Looking for the best campgrounds near Aurora, CO? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Colorado camping adventure.
"The area was well kept and obviously beautiful, it's Colorado after all."
"This campground is great for those looking for beautiful scenery and to avoid the crowds, not to mention it’s free!"
"30 minutes and kick back and please crack a cold one for Colorado being the best place."
"Stayed the days 7-19/7-22, I went here when I was younger and decided on this campground this year, immediately going in I intended to go to campsite"
"There is a car park just south of the location marker on the dyrt, there are some campsites very close to this, one of which we used."
"Clean campsites and there were a number open Saturday morning when we drove to the end of the trail."
"Went a little further up to a different pull out (same road, maybe 1/2 mile or less up), which ended up being a little more secluded."
"Over 30 dispersed campsites along a moderately smooth dirt road."
"Terrain was interesting on the drive in, some of the pull off camping spots are pretty steep off the road."
"Had to pick up some trash and shells in our campsite."
ScoutThe location for this does not take you to a campsite but rather a sign that says “NO trespassing” it’s private property now but if you drive farther on the dirt road (about 5 minutes) and take a left at the sign that says 68 you will continue for 2 miles and find a trailhead with a campsite that is very nice. I parked at the trail head but continue down the road that’s there and there are designated free dispersed camping.
Look up forsythe canyon trailhead
PS This is up a very high mountain road. I have a 91 westfalia and I do not recommend for older vehicles such as. Puts lots of wear on it going up and down that huge hill.
TravelerThis was our first ever boondock spot on National Forest land. Most of the sites were inaccessible in our 33 foot travel trailer but we found one last minutes. We were right on the road in and OHV traffic was common along with the noise and dust. Still, it wasn't bad and the price was good. There are better places nearby if you're not into OHV riding. Early July 2022
GuideWe've camped here a few times during the summer and the beginning of fall. About 40 dispersed camping spot, first come first serve. Great trail to ride down going to stony pass and wellington lake. Pretty maintained road for a dirt road. Most camping spots can fit quite a few tents, with privacy from the next campspot.
TravelerThese sites are amazing! About as good as it gets for drive up dispersed, free camping. Well marked, spaced out, large campsites and not too far from Denver. We love coming here for quick weekend trips. Most sites have a fire pit with a grill grate.
TravelerHad a blast at this place. We arrived early Friday morning and most spots were already claimed. There are a total of 35 free camp sites but if you continue down 550 there are some paid camp sites as well, but those were closed for the time being. Sherif came through a few times. Sites were big and far enough away from neighbors. Would recommend.
RangerSo 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. I am reviewing one of these unnumbered campsites in particular, because this one had the best view. Before you read too far, I can't guarantee you will be able to reach this campsite without a 4X4 high clearance vehicle. We got to the site with a Jeep Wrangler and Toyota Tacoma TRD so we had no problems... I can't definitely say a Subaru would make it though. In the pictures I have included a map of the Gordon Gulch trail system. Entering through the Gordon Gulch entrance and taking 226.1 to 233.1 is the hardest route - there is one very steep and washed out spot. Entering via 120J/Switzerland Trail from the Peak to Peak Hwy and then turning right onto 233.1 is the easier option. On that map I have marked the general area of the campsite with a pink dot and here are the coordinates.
DMS: 40°01'18.5"N 105°28'37.6"W
DD: 40.021814, -105.477103 - if you type this into Google Maps it will locate it
As for the actual campsite, it is a great option for spring/fall camping in Colorado. The elevation is about 8,800 ft and it is on the south side of a hill so it gets a lot of sunlight and is protected from northern winds. In terms of privacy, there are no other campsites that can be seen from this one. However, Gordon Gulch is a popular off-roading area so dirt bikes and Jeeps pass by frequently. This campsite is set up high above and away from the road though, so it is really not that bad. Another thing to point out is that this is a popular area for shooting as well, so if you absolutely hate guns it may not be the place for you. Also, as stated before, this is a dispersed campsite the only thing it has is a fire ring. Pack it in, pack it out!
GuideThe drive was beautiful and the map/directions were very clear. The roads within the dispersed camping area were pretty intense with dips, rocks and potholes but we got through just fine with a Subaru Forester. The permitted sites are marked which are easy to find. We chose to not go too far because it was getting dark out by the time we arrived. The first 5 or so campsites are pretty close to each other which limits privacy but I can not speak for campsites further into the campsite.
ScoutThis is a nice free camping site off of peak to peak highway. Mountain View’s and lots of wildflowers.
ScoutDrove more than 35 - 45 mins from boulder expecting a decent dispersed camping area like normal, but don’t let this fool you!! It is all residential and private land! I honestly don’t know of any dispersed camping near the city of boulder and so far this app is deceiving. Read the reviews before you head out!
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.
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 27 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Aurora, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 35 dispersed camping locations near Aurora, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
