Best Dispersed Camping near Beulah, CO

Several dispersed camping options exist in the areas surrounding Beulah, Colorado, primarily on BLM land and within state wildlife areas. Lake Deweese State Wildlife Area provides primitive camping with vault toilets at the northeast end of the reservoir. Penrose BLM sites and Penrose Common Recreation Site feature free camping areas accessible via dirt roads, while other options include Phantom Canyon, Ophir Creek Road, and South Colony Basin for more remote experiences. Most sites require no reservations and follow standard public land camping protocols.

Many access roads to these dispersed sites require cautious driving and some demand high-clearance vehicles. South Colony Basin specifically requires 4WD for the extremely rough, rocky roads. Penrose sites have roads that become progressively rougher the further in you travel. Camping at Lake Deweese requires a Colorado State Wildlife Areas permit (approximately $40 annually) or a valid fishing/hunting license. Most BLM areas maintain the standard 14-day stay limit. No water, electric hookups, or services are available at any of these sites, and fire restrictions frequently apply during dry seasons.

The region's dispersed camping provides varying degrees of solitude and natural settings. "It's very Rocky but if you take it slow, shouldn't have any issues," noted one visitor about Penrose Common Rec Site. Lake Deweese offers mountain views and fishing opportunities, though recent reviews mention toxic algae warnings preventing swimming. Several campers reported excellent stargazing during new moon phases, with one mentioning "you can see the Milky Way." Wildlife viewing, fishing, and hiking trails are accessible from many sites. Visitors should be prepared for occasional heavy OHV and ATV traffic on weekends, particularly in the Penrose area, where one camper described it as "very loud during the day."

Best Dispersed Sites Near Beulah, Colorado (36)

    1. Ophir Creek Road

    1 Review
    Beulah, CO
    7 miles

    "It’s an easy drive from Westcliff. Too easy. I expected crowds of out of state tourists and maybe a few locals."

    2. Penrose Common Rec Site

    11 Reviews
    Penrose, CO
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 269-8500

    "Road in is rough, but manageable with a high clearance vehicle. Plenty of space to spread out. Popular with those ATV things. Pit toilet, no trash."

    "There’s lots of trails in the area (OHV) but other than that, not much else to do. There is a clean vault toilet at the entrance, no trash services. Plenty of spots as you keep driving up the hill."

    3. Lake Deweese state wildlife area

    8 Reviews
    Westcliffe, CO
    27 miles
    Website

    "This is dispersed camping. There are pit toilets but no other services or amenities."

    "This is a great dispersed camping spot with outhouses around the lake for convenience, well kept and clean! DO NOT let kids or dogs in water, as there is a level red warning for toxic algae!!"

    4. Medano Pass Primitive Road — Great Sand Dunes National Preserve

    9 Reviews
    Crestone, CO
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 378-6395

    "Medano Pass is the route it's believed that Pike took into the San Luis Valley, and is one of the only primitive roads accessing the valley."

    "Definitely need 4 wheel drive and decently high clearance. I only saw Jeeps, 4 runners, and trucks. Rocky and steep at parts, it was pretty damn rough."

    6. Penrose BLM sites

    2 Reviews
    Penrose, CO
    29 miles

    "These are blm campsites. There are pit toilets right when you cross into blm land and a sign that explains that you have to camp in designated areas. Like most blm locations there is a 14 day max."

    "I was the only one around camping when I was there. Super peaceful! The reservoir is 10 minutes away too which is great for fishing and paddle boarding."

    7. The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    9 Reviews
    Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, CO
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 378-6395

    "Backcountry dispersed camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park offers an unforgettable and truly unique wilderness experience."

    "It's tent camping only, and no pets are allowed in the back country dunes. You also need to pack everything you need in with you and leave no trace."

    8. Phantom Canyon

    5 Reviews
    Penrose, CO
    34 miles

    "I’m a rooftop tent camper and the views are amazing but was hoping to be close to the water and isolated from other campers."

