Dispersed camping options surround Cañon City, Colorado, with rugged terrain in the foothills of the Rockies at elevations ranging from 5,300 to 7,500 feet. The area features pinyon-juniper woodlands transitioning to ponderosa pine at higher elevations, with camping opportunities often concentrated along seasonal creek beds and ridge tops. Temperatures fluctuate dramatically between day and night, with summer afternoons frequently reaching the 90s while dropping to the 50s after sunset.
What to do
Creek camping options: At Phantom Canyon, several sites are positioned along a creek that provides natural ambiance and cooling. "We camped here a few times. The spot closest to the mining town has been my favorite so far! It is in a canyon so you won't have any cell phone signal. The history is awesome, the drive is beautiful, and there is a creek that runs along close by at every site," notes Colby R.
Mountain biking access: The rustic camping areas near Cañon City provide direct access to trail systems. Oil Well Flats sits close to popular mountain biking routes. "Did the shelf trail from cripple creek to canon city. Was good place to camp for the night quite a few spots, flat, big. Amazing views!" writes Danny H., though he cautions about the approach road, noting "Incline getting up to isn't bad, TT's might have some trouble. Everyone else should be fine."
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer prime wildlife viewing at many camping areas. "Saw a little trash here and there. Hot, dusty, cacti, cedar trees- kind of a cool Great American Desert experience," reports David about his stay at Penrose Common Rec Site. Another camper at Gold Camp Road Dispersed mentioned wildlife encounters: "Saw fish in stream a couple of deer and tons of chipmunks."
What campers like
Creek-side seclusion: Campers consistently rate sites near water as premium. "Drove ~3 miles along the service road to find our spot, it was the second pull off 'open-area' with several fire pits to choose from. Gorgeous, secluded spot next to the creek. No Verizon service," shares Lily R. about Gold Camp Road Dispersed camping.
Night sky viewing: The remote rustic camping near Cañon City provides exceptional stargazing. "Clean, beautiful site by the lake. Summer nights during the new moon is a great time to visit. You can see the Milky Way," reports Jessica W. about her experience at Lake Deweese state wildlife area.
Solitude during weekdays: Campers report significantly better experiences mid-week. "We 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 Charles L. about Gold Camp Road, while another camper at Cripple Creek BLM Area shares "We went on labor day weekend late and had no trouble finding a terrific spot! Secluded next to creek absolutely beautiful we will be back!"
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most dispersed camping areas have minimal connectivity. "It is in a canyon so you won't have any cell phone signal, though I had my Starlink set up and it worked flawlessly," reports Colby R. about Phantom Canyon. At other sites, service varies widely - "No service at all with ATT from my experience," notes Megan H. about her stay at clyde dispersed camping.
Vehicle requirements: Many access roads deteriorate quickly with weather. "Road in is rough, but manageable with a high clearance vehicle. Plenty of space to spread out. Popular with those ATV things," explains Izzy T. about Penrose Common Rec Site, while another camper notes "Road was a little bumpy but we got out 25' travel trailer back here no problem" about Lake Deweese.
Trash issues: Unfortunately, some sites suffer from previous camper neglect. "Absolutely beautiful area! We pulled in on a Friday evening with thunderstorms all around. The smell from previous campers unsuccessfully trying to burn their trash in the fire rings and all the litter was a bit overwhelming. Broken glass, toilet paper/feces not buried, cigarette butts, and just trash everywhere," reports Colyer D. about Phantom Canyon Road Pull-Off.
Tips for camping with families
Safe swimming alternatives: Due to water quality concerns, families should avoid swimming in reservoirs. "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!!" cautions Kyli H. about Lake Deweese state wildlife area.
Noise considerations: Some areas experience significant recreational vehicle traffic. "There is a lot of 4x4 jeep and OHV action here. It's very loud during the day," warns Tyler S. about Penrose Common Rec Site, making it potentially challenging for families with young children or those seeking quiet.
Fire preparation: Downed wood can be scarce at popular sites. "The only thing that was in short supply was firewood, so if you drive back up to go camp Road and turn right, there is a turning on the left-hand side immediately after 376 with plenty of downed trees," advises Chris P. about clyde dispersed camping.
Tips from RVers
Advance scouting: RVers should consider scouting locations before bringing in larger rigs. "Fairly steep and rough road up into the campground. Once your in the roads are decent. Some sites had broken glass and trash and some were clean and decent," reports Robert M. about Oil Well Flats.
Leveling challenges: Many dispersed sites have uneven terrain. "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," notes Elias M. about Penrose BLM sites, while another camper shared "It wasn't level enough so I dont think I will be back but I loved it" about their experience at Gold Camp Road Dispersed.
Camping boundaries: Pay attention to designated camping area boundaries. "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," explains Elias M. about Penrose BLM sites.
