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Best Dispersed Camping near Bailey, CO

808 Reviews

Pike National Forest surrounds Bailey, Colorado with numerous dispersed camping opportunities at elevations ranging from 8,000 to 11,000 feet. The Buffalo Creek Recreation Area and Redskin Creek Road dispersed sites offer free camping within 30 minutes of town, while Kirby Gulch and Bruno Gulch provide more remote options with mountain views. Most sites in this region are primitive with few amenities, though some areas like Buffalo Creek have vault toilets. The landscape features pine forests, mountain meadows, and occasional creek access, making it popular for both tent and RV camping, with many sites accommodating larger vehicles despite the rugged access roads.

High-clearance 4WD vehicles are strongly recommended for accessing most dispersed sites in the Bailey area, particularly after rain or snowmelt. As one camper noted, "The road to get in is a bit bumpy. Four-wheel-drive is needed if it should get wet or slippery." Forest Service roads vary significantly in quality, with main routes generally passable in standard vehicles while side roads often require off-road capability. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most sites. Summer temperatures typically range from 40°F at night to 80°F during the day, while spring and fall can bring freezing overnight temperatures. Fire restrictions are common during dry periods, and campers should check current regulations before their trip.

Mountain views and privacy rank as the top features mentioned by visitors to Bailey-area camping. Campsites are typically well-spaced, offering solitude even on busy weekends. "The campsites are well-spaced, providing plenty of privacy, and the area is generally clean, thanks to considerate campers," reports one visitor to Kirby Gulch. Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, elk, and various bird species. Most sites lack drinking water, requiring campers to bring their own supply or filter from streams when available. The area follows standard dispersed camping protocols: pack in, pack out all trash, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Weekend crowds are common during summer months, with Friday arrivals recommended to secure preferred spots.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Bailey, Colorado (152)

    1. Buffalo Creek Recreation Area

    30 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. Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite

    8 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."

    "About 32 or more spots along redskin creek road that goes back a few miles with spots with fire rings along the dirt road."

    3. 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."

    4. Bailey Area Dispersed

    4 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."

    5. Kirby Gulch

    14 Reviews
    Montezuma, CO
    17 miles

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

    "Plenty of trail heads nearby and had moose visitors right by camp each day which was cool but be sure to respect the wildlife and give them space."

    6. Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping

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

    "Road is fine for high clearance. But all of us with 4wD ask that you move over for us."

    "I can see this area being busy all year around, definitely on 4th of july weekend. Wish I could’ve found an open site to spend a night!"

    7. Pull off with fire ring - Dispersed Site

    16 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."

    8. Matukat Road Dispersed Camping

    16 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. "

    9. Lost Park Road Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Shawnee, CO
    10 miles

    10. Dispersed camping FSR 239

    6 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."

    "Incredible views, nice fire rings, ample flat spaces for tents and vehicles. The sites are actually a bit to the north of the intersection."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Bailey, CO

572 Photos of 152 Bailey Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Bailey, CO

808 Reviews of 152 Bailey Campgrounds

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 20, 2024

    Kirby Gulch

    Worth the Rough Drive

    Kirby Gulch is a fantastic spot for anyone seeking a peaceful, off-the-grid camping experience near Grant, Colorado. Situated off Route 1038, this dispersed camping area offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching.

    The campsites are well-spaced, providing plenty of privacy, and the area is generally clean, thanks to considerate campers. Since it’s a dispersed site, there are no amenities like water or toilets, so make sure to come prepared. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for accessing some of the sites, especially after rain or snow.

    What makes Kirby Gulch truly special is its tranquility. You can enjoy the sound of the wind through the trees, the crisp mountain air, and dazzling stargazing at night. It’s also a great starting point for exploring nearby trails or simply soaking in the serene environment.

    If you’re comfortable with primitive camping and leave-no-trace principles, Kirby Gulch is a hidden gem worth checking out.

