Best Dispersed Camping near Coalmont, CO

Dispersed camping opportunities exist throughout the national forest lands surrounding Coalmont, Colorado, with several free primitive sites available in the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. Popular areas include Buffalo Pass Dispersed, Rabbit's Ear Pass East Summit, and FR-302 Dispersed Camping areas, all offering no-fee camping without designated facilities. These primitive sites typically feature established fire rings and flat areas for tents or small vehicles, though they lack formal boundaries or numbered sites. Most locations remain open seasonally, closing during winter months due to snow and access limitations.

Many forest roads leading to dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles, with several campers noting particularly rough conditions on Buffalo Pass Road. According to reviews, "The road leading up to the summit is back open, but it is ROUGH" and "requires decent clearance." Most areas permit camping for up to 14 days, though regulations may vary by specific location. Fire restrictions are common during summer months, with one camper noting "Currently a stage 2 fire ban so no campfires allowed." None of these dispersed sites offer drinking water, trash collection, or toilet facilities, requiring visitors to pack out all waste and bring sufficient supplies.

The dispersed camping areas near Coalmont provide varying levels of seclusion and natural beauty. FR-302 Dispersed Camping on Rabbit Ears Pass receives positive reviews for its accessibility and views. One camper described finding "a beautiful spot 1.9 miles in on the East side of the road" with "a beautiful view and the weather was perfect." Visitors to Rabbit's Ear Pass East Summit noted excellent forest coverage, with a reviewer sharing they "got a campsite that was lush with a ton of tree coverage. It felt like we were alone in the world." Wildlife sightings are common, including elk and various bird species. Cell service varies significantly by location, with some areas offering reliable Verizon coverage while others have no signal at all. Mosquitoes can be problematic during summer months, with multiple reviews recommending bug spray.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Coalmont, Colorado (92)

    1. Buffalo Pass Dispersed

    19 Reviews
    Steamboat Springs, CO
    17 miles

    "I had just done Rock Creek's drive up to dispersed near Dillon and thought that was bad, but this was worse. "

    "Good camping right close to the road. Secluded and private with beautiful views. Currently a stage 2 fire ban so no campfires allowed."

    2. FR-302 Dispersed Camping - Rabbit Ears Pass

    9 Reviews
    Steamboat Springs, CO
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 745-2300

    "We went 2.7 miles up from the turn off of 40 and found a great spot on the left. There is a spot right there off the road but if you go in another 100 yards or so it's a great spot."

    "Very nice spot close to Steamboat Springs. (Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest) We arrived a little before noon on a Saturday in July."

    4. Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Walden, CO
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 826-5000

    "simple, and easy place to get to… flat awesome sunset"

    "Sites aren’t really marked/but are right next to the reservoir. No fires/water pumps."

    5. Rabbit's Ear Pass East Summit FR 251

    5 Reviews
    Steamboat Springs, CO
    16 miles

    "Recommend 4x4 high clearance to get to the campsites. If you have low clearance, there are a couple right at the start but they don't have much tree clearance. "

    "Only people I saw were the forest service workers who were friendly and just out reminding people of the fire ban."

    7. Base Camp Trailhead

    1 Review
    Steamboat Springs, CO
    15 miles

    "I wouldn’t bring anything back here towing behind me except an overland trailer, personally. It’s rocky a good most of the way, but high clearance isn’t needed."

    8. Steamboat Springs Colorado Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Steamboat Springs, CO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 745-2300

    "Unfortunately the road is closed right now, I’m not even supposed to be here idt but I foraged through the woods from the campsites further back north on the dirt road."

    9. Dispersed Overlook off Hwy 40

    5 Reviews
    Steamboat Springs, CO
    22 miles
    Website

    "I stayed at another pull off a little higher up on the hlll and with that pull off you can get a little more down the mountain and hence away from the noise."

    "Quick stop overlooking Lake Catamount. This is actually a pull off from the highway but noticed people had camped here so we did too."

    10. FSR-296 - Dispersed Campsite

    3 Reviews
    Steamboat Springs, CO
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 870-2299

    "There were many other campers all around but did not hear any noise other than from highway nearby which wasn't disturbing at all."

    "The camping is directly off is route 40, a minute or two drive until campsites. Decided to park in the asphalt/gravel lot. There is camping directly behind this in the grass land though."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Coalmont, CO

198 Reviews of 92 Coalmont Campgrounds



Guide to Coalmont

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Coalmont, Colorado, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The Buffalo Pass Dispersed area offers breathtaking views, especially during the fall when the leaves change color, making it a picturesque spot for photography enthusiasts.
  • At FR-302 Dispersed Camping - Rabbit Ears Pass, campers can enjoy wildflowers and stunning vistas, particularly during the summer months when the landscape is in full bloom.
  • For those looking for a peaceful retreat, the Rabbit's Ear Pass East Summit FR 251 provides a lush forest setting with plenty of tree coverage, perfect for a secluded camping experience.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Coalmont

  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities at South Delaney Lake, where the calm waters are ideal for a relaxing day on the lake.
  • Hiking is a must at the Base Camp Trailhead, which serves as a gateway to scenic trails leading to Fishhook Lake, offering both adventure and stunning views.
  • Wildlife watching is abundant at Elk River Dispersed, where visitors can spot elk and other wildlife in their natural habitat, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

Unique Features for Dispersed Campers

  • The Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping area is known for its beautiful sunsets and serene atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unwind after a day of exploration.
  • Campers at Pleasant Valley Roadside Camp on Hwy 40 can enjoy easy access to the highway while still being surrounded by stunning mountain views, making it a convenient stop for travelers.
  • The Middle Fork Elk River Camp offers a spacious area for larger groups, with plenty of room for tents and RVs, making it ideal for family gatherings or group outings.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Coalmont, CO is Buffalo Pass Dispersed with a 4.2-star rating from 19 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 92 dispersed camping locations near Coalmont, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.