Best Dispersed Camping near Coalmont, CO
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Best Dispersed Sites Near Coalmont, Colorado (84)
1. Buffalo Pass Dispersed
16 Reviews•66 Photos•745 SavesSteamboat Springs, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
2. FR-302 Dispersed Camping - Rabbit Ears Pass
8 Reviews•20 Photos•363 SavesSteamboat Springs, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
3. Rabbit's Ear Pass East Summit FR 251
4 Reviews•12 Photos•113 SavesSteamboat Springs, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
4. Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping
4 Reviews•6 Photos•54 SavesWalden, ColoradoWalden Reservoir is a picturesque lake full of wildlife outside of Walden, Colorado. The Walden Reservoir is an easily accessible destination in a seldom seen portion of northern Colorado for birders, hunters, and those looking for a free, isolated place to rest.
- Pets
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
- Standard (Tent/RV)
5. Stillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite
14 Reviews•47 Photos•678 SavesGrand Lake, ColoradoFree camping (dispersed) is allowed on most national forest lands except in highly developed areas - such as trailheads, campgrounds and picnic sites - and in some of our most visited places. Be sure to check for regulations in advance and look for signs in the area to indicate if camping is allowed.
Some areas allow camping in designated sites only.
Know Before You Go
Check the weather and road closures before heading up. Follow Leave No Trace principles. There are no facilities or trash receptacles. Pack out what you pack in. Make sure camping is allowed. Many lands within the national forest boundary are private or otherwise owned. Check that you’re on National Forest lands: maps. Don't stay too long. Camping is limited to 14 days.within any continuous 30-day period. at any location within the same 20-mile radius. see Order Plan on building a campfire? Campfire restrictions can occur any time of year. Check for fire restrictions and if you build a campfire, know how to extinguish it.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
6. Seymour Lake State Wildlife Area
1 Review•4 Photos•28 SavesCoalmont, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Dispersed
7. Laramie River Road Dispersed
7 Reviews•20 Photos•694 SavesRed Feather Lakes, ColoradoLocated on the southern end of the Medicine Bow Mountain Range in north central Colorado, Rawah Wilderness was designated by the Wilderness Act of 1964 and now contains 73,868 acres. "Rawah" is a Native American term meaning "wild place."
Elevations in the Rawah Wilderness range from 8,400 to 13,000 feet. The high peaks were carved by glaciers, resulting in spectacular cirque lakes and moraines. There are twenty-five named lakes, ranging in size from five to 39 acres. This high alpine area contains the headwaters of the McIntyre, Rawah, and Fall Creeks, as well as the Laramie River.
The Rawahs are host to mammals such as elk, moose, mule deer, black bear, bighorn sheep, marmot and beaver. There are many species of birds including the red-tailed hawk, white-tailed ptarmigan, golden eagle, raven, Steller's Jay and a variety of warblers. Lakes and streams are inhabited with lake, cutthroat, rainbow and brown trout. Graylings are also found in this area.
The Rawah Wilderness is very popular with summer backpackers, hikers and anglers. It is also popular with hunters in the fall. To encounter the fewest people, plan your trip for mid-week and use less popular trails.
Always use Leave No Trace techniques to help keep this area wild, clean and pristine.
Motorized equipment, or mechanized transportation is prohibited, including motorcycles, chain saws, bicycles or carts. Wheelchairs are exempt. Group size is limited to 12 people and/or livestock combined. Camping and campfires are prohibited within 200’ feet of all lakes, streams and trails to protect water quality, sensitive vegetation and to help assure solitude. Thin soils and mountain vegetation are easily damaged by fire and fires scar rocks and soil. Use a stove, a fire pan or an existing fire ring when and where fires are allowed. Campfires are prohibited in the alpine areas above 10,800 feet. Campfires consume scarce vegetation and leave permanent scars on the fragile soils of the area. Pets must be on a handheld leash at all times if hiking. Equestrian riders can have dogs under voice control.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
8. FSR-296 - Dispersed Campsite
2 Reviews•16 Photos•128 SavesSteamboat Springs, ColoradoThe Steamboat Springs area is east and north of Steamboat Springs, Colo. It is managed by the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District with a Ranger Station/Visitor Center in the town of Steamboat Springs. Recreation sites along Buffalo Pass and Rabbit Ears Pass are located within this area to include the popular waterfall hike, Fish Creek Falls. The area lies against the western ridge of the Continental Divide and the Routt National Forest. Multiple wilderness areas are nearby. The area is bountiful with recreation opportunities such as mountain biking, hiking, camping, and fishing, as well as winter sports such as skiing and snowmobiling, just to name a few. Setting up your own campsite away from developed fee sites, also known as dispersed camping, is allowed on most of the national forests. From getting away from it all to just enjoying a weekend with friends, dispersed camping can make for a great story. Across the forests, opportunities range from dispersed camping miles into wilderness or just off a forest road in designated dispersed areas. Make sure to bring everything you need when dispersed camping, as water, restrooms, and fire rings may not be available nearby, and always remember to follow Leave No Trace principles.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
9. Dispersed Overlook off Hwy 40
3 Reviews•17 Photos•166 SavesSteamboat Springs, ColoradoPlease honor any signs that mention "private land" or "no camping" when in a dispersed area. Please practice Leave No Trace.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Dispersed
10. Base Camp Trailhead
1 Review•18 Photos•37 SavesSteamboat Springs, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
Recent Dispersed Reviews near Coalmont, CO
147 Reviews of 84 Coalmont Campgrounds
Mike W.
