Dispersed camping sites near Durango and Silverton provide free wilderness camping opportunities beyond the more heavily trafficked areas. Most locations sit at elevations between 8,000-10,000 feet with significant temperature drops at night, even in summer months. Road access varies seasonally with spring conditions often creating challenging terrain through mid-June.
What to do
Fishing creekside: At Hermosa Creek Trailhead - Dispersed Camping, visitors access prime fishing spots. "Easy access to 4-5 dispersed sites close to the Hermosa Cr TH. The site farthest back has a log that you can use to cross the creek if it is high. All sites are right on the creek." Many campers bring small fishing gear for catch-and-release Brook trout.
Mountain biking: The trails near Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area connect to extensive networks. "This is a great spot for stargazers too," notes one camper, while another mentions "it's not far from some fantastic hikes!" The area attracts mountain bikers with varying technical abilities.
Historic exploration: The Alta Lakes area contains remnants of mining history. "The ghost town comes before the campground... if you make it to the campground, it has a lot of designated sites too. There are a lot of opportunities to hike and experience the history of the location."
What campers like
Riverside solitude: Lime Creek - Dispersed Sites provides secluded creek-adjacent camping. "Lived in Durango area 16 years! Lime Creek and Cascade falls are where I'm headed now," shares a local camper. These sites require vehicles with good clearance beyond initial group areas.
High elevation views: Campers at Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping appreciate the panoramic vistas. "If you want a no frills but off the grid easy in and easy out spot fine for a tent or a trailer this place is an amazing option. Beautiful views at 10k+ feet." The area provides convenient access to nearby trails.
Swimming opportunities: During peak summer, some alpine lakes reach comfortable temperatures. "One of those classic colorado vistas, with outdoors feel, safe swimming for children and all round good times," notes a visitor to Alta Lakes. The best swimming conditions typically occur from mid-July through early September.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Access to Golden Horn Dispersed and similar areas demands planning. "We arrived on a Thursday morning to find only one space available at this dispersed campground. Sites are covered in river rock. Nothing is level, so bring the right gear to manage that if it's important to you."
Weather preparation: Temperature swings of 40+ degrees in a single day occur regularly. "We were there during monsoon season so it was raining when we got there and it started raining again at 11 the next day." Afternoon thunderstorms develop frequently from July through August.
Navigation challenges: Download offline maps before departure. "If Google maps has you routed you to take rd 58 just north of Rico, don't do it. The real entrance is through Purgatory Resort." Many access roads have unmarked junctions and minimal signage.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible sites: For rustic camping near Cascade, Colorado with kids, stay closer to main roads. "The kids enjoyed being able to fish though with little supervision since the lake is really quite shallow and it's very close to the sites. Exploring was fun and watching the ducks and geese and the occasional deer."
Wildlife encounters: Teach children proper food storage techniques. "Be bear aware and keep your food inside your locked car." At higher elevations, mountain goats sometimes approach campsites seeking salt from urine.
Supply planning: Stock up completely before arrival. "Missionary Ridge Road offers several pull-offs for camping. 4x4 required, but there's tons of camping along missionary ridge road. Beautiful alpine creek-side sites galore." The nearest services may be 30+ minutes away.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Bring substantial leveling equipment. "Nothing is level, so bring the right gear to manage that if it's important to you. We fit in a super C (semi truck rv) 41ftL x 13.5ftH with 30ft trailer without having to unhook."
Road approach caution: Access roads often have challenging entry points. "The road up is fine for 2wd but holy crap it's twisty! I have a full size pu and you definitely wouldn't want to take anything bigger." RV drivers should scout routes before committing.
Seasonal timing: Spring conditions persist longer at higher elevations. "I'm sure I will get a bunch of laughs for considering the fact I could camp around Telluride in March... This entire area is quite beautiful and stunning, especially with the snow capped peaks. I wouldn't consider camping here unless you like camping in 2-3 feet of snow. It would probably melt by end of May and beginning of June."
