Best Dispersed Camping near Cañon City, CO

Looking for the best Cañon City dispersed camping? The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Cañon City's most popular destinations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Cañon City, Colorado (69)

    Matthew W.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Penrose Common Rec Site near Penrose, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Penrose Common Rec Site near Penrose, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Penrose Common Rec Site near Penrose, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Penrose Common Rec Site near Penrose, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Penrose Common Rec Site near Penrose, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Penrose Common Rec Site near Penrose, CO

    1. Penrose Common Rec Site

    9 Reviews
    29 Photos
    85 Saves
    Penrose, Colorado

    Penrose Commons Recreation Area offers a warm, arid climate among pinon and juniper woodlands. The best time to visit is September through May when temperatures are comfortable and the snowy peaks of the Sangre De Cristo mountain range are visible in the distance. With 30 miles of motorized trail, the area is popular for ATVs, motorcycles and four wheeling. Independence Trail system is known for its extreme 4x4 rock crawling opportunities with easy access for spectators to enjoy the trail activity. Penrose Commons is also popular for horseback riding, hunting and dispersed camping. The area has a restroom, trail map information and ample parking space for trailers. A wet weather gate closes the area to motorized use during wet conditions. For more information, please contact the Royal Gorge Field Office.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    Flannel Fabe ..'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed near Victor, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed near Victor, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed near Victor, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed near Victor, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed near Victor, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed near Victor, CO

    2. Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed

    11 Reviews
    84 Photos
    854 Saves
    Victor, Colorado

    Don't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".

    Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.

    Please observe the following requirements when dispersed camping:

    In some areas, dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers where posted. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites. BEARS and other wildlife When you go to the mountains and forest, you are in bear county. Do not leave ANY food, trash or other animal attractant unattended. Store all food and trash securely and pack out what you pack in. Failing to do so can result in a fine. Also be aware that; where not otherwise restricted, camping or leaving camping equipment at any location more than 14 days within a continuous 30 day period, and/or occupying any campsite within three miles of any prior camping or equipment location for a combined total of more than 28 days within any continuous 60 day period, is prohibited. Also, leaving camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours is not allowed. In addition; discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge. Plan your trip; phone ahead for restrictions and special regulations. Contact your local Ranger District office for more information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Charles L.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Phantom Canyon near Penrose, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Phantom Canyon near Penrose, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Phantom Canyon near Penrose, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Phantom Canyon near Penrose, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Phantom Canyon near Penrose, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Phantom Canyon near Penrose, CO

    3. Phantom Canyon

    4 Reviews
    25 Photos
    141 Saves
    Penrose, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    trey D.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping near Monument, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping near Monument, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping near Monument, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping near Monument, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping near Monument, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping near Monument, CO

    4. Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping

    32 Reviews
    101 Photos
    1179 Saves
    Monument, Colorado

    Part of Pike and San Isabel National Forests Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands. Mount Herman Trail begins at a small parking area on a switchback on Mount Herman Road. This trail provides a 2-mile one-way hike to the summit of Mt. Herman.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Firewood Available
    • Alcohol
    C A.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park near Green Mountain Falls, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park near Green Mountain Falls, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park near Green Mountain Falls, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park near Green Mountain Falls, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park near Green Mountain Falls, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park near Green Mountain Falls, CO

    5. Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park

    19 Reviews
    78 Photos
    668 Saves
    Green Mountain Falls, Colorado

    Primitive camping off Rampart Range Road. Some fire rings.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Jess C.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Lake Deweese state wildlife area near Westcliffe, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Deweese state wildlife area near Westcliffe, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Deweese state wildlife area near Westcliffe, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Deweese state wildlife area near Westcliffe, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Deweese state wildlife area near Westcliffe, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Deweese state wildlife area near Westcliffe, CO

    6. Lake Deweese state wildlife area

    5 Reviews
    10 Photos
    192 Saves
    Westcliffe, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    • Firewood Available
    • Toilets
    John B.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Cripple Creek BLM Area near Victor, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cripple Creek BLM Area near Victor, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cripple Creek BLM Area near Victor, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cripple Creek BLM Area near Victor, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cripple Creek BLM Area near Victor, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Cripple Creek BLM Area near Victor, CO

    7. Cripple Creek BLM Area

    3 Reviews
    8 Photos
    250 Saves
    Victor, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Drinking Water
    • Alcohol
    Doug C.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping near Green Mountain Falls, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping near Green Mountain Falls, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping near Green Mountain Falls, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping near Green Mountain Falls, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping near Green Mountain Falls, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping near Green Mountain Falls, CO

