Best Dispersed Camping near Chromo, CO

Dispersed camping near Chromo, Colorado provides primitive, free options in the San Juan National Forest. Buckles Lake Road offers well-maintained Forest Service access with pull-through sites suitable for trailers at elevations around 8,300 feet. West Fork Dispersed features riverside camping with established fire rings approximately 2.2 miles from the main road. Del Norte Dispersed and East Fork San Juan River sites provide additional options with varying levels of privacy and river access.

These dispersed sites are completely primitive with no amenities. No drinking water, toilets, trash service, or hookups are available at any location. According to reviews, "Everything was super clean so I guess people is finally getting it. The river passes right next to you and the views are amazing." Campers must pack out all waste and follow strict Leave No Trace principles to maintain site cleanliness.

Road conditions vary significantly between sites. Buckles Lake Road is generally passable for standard vehicles, while Forest Road 667 becomes increasingly rough beyond East Fork Campground. Several campers noted that "Road is bumpy and rutted but nothing your average passenger car couldn't get to." High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing more remote sites, particularly during wet conditions. Weather patterns typically include daytime temperatures in the 70s during summer months with overnight lows in the 50s. Afternoon thunderstorms are common.

Fire regulations must be checked before arrival as seasonal fire bans are frequently implemented. When fires are permitted, use only established fire rings. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most sites. The area offers excellent stargazing opportunities and access to numerous hiking trails, including the path to Rainbow Hot Springs. Wildlife sightings may include chipmunks, marmots, and larger mammals.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Chromo, Colorado (36)

    1. Buckles Lake Rd

    5 Reviews
    Chromo, CO
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 882-1120

    "Great location between Durango and Santa Fe, just south of Pagosa Springs. Forest Service road, well maintained. I stopped at about 8300 feet. Great site nestled in pine grove with gambrel oak."

    "Decent dirt road for any vehicle. Quiet and relaxing."

    2. Forest Road 663

    1 Review
    Chromo, CO
    3 miles

    "We found a spot at buckle road trail head and they had a vault toilet and fire pit! Elk and deer and nothing but peace. Not a soul around us for miles. Bugs wasn’t bad at all."

    3. Kenny Flats Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Chromo, CO
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 882-1120

    4. Del Norte Dispersed Camping

    13 Reviews
    Pagosa Springs, CO
    24 miles

    "We had no problem getting to these sites with our Chevy camper van. Road is bumpy and rutted but nothing your average passenger car couldn’t get to (IMO)."

    "It’s not the best dirt road getting in but I was able to make it quite a ways up in my Nissan Altima. The sites are scattered along the road that follows the river."

    5. West Fork Dispersed

    18 Reviews
    Pagosa Springs, CO
    28 miles
    Website

    "This BLM at San Juan National Forest is gorgeous!"

    "There is currently a fire ban in place."

    6. FS Road 662 campsite

    2 Reviews
    Pagosa Springs, CO
    16 miles

    "The drive up was dusty, some corrugations on the road. Trees are wonderful for hammocks. There are two more sites past this one, approximately 3 and 4 miles down. No cell service."

    7. Edward Sargeant Wildlife Management Area

    1 Review
    Chama, NM
    17 miles

    "The spot is really close (2 miles) to the town of Chama, New Mexico (elevation about 8,000ft in Southern Rockies) and has one outdoor toilet, open areas for RVs or tents no electrical hook ups or water"

    8. FR 024 Dispersed

    1 Review
    Pagosa Springs, CO
    17 miles

    9. East Fork San Juan River, USFS Road 667 - Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Pagosa Springs, CO
    24 miles
    Website

    "Great boondocking sites about 45minues from Pagosa Springs. These sites are completely primitive. No restroom facilities, electricity, potable water or trash service.  No cell service. "

    "Stayed one night by a recommendation from a local guide at the chimney rock national monument!"

    10. Forest Road 37

    3 Reviews
    Pagosa Springs, CO
    22 miles

    "Had no issues, pretty close to town, highly recommend. T-mobile works from here"

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Showing results 1-10 of 36 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Chromo, CO

104 Reviews of 36 Chromo Campgrounds



Guide to Chromo

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Chromo, Colorado, where nature meets adventure. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Enjoy Scenic Views While Free Camping Near Chromo

  • The Buckles Lake Rd offers breathtaking views and spacious spots, making it an ideal location for a peaceful getaway.
  • Campers have reported enjoying the quiet atmosphere, with minimal disturbances from other visitors, especially during holiday weekends.
  • The winding road leading to the area is accessible for various vehicles, allowing easy access to beautiful camping spots.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Del Norte Dispersed Camping

  • Located along FR 667, Del Norte Dispersed Camping provides river access and abundant wildlife, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
  • While the area can get busy with ATV traffic, visiting during the week can offer a more serene experience.
  • Campers appreciate the variety of sites available, with some being more private and scenic as you venture further along the road.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Chromo, Colorado

  • When heading to East Fork San Juan River, USFS Road 667 - Dispersed Camping, be prepared for primitive conditions, including no restroom facilities or trash service.
  • Arriving early can help secure a great spot, as many sites are clustered near the river and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
  • Keep in mind that cell service is limited in these areas, so plan accordingly and enjoy the disconnect from technology.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Chromo, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Chromo, CO is Buckles Lake Rd with a 5-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Chromo, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 36 dispersed camping locations near Chromo, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.