Best Dispersed Camping near Ault, CO
Dispersed camping opportunities near Ault, Colorado include several free primitive sites on public lands. Weld Road 49 offers basic dispersed camping with no amenities but allows both tent and RV camping. Pawnee Buttes Dispersed Camping provides more developed sites with picnic tables and vault toilets at the trailhead. Hell Canyon Dispersed and Lost Lake Dispersed sites feature more remote settings. According to reviews, Pawnee Buttes offers "spectacular views of the grasslands and buttes" with excellent stargazing on clear nights.
Vehicle requirements vary significantly between sites. High-clearance 4WD vehicles are necessary for accessing many of the more remote locations. Several campers noted that navigation apps often provide incorrect directions, particularly around Hell Canyon where "Google Maps incorrectly mistakes a hiking path that connects with this dirt road." Road conditions deteriorate quickly after rain or snow, with deep ruts and washouts common on access roads. Most sites near Ault have no drinking water, hookups, or sanitary facilities.
Fire regulations change seasonally and during drought conditions. While some sites like Hell Canyon and Pawnee Buttes normally permit campfires in established rings, fire bans are frequently implemented. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region, with Verizon generally providing better coverage than other carriers. Campers should be aware of private property boundaries, as many dispersed sites are interspersed with private lands. The Leave No Trace principles are strictly enforced; all trash must be packed out. Wildlife encounters may include cattle, pronghorn antelope, and deer. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with strong winds common in open areas.
