Primitive camping near Clifton, Colorado offers several free options on public lands that see less visitation during weekday periods. Most dispersed sites sit at elevations between 4,500-6,000 feet, with higher-elevation options available on Grand Mesa that provide summer temperature relief. Seasonal closures affect many areas during winter months, particularly on Forest Service roads after October.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at dawn/dusk: The areas around Nine Mile Hill offer opportunities to spot native wildlife. "The hiking is amazing. Quiet and peaceful. There were a few other campers but none within 200 meters of me so relatively private," notes Kristin C., who found solitude during her stay.
Mountain biking trails: BLM #174 Road provides direct access to popular cycling routes. According to Anja S., "I've been coming to 18 road for years... Very spaced out, easy to get away from others if you want peace, right by excellent mountain biking, and pretty close to town."
Stargazing after dark: The minimal light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. Jenn C. observed at Nine Mile Hill: "Nights are really pretty," while another camper at Pyramid Rock noted "stars were popping at night."
OHV recreation: Several areas permit off-highway vehicle use on designated routes. "This looks like an awesome place for that sort of thing," Hunter commented about Grand Junction Desert Road Recreation Area, which features established riding areas with hills and jumps.
What campers like
Natural isolation: Many campers appreciate the separation between sites. At Pyramid Rock Camp, Lee D. found that "Kind of a far drive to get to but stunning views when you get here. Road is well maintained and any vehicle could make it."
Cell service availability: Unlike many remote areas, several sites maintain usable connectivity. At BLM #174 Road, Anja S. reported, "With a cell service extender and a hotspot both my partner and I were able to work remotely from here."
Temperature variations: Higher-elevation sites provide relief during summer heat. One camper at Pyramid Rock Camp noted: "It's definitely HOT right now in July without a ton of tree coverage but once the sun started to set it was fine."
Established fire rings: Most frequently used sites have stone fire rings already in place. "There were plenty of places to park with great views," reported Ashlyn H. at Pyramid Rock Camp, though she warned about seasonal "LOTS of gnats. OFF didn't help so we ended up just sitting in the tent. After dark they went away!"
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many roads deteriorate during wet weather. At Near De Buque Dispersed, Ella L. warned, "Roads would be slippery and have running water over them in rain. Check the weather if you are not confident in your car."
Limited shade options: Few sites offer natural shade coverage. Danny R. observed at Near De Buque, "It was simply an amazing campsite after a day of adventures," but most areas feature open terrain with minimal tree cover.
Wind exposure: Open areas experience frequent strong winds. Shak K. noted at Nine Mile Hill: "very quiet even though close to the road and few cars/vehicles at night" but "slept angled" due to uneven terrain.
Insect activity: Seasonal bugs affect camping comfort. A visitor to Pyramid Rock Camp advised: "bring some good bug repellent and it would be perfect. The bugs went away at night which allowed for good stargazing."
Tips for camping with families
Noise considerations: Sites closer to highways experience traffic noise. At Escalante Canyon Road, Wild Berries B. suggested: "If road noise bothers you, just venture further along the road," noting that "Once you pass the private land and get to the first campsites continue further. There are plenty more to go, some with access to the water."
Terrain hazards: Some areas contain natural hazards requiring supervision. Dolly L. cautioned about Escalante Canyon: "there was a lot of small hidden vicious cacti, we were afraid of letting the dogs out."
Wildlife encounters: Local wildlife includes both harmless and potentially dangerous species. One visitor warned: "Lastly keep fur babies on leash and close. There are coyotes. Heard them around 7pm and at sunrise."
Limited facilities: No water or toilets exist at most sites. Taylor B. from Grand Junction Desert Road Recreation Area emphasized the "convenience of this spot and the solitude but nothing insanely beautiful to write home about."
Tips from RVers
Level parking areas: Finding flat spots can be challenging. At Grand Mesa FS 105, Linda H. explained: "We towed a 35 FT 5th wheel heading west on 105 until we discovered the perfect campsite by turning south at the intersection with 108. The road was very rough but doable by moving along very slowly."
Maximum size limitations: Many roads restrict larger rigs. Aleta G. shared about BLM #174 Road: "I have a cell phone extender (Travlfi) and TMobile hotspot, which worked well. I did not need a 4 x 4 to get in here. My 2WD truck and 22 ft camper did just fine!"
Road washboarding: Rough road surfaces impact travel comfort and safety. Multiple reviewers mentioned the need to "drive very slowly" on roads leading to primitive camping near Clifton.
Cattle presence: Free-range livestock frequents several areas. Linda H. described: "One morning we looked outside to see several cows munching on the remains of our campfire. Apparently they like to eat ashes and charcoal for the minerals because it happened twice!"