  • Kelly G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2021

    Grays Peak Summer Trailhead Dispersed Camping

    Great base camp for summiting Gray’s/Torrey’s

    Stevens Gulch Road (321) is a dirt road off of I-70 west of Denver in the Arapaho & Rosevelt National Forests and the Pawnee National Grasslands. It has amazing scenery and access to gorgeous hiking trails to summit Gray’s, Torrey’s and Kelso Peaks. It is a fairly mellow SUV road with plenty of space to pass other vehicles and you will occasionally see passenger cars as well. The road leads to a large parking lot that fills up fast with car overflow parking spilling down both sides of the road. There are pit toilets and bear proof trash cans at the parking lot. The road continues past the parking lot a very short ways to some dispersed campsites by a river that have stone campfire rings. Definitely filter this water as there are uphill toilet paper gardens along the climb to summit.

  • Meg G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2020

    Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping

    Spectacular - 4x4 is required to access.

    We drove our BRAND NEW 4x4 Revel and were nervous the entire trip up and back.  We are a high profile vehicle, luckily we had plenty of clearance but it was very nerve wracking both up and back.  It is about 7 miles of dirt road, and 4 miles of very challenging (for me) driving.

    Be sure to follow the sign LEFT to Chinns Lake.  When you arrive, there are several dispersed campsites around the lake.  All the spots have beautiful views and tons of space between other campers.  There are firepits (even though CO is on a fire ban) that  will be nice for future visits.  We visited on Sept 17-19, 2020, so the evenings are cold and the days short.  Additionally, the water level was very low.  

    The area is nice for hiking and exploring, and especially to get away from it all.  No cell phone service.

    As the weekend approached, there were several ATV's heading up for the day.  While we were there, only 3 other groups camping on the weekend.

    You will be at 11,000 feet looking at the Continental Divide!  THIS is Colorado camping!  Enjoy and please remember to leave no trace!

  • Karl G.
    May. 6, 2019

    Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    Dispersed Campsite with Views - Gordon Gulch (4x4 recommended)

    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. 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!

  • Doug C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 10, 2022

    Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping

    Choose Your Own Adventure From Rampart Range Road

    Rampart Range Road is the main dirt road that has plenty of smaller trails branching off of it to keep you busy exploring all summer. Rampart Range Road is accessible by 2wd vehicles while some of the smaller trails that branch off of Rampart Range Rd do better with a 4wd with high clearance. The southern portion of the road (south of Devils Head Trail) is open year around while the northern half of the road is closed seasonally during winter. Easily accessible outside of Woodland Park on the south end of the road and west through Sedalia. Lots of dispersed camping sites along the road, some are very large and could easily accommodate a large RV or large groups. Other campsites are tucked away off the road a little which is great because this road can be very busy & dusty in the summer. All in all, this place makes for a fun and easy weekend getaway as long as some ohv traffic doesn’t bother you too much. The best part of Rampart Range Road is the several forest service roads that branch off with dispersed camping. These smaller trails and dispersed camping make for a much more relaxing and peaceful weekend, I highly recommend if you have a 4x4. Find the right forest service road and you’ll feel like you are a million miles from it all.

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2023

    Tarryall Creek- Dispersed Camping

    Good but not great

    Tarryall creek dispersed camping. The road in is a bit bumpy. I would not trade in a low clearance vehicle. Four-wheel-drive is needed if it should get wet or slippery. Once you get onto the road, the sites are big and spacious. This is dispersed camping, so there is no water no electric and very little cell service. We have periodic two bars of Verizon. The sites are definitely big enough to accommodate big rigs. You just have to take the road really slowly on the way up. If you carry on all the way up to 10, you get to fenced areas where there is no camping so we took 293 off to the left and immediately after the Turner a couple of sites. We followed it all the way down for a long way. The road is incredibly bumpy and four-wheel-drive is absolutely necessary. Along with high clearance. I would not advise it for big rigs. The Site that we got just on the left after the turn walls reasonably wide. Big enough to get a big rig into. It’s pretty flat too but it’s also very exposed. There’s not a lot of shelter for our tent or our gazebo. The views are OK but nothing spectacular.

