Dispersed camping near Clark, Colorado ranges across diverse high-altitude terrain from 7,200 to 10,000 feet elevation. The area experiences dramatic seasonal changes with summer highs rarely exceeding 80°F and nighttime temperatures frequently dropping into the 30s even in July. Many camping areas have marshy sections during spring runoff in May through early June, becoming progressively drier throughout summer.
What to do
Fishing access: Multiple sites along Seedhouse Road provide direct river access to the Elk River. "This spot was prime... Epic View of the mountains in Zirkel Wilderness. It was amazing to come back to our camp spot after hiking the Mount Zirkel Loop trail all day, only being 3 miles down the road," notes a camper at Middle Fork Elk River Camp.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer prime moose-spotting opportunities. "Free range sheep are being guarded by Great Pyreneese dogs, Moose and Pronghorn are all abundant. Bears too, so lock it all up," warns a camper at USFSR 550 - Dispersed Camping.
Hiking backpacking: Several trailheads access the Mount Zirkel Wilderness within 5-10 miles of Clark. "Hit this one on an overnight backpacking trip and boy was this just paradise. Awesome little trip with never ending amazing views. Definitely a little windy at the top and the hike back wasn't my favorite," shares a backpacker about the trail to Gilpin Lake.
What campers like
Mountain views: Multiple camping areas offer panoramic vistas across the valley. "We found a beautiful spot 1.9 miles in on the East (left) side of the road... We had a beautiful view and the weather was perfect," reports a visitor at FR-302 Dispersed Camping - Rabbit Ears Pass.
Proximity to amenities: The nearby Clark Store provides crucial supplies. "DONT FORGET TO VISIT CLARK STORE, its very close... drove here in toyota prius. There is a parking lot at the entrance to the dispersed camping where it forks into two roads to access parking spots," mentions a camper at Elk River Dispersed.
Isolation options: Sites farther from main roads offer more privacy. "This spot was prime. about 125yds off seedhouse rad and 50 yds off of the access road. Plenty of room to spread out. Fire ring. Epic View of the mountains in Zirkel Wilderness," notes a camper at Middle Fork Elk River Camp.
What you should know
Weather variability: Summer conditions can change rapidly from warm days to near-freezing nights. "70s during the day and 30s at night in June," reports a Middle Fork Elk River camper.
Mosquito preparation: Bug protection is essential, particularly in June and July. "This place is beautiful, found multiple spots on Monday June 30th that were beautiful and had fire pits. HOWEVER, When you see other reviews that say there are lots of bugs... they were not exaggerating, there are massive swarms of mosquitoes everywhere," warns a camper at Buffalo Pass Dispersed.
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require careful driving. "Very busy on a weekend and hard road. Some nice spots but many are blocked from a view so get there early. Found a dirt road that took off from the main road but my car couldn't handle it (AWD)," cautions a Buffalo Pass visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible spots: Some areas offer easier access for families with young children. "Discovered an excellent dispersed site on 64 going east from Glen Eden. As soon as you reach BLM land there is a sign indicating Dispersed Camping on both sides of road. The south side has excellent sites along the fast paced Elk River and views of Mt. Zirkel," shares a visitor at Elk River Dispersed.
Safety considerations: Monitor children near fast-flowing rivers and secure food from wildlife. "Our site was nestled in the spruce and fur with small game chattering often," notes an Elk River Dispersed camper.
Weather preparation: Pack layers for children as temperatures fluctuate dramatically. "It gets sketchy at some points, but you have your pick of camp sites," mentions a Buffalo Pass visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site scouting: Assess road conditions before bringing larger rigs. "We are full-timers and have a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and had scouted the area a day before arriving with the RV. There are several sites along FR-302, which is actually in pretty decent shape," advises an RVer at Dispersed Overlook off Hwy 40.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require equipment for leveling. "I would not continue after what I think is site 5 on the right that has a fairly large rock fire pit and good loop for when leaving. Great parking area to drop and go scout with your vehicle first and I'd recommend doing so," recommends an FR-302 visitor with a travel trailer.
Road hazards: Watch for ruts and erosion during wet periods. "The site at the end was beautiful! Perfect for a night. Lots of places to park/camp," notes an FR-302 camper.
