Best Dispersed Camping near Aurora, CO

The areas surrounding Aurora, Colorado have several dispersed camping spots on public lands within driving distance of the city. Aurora City Park Campground works for basic camping without the usual facilities found at regular campgrounds. Campers can also find more remote spots in Aurora Area State Park for those who want to get away from crowds. All these undeveloped sites require following Leave No Trace practices. You'll need to bring your own water and everything else you need since these areas have no facilities. Rules for camping on public land include staying at least 100 feet from water sources and roads, with a 14-day limit at any single location. Many of the dirt roads leading to dispersed sites get rough and rutted after rain, making high-clearance vehicles necessary. During dry months, fire bans are common, so check current rules before planning to have a campfire. The Colorado National Forest lands near Aurora give you places to camp with Rocky Mountain views. Aurora Recreation Area also has some good spots for no-frills camping. Always pack out all trash when you leave. Spring and fall have the best weather for camping in this area. Winter brings snow that can make access difficult, while summer days can get very hot. The area has deer, elk and smaller wildlife, so store food properly to keep animals away from your camp.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Aurora, Colorado (36)

    1. Buffalo Creek Recreation Area

    28 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    39 miles

    "So busy that we had to go in the middle of the week to get a spot, so plan ahead here and expect crowds. That being said, each spot is unique and we loved it."

    "We stayed here a couple weekends in a row and we were able to try out some different spots and trails close to those spots. This free campground is perfect! "

    2. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    50 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    48 miles
    Website

    "So the Gordon Gulch dispersed camping area has around 15 numbered sites that are ok... but if you keep driving further down 233.1 you will find many more unnumbered campsites."

    "Like the title suggests, this campsite is typical for a free forest service campground. Prior campers have left some trash, bullet casings and obviously neglected to dig cat holes."

    3. Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping

    32 Reviews
    Monument, CO
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    "If you enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies, drive in dispersed camping and putting your off-roading skills to the test, this dispersed campsite is a must visit!"

    "It took us about 15 minutes driving past the coordinates (trailhead) to start seeing campsites. There was nobody around, and we picked a very spacious one with a great view."

    4. West Magnolia Campground

    26 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    48 miles
    Website

    "Oe of my family's fav places, beautiful views, camping spots super far away from one another so awesome privacy, and completely free. Spots fill up quick on weekends, you can stay 14 days."

    "The roads around the whole campground were a little rough but i did okay in my Ford Escape. All of the sites seems to be really spread out.

    There were several people in the campground."

    5. Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping

    20 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    44 miles
    Website

    "Was desperate to find "something" after driving 11 hours that day, and normal paid camp grounds were full. HOWEVER I was pulling a smaller trailer, and that turned out to be a real issue."

    "Safe for car camping. Make sure you follow the stay on road signs."

    6. Pull off with fire ring - Dispersed Site

    15 Reviews
    Georgetown, CO
    49 miles
    Website

    "Resources were running low on a Friday night so it was great pull off great views close to idaho springs down town , nice hiking trails as well traffic is pretty much non existent after 9pm"

    "Any unpaved areas around it are not flat."

    7. Gross Reservoir Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "Definitely need a high clearance vehicle. I saw a low clearance vehicle at site 6 & no idea how they got there.. they had to have gotten scraped up."

    "Great camping about 31 dispersed spots most with tables and a fire ring decent trout fishing a great kayaking feels remote without being so remote."

    8. Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite

    5 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    39 miles

    "Over 30 dispersed campsites along a moderately smooth dirt road. Sites are spaced well apart, some sites are covered in trees while others are wide open."

    "There are 30+ designated, numbered, dispersed campsites on this road."

    9. Rainbow Falls - Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Woodland Park, CO
    44 miles
    Website

    "Lots of shade in the morning at our spot. We were by a dirt road and did have a few vehicles drive by but not bad. There is bear scat, not old and not new, in the area but no wildlife was seen."

    "Terrain was interesting on the drive in, some of the pull off camping spots are pretty steep off the road. However, the sights were beautiful and it was very quiet and peaceful when we visited :)"

    10. Forest Road 332 Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "If you go further down the road a high clearance vehicle is necessary the road gets worse as you go further. Lots of trash at the campsite. Overall, woke up to a nice view of mountains."

    "Found a nice big spot with sun and shade and a great overlook. Was a touch concerned that it would get ATV trafficy over the weekend as it was at a junction where 3 roads jet off."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Aurora, CO

260 Reviews of 36 Aurora Campgrounds



Guide to Aurora

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Aurora, Colorado, where nature meets adventure. With a variety of locations offering stunning views and unique experiences, you'll find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Explore Scenic Trails while Free Camping near Aurora

  • The Buffalo Creek Recreation Area is a great starting point for hiking enthusiasts, featuring numerous trails that wind through picturesque landscapes.
  • For mountain biking lovers, the Gross Reservoir Dispersed offers easy access to trails that cater to all skill levels, making it a popular choice for outdoor activities.
  • If you're looking for a peaceful retreat, the Bailey Area Dispersed provides a serene environment with ample opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding nature.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Forsythe Canyon Trailhead

  • The Forsythe Canyon Trailhead Forest Service Road 357 Dispersed is known for its remote mountain camping, offering a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
  • This area features well-maintained dirt roads that lead to various camping spots, making it accessible for those with high-clearance vehicles.
  • With a restroom available at the parking lot and designated fire pits at the sites, this location balances convenience with the rugged charm of dispersed camping.

Enjoy Beautiful Views at Gold Lake Area Dispersed

  • The Gold Lake Area Dispersed is perfect for those seeking stunning mountain vistas and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for photography and relaxation.
  • This area is less crowded than other nearby spots, allowing for a more intimate camping experience while still being close to Boulder.
  • With numerous sites available, you can easily find a spot that suits your needs, whether you're camping in a tent or an RV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Aurora, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Aurora, CO is Buffalo Creek Recreation Area with a 4.5-star rating from 28 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Aurora, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 36 dispersed camping locations near Aurora, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.