Best Dispersed Camping near Broomfield, CO
Dispersed camping areas surround Broomfield, Colorado, primarily in the nearby Roosevelt National Forest. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, Dream Canyon, Beaver Park Reservoir, and West Magnolia Campground provide free primitive camping options within an hour's drive. These sites are located on U.S. Forest Service land and require no reservations or permits during most of the year. Additional backcountry camping zones include Forest Road 332 Dispersed, N Boulder Creek, and Allenspark Dispersed Camping, all offering remote sites with established fire rings but minimal other amenities.
Many access roads to these dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles, with several campers reporting challenging conditions. Gordon Gulch features rough, sometimes washed-out roads that become more difficult the further in you travel. Dream Canyon access passes through private property before reaching public land. Most areas lack drinking water, toilets, and trash facilities, requiring campers to pack in supplies and pack out waste. Fire restrictions are common during summer months, though most sites have established fire rings for use when permitted. Camping is typically limited to 14 days in a 30-day period on national forest land.
"The road to the reservoir was closed, but we had no issues walking up to check it out," noted one visitor to Chinns Lake. Campers at Gordon Gulch report that "the first mile isn't too bad...just mostly gravel. The next couple miles though get really rocky with some spots that have large dips and narrow paths." Wildlife sightings are common, with moose reported at several sites. Elevation at these primitive campsites ranges from 8,800 to 11,000 feet, resulting in cold overnight temperatures even during summer months. Cell service is limited or nonexistent in most areas. Despite their proximity to the Denver metro area, many of these backcountry sites offer relative seclusion, though popular areas fill quickly on summer weekends.
