Best Dispersed Camping near Boulder, CO

The Boulder area has several dispersed camping zones within driving distance of town. Most spots in the national forest require at least 30 minutes of driving on dirt roads that get rough after rain. You'll need to haul in all your water and supplies since there are no facilities at these primitive sites. The closest grocery stores and gas stations are back in Boulder, so stock up before heading out. Campers must follow the 100-foot rule - keeping camps at least that far from any water sources or roads. Most areas limit stays to 14 days before you need to move on. Higher clearance vehicles work best for accessing the more remote sites, especially after storms when washouts can happen. Fire bans are common throughout summer and fall, so bring a camp stove instead of planning on campfires. The dispersed areas around Boulder get crowded on weekends from May through September. Spring camping means dealing with mud, while fall brings beautiful colors but cold nights. Winter camping is possible but challenging due to snow-covered access roads. Most sites have no cell service, so download maps before leaving town. Wildlife is common in these areas, so proper food storage is necessary to avoid attracting bears and other animals.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Boulder, Colorado (97)

    1. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    50 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    14 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."

    "There isn't much free camping to be had in the Boulder area. So, our family has been grateful for this spot (and Magnolia Ridge nearby)."

    2. Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping

    20 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    9 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."

    "Safe for car camping. Make sure you follow the stay on road signs."

    3. Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed

    29 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    16 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."

    "It's about 50 minutes from Boulder, and you lose service about 40 minutes out, so it's great if you plan on staying for a least a couple days."

    4. West Magnolia Campground

    26 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    16 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."

    5. Allenspark Dispersed Camping

    23 Reviews
    Allenspark, CO
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "About 1 hour from Boulder. Was super simple to access. the coordinates take   you to the beginning of the rural part of Ski road."

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

    6. Gross Reservoir Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "Definitely need a high clearance vehicle. I saw a low clearance vehicle at site 6 & no idea how they got there.. they had to have gotten scraped up."

    "Great camping about 31 dispersed spots most with tables and a fire ring decent trout fishing a great kayaking feels remote without being so remote."

    7. Gold Lake Area Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    12 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."

    "Took a chance on this place for Saturday camping, arrived here around 10am, so many spots!"

    8. Forest Road 332 Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "We tent camped one night here, arrived at 3pm on a Friday, and found a site on the north side of the road."

    "If you go further down the road a high clearance vehicle is necessary the road gets worse as you go further. Lots of trash at the campsite. Overall, woke up to a nice view of mountains."

    9. Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Jamestown, CO
    13 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."

    10. North Boulder Creek Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "The drive can be a little rough so make sure you have plenty of clearance"

    "There is a container of water that is provided along the entrance Road for drowning fire pits. Verizon signal is very spotty. I was able to find one available spot that had two bars."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Boulder, CO

506 Reviews of 97 Boulder Campgrounds



Guide to Boulder

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

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The Gold Lake Area Dispersed offers breathtaking views and plenty of space, making it a favorite for those seeking picturesque surroundings.
  • At Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed, campers can enjoy beautiful vistas while being close to hiking trails, perfect for a day of exploration.
  • For a more secluded experience, check out York Gulch Road, where dark skies provide an excellent backdrop for stargazing.

Outdoor Activities While Free Camping Near Boulder

  • The West Magnolia Campground is known for its extensive hiking and mountain biking trails, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • If fishing is on your agenda, head to Gross Reservoir Dispersed, where you can cast a line and enjoy the peaceful waters.
  • For those who love to explore, Hell Canyon Dispersed provides access to rugged terrain perfect for off-roading and hiking adventures.

Unique Features for Dispersed Camping Enthusiasts

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Boulder, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Boulder, CO is Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area with a 3.6-star rating from 50 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Boulder, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 97 dispersed camping locations near Boulder, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.