    "Dispersed area that is very spread out so you are not near others. Also has access to climbing walls right by sites."

    9. South Colony Basin

    2 Reviews
    Crestone, CO
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "To get to the campground you must first brave the road to the trailhead. If you have a 4x4 truck/SUV the road is achievable but very rough."

    10. Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed

    15 Reviews
    Victor, CO
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "Amazing location right next to Boehmer Creek. There are 5 or 6 sites mainly for tents. You might be able ti get an rv in there but low hanging trees and narrow rutted trails would be a problem."

    "Make sure to bring your bug spray. Nice fire pit and gorgeous views. Saw fish in stream a couple of deer and tons of chipmunks. Saw a little trash here and there."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Beulah, CO

127 Reviews of 36 Beulah Campgrounds


  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 15, 2024

    The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    Wild and Untamed

    Backcountry dispersed camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park offers an unforgettable and truly unique wilderness experience. If you’re seeking solitude and raw, untamed landscapes, this is the perfect spot to pitch your tent. With no designated sites, you have the freedom to find your ideal spot beyond the busy dunes and under an expansive star-filled sky.

    The journey begins with a hike deep into the park’s rugged terrain, where you’re surrounded by towering sand dunes, alpine forests, and sweeping views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The lack of light pollution makes stargazing an absolute highlight—this is one of the best places to witness the Milky Way.

    Keep in mind, this is true backcountry camping: no facilities, no water sources, and you must pack out all waste. Permits are required, so be sure to plan ahead. The environment can be challenging, with extreme temperature swings and strong winds that shift the sand beneath your feet. Good preparation and Leave No Trace practices are a must.

    The rewards are well worth the effort. From sunrise hikes to the serene sound of nothing but wind across the dunes, this camping experience immerses you in nature’s raw beauty like few others can. It’s an adventure you’ll carry with you long after you’ve left the dunes behind.

    Highly recommend skipping the tent and sleeping under the stars!

  • Izzy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 4, 2022

    Penrose Common Rec Site

    Delightful af

    Road in is rough, but manageable with a high clearance vehicle. Plenty of space to spread out. Popular with those ATV things. Pit toilet, no trash. Not many trees, but a great view of the surrounding area. T-mobile service was good enough to get some work and school done. Close enough to groceries and other stores. Love this spot.

  • Charles L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Phantom Canyon

    Late July camping trip

    I’m a rooftop tent camper and the views are amazing but was hoping to be close to the water and isolated from other campers. Definitely was isolated and found one spot that worked out well for rooftop camper. Like 14 miles on dirt road, on the right, 20 feet before a sign that reads “leaving public land.” Had fire ring and more than enough room. About 20 yards away from creek. Quiet. No Att cell service but don’t expect anyone can get service in that canyon.

  • Elias M.
    Jan. 23, 2025

    Penrose BLM sites

    Beautiful views of the mountains and the town

    These are blm campsites. There are pit toilets right when you cross into blm land and a sign that explains that you have to camp in designated areas. Like most blm locations there is a 14 day max.

    We got our 19 foot travel trailer into a spot with icy conditions, but the road does get quite a bit rougher if you keep going in. Great T-Mobile and Verizon service (2+ bars of 5g)

  • Jason L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2019

    Medano Pass Primitive Road — Great Sand Dunes National Preserve

    4 wheel drive required

    Medano Pass is the route it's believed that Pike took into the San Luis Valley, and is one of the only primitive roads accessing the valley. The road starts in the Great Sand Dunes National Park, and runs over the mountain and exits on RT 69, or if you want an easy up and hard way down the mountain start off RT 69 and go to the dunes. From 69 to the top of the pass takes about an hour, and you only need high clearance 4 wheel drive for the last two miles of the 12 mile journey to the top. That's not the route we took.

