a bit of traffic. The dispersed camping is a little over 3.4 miles in. If you follow the GPS you will be fine. All sites have rock fire rings and most sites are fairly level. All sites are in the sun which is great for solar. Verizon cell service was a major bonus. We did have several herd of cattle that would visit but the only downside were the gifts they would leave us. Just watch your step. There is a small stream that runs along the back side of the sites. Most sites were on the right side of the road. Be aware there is a lot of private property. Be courteous. Stay off. At the highway is is a post office and small grocery store and a hardware store.
LNT
Pack it in Pack it out
Stay safe happy travels
ScoutVery nice camping area with lots of spots. A bit hard to find, but just keep going down Ski Road and there will be a slight fork in the road. Stay left to find some sites along the creek. Fire ban was in effect when we went, but lots of fire circles available otherwise. Bring bug spray, the flies are bold.
TravelerThis is at the top (or backside) of the Kelly Flats off-road trail. It requires a high clearance vehicle and skill off-road driving to get there but it’s so worth it! It’s also accessible from the town of Rustic, but still requires a high clearance vehicle and some off-road driving.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Ault, Colorado, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. This area offers a range of options for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
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According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Ault, CO is weld road 49 dispersed camping with a 0-star rating from 1 review.
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