Dispersed camping near Climax, Colorado provides direct access to several high-altitude trails and backcountry areas. The majority of sites sit at elevations between 9,000-11,000 feet where nighttime temperatures frequently drop below freezing even in summer months. Roads accessing these areas typically open in late May through early October, with seasonal closures affecting site availability throughout the year.
What to do
Hiking near Mt Elbert: The Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 2 West area serves as an excellent starting point for hiking Colorado's highest peak. "We stayed in a spot about 50 ft from the trailhead and could accommodate a group! It was right on the end of Lily Ponds, so a bit buggy, but absolutely beautiful and very private. Also a great point to start your hike from!"
Visit historical sites: Camp at sites along Homestake Reservoir Road where mining history surrounds you. "Beautiful drive all the way up to the reservoir multiple dispersed camping spots along the road fresh water source coming from the reservoir hundreds of feet away from camping sites. Beautiful scenery. Plenty of critters to see. Pretty cool place to explore."
Seasonal wildflower viewing: July and August bring peak wildflower seasons to meadows near dispersed sites. The Shrine Pass Road area offers convenient access to flower-filled alpine meadows. "Convenient spot off i70 but without the traffic noise. A few spots along the road."
What campers like
Fire rings and clearings: Most Spruce Creek/Crystal Creek Designated Dispersed Camping sites feature established fire rings and cleared tent areas. "Site 4 featured 3 well established campfire rings, one with a lean-to. The three spots are separated enough to enjoy with seclusion, also had plenty of parking."
Mountain lake proximity: Camping near alpine lakes creates opportunities for fishing and cooling off. At Lower Crystal Lake- Dispersed Camping, visitors appreciate high-altitude water access. "The road up can be a bit challenging, especially for novice offroaders, but it's doable. The lake is beautiful but can be very windy. Great place to stay if you have the right vehicle and gear but not many spots."
Aspen groves for fall colors: September and early October bring golden aspens to many camping areas. "We had a blast with this spot, arrived late at night and woke up inside an aspen grove. There is a lot of hiking trails and some cool spots to visit down by the lakes."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many sites require 4WD or high-clearance vehicles. The McCullough Gulch Designated Dispersed Camping area has challenging access roads. "The road was rocky but not that rough, easy to handle in a Crosstrek so 4x4 and high clearance vehicles should be fine. Very narrow with branches on both sides so beware of that if you have a wide vehicle."
Permit requirements: Some dispersed areas require permits or have camping fees. Kite Lake charges $12 per night with limited amenities. "There is a $3 day use fee and a $12 overnight fee. The campground has an outhouse which is nice but otherwise it is very simple and spread out with beautiful views."
Site availability timing: For the best tent camping near Climax, Colorado, arrive early on weekends. "We arrived here on a Friday afternoon in late August 2024 and were pleasantly surprised to find several spots still available, even later in the day."
Seasonal closures: Many roads close in winter through late spring. "Still closed for the season" is a common report in early June for higher elevation sites.
Tips for camping with families
Choose lower elevation sites: Families with young children may find the lower altitude areas more comfortable for sleeping. "Being at a higher elevation, one person in our group did experience some mild altitude discomfort, even though we're from the Denver area—something to keep in mind if you're sensitive to elevation changes."
Bug preparation essential: Mosquitoes plague many sites, especially near water. "We went in October when the aspens and birch still had some leaves. Beautiful colors on bareus pass" at Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping offers a bug-free fall camping experience.
Short hiking options: Families appreciate the numerous short trails accessible from camping areas. "The Colorado trail/CDT passes close by and was a great evening hike from our camp."
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs and campervans only. The Homestake Reservoir Rd Milemarker 3 - Dispersed area offers better options for small trailers. "Found a great spot on the creek. Level and had a turn around for a larger rig. Many tent sites around. Road is in good shape."
Limited amenities: No hookups or dump stations exist at any dispersed sites. "If you are in a tent, these may provide some great options. We went by the first 6 sites. Even with our lifted AWD van, there were sites we didn't want to drive up to."
Narrow access roads: RVs longer than 25 feet will find few suitable sites. "Nice quick stay outside of Breckinridge. Pullouts are pretty tight so best for vans type camping. Maybe larger sites further up the mountain."
