Tent camping around Black Hawk, Colorado offers outdoor experiences between 8,000-9,700 feet elevation in the Roosevelt National Forest. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing even in summer months, with campers needing to prepare for conditions that can change rapidly. Most dispersed areas require proper food storage due to wildlife activity, particularly bears that are common throughout the region.
What to do
Fishing access: Several campgrounds offer proximity to fishing spots. At Robbers Roost Campground, a stream runs nearby for anglers. As one camper noted, "There is a stream as well as a few trails branching off from the campsites" making it convenient for fishing during your stay.
Mushroom foraging: The forested areas around Black Hawk provide seasonal mushroom hunting opportunities. Near Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail, one visitor reported, "We wanted to send a trip last minute but knew it would be tough on a holiday weekend. Ended up being multiple spots available and it wasn't too crowded... The weather changes drastically up there and all three days we got 3/5 hours of rain." These wet conditions create ideal mushroom growing environments.
Reservoir recreation: Non-motorized boating options exist at select sites. According to a camper at Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir, "The Winiger Ridge campground is at the end of forest road 359 on the west side of the reservoir. There are around 30 well spread out campsites - some on the shoreline and some covered by forest." Note that swimming is prohibited as this is Denver's drinking water.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, one visitor shared, "Moose visitors at dawn and evening, and hungry bears scavenging for food at night is a common occurrence. Luckily my car alarm scared them off pretty easily."
Solitude: Camping during weekdays significantly reduces crowds. A camper at Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir reported, "Had a great time here with hardly anyone there so very peaceful." Timing your visit for non-holiday weekdays increases chances for quieter camping experiences.
Aspen groves: The forest around Black Hawk features stands of aspen trees, particularly beautiful during fall. One visitor to Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area observed, "I spent multiple days at this site due to its remote beauty. Campsites far apart, and it was quiet other than the occasional atv. Lots of chipmunks and hummingbirds due to the many wild flowers... Lots of Aspen!"
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. A camper at Dream Canyon Campsites warned, "The ditch getting into the parking lot is bruuutal so 4WD is necessary." Always check recent road conditions before attempting access in standard passenger vehicles.
Temperature fluctuations: Nighttime temperatures drop significantly even in summer. At Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail, one camper noted, "The weather changes drastically up there and all three days we got 3/5 hours of rain." Pack additional layers even for summer camping.
Noise considerations: Some sites experience unexpected noise pollution. A visitor to Robbers Roost Campground observed, "You can hear the highway very well... Probably won't come here again due to the highway noise, but it is a very nice place to camp." Research site-specific noise factors before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Site size planning: Family tent camping requires adequate space. At Aspen Meadows Campground, a camper reported, "Tent pad was big enough to squeeze two 3-person tents and a 6-person tent (barely)." Reserve larger sites when camping with multiple family members.
Accessibility options: Some areas offer gentler terrain for younger campers. One visitor at Aspen Meadows shared, "Panorama Point offers amazing views that even my 70 year old parents were able to join us on... Frazer Meadows is also a fun hike that you can easily accomplish with a kid carrier."
Wildlife precautions: Proper food storage is essential with children. A camper at Gordon Gulch warned about "hungry bears scavenging for food at night" being common. Always use bear boxes when provided or secure food in vehicles overnight.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: RV camping options near Black Hawk are limited by terrain. At The Lost Site, a visitor noted, "Probably about a mile into the woods on very smooth dirt roads, a lot of places to park," making it one of the more accessible options for larger vehicles.
Leveling challenges: Finding flat parking for RVs can be difficult. A Robbers Roost camper warned, "If you have a tent, depending on what sites are left, it can be very tricky to find level ground. Half the sites are on a slope. There are only one to two spots max for vehicles per spot." Bring leveling blocks and scout sites before committing.
Seasonal considerations: Late spring through early fall offers the most reliable RV camping. A visitor to The Lost Site observed, "Good accessible option for altitude as it was snowing further up the pass at the time." Always check weather forecasts and road conditions before bringing an RV to higher elevation sites.