    We started at Point of No Return in the Great Sand Dunes National Park, don't worry there are plenty of places to turn back if you get nervous. There's DEEP sand throughout the first six miles, I aired down to 50 from 65, LOL. I figured I'd make it on 35's 12.5" wide, but I can definitely see where as the Sand ets softer I would have gone down to the recommended 20psi. If your going over the mountain have an air compressor to fill your tires when you get to the rocks. There's air at the ampitheater parking lot at the National Park, but no air on RT 69 until you get to a gas station at least twenty miles away.

    We made it no issues, buy squeezing a super crew cab, F 250 through was TIGHT! It was FUN though, and my God the place is breathtaking!

    Campsites start about five miles in and are spread all the way to the top of Medano Pass. This is National Preserve land, and it is primitive camping. There are fire pits and bear boxes, use the bear boxes as bear encounters are frequent. The sites are clearly marked, and nice size. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO TAKE A TRAILER, if you do you won't make it, I promise you that.

    The Park, Preserve, and Forrest boundaries are clearly marked. To camp along the Great Sand Dunes National Park and the Preserve area of the road you must have a permit, free at the visitor center. I suggest reservations. After the Preserve it is a National Forrest and its first come first serve primitive camping only. You can stay for up to 14 days, as with most National land.

    The 12 mile trip up from the Park takes about 4 hours, yes it's that rough. AND you will stop alot to take in the amazing views.

    Even if you don't camp, take the drive, it's worth it. You will need high clearance 4 wheel drive, all wheel drive will not cut it here.

  • Jason L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2019

    The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    Get lost in the desert dunes

    Absolutely beautiful Sand dunes in the mountains, it actually smells like an ocean beach and makes you feel like your on another world. The Dunes are 30 square miles and you can camp anywhere in them with a free permit available at the visitor center, just have to hike in past the first ridge aka the day use area. It's tent camping only, and no pets are allowed in the back country dunes. You also need to pack everything you need in with you and leave no trace. The winds blow often and hard, moving enough Sand to cover you tracks in minutes. The views of the sky and stars are absolutely mesmerizing, one of the most beautiful Sand fields in the world. The creek that runs through the day use area can fluctuate in size daily, it wasn't high when we were there, but it was still flowing half way through the day use area. A must see destination if your in the San Luis Valley.

  • Fred S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 20, 2023

    BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed

    San Luis Valley View

    Not far from Great Sand Dunes national Park & Zapata Falls, this free dispersed campsite, as well as others along unpaved Mount Blanca Road, provide wonderful views. One side are mountains, and the other San Luis Valley. This particular dispersed site is just off the rocky road as one starts to climb the slope toward the mountains. Mount Blanca Road starts out very easy with no obstacles & washouts, but becomes bumpy and, at some places, technical, as one drives up the slope. The road has washouts and large rocks on it. The site itself was not level, but we managed okay with our campervan. The site is very close to the road; other campers, overlanders & hikers greeting you as they pass by. This site, as well as others along the road, are wide open. There were a few clumps of junipers where we were able to hide our toilet setup. The site was a short pull-thru with a rock fire ring and a small area to set up a tent. Separation between dispersed sites is really good, giving one some privacy. The site was clean. There are no amenities: no water, no electric, no shelter, no toilets. Pack it in, pack it out. We did have reasonable AT&T & T-Mobile service. It was windy & cool at night. Except for an occasional ATV passing by, it was quiet. Enjoy our stay; would not hesitate to camp here again.

  • Morgan E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 23, 2024

    BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed

    Dispersed Mountain Views !

    This campsite is very popular, I would definitely recommend arriving early morning time to secure a spot. We got in fairly late in the night from Texas and had to drive in a ways. Many people left early in the morning so sites opened up fairly quickly. The road is graded and then turns into a rocky road that is manageable in a crossover for a ways then high clearance will be needed. There was a small flooded portion that is next to the helipad but we just drove up onto the helipad to get around it as to not risk getting stuck. There are plenty of sites available and even a circle drive in the front of the road if you don’t feel like venturing in during the night. There are A TON of flies! Lots of bug spray and loose clothing to avoid those pesky biting flies. We had a beautiful view of the mountain and Great Sand dunes is a short 20 minutes away. Our pups loved the large open spaces but beware of cacti and tiny burrs.