    8. Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping

    15 Reviews
    63 Photos
    657 Saves
    Green Mountain Falls, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo at Oil Well Flats near Cañon City, CO

    9. Oil Well Flats

    2 Reviews
    20 Saves
    Cañon City, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    shelby  C.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Phantom Canyon Road Pull-Off near Cañon City, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Phantom Canyon Road Pull-Off near Cañon City, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Phantom Canyon Road Pull-Off near Cañon City, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Phantom Canyon Road Pull-Off near Cañon City, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Phantom Canyon Road Pull-Off near Cañon City, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Phantom Canyon Road Pull-Off near Cañon City, CO

    10. Phantom Canyon Road Pull-Off

    1 Review
    31 Photos
    44 Saves
    Cañon City, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
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Showing results 1-10 of 69 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews near Cañon City, Colorado

266 Reviews of 69 Cañon City Campgrounds


  • Katie H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Browns Canyon Dispersed
    Aug. 17, 2020

    Browns Canyon Dispersed

    Lots of space, very little shade

    A nice BLM area, free dispersed camping. Some loud generators in use when we came here but so much room we could get far enough away to not mind. No activities once you're here and no facilities but hey, its beautiful desert terrain and free. Some short trees but very little shade for cars or campers. Great for hammocks though!

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Common Rec Site
    May. 16, 2022

    Penrose Common Rec Site

    Total boondocking.

    Dispersed camping on BLM land. Looks like some "permanent" residents out here. Dirty firepit and one trash pile encountered- cleaned these w/o much work, overall not much litter. Hot, dusty, cacti, cedar trees- kind of a cool Great American Desert experience. Pit toilets are present at the entrance.

  • Charles G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Matukat Road Dispersed Camping
    May. 27, 2021

    Matukat Road Dispersed Camping

    Scenic and Quiet Dispersed Camping

    Initially looked for camping along the South Platte at Happy Meadows but with a 1 year old, we figured campers wouldn't want to hear him screaming in the middle of the night or the cries of my wife as she struggles with her sanity. We pushed a little further north and took the right hand turn onto Matukat road. We drove a couple of miles up the decently maintained dirt road and found the second dispersed camping spot and decided to set up our roof top tent for the night. 

    Looking at a map, it looks like the road goes on for quite a ways but we never explored past the spot we stayed in. Up to the point where we camped, 2-wheel drive was more than enough to get us to our spot nestled in the rocks. The dispersed camping spots we saw seemed very easy to get to and we never needed to put our truck in 4WD. 

    Since these sites are dispersed camping, don't expect any toilets or amenities. Some spots did have pre-made (from campers before) fire pits and there seemed to be an abundance of dead wood but actual wood cutting in the Pike National Forest needs to have a permit so keep that in mind. We dealt with some crazy wind so a fire wasn't even in question. Be sure to check with the local ranger station before starting a fire in the area, especially since this is a burn area.

  • Elias M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose BLM sites
    Jan. 23, 2025

    Penrose BLM sites

    Beautiful views of the mountains and the town

    These are blm campsites. There are pit toilets right when you cross into blm land and a sign that explains that you have to camp in designated areas. Like most blm locations there is a 14 day max.

    We got our 19 foot travel trailer into a spot with icy conditions, but the road does get quite a bit rougher if you keep going in. Great T-Mobile and Verizon service (2+ bars of 5g)

  • Jeff K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Common Rec Site
    May. 9, 2021

    Penrose Common Rec Site

    Not Fancy but...

    Easy access and not too far out of Pueblo or Cañon City. We didn't venture much further than the gate at the latrine, but we saw people coming out so I can assume there are spots further in. It's dispersed camping, so not fancy but a great place to park our teardrop for the night.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rainbow Falls - Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 28, 2023

    Rainbow Falls - Dispersed Camping

    Great Spot for a Night

    This was our first ever boondock spot on National Forest land. Most of the sites were inaccessible in our 33 foot travel trailer but we found one last minutes. We were right on the road in and OHV traffic was common along with the noise and dust. Still, it wasn't bad and the price was good. There are better places nearby if you're not into OHV riding. Early July 2022

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Dec. 15, 2024

    The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    Wild and Untamed

    Backcountry dispersed camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park offers an unforgettable and truly unique wilderness experience. If you’re seeking solitude and raw, untamed landscapes, this is the perfect spot to pitch your tent. With no designated sites, you have the freedom to find your ideal spot beyond the busy dunes and under an expansive star-filled sky.

