Best Dispersed Camping near Buena Vista, CO

Dispersed camping dominates the landscape surrounding Buena Vista, Colorado, with numerous free sites scattered throughout nearby national forests and BLM lands. Popular areas include North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping, which serves as a gateway to the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, and Cottonwood Lake Dispersed Camping, offering scenic mountain views. Raspberry Gulch and Browns Creek South provide spacious sites that accommodate both tent and RV camping. Elephant Rock Campground, situated along the Arkansas River just a few miles north of town, features approximately a dozen sites with access to whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and hiking trails. Most dispersed sites maintain primitive conditions with established fire rings but no amenities, making them ideal for self-sufficient campers seeking solitude.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many sites requiring high-clearance vehicles for safe access. As one camper noted, "The road in is a bit bumpy. Four-wheel-drive is needed if it should get wet or slippery." County roads leading to trailheads often start paved but transition to rough gravel routes that can become challenging after rain or snow. Elevations typically range from 8,000-10,000 feet, resulting in cool nights even during summer months, with temperatures commonly dropping into the 40s overnight. Cell service remains limited or nonexistent at most sites. The standard 14-day stay limit applies to public lands, and rangers do monitor compliance. Fire restrictions frequently occur during dry periods, making it essential to check current regulations before planning campfires.

Mountain views and proximity to outdoor recreation consistently receive praise in visitor reviews. Sites near water sources, particularly along the Arkansas River and various creeks, tend to fill quickly during peak season. A visitor to Stone Cabin reported, "Great location, 10 minutes from Buena Vista and 30 minutes from Mt. Yale. We chose a site right next to the river and had great views with tons of space." Wildlife sightings, including mule deer, birds, and occasionally bears, enhance the camping experience. Campers should prepare for variable weather conditions, including afternoon thunderstorms and significant temperature fluctuations. Most dispersed sites lack water sources, requiring visitors to bring adequate supplies or filtration systems for nearby streams. The region's combination of accessibility and wilderness appeal makes it particularly popular for basecamp-style trips to summit nearby 14,000-foot peaks.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Buena Vista, Colorado (151)

    1. Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site

    18 Reviews
    Nathrop, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "Found an area right off the Colorado Trail trailhead. You don’t really need 4wd, but it is a dirt road and some parts are less smooth than others. Very close drive to the Mt Princeton Hot Springs"

    "Located at the bottom of Mount Princeton (14,199 ft) and Mount Antero (14,275 ft). 270-272 is one of the most unpleasant roads I’ve driven, but worth the traverse. Sites are heavily shaded."

    2. North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    Buena Vista, CO
    7 miles

    "Bare bones but beautiful camping opportunity conveniently located near the trailhead to the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness Area in Colorado

    Campground Review:

    Needing a spot to serve as a staging area"

    "Tons of sites along the road leading up to the trailhead. They vary in size and flatness. Managed to find a spot less than a quarter mile from the trailhead coming in late on a Thursday."

    3. Cottonwood Lake Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Buena Vista, CO
    10 miles
    Website

    "This dispersed camping area is just down the road from Cottonwood Lake and its main campground."

    "Beautiful area, great location with plenty to do, but docked a star because it was packed! We arrived before noon on a Friday morning."

    4. Buena Vista Overlook

    5 Reviews
    Buena Vista, CO
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 269-8500

    "This was my first go at dispersed camping in my new travel trailer.  Google Maps took me to the right location off of 285 and the dirt roads were manageable."

    "Google Maps led me in on a road with a locked gate from the south, and a really rough road in from BV, so I wouldn't trust it."

    5. Elephant Rock Campground

    8 Reviews
    Buena Vista, CO
    3 miles

    "Beautiful river thats an easy walk, great neighbors, cool breeze otherwise!!!"

    6. Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    Nathrop, CO
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "Big wide dispersed camping spaces. Plenty of nice hiking - especially Brown's Creek area. Great location with easy drive to Buena Vista & Salida & Mt. Princeton."

    "Awesome location between Salida and Buena Vista. Keep driving thru the gate and find your own piece of paradise. We have a 24’ RV and out spot, buried in the tall pines, was an easy in and out."

    7. Midland Bike Trail Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Buena Vista, CO
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 269-8500

    "campsite is dry, with flat spots and the view is stunning."

    "Half a dozen spots along the road, camping in designated sites only gorgeous views, bike trails are awesome"

    8. Twin Lakes Dispersed

    18 Reviews
    Granite, CO
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "I live around the corner from Twin Lakes so it's literally my backyard getaway.. Most recently spent the 4th of July out here. It's all BLM camping equiped with fire pits."

