Best Dispersed Camping near Buena Vista, CO

Near Buena Vista, CO, lie impressive peaks and some of the best camping and rafting experiences on the Arkansas River and in Browns Canyon. From the canyon, you can marvel at the towering granite walls as you float down the river. Camping in the Pike-San Isabel National Forests brings campers closer to nature. From their campsites, campers can explore the trails that wind through the forest and catch glimpses of deer and other wildlife. RV drivers will also find plenty of campgrounds by the river or national forest that can accommodate their vehicles as they enjoy the area’s sights.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Buena Vista, Colorado (131)

    1. Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site

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

    "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."

    "It is gorgeous and so easy to access. From the 285 going north turn left on County road 270 until it becomes the 272 we went straight to the 274."

    2. North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping

    8 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"

    "Last spot on the road in near the trailhead was still pretty wide open and a few cars lingered. By morning woke up to our campsite in a parking lot! This trailhead is the start to mt. Harvard 14er!"

    3. Elephant Rock Campground

    7 Reviews
    Buena Vista, CO
    3 miles

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

    4. 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."

    5. Buena Vista Overlook

    4 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."

    6. 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."

    7. Twin Lakes Dispersed

    15 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."

    "It’s insane that this is free camping considering how easily accessed and gorgeous the views are here."

    8. Midland Bike Trail Dispersed

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

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

    9. West Lenhardy Cutoff

    2 Reviews
    Buena Vista, CO
    3 miles

    "After driving in past spots taken we found a great spot with a little fire pit that had great views of Mt Princeton and Mt Yale. Lots of mosquitoes and bugs first week of July."

    10. Chaffee County Road 390 Dispersed

    10 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. "
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Showing results 1-10 of 131 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Buena Vista, CO

506 Reviews of 131 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

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Buena Vista, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Buena Vista, CO is Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site with a 4.8-star rating from 13 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 131 dispersed camping locations near Buena Vista, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.