Best Campgrounds near Buffalo Creek, CO
Buffalo Creek, Colorado encompasses several free dispersed camping areas alongside established campgrounds within Pike National Forest. The Buffalo Creek Recreation Area provides approximately 35 designated dispersed sites along Redskin Creek Road (County Road 550), while additional options include Buffalo Campground for developed camping with amenities. Most sites accommodate tents and smaller RVs, with some areas like Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake offering cabin options. Dispersed sites typically include basic fire rings but lack other amenities, while developed campgrounds provide toilets, picnic tables, and occasionally drinking water.
The dispersed camping areas fill extremely quickly during summer weekends, particularly from late spring through early fall. Many visitors recommend arriving by early Friday or even mid-week to secure a spot. "We headed out to these spots on memorial day weekend and it was busy. So busy that we had to go in the middle of the week to get a spot, so plan ahead here and expect crowds," noted one camper. Most dispersed sites along Redskin Creek Road feature uneven parking areas with fire rings nearby, though current fire restrictions may apply depending on seasonal conditions. The dirt roads accessing dispersed sites are generally passable for standard vehicles, described as "a bit of a washboard, but that is nothing compared to most of the forest roads in Colorado."
Campers consistently praise the spaciousness and privacy of the dispersed sites in this area. The designated sites along Redskin Creek Road are well-marked, numbered from 1 to approximately 35, and spaced far enough apart to provide relative seclusion. Several visitors note the proximity to hiking and mountain biking trails, with convenient connections to the Colorado Trail network. A visitor commented, "These sites are amazing! About as good as it gets for drive up dispersed, free camping. Well marked, spaced out, large campsites and not too far from Denver." While no water sources are available at the dispersed sites, some campgrounds in the area provide drinking water. Visitors should be prepared to pack out all waste, as multiple reviews mentioned issues with improper waste disposal affecting site cleanliness.