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2023

    Fraile’s Campground - Dispersed

    Huge sites on gnarly road

    CR 290 off Tarryall Rd. Campsites are all designated on 290 but there are numerous firepits on the side roads. The road to get up is very rutted. I recommend a high clearance vehicle. Definitely four wheel drive is required. I did see a Subaru forester up near the top. The sites are wide open once you get onto the plateau at the top. Easily could accommodate a big rig, but the issue would be getting it up the road. The views from the top are really nice. It opens out and you get some spectacular views of Pike National Forest. The sites are spacious with some pine tree coverage for tent campers. This would definitely be a possible back up spot if nothing on Matukat rd was available. Because they are dispersed there is no electrical hook ups or water. There’s no Creek running through the area. I imagine it would be really quiet and remote up here because the road to get in is going to deter a lot of people. We did find some spots with fire pits, but not sure you can camp there given there is no sign post reading designated campsite but they are off the main road so give it a try.

  • Eileen S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 1, 2021

    Peru Creek Designated Dispersed Camping

    Crowded Camping Near Keystone

    This is beautiful camping close to keystone and likewise gets crowded in the summer months. If you want a spot on a weekend, get there early. There are a few pull offs along the road suitable for most cars, but if you have a high clearance 4WD you can go on a few offshoot roads and find more spacious spots. No cell phone signal or water, and frequent fire bans in the summer.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 16, 2025

    Rollins Pass Dispersed Camping

    Great spot close to Winter Park

    Went up Rollins pass road (you can access it from the Lakota Trail neighborhood or down the road a bit on 80). The first gate was open but not the second or third to get to the top where there are def more spots and fire rings. You can only camp places where there are dots on the side of the road on the official county map. Check the Rollins pass website it’s very informative and a sacred land so leave no trace. We got one of the like 3-4 spots we saw with a fire ring that wasn’t taken yet. (No fire ban 6/14/25 I check don’t worry :).. Some back trails are very hairy, pretty busy with motor vehicles but a lot of the new electric dirt bikes which don’t make much noise, probably 10-15 ppl the entire night riding by only once. Got great weather and the main trail is pretty easy up to the second gate which is supposed to be open June 15-Sept 15 I think.

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

Where are the best spots for dispersed camping near Bailey, Colorado?

Several excellent dispersed camping areas surround Bailey. Tarryall Creek- Dispersed Camping offers spacious sites, though the access road requires high clearance and 4WD, especially in wet conditions. The Bailey area also connects to Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite, which provides free camping and accommodates larger vehicles. For those willing to venture slightly further, the Pike National Forest surrounding Bailey contains numerous unmarked pull-offs with established fire rings. Most sites in this region lack facilities (no water, electricity, or toilets), so come prepared with supplies and practice Leave No Trace principles. Popular areas fill quickly on summer weekends, so arrive early to secure a spot, particularly during peak season (May-September).

Is County Road 31 a good area for dispersed camping near Bailey?

County Road 31 offers good dispersed camping opportunities near Bailey, though specific conditions should be considered. Similar to nearby Fraile's Campground - Dispersed off Tarryall Road, CR 31 has designated sites with established fire rings. The road can be quite rutted in sections, making high-clearance vehicles recommended and 4WD necessary in wet conditions. Some side roads branching from the main route provide additional camping opportunities for those with appropriate vehicles. The area features beautiful mountain scenery and access to outdoor activities, but lacks amenities like water or toilets. Weekends can become crowded during summer months, so midweek visits or early arrival are advised. Always check current Forest Service regulations before camping, as rules may change seasonally.

Are there any free camping options along Highway 285 near Bailey?

Yes, free camping options exist along Highway 285 near Bailey. Kirby Gulch is a fantastic free option situated off Route 1038 near Grant, offering peaceful sites with mountain views and convenient highway access. Another option is Bruno Gulch Dispersed, also near Grant and accessible from Highway 285. These areas typically have no facilities (no water, toilets, or hookups), so campers should be self-sufficient. Most sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, requiring no reservations or permits, though you should still follow Forest Service regulations regarding stay limits (typically 14 days maximum). Access roads vary in quality, with some suitable for standard vehicles while others need high clearance. Always pack out all trash and follow fire restrictions, which are common in summer months.

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