    "came friday evening and it was very hard ti find a spot. so many people. eventually found one and it’s beautiful. the lakes are gorgeous. if you don’t have an RV using the bathroom is tough since you are"

    9. Chaffee County Road 390 Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Granite, CO
    16 miles
    Website

    "Located near the town of Granite, this forest service road is host to trailheads and lots of dispersed camping."

    "Pros

    • Easy access. "

    10. CR 306 -Dispersed Site

    4 Reviews
    Buena Vista, CO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 539-3591

    "Quite a few driveways that look like they’re leading to a residential area but there are very few homes especially a half mile from the Denny Creek trailhead."

    "We were trying to stay at Collegiate Peaks Campground but it filled up on a Friday afternoon so we back tracked to Avalanche TH and found some dispersed spots actoss the street."

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Showing results 1-10 of 151 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Buena Vista, CO

595 Reviews of 151 Buena Vista Campgrounds



Guide to Buena Vista

Experience the beauty of the Colorado wilderness with dispersed camping near Buena Vista. This area offers stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a chance to connect with nature away from the crowds.

Dispersed campers should check out Twin Lakes View Dispersed

  • Located in Twin Lakes, this area provides ample space for both tents and RVs, making it a versatile option for all campers.
  • Enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lakes, perfect for photography and relaxation.
  • The site allows for campfires, so you can gather around the fire after a day of hiking or fishing.

Top activities while free camping near Buena Vista

  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Twin Lakes Dispersed, where you can catch small trout in the pristine waters.
  • Hiking is easily accessible, with trails leading to the majestic Mt. Elbert, the highest peak in Colorado, just a short distance from your campsite.
  • For those looking for a bit of adventure, the area around Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area offers rugged terrain perfect for mountain biking and exploring.

Scenic views for dispersed campers at Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site

  • Nestled in the Pike and San Isabel National Forests, Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site boasts stunning views and plenty of space for privacy.
  • The site is known for its beautiful landscapes, making it an ideal spot for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of Colorado.
  • With easy access to hiking trails, you can explore the surrounding wilderness and discover hidden gems in the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for dispersed camping in Buena Vista, Colorado?

No permit is typically required for dispersed camping on National Forest land around Buena Vista, but you must follow Forest Service regulations. Areas like Forest Road 130 offer permit-free camping with stunning scenery. At North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping, you can camp without permits while accessing the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness. Though permits aren't needed, all dispersed camping requires adherence to regulations: camp in established sites, stay at least 100 feet from water sources, pack out all trash, and observe fire restrictions. Most areas have a 14-day stay limit within a 30-day period. Always check for seasonal closures or temporary restrictions before your trip.

Where can I find a map of dispersed camping sites around Buena Vista?

The most reliable map for dispersed camping around Buena Vista is the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) available at the Forest Service ranger station in Leadville, as mentioned by campers at Fraile's Campground. These free maps show all legal roads where dispersed camping is permitted. For areas like Jack's Cabin Pass, having accurate maps is essential to navigate dirt roads to established sites. The Avenza Maps app allows you to download MVUM maps for offline use. Other resources include the Gaia GPS app, FreeRoam app, and the Pike and San Isabel National Forests website. The BLM Royal Gorge Field Office also provides maps for BLM lands near Buena Vista. Stopping at the Buena Vista Visitor Center can yield local knowledge and printed maps.

Where are the best dispersed camping areas near Buena Vista, Colorado?

The Buena Vista area offers excellent dispersed camping options with stunning mountain views. Stone Cabin is a prime location just 10 minutes from town with river access, spacious sites, and 2WD-accessible roads. For those seeking a peaceful setting with hiking opportunities, Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping provides wide camping spaces and easy access to Brown's Creek trails, plus convenient proximity to both Buena Vista and Salida. Other notable options include Cottonwood Lake Dispersed Camping, North Cottonwood Trailhead for wilderness access, and Marshall Pass Dispersed for regular sites along forest roads. Most areas require adherence to leave-no-trace principles, with no amenities available.

Is there free BLM camping available near Buena Vista?

Yes, free BLM and National Forest dispersed camping is abundant near Buena Vista. Marshall Pass Dispersed offers excellent free camping along forest roads with options for both campers and tents. Turn off Highway 285 at Mears Junction and head up Marshall Pass Road to find these sites. Tarryall Creek Dispersed Camping provides free sites along the creek, though the access road requires higher clearance vehicles. Other free options include Raspberry Gulch on BLM land and various spots along CR 306. Most free sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis and lack amenities, so bring all necessary supplies including water. The standard stay limit is 14 days within a 30-day period.