  • Vanessa C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 6, 2023

    Great Sand Dunes Dispersed

    Gorgeous views & noise canceling winds

    There are three dispersed sites listed along this road with the first being flat and open, the second being slightly uphill and fairly open, and the third being higher uphill and far more private. We kept driving until we found a spot that was both uphill and private, which definitely requires a vehicle with some height to it like an SUV rather than a sedan. The road to the third and farthest site became too rocky for some cars and horses to continue on, but my AWD SUV did great.

    The camping spots in this site all have fire pits, edible prickly pear cactuses, and some shrubbery and trees for privacy. Verizon and T-Mobile service worked well. When the wind was forecasted to be 7mph with 15mph gusts, it was enough to cancel the noise from a group of campers a few spots down. It’s a generally quiet area, so with the except of that group, you could only notice other campers if they walked, biked, or drove past the spot.

    The views were phenomenal, and it was a 30 minute drive to the sand dunes. You could also check out Zapata Falls for the day with a short drive from this campsite.

    There are no amenities other than fire pits in designated spots here. There is open BLM land on either side where many RVers chose to park down the hill. You can also split away from the designated spots in the upper rocky area for extra seclusion and privacy, but considering the amount of cactus and tall grass, that may only be good for car camping.

    The temperature almost went down to freezing at night in early June, so be prepared with layers for both hot and cold desert conditions.

    In our camp spot we saw mountain blue birds, tiger beetles, circus beetles, hover flies, common flies, plateau fence lizards, snake holes, pocket mice, deer droppings, prickly pear cactus (we prepared grilled nopales), and pinyon pine trees.


Guide to Beulah

Primitive camping near Beulah, Colorado provides access to diverse terrain at elevations ranging from 5,800 to 9,000 feet throughout the surrounding mountains and valleys. The region experiences typical mountain weather patterns with afternoon thunderstorms common in summer months and occasional fire restrictions from June through September. Campsites in this area often feature rocky, uneven terrain that requires careful site selection for comfortable tent placement.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Lake Deweese state wildlife area offers stocked fishing, though visitors should be aware of occasional water quality issues. "This is dispersed camping. There are pit toilets but no other services or amenities. Colorado State wild life areas (SWA) require a permit that's ~$40 a year, or if you have a year fishing or hunting lisence you camp for free," notes one Lake Deweese state wildlife area reviewer.

Off-highway vehicle trails: The Penrose area provides extensive OHV and ATV trails for motorized recreation. "Lots of ATV and people coming up to use the trail for those purposes. Large trucks and rigs can still make it fairly far up the road," mentions a reviewer about Penrose Common Rec Site.

Hiking exploration: For those seeking more remote experiences, trails near Phantom Canyon offer varied terrain and solitude. "We took some walks past others near the creek that looked like they had just hosted full on frat parties," notes one camper, highlighting the importance of finding more secluded spots in popular areas.

What campers like

Creek access: Many dispersed sites offer proximity to flowing water, which provides both practical benefits and natural ambiance. "We found a nice little spot in the trees a couple minute walk from the lake and a stream. This was perfect for getting water and doing some afternoon fishing," shares a visitor to South Colony Basin.

Seclusion options: Several areas provide opportunities to camp away from crowds, particularly during weekdays. "It wasn't level enough so I dont think I will be back but I loved it, I spend 10 days and I have no complaints with temp of 65-45 it was womderful taking off the crazy storm with having hailing one night," explains a camper at Seven Lakes Road Forest Service Road 376.

Varied terrain: The region offers everything from desert-like environments to alpine settings. "Dispersed camping on BLM land. Looks like some 'permanent' residents out here. Dirty firepit and one trash pile encountered- cleaned these w/o much work, overall not much litter. Hot, dusty, cacti, cedar trees- kind of a cool Great American Desert experience," describes one camper.

What you should know

Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans frequently impact primitive camping near Beulah during dry periods, particularly summer and fall. Always check current restrictions before planning campfires.

