Dispersed tent camping near Buena Vista, Colorado ranges in elevation from 8,000 to over 12,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between sites. Nighttime temperatures at higher elevation sites like Kite Lake reach the low teens even in late September, while lower elevation sites along rivers maintain more moderate temperatures. Campers should be prepared for significant afternoon rainfall patterns during summer months, with storms typically developing after 1pm and clearing by evening.
What to do
Hike to high alpine lakes: From North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping, you can access Kroenke Lake via the trailhead. "We hiked the trail to Kroenke Lake in the morning. Great spot!!" notes camper Kelsie S.
Fish the mountain streams: Multiple creeks with trout fishing run through dispersed sites. At Chaffee County Road 390 Dispersed, one camper mentioned a "little swimming hole, maybe 5 feet deep with a little make shift diving board already in place."
Summit 14ers: From campsites at higher elevations, you can access Colorado's famous 14,000-foot peaks. A camper at Kite Lake mentioned, "Stunningly beautiful setting right at the base of Colorado 14ers Democrat, Cameron, Lincoln and Bross."
Visit alpine reservoirs: Several camping areas provide access to mountain lakes. "We found a great spot to park our van right next to the stream" at Chaffee County Road 390 Dispersed, which also offers lake access points.
What campers like
Proximity to trailheads: Many sites are situated near popular hiking trails. "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," reports Ryan L. about North Cottonwood Trailhead.
Creek-side camping: Sites near moving water are highly valued. At Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping, one reviewer wrote, "We enjoyed the spot we chose. There was no one near us so we got a great experience camping in solitude. The views of the mountains was amazing and great hiking."
Diverse wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to spot various animals. "Seen a Moose and her baby. Nice large camping spots next to the creek the further to the trailhead you go," shares Misty D. about North Cottonwood.
Seasonal variations: Fall brings special appeal to some sites. At Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping, one camper noted, "We had a blast with this spot, arrived late at night and woke up inside an aspen grove."
What you should know
Road conditions: Most dispersed sites require travel on unpaved forest roads. "The road is definitely chunky! There were a few pretty spots before you get to all the dead trees," noted Trish M. about Road 240 Dispersed.
Popular site competition: Arrive early during peak season. At Road 240 - Dispersed, a camper advised, "Amazing hidden gem. Road is rough but we saw stock vehicles and full size trucks using this road."
High elevation camping effects: Sites at higher elevations can reach freezing temperatures even in summer. "You are at 12,000 ft so right away the temps will be much colder than other places. Also if you are not from the area or visiting from out of state, remember that you are staying at 12,000 ft and the altitude will effect you much more," warns a camper at Kite Lake.
Early morning traffic: Popular sites near 14ers experience early morning activity. "It was Labor Day weekend and as we drove around we could see plenty of spots left in the surrounding area," notes a camper at Chaffee County Road 390 Dispersed.
Tips for camping with families
Choose creek-side sites: Children enjoy playing in shallow water areas. At Chaffee County Road 390, a camper reported, "This spot was awesome for kids! Labor Day weekend and as we drove around we could see plenty of spots left in the surrounding area."
Avoid high-traffic weekends: For quieter family experiences, camp midweek. "Quiet nice spot! Very few people," mentions Taylor A. about North Cottonwood Trail.
Be prepared for wildlife: Animals frequently visit camping areas. At Browns Creek South, one visitor mentioned, "Gorgeous place lots of trails no bugs. Nice Creek," making it suitable for family dogs.
Locate sites with flat tent areas: Look for established sites with level ground. "The sites were pretty spacious, but a handful are right off the road that tends to be pretty busy," notes Deitz B. about CR 390.
Tips for RVers
Scout ahead for site access: Many dispersed areas have limited turning space for larger vehicles. "We have a 24' RV and our spot, buried in the tall pines, was an easy in and out. Very quiet with only one other camper you could see in the far distance through the trees," shares Louise S. about Browns Creek South.
Measure clearance needs: Many roads require high-clearance vehicles. "This area is absolutely beautiful. There are a few tent camping spots at the bottom right before you cross the bridge. As you continue up the road past the bridge, there are 3 spots you can bring a small trailer to and a couple more tent spots," advises Sydney C. about Road 240.
Park strategically: Position RVs away from popular trailhead parking. "In all, I would suspect you pass 15-20 opportunities along the road. Some of them are small, single vehicle, single tent areas and others could handle multiple groups," notes a reviewer at North Cottonwood.
Consider weather impacts on roads: Rain can significantly affect road conditions. At Twin Lakes Dispersed, a camper noted, "These spots are super easy to access as long as you take it slow down 125B."