Guide
Elk River Dispersed
Along the banks of the Elk
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. Ou site was nestled in the spruce and fur with small game chattering often.
Spencer B.Guide
Allen Basin Reservoir Dispersed
Secluded Dispersed Camping near Allen Basin
Allen Basin Reservoir is roughly 1 mile from Crosho Lake. The only way to access this reservoir is by using trail #1181 and either hiking in, or using an ATV/dirtbike. You can not drive back to this reservoir.
There are roughly 6-8 dispersed camp spots on the road towards Allen Basin Reservoir. We camped at this spot for 3 days, and 2 nights and loved it! Plenty of coverage from the close by trees, access to the trail directly behind our camp spot, and there was a make shift bench made from a fallen tree! We highly recommend this spot, but do recommend driving a 4x4 vehicle to get here, and don't forget the bug spray!
shawn L.Guide
Deadman Road Dispersed
Lives up to the eerie feeling of its name
Road stretches for quite a ways into the national forest with lots of pull off camping spots many that are hidden Forrest gems as well. It makes you feel as if the camping area is very remote and far from people. I have camped a couple spots along this road both with creepy vibes at nighttime especially late at night when the wildlife is much more active. Overall hiking to the peaks of mountains to get the views is great and stargazing at 2am is absolutely stunning.
Isabelle K.
Legend
Dispersed Camping in Routt National Forest
Solitude by the river
We stumbled upon this campground by chance, and what a wonderful chance it was! After deciding to take a weekend rafting trip along the Wyoming/Colorado section of the Platte River, we planned to just find dispersed camping options within the surrounding National Forest area. We initially put our boats in at the Routt Access Trailhead which is where we were able to find this amazing group of campsites (see directions below). There are plenty of campsites designated by fire rings along the road that are well spread out and offer plenty of seclusion. We were surprised to not encounter any other campers despite it being a beautiful summer weekend. The campsite we used offered much appreciated shade from the June sun with plenty of big trees. The ground is relatively flat on top of the hill so we had quite a few options to spread out with our group pf 3 tents. Another huge plus of this area is how pristine it is, not a piece of trash to be found. If camping here, please continue that by following Leave No Trace principles.
Camping in this area is complimented by tons of nearby activities including hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding trails, class I-IV white water rafting opportunities, rock climbing, fishing and wildlife viewing. On our weekend adventure we went on a 4-hour boat trip from the Routt Access boat put-in to the Six-Mile Gap take-out point, the river felt like a private get away and we didn’t see any other people except for a few fly fishermen at the access points. The wildlife we encountered was the highlight of our trip, we saw moose, a golden eagle, foxes, pronghorns, and marmots.
To get there: The GPS coordinates entered on this page are for the Routt Access Trailhead. Following these directions from there is the easiest way to find the campsites. I have also included a screenshot of google maps in this review. When approaching the trailhead from the main road, just a few hundred yards before the trailhead/river access parking area, the road forks. To the right is the trailhead, and to the left is FS 939.1 (Mahogany Road). With a normal clearance vehicle and 2wd, you should be able to easily reach the first campsite along this road, marked by a well-appointed fire ring. For those with slightly higher clearance cars (my friends had a Subaru Forester and did just fine) I would highly recommend continuing along the road a bit higher and up the hill. 4wd is probably not necessary unless the road is muddy, but some large holes and rocks will be problematic for very low clearance vehicles. From up here, you will have amazing views of the grasslands, mountains and river.
- Josh S.
Scout
Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest Dispersed Camping
Not so hidden but not marked gem
This area is in National Forest so it is free and there are no “designated” spots but there are lots of spots where people have made fire pits. Beautiful views and you don’t need 4x4.