Road conditions: Many access routes require appropriate vehicles for safe passage. "The road was pretty bumpy, windy and very narrow in some areas but nothing too crazy," notes a camper, while others report much more challenging conditions depending on location.

Variable cell service: Connectivity differs dramatically between camping areas. "I believe it was the 3rd to last pull out and the last one on the left side of the road. Stunning… but the smell from previous campers unsuccessfully trying to burn their trash in the fire rings and all the litter was a bit overwhelming," reports one Phantom Canyon visitor, highlighting both connectivity issues and trash concerns.

Permit requirements: Some areas require specific permits beyond standard camping regulations. "This is posted as a free dispersed camping area. However I think a fishing license or other wildlife passes are required. Plenty of areas to choose from," explains a Lake Deweese visitor.

Tips for camping with families

Site security: Choose camping areas with established boundaries and multiple access points. "The spot was down a dirt road for a while. When you get there you will see some bathrooms and open spaces. The first few spaces can easily fit a full sized camper trailer but after that I wouldn't suggest going too far," advises a camper.

Weather preparation: Mountain storms can develop quickly, requiring appropriate gear and shelter. "In the late afternoon there was one of the biggest storms I've ever experienced. The thunder was loud, extended and close! Leaving did cross my mind. But two hours later it was quiet again. Glad I stayed," shares an Ophir Creek Road visitor.

Wildlife awareness: The region hosts diverse wildlife requiring proper food storage and waste management. "Only animal I heard was some cows. It was a rather simple campground but quiet and far from people. The stars are beautiful at night," mentions one camper about their experience.

Tips from RVers

Access limitations: Many primitive sites near Beulah have limited RV accessibility. "Easy to find. Went early July 2024. Tons of open spots and only saw one other camper a couple hundred yards away. Make sure to bring your bug spray. Nice fire pit and gorgeous views," notes one camper, though mentioning nothing about RV access specifically.

Leveling challenges: Finding level spots for larger rigs requires advanced scouting. "These are blm campsites. There are pit toilets right when you cross into blm land and a sign that explains that you have to camp in designated areas. Like most blm locations there is a 14 day max. We got our 19 foot travel trailer into a spot with icy conditions, but the road does get quite a bit rougher if you keep going in," explains a visitor to Penrose BLM sites.

Resource management: No hookups or dump stations exist in these areas, requiring complete self-sufficiency. "Great campsites! Campsites are spacious and all have a great view. Awesome spot to ride dirt bikes, side by sides, etc. I was the only one around camping when I was there. Super peaceful! The reservoir is 10 minutes away too which is great for fishing and paddle boarding," shares another Penrose BLM sites camper.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping in Beulah Valley?

Dispersed camping options near Beulah Valley include Phantom Canyon, which offers isolated sites about 14 miles down a dirt road with stunning views. You'll find spots suitable for rooftop tents and small campers. Another option is Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed, which provides multiple dispersed sites. These areas typically require high clearance vehicles for access. Look for established pullouts and cleared areas that show signs of previous use while following Leave No Trace principles.

What permits are required for dispersed camping in Beulah, Colorado?

Most dispersed camping in the Beulah area on BLM or National Forest land doesn't require specific permits, though you must follow the 14-day stay limit. For unique experiences like The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park, free permits are available at the visitor center for overnight stays. Always check with local ranger districts before your trip as requirements can change seasonally. Some areas may implement fire restrictions during dry periods, requiring additional permits for campfires or prohibiting them entirely.

What amenities or facilities are available at dispersed camping sites in Beulah Valley?

Dispersed camping sites near Beulah Valley typically offer very few amenities. At Penrose Common Rec Site, you'll find basic pit toilets but no trash service. Similarly, Penrose BLM sites provide pit toilets at the entrance to BLM land. Most dispersed sites have no running water, electricity, or developed facilities. You'll need to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste following Leave No Trace principles. Cell service varies by location, with some sites reporting adequate coverage for basic needs.