Best Dispersed Camping near Berthoud, CO

Berthoud is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Berthoud is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Berthoud, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Berthoud, Colorado (97)

    1. Hell Canyon Dispersed

    29 Reviews
    Pinewood Springs, CO
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "4x4 drive is a requirement. Good Verizon signal. Narrow road, however not busy at all. Stayed here for 4 days, no issue. The Google Maps directions is slightly wrong."

    "Turn just before or after Yogi Bear Campground and go up the decently maintained dirt road. (You will pass RVs at the beginning of the road as you head up)."

    2. Allenspark Dispersed Camping

    28 Reviews
    Allenspark, CO
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "Fire ban was in effect when we went, but lots of fire circles available otherwise. Bring bug spray, the flies are bold."

    "Was super simple to access. the coordinates take   you to the beginning of the rural part of Ski road."

    3. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    54 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    32 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."

    4. Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed

    33 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    28 miles
    Website

    "We were right up on the lake but turns out it's private property and you cannot even go up to the water."

    "You are pinned up against private property around the lake, the camp sites are in the dirt area when you get to the lake down to the left."

    5. Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot

    9 Reviews
    Pinewood Springs, CO
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "Awesome scenic drive, great spacious spot. But only for one party. If someone else is there, you're outta luck. Fire road is gated off so no other options."

    "Keep driving down Ski road until you find a fork in the road, and from there onwards are the campsites. Good whitenoise from the creek"

    6. Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping

    22 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    28 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."

    "Went on a Tuesday afternoon and there was foot traffic around our spot from people headed on hikes."

    7. Gold Lake Area Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    27 miles

    "My GPS from the coordinates just took me to the nearest town of Ward, CO.

    This is how I got there coming from the North:

    Take RT72 South to County Road 100."

    "Many spots along the CR once you find it, came in around 4pm on a Friday and there were still plenty of spots but started filling up fast. By 7pm, people were turning around as no spots were left."

    8. Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Jamestown, CO
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 541-2500

    $1 / night

    "My son and I joined a friend from Longmont and headed to this trail to camp for a couple days."

    "We went here with our 2 dogs for a quick overnighter-only about 45 minutes outside of Boulder. It was a Sunday morning and the lot was almost full when we got there around 9am."

    9. Pole Hill Rd Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Drake, CO
    20 miles

    "New Bronco in front of me turned around.  Once past the obstacles (which is why we do this, right?) lots of nice camping.  The only drawback is the large power lines in the vicinity.   No Verizon. "

    10. West Magnolia Campground

    26 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    36 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."

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Showing results 1-10 of 97 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Berthoud, CO

499 Reviews of 97 Berthoud Campgrounds



Guide to Berthoud

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Berthoud, Colorado, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning views and a variety of landscapes, these areas offer a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Berthoud, Colorado

  • Make sure to bring a high-clearance vehicle, especially if you plan to visit places like Hell Canyon Dispersed, where the roads can be narrow and require 4WD.
  • Always check for road conditions before heading out, as some areas like Forest Road 119 may be closed or difficult to access due to weather or maintenance.
  • Pack out what you pack in, as many dispersed camping spots, including Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot, do not provide trash services.

Dispersed campers should check out Hell Canyon Dispersed

  • This spot is known for its spacious areas and minimal crowds, making it ideal for those seeking solitude in nature.
  • Campers have reported great Verizon coverage, which is a plus for those who need to stay connected while enjoying the outdoors.
  • Be mindful of fire regulations, as some visitors have had encounters with rangers regarding campfires.

Scenic views and accessibility at Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot

  • Located near a creek, this area offers a peaceful ambiance and is perfect for those who enjoy the sound of flowing water.
  • While some spots may require 4WD, there are accessible areas for everyone, making it a versatile choice for various camping setups.
  • The proximity to Estes Park allows for easy day trips to explore more of Colorado's natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Berthoud?

The Berthoud area offers several free dispersed camping options in the surrounding mountains. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area provides approximately 15 numbered sites along Forest Road 233.1, with additional unnumbered sites further down the road offering better views. For those with 4WD vehicles, Pole Hill Rd Dispersed provides free camping, though access can be challenging and requires high clearance. Additional options include West Magnolia Campground near Nederland and various spots throughout Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest. Most sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early on weekdays is recommended, especially during peak camping season when sites fill quickly.

What amenities or facilities are available at Berthoud dispersed camping areas?

Dispersed camping areas near Berthoud are primitive with minimal to no amenities. At Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping, you'll find established sites with fire rings near a stream, but no formal facilities. Similarly, Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping offers beautiful lakeside spots but no developed amenities. Most dispersed sites have no potable water, toilets, trash service, or hookups for RVs. You must pack in all necessary supplies including water and pack out all waste. Cell service is typically limited or non-existent. Some areas have established fire rings from previous campers, but you should be prepared for fully self-sufficient camping and bring portable toilets or waste disposal systems.

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Berthoud?

Dispersed camping near Berthoud follows standard National Forest regulations. At Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest Dispersed Camping, you must camp in established sites with existing fire rings, typically located along back roads away from private property. Stay limits are generally 14 days within a 30-day period. Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash. Campfires may be restricted during dry seasons, so check current fire bans before your trip. At Rollins Pass Dispersed Camping, camping is only permitted in designated areas marked by dots along the roadside. Always respect gate closures and private property boundaries. Most areas require camping at least 100 feet from water sources and 150 feet from roadways.