    The journey begins with a hike deep into the park’s rugged terrain, where you’re surrounded by towering sand dunes, alpine forests, and sweeping views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The lack of light pollution makes stargazing an absolute highlight—this is one of the best places to witness the Milky Way.

    Keep in mind, this is true backcountry camping: no facilities, no water sources, and you must pack out all waste. Permits are required, so be sure to plan ahead. The environment can be challenging, with extreme temperature swings and strong winds that shift the sand beneath your feet. Good preparation and Leave No Trace practices are a must.

    The rewards are well worth the effort. From sunrise hikes to the serene sound of nothing but wind across the dunes, this camping experience immerses you in nature’s raw beauty like few others can. It’s an adventure you’ll carry with you long after you’ve left the dunes behind.

    Highly recommend skipping the tent and sleeping under the stars!

  • phil G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Sand Area 1
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Dispersed Sand Area 1

    Beautiful views, remote feeling, near town

    There are about 10-15 dispersed camping spots along the dirt road that leads up to trailheads at the end. The spots are spread out enough to where I did not see or hear a soul while camping 2 nights. A large gathering of mountain goats hanging out along the road was a fun surprise! Gorgeous views of Crestone peak and other neighboring mountains. The only negative was the mosquitos. They are horrendous. If you can’t handle it or find a way to keep them away it could ruin someone’s ability to enjoy the beauty.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Hayden Creek Roadside Camp

    Dispersed camping along Hayden Creek Rd

    There are a handful of dispersed camping sites along Hayden Creek Rd, South of Cuttys and before you get the the USFS campground. These sites seems to be primarily tent camping, though we were able to get our pop-up in 1 spot. We saw 2 other larger RVs near the upper Rainbow Trail camping area. The creek is nice and the sounds was much louder then we anticipated, which was good. In June 2024 it is really flowing. It looks as though USFS has been adding boulders to restrict vehicles from driving too far off road. Lots of places to park and set up a tent though.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Deweese state wildlife area
    Jun. 23, 2020

    Lake Deweese state wildlife area

    Great fishing and mountain views

    This is dispersed camping. There are pit toilets but no other services or amenities. Colorado State wild life areas (SWA) require a permit that’s ~$40 a year, or if you have a year fishing or hunting lisence you camp for free. The road around the lake is a little rough but we got out 25’ travel trailer back here no problem.

  • Anthony P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Colony Basin
    Jul. 8, 2020

    South Colony Basin

    Backcountry Bliss

    What an amazing spot! To get to the campground you must first brave the road to the trailhead. If you have a 4x4 truck/SUV the road is achievable but very rough. From the upper trail head, it was about a 4 mile hike to the campground near the lower lake. If you cant make the drive, add 2.5 miles each way to that total. 

    Once to the campgrounds, you will find spots scattered all around the lakes and in the trees. Some areas before the lake have metal fire rings set up but for the most part you will find rock rings. We found a nice little spot in the trees a couple minute walk from the lake and a stream. This was perfect for getting water and doing some afternoon fishing. 

    Keep in mind these are backcountry camp spots. There are no facilities like water and bathroom and everything must be packed in and out. Each spot is fc/fs and this area can get very busy on weekends. We saw many groups up there.

    Activities are plentiful in the basin. The lakes are stocked so the fishing is great. There are also 3 14ers and plenty of rock climbing to be had. This is one of my new favorite spots.

  • Devin
    Camper-submitted photo from Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping
    Jan. 14, 2022

    Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful place to camp

    Free area, lots of dispersed camping areas, but the main roads in is scored with ripples the whole way so it's gonna take a toll on your suspension. Definitely lots of wind up here both at night and in the day. Cell service works well out in the open. Great view of pike's peak.

  • Doug C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping
    Jan. 10, 2022

    Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping

    Choose Your Own Adventure From Rampart Range Road

    Rampart Range Road is the main dirt road that has plenty of smaller trails branching off of it to keep you busy exploring all summer. Rampart Range Road is accessible by 2wd vehicles while some of the smaller trails that branch off of Rampart Range Rd do better with a 4wd with high clearance. The southern portion of the road (south of Devils Head Trail) is open year around while the northern half of the road is closed seasonally during winter. Easily accessible outside of Woodland Park on the south end of the road and west through Sedalia. Lots of dispersed camping sites along the road, some are very large and could easily accommodate a large RV or large groups. Other campsites are tucked away off the road a little which is great because this road can be very busy & dusty in the summer. All in all, this place makes for a fun and easy weekend getaway as long as some ohv traffic doesn’t bother you too much. The best part of Rampart Range Road is the several forest service roads that branch off with dispersed camping. These smaller trails and dispersed camping make for a much more relaxing and peaceful weekend, I highly recommend if you have a 4x4. Find the right forest service road and you’ll feel like you are a million miles from it all.

