Dispersed camping options near Coaldale, Colorado range from secluded creek-side sites to high-elevation mountain spots within the San Isabel National Forest. Elevations vary from approximately 6,500 feet along the Arkansas River corridor to over 9,000 feet in the nearby mountain areas. Weather patterns can shift rapidly, with afternoon thunderstorms common during summer months and overnight temperatures frequently dropping below 45°F even in July.
What to do
Hiking from camp: Several sites along Road 240 - Dispersed provide direct access to trailheads. As one camper noted, "There are more places for tent camping the further up you go though but the road is not good so all-wheel or 4WD with clearance is needed... near lots of hiking trails, angels of shavano TH takes you up the most beautiful section of Colorado trail, it was a butt kicker though."
Wildlife viewing: The mountain terrain offers opportunities to observe native species. At Dispersed Sand Area 1, one camper reported, "A large gathering of mountain goats hanging out along the road was a fun surprise! Gorgeous views of Crestone peak and other neighboring mountains."
Water recreation: The Arkansas River provides fishing and kayaking access points. A visitor at AHRA Canyon Trading Post Recreation Site described it as having a "Ramp to launch rafts, kayaks..." and being "Very clean. Self pay station if you do not have state park pass. Vault restrooms. No trash on site, pack in pack out."
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Waterfront tent camping sites receive consistent positive mentions. At Road 240 - Dispersed, one camper shared, "We found a campsite that had a little waterfall and fast flowing creek next to it. It was the perfect little spot. Got cold at night but it was to be expected."
Seclusion from crowds: Many dispersed areas offer privacy not found at established campgrounds. A reviewer at Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping wrote, "Took my wife and daughter for a few nights and we enjoyed the spot we chose. There was no one near us so we got a great experience camping in solitude. The views of the mountains was amazing and great hiking."
Night sky viewing: Low light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions at most sites. One camper at Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites described their experience as "We pulled off just before the turnaround for long trailers and camped on the other side of the creek near a towering wall. No signal, no restroom, no water, no trash cans, no light, no noise, just nature and an occasional car."
What you should know
Insect activity: Mosquitoes and biting flies can be problematic during certain seasons. A camper at Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites warned, "The worst and only bad part was the insane amount of biting flies. It was unbearable at times and our dogs were very stressed from them all over them. Bring those fly bags that attract them away from you unless you're prepared to get eaten up by the flies."
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require navigating challenging access roads. For tent camping near Coaldale at higher elevations, prepare for rough terrain. A visitor to Hermit Pass OHV stated, "Your vehicle will prob need new brakes after this trip. Super beautiful but the road never eases up."
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings can be significant. At Browns Creek, one camper advised, "It was so peaceful. Big wide dispersed camping spaces. Plenty of nice hiking - especially Brown's Creek area... The only drawback was, well, August dryness & no water nearby."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Some areas offer better access for families with children. At Red Canyon Park, a visitor noted, "We found this campsite pretty easily in the middle of the night. Some spots have picnic tables and fire pits while others are just pull in spots... Decent views, mostly just good for a free camp spot."
Water sources: Determine water availability before arriving. A camper at Browns Creek advised, "We camped here for 4 nights in August 2020... The only drawback was, well, August dryness & no water nearby. This was our first dispersed camping experience and we realize no facilities."
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about appropriate wildlife behavior. One Red Canyon visitor reported, "BE SMART ABOUT FOOD! We did have a bear encounter as we were driving out of the park."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many dispersed sites have limitations for larger vehicles. At Road 240, a camper warned, "DO NOT bring your trailer past the 3rd spot up the road after the bridge. And do not drive up that section to the 3rd if it is already taken (scout ahead here, trust me). You won't be able to turn around and the road gets worse with no where to turn around and no spots."
Road clearance requirements: High-clearance vehicles are necessary for many tent camping areas near Coaldale. At Road 240, a camper stated, "Road is rough but we saw stock vehicles and full size trucks using this road. We have a sequoia with a lift and good tires. We never used 4x4 going up and we went all the way up to the mines in 2wd."
Weekend planning: Arrive early on weekends to secure the limited suitable RV spots. At Browns Creek, one visitor advised, "Make sure you get here early in the weekends. There are many sites if you keep driving, but some better than others."
