Tent camping options around Carbondale, Colorado extend through the White River National Forest and nearby BLM lands at elevations ranging from 5,900 to 10,500 feet. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with higher elevation sites opening later in June due to snowmelt. Lincoln Creek Road offers 27 free dispersed camping sites between Lincoln Creek Campground and Portal Campground, accessible with high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Lower Prince Creek Campground serves as an excellent base for mountain biking enthusiasts. "Easy access to mountain bike trails and the greater Carbondale area," notes Kate A. The campground's location provides direct trail access without requiring additional travel.
Fishing opportunities: Near Lower Prince Creek Campground, campers find immediate access to a class 3 trout stream. Eric B. mentions, "It is right across a gravel road from the Prince Creek (class 3 trout stream) and surrounded by some great hiking and biking trails."
Hot springs visits: Camping at Upper Colorado Rec Area allows access to natural hot springs. "The Radium Hot Springs area... is within a 20 minute hike of the hot spring itself, which is a gorgeous natural pool right along the Colorado River!" shares Isabelle K.
Backpacking adventures: For experienced hikers seeking wilderness camping, Four Pass Loop provides challenging but rewarding tent sites. "We stayed at 3 different campsites as we took the entire Four Pass loop over four days... Each of the campsites were clean and well maintained with a stream nearby for water," reports Marta S.
What campers like
High-elevation reservoir views: Portal Campground provides tent sites at nearly 10,000 feet elevation with spectacular mountain scenery. "Portal Campground is on a reservoir (very cold as its at about 10,000 feet)," mentions sean N. The campground offers seven first-come, first-served sites near Grizzly Reservoir.
Free dispersed options: Lincoln Creek Road features numerous free camping opportunities. Amber C. shares, "There's a few different camping options down lincoln creek road— all are free and first come first serve. every campsite has a bear box and fire ring."
Creek-side camping: Thompson Creek Campground offers stream-adjacent tent sites that provide natural cooling during hot summer months. Amanda U. notes, "The spots by the stream are cooler, more shaded but empty in late August."
Wildlife viewing: The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness offers wildlife encounters for tent campers willing to hike in. "The views of Maroon bells at crater lake are unbelievable. There is wildlife everywhere. We saw many mountain goats, mule deer, and other critters," explains Cory D.
What you should know
Road conditions: Most dispersed tent sites require high-clearance vehicles. At Bellyache Road, "Definitely would advise 4x4, and not for travel trailers at all. Bringing one up could lead to a serious situation, since there are no places to turn around whatsoever," warns Adam D.
Weather preparation: High-elevation tent camping requires proper gear even in summer months. Connor M. advises, "Keep in mind that the campground at Portal is 10,500 feet so if you aren't used to the altitude or familiar with altitude sickness you'll want to do a little research before camping here."
Campsite availability: Many popular tent sites fill quickly during peak season (July-August). "The spots by the stream are cooler, more shaded but empty in late August. Mid summer they fill up fast so we moved up to the dispersed sites," shares Amanda U. about Thompson Creek.
Primitive conditions: Most dispersed tent camping areas have minimal or no facilities. Christina S. notes about Portal Campground, "There is no drinking water source or garbage location, so you have to pack your water in (or filter) and pack your garbage out."
Tips for camping with families
Choose lower elevations: For families with young children, tent camping at lower elevations provides easier access and milder temperatures. "Lower Prince Creek offers privacy between sites due to the thick scrub oak between each of the sites," mentions Eric B.
Bear safety planning: Harvey Gap BLM and other dispersed camping areas require proper food storage. "Super fun view of the lake! I was surprised there was space during the 4th of July," notes Kassidy T. Bring bear canisters or utilize provided bear boxes at designated sites.
Seek shade: During summer months, look for tent sites with natural shade coverage. "The spots by the stream are cooler, more shaded but empty in late August," Amanda U. reports about Thompson Creek Campground.
Pack for temperature swings: Even in summer, tent camping requires warm layers for night temperatures that can drop below 40°F. Christina S. warns about Portal Campground, "The temps were pretty chilly at night…upper 30s in late August…and a really pleasant high 60s during day."
Tips from RVers
Avoid narrow access roads: Many tent camping areas near Carbondale restrict RV length or access entirely. "No vehicles over 35 feet long are allowed on Highway 82 to access this campground," sean N. cautions about Portal Campground.
Bring leveling equipment: Dispersed tent and small RV camping areas often have uneven terrain. "Bring lots of leveling blocks. I used all of mine to get my camper fairly level," Roger recommends for Harvey Gap BLM.
Check road conditions before travel: Rain can make dirt roads impassable for trailers. "Be careful! Overall, gorgeous views, room for kids to run around, even a fun hike next to designated sites," Amanda U. warns about Thompson Creek's dirt road access.