  • Krystal N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park
    Jul. 12, 2021

    Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park

    Great Views

    It took us a bit to find a spot that worked for 4 hammocks. It was busier than we had thought on a Sunday evening. The park staff helped us out and were very helpful. In this dispersed camping area there were some good established campsite to use. The only down side was that the people before us had left a mess of trash behind. Other than that it turned out to be a great area to camp. 

  • Nikki and Will W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tarryall Creek- Dispersed Camping
    Feb. 9, 2021

    Tarryall Creek- Dispersed Camping

    NFS staff spread misinformation

    Visited 8/2020

    We really like this area! Tarryall Reservoir is an awesome location. To update from a different review; the ONLY camping is dispersed. There is a day use only area next to the reservoir with no overnight camping. Also, there is no water available, so bring plenty of water with you.

    We were camped initially just off of an established 2-track road that was connected to Tucker Gulch Rd/County Rd 23. Members of our party had been camping in the exact same location for over a decade. Our campsite was consistent with every other dispersed camping I have ever done on NFS land.

    After our first night, NFS staff came into our camp stating that we were camped illegally, couldn't make our own roads (again, we were off a 2-track road that was marked on maps of the area), and could not be more than 25 feet from an established and marked NFS road. After we packed up to move to another location, we noted brand new signage that was most certainly not there until after the staff members informed us of our "violation".

    After relocating we parked within 25 feet of a marked NFS road. This was right next to other camps that were at least 200ft from the same road. Camping within 25 feet of the road brought with it heavy dust and noise from vehicles and UTV/ATV traffic.

    With all of this said, the area is amazingly beautiful and the distance from the metro area is perfect. The area is huge with plenty of 4WD and non-4WD (one member in our group had a travel trailer) roads to find the perfect camping spot for you. We will definitely be going back even with our sour run-in with the NFS. And just to throw it out there; I love the NFS and I believe they're generally pretty awesome!

    Note: After getting back in town and re-educating myself on San Isabel NF specific rules and regulations, I could not find anywhere where it states the 25 foot rule. Plus, I confirmed that we were not violating any rules.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide
    May. 27, 2024

    Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide

    Great views, secluded spots

    This dispersed camp site has numerous spots with rock fire pits. There are a lot of dirt bikes and atvs driving during the day however I didn’t find it overly disruptive. The dirt road to get there can be tricky, but I witnessed multiple sedans driving by without issue. We had a moose and deer at our campsite during the mornings so I suggest being weary of wildlife.

    Lots of places to walk and explore and there was still phone signal! Each spot is far away from another, especially if you drive further down. We didn’t hear anyone late into the night due to the distance.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead
    May. 14, 2024

    Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead

    Another trailhead for camping near Crestone and Great SandDunes

    This is a small trailhead that has a few spots for camping. Like nearby Cotton Creek Trailhead. A small parking area for backpackers and equestrians. Probably okay to camp for free. It is within the Rio Grand National Forest. We are in an RV. There is also a tent camper here.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tarryall Creek- Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 24, 2023

    Tarryall Creek- Dispersed Camping

    Greatest view ever

    Take County Road 77 southeast 8.3 miles to County Road 39, turn north, becomes dirt. Lots of dispersed camping in the next six miles. We even had cell service in the wilderness!

  • P
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 16, 2020

    Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping

    My Herman dispersed camping

    I noticed on here that it says there's water hookups and electric and Sewer excetera however this is dispersed camping and does not have any type of amenities at all. if you go up to the Meadows or thunder ridge it is a pay campgrounds and they do not have electrical water are sewer but they do have restrooms if I am remembering correctly. It's been 15 years since I've been up there to camp. Now if you're talking about the dispersed camping this is where all the kids from Monument and the areas go up to party on the weekends and it can get pretty Rowdy from what I understand. It's a beautiful area up there I could have it that but you need to be careful and Camp away from the kids.

