Dispersed camping near Bayfield, Colorado offers free and low-cost options in the San Juan National Forest. Most sites sit between 7,000-8,500 feet elevation with pine and aspen forests providing natural shade. Winter weather typically closes higher elevation forest service roads from November through April, while summer thunderstorms often develop in afternoons above 8,000 feet.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Lower Piedra River Camp provides multiple fishing spots along the river. "Great camping area, stayed here for just one night. There was plenty of camping areas along the river. About 8 spots. Some were large enough to handle RVs," notes Ben H. about Lower Piedra River Camp.
Waterfall viewing: Forest Road 316 offers access to seasonal waterfalls from spring snowmelt. "This road can accommodate all kinds of camping. We didn't have to drive very far to find a good spot. Where we camped could fit all size rigs," shares Karla R. about the Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp.
Wildlife spotting: Early mornings provide the best chances for seeing elk herds and other wildlife. "Beautiful view overlooking the valley. This spot was about 4 miles down Hermosa Park Rd. Full of wildlife, Bear, elk, fox and the marmot highway," notes Kendrick from Hermosa Park Road Dispersed.
What campers like
Mountain views: Bay City Campground provides small but scenic riverside sites. "We camped in early May. There are 3 (maybe 4) spots and it's beautiful! The CG is about a half mile from the end of the pavement," explains Julie K. about Bay City Campground.
Seasonal solitude: Winter camping at Cherry Creek Gravel Lot remains accessible when other areas close. "Only free place near Durango in the winter. We called and asked the BLM & Forest Service. Easy access, lots of space. Bumpy access road and highway noise," reports Nicole V. about Cherry Creek Gravel Lot.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain skies offer exceptional night viewing. "The stars were BEAUTIFUL! This is a great spot for stargazers too," comments Kelsey I. about Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require careful navigation. "If Google maps has you routed to take rd 58 just north of Rico, don't do it. The real entrance is through Purgatory Resort," warns Evan H. about Hermosa Park Road Dispersed.
Download offline maps: Cell service is inconsistent across the region. "Nice remote site stayed for two nights in mid june, make sure to download maps before you go as there is no cell service, road is doable for all cars," advises Kyle O.
Fire restrictions: Regulations change seasonally, particularly during dry periods. "We set up our tent here for 2 days. It is completely free, and you are able to get into the site with a 2WD car. Fire pits were already there and there is pretty much unlimited space," notes Leah W. about Priest Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water areas: Priest Lake offers kid-friendly fishing spots. "The kids enjoyed being able to fish though with little supervision since the lake is really quite shallow and it's very close to the sites," shares Melissa K. about Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area.
Quiet locations: Some sites provide peaceful settings away from road noise. "This is a great area to camp. I was there at the end of August on a week night. There was a little vehicle traffic on the road but at night it is quiet," describes Robert S.
Early arrival strategy: Most sites fill by Friday afternoon during peak seasons. "We arrived around 7pm and were able to find a place to park, but if you have a larger vehicle or need a spot for a tent, I'd try to arrive a bit earlier," suggests Julia L.
Tips from RVers
Site selection criteria: Not all dispersed areas accommodate larger vehicles. "Extremely quiet campsite, not a lot of traffic, and the views….WOW! We stayed from Thursday to Tuesday in the big camping spot. It was plenty big for 2 cars, 2 tents, and a common area for us to sit around the campfire," reports Misty B. about Turkey Creek Road.
Generator considerations: Sound carries in mountain valleys. "Nice free spot to pull off of the road. Climb a gravel hill (doable in my 23ft class b) to get to 5 or so dispersed spots. Some have a view others have trails," explains Tara I.
Parking logistics: Some sites require strategic positioning. "Dirt road off the highway into the San Juan National First. 4 designated campsites along the road with fire pits. Road dead ends after about 3 miles. Our site had a pull through driveway of sorts with enough room by the fire pit for a tent or 2," describes Brandon F.
