Best Dispersed Camping near Bailey, CO

The Rocky Mountains around Bailey, Colorado have good dispersed camping options for those who want to rough it. Buffalo Creek Recreation Area draws campers looking for mountain beauty without having to deal with too many neighbors. Bruno Gulch Dispersed sits alongside a mountain stream for those wanting more isolation. Since these are undeveloped sites, you'll need to bring everything – there's no water or bathroom facilities anywhere nearby. Following Leave No Trace practices is necessary to keep these areas natural. Rules require camping at least 100 feet from any water to protect streams and wildlife habitat. You can stay up to 14 days in one spot before needing to move. Many of the dirt roads leading to these sites get rutted and muddy, so vehicles with good clearance do better, particularly after wet weather. Depending on conditions, fire bans might be in effect – always check with the Forest Service before planning to have a fire. These basic sites give you a real wilderness experience. Remember that whatever you bring in needs to go back out with you since there are no garbage services. The area has bears and other wildlife, so store food properly. Mid-May through June and September to early October typically have the best weather for camping here.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Bailey, Colorado (138)

    1. Buffalo Creek Recreation Area

    28 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    12 miles

    "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! "

    "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."

    2. Bruno Gulch Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    Grant, CO
    17 miles
    Website

    "We arrived around Monday lunchtime. There are 19 sites in this area as they are all designated. There were only two available when we arrived so we selected site number three."

    "Great spots hidden in the trees. Dispersed free spots."

    3. Bailey Area Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    6 miles

    "The first 3 are out in the open and then the remaining 5 are past the trailhead. Nice area for Starlink and solar and dog walks. It’s a burn site."

    "I had to slow down to a crawl at points because it was thrashing my rig around so much. There is also one turn on the road where if you’re not careful, I could imagine getting stuck."

    4. Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite

    5 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    12 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."

    5. Kirby Gulch

    10 Reviews
    Montezuma, CO
    17 miles

    "Kirby Gulch is a fantastic spot for anyone seeking a peaceful, off-the-grid camping experience near Grant, Colorado."

    "Amazing dispersed camping, private. We brought our dogs and they enjoyed themselves. Very accessible- second weekend in august and was perfect! Around 55 degrees at night, 10,000ft elevation."

    6. Pull off with fire ring - Dispersed Site

    15 Reviews
    Georgetown, CO
    21 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. Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping

    38 Reviews
    Blue River, CO
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 468-5400

    "I drove a Nissan camper van the whole way with a trailer. I saw every kind of car on the road so easy (a little rough in some places) drive the whole way"

    "Most are accessible to any vehicle. Further on up the mountain you will find the remanence of an old train stop, cabin, train car... It's all free but there's been a fire ban all summer."

    8. Matukat Road Dispersed Camping

    15 Reviews
    Lake George, CO
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "Rock fire pits, wood around. No water, garbage, nor toilets. Cool temps, road in is rough go slow. Nice shady trees. First few spots you encounter left, then right seem ok."

    "We drove a couple of miles up the decently maintained dirt road and found the second dispersed camping spot and decided to set up our roof top tent for the night. "

    10. Dispersed camping FSR 239

    5 Reviews
    Jefferson, CO
    16 miles

    "We found great dispersed spots along FSR 239. Roads were gravel and a little rough in some spots, but plenty of camping accessible by smaller cars as well. Lots of OHV trails nearby."

    "There are so many different places to settle in and Terryall Lake was about a 20 minute drive from where I camped. So much space to hike and explore."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Bailey, CO

701 Reviews of 138 Bailey Campgrounds



Guide to Bailey

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Bailey, Colorado, where nature's tranquility meets stunning landscapes. This area offers a variety of spots for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience breathtaking vistas at Matukat Road Dispersed Camping, where open spaces surrounded by young aspens and rock outcroppings create a picturesque backdrop for your camping adventure.
  • The Buffalo Creek Recreation Area offers well-maintained dirt roads and ample opportunities for hiking, making it a perfect spot for those who appreciate nature's beauty.
  • For panoramic mountain views, head to Bruno Gulch Dispersed, where you can enjoy the serenity of a fresh mountain stream while soaking in the stunning scenery.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Bailey, Colorado

  • Arrive early to secure a spot, especially at popular locations like Kirby Gulch, where designated sites can fill up quickly on weekends.
  • Be prepared for rough roads; many areas, such as Tarryall Creek - Dispersed Camping, require high clearance vehicles to navigate the bumpy terrain.
  • Bring your own firewood, as sites like Fraile’s Campground - Dispersed do not provide firewood, and it's essential for enjoying cozy campfires.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Bailey

  • Enjoy mountain biking and hiking trails accessible from Buffalo Creek Recreation Area, which is known for its scenic routes and well-marked paths.
  • Fishing enthusiasts can explore the nearby waters while camping at Peru Creek Designated Dispersed Camping, where the beautiful creek provides a serene setting for a day of angling.
  • For those seeking adventure, Sawmill Gulch offers access to OHV trails, making it a great spot for off-road exploration and outdoor fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Bailey, 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 Bailey, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 138 dispersed camping locations near Bailey, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.