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fraile’s Campground - Dispersed
    Aug. 24, 2023

    Fraile’s Campground - Dispersed

    Huge sites on gnarly road

    CR 290 off Tarryall Rd. Campsites are all designated on 290 but there are numerous firepits on the side roads. The road to get up is very rutted. I recommend a high clearance vehicle. Definitely four wheel drive is required. I did see a Subaru forester up near the top. The sites are wide open once you get onto the plateau at the top. Easily could accommodate a big rig, but the issue would be getting it up the road. The views from the top are really nice. It opens out and you get some spectacular views of Pike National Forest. The sites are spacious with some pine tree coverage for tent campers. This would definitely be a possible back up spot if nothing on Matukat rd was available. Because they are dispersed there is no electrical hook ups or water. There’s no Creek running through the area. I imagine it would be really quiet and remote up here because the road to get in is going to deter a lot of people. We did find some spots with fire pits, but not sure you can camp there given there is no sign post reading designated campsite but they are off the main road so give it a try.

  • Boldt E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide
    Jun. 24, 2022

    Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide

    Secluded camping with breathtaking views

    If you like dispersed camping with 360 views this is the place for you. This was our second time dispersed camping and off-roading here. Depending on which site you pick, you can get amazing views of Pikes Peak. The higher up you go, the more confident of a driver you will want to be as it can be tricky especially with trailers/campers. It’s fun to watch other ITV’s and dirt bikes drive past occasionally, but not enough to be annoying. Lots of dead/fallen trees for firewood. Many spots to choose from. Just look for spots with rock fire pits. Plus was we got cell service at our spot this time. It just depends how high up you are and what side of the mountain. For more photos and video visit @boldtexplorations on tiktok and Instagram

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Round Mountain
    Jul. 6, 2023

    North Round Mountain

    Perfekt and free

    Directly behind the developed campground is the dispersed camping with a lot of sites. Even for RV a perfekt spot. Wouldn’t go to the campground at the street. The street is accessible for a RV and you don’t need much clearance, just drive slow.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Matukat Road Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 3, 2023

    Matukat Road Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful recovery

    The Matukat area has mostly recovered from a wild fire and the dispersed camping here is beautiful now. Great views and a views spots of water. The only drawback is there are a lot of cow patties everywhere thanks to the herd the grazes here.

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Round Mountain
    Aug. 25, 2023

    North Round Mountain

    Come well prepared

    Round Mountain dispersed campground

    Once you pull off Highway 24 you’ll immediately pass round Mountain official campground. Carry-on up the road and the campsites for dispersed camping are in numerous spots all over the backside of the official campground. It is marked as designated campsites only, but there are a lot of options in this area. There yourself is quite pretty. There are rocks for kids to climb and play on. There’s plenty of three cover. The views are not particularly spectacular, but you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere with nobody around you. We pulled out on a Thursday afternoon and there were a few campers up here, but given the amount of room for everybody, you really feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere. There are some ATVs in the area so there could be some noise issues. There is no creek running through the area so you need to have good supply of water. There is also no obvious supply of firewood, so you better come in well-stocked for the time you’re gonna be staying.


Guide to Cañon City

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Cañon City, Colorado, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376

  • This area offers a stunning drive and a chance to find secluded spots along the creek, making it a favorite for those seeking tranquility. Check out Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 for a beautiful camping experience.
  • Campers have noted the charm of the location, with many sites featuring fire pits and picturesque views, perfect for evening gatherings.
  • Keep in mind that amenities are limited, so be prepared to bring your own water and firewood for a comfortable stay.

Scenic views and fishing at Lake Deweese State Wildlife Area

  • The Lake Deweese State Wildlife Area is known for its beautiful scenery and opportunities for fishing, making it a great spot for anglers and nature lovers alike.
  • While the area is popular, some campers have reported issues with litter, so it's essential to practice Leave No Trace principles and clean up after yourself.
  • The proximity to Westcliffe, a charming mountain town, adds to the appeal, offering a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and local culture.

Outdoor activities while free camping near Cañon City at Phantom Canyon

  • Phantom Canyon is a hidden gem for those looking to explore stunning landscapes and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and climbing.
  • Campers appreciate the secluded spots along the creek, providing a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds, especially during weekdays.
  • Be prepared for limited cell service and amenities, which enhances the experience of disconnecting and immersing yourself in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Cañon City, CO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cañon City, CO is Penrose Common Rec Site with a 4-star rating from 9 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Cañon City, CO?

    TheDyrt.com has all 69 dispersed camping locations near Cañon City, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.