- TTroy S.
Traveler
Stillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite
Great RMNP Access
This dispersed camping area is great for western access to Rocky Mountain National Park.
ConnerGuideElk River Dispersed
Great for drive in/hike in
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. The forest service road was in amazing condition to access it.
I decided to hike up ontop a large rock formation because i wanted the killer views. Just enough dirt up there to pitch a tent.
There is dispersed camping along the river where a lot of rv’s were pitched up. I didnt want to be near any of them cause im tent camping
- Justin D.Scout
Laramie River Road Dispersed
Gorgeous
Tons of dispersed camping along the road, but it can be busy. Wildlife is abundant with tons of deer and moose in the area. Topography is Aspen wetlands and is beautiful. The road is a county dirt road but it is very well maintained and fairly wide.
Mati C.TravelerStillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite
Beautiful View!
This was our first time dispersed camping and it was definitely an adventure. There wasn’t a single person alive around us and we were hidden in trees so it was a little scary at first but once all the stars came out, it was so beautiful. The lows reached 40° so it definitely got chilly at night, but you can’t beat that sunrise over the mountains.
K W.Traveler
Glacier Gorge Backcountry Campsite — Rocky Mountain National Park
Inaccurate
This site (and all Rocky Mountain National Park wilderness sites) is reservation only. Reservations can be made by searching "Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness Permits" on Recreation.gov. The price per permit is $36. There is no dispersed camping within the park.
Hard-sided bear canisters are required for storage of food and all other scented items from April 1st-October 31st.
For more information on wilderness camping in Rocky Mountain National Park visit https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/wilderness-camping.htm
- K W.Traveler
Over the Hill Backcountry Campsite — Rocky Mountain National Park
Inaccurate
This site (and all Rocky Mountain National Park wilderness sites) is reservation only. Reservations can be made by searching "Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness Permits" on Recreation.gov. The price per permit is $36. There is no dispersed camping within the park.
Hard-sided bear canisters are required for storage of food and all other scented items from April 1st-October 31st.
For more information on wilderness camping in Rocky Mountain National Park visit https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/wilderness-camping.htm
- Darla R.Traveler
Laramie River Road Dispersed
Off the grid
We love taking our kids and dog camping out here. It is dispersed camping and it’s first come first serve. There is a camp ground near by with a porta-potty and there is a small market about 10-20 miles away. There is no cell service but there are call boxes in the area and we often see rangers driving by. There is fire permitted depending on the fire ban in area at the time and you can only camp where there are fire rings. You can’t cut down trees for wood but we usually chop up trees that are already down and dead. You can buy wood at the shop. There is a lot of wildlife in the area so be careful. We have had full grown moose run through our camp site and there has been reports of black bears near by as well as elk and deer. It does get cold at night even in summer as it’s about 9,000 ft above sea level.
Kevin W.Guide
Chambers Lake Dispersed Camping
Great For Large Groups
We drove up here on July 3rd hoping to camp at Barnes Meadow Reservoir. You can't drive in to Barnes Meadow so we took County Road 103 north around Chambers lake and found a lot of open spots beneath lodgepole pines. Several spots have a large pull in parking area where you could have a large RV, truck and trailer, or park several cars. I couldn't help thinking this area is perfect for a large group to set up several tents and have several individual campsites with their own fire right next to each other.
There is no water, electrical or toilets, but there are toilets at the Lost Lake trailhead which is a 2-3 minute drive up the road or a 15 minute walk.
We did walk down to the lake right behind our campsite. The bank is steep but passable by kids so most people can get down there and back up. We fished a bit in Chambers and Lost Lake. On the other side of the lake is the improved Chambers Lake Campground but it's a 15 minute drive around to the other side of the lake. And a further drive up Rd 103 takes you to lots of stream fishing, hiking trails, and more dispersed camping.
Alex S.
RangerLaramie River Road Dispersed
Beautiful spot
From Chambers Lake north down FS 103 youll find a lot of dispersed camping and a lot of great spots with beautiful views. The closer you are to the lake the busier it will be as the Chambers Lake spots get hammered with people every weekend and youll be eating dust as well. Further down the road you get it opens up with some nice areas to camp. Ive seen most vehicles make their way down this road with no issue and that includes RVs w/ toy haulers. Its dispersed so no bathrooms, cell service, and the closest amenities are towards Walden and the town of Rustic. One of my favorite spots but I choose wisely when to camp in order to avoid the mass gathering of campers on the weekends. Enjoy!
Kevin R.Guide
Elkhorn Creek Dispersed Camping
Simple camp spot with easy access
It’s a nice and simple spot to stay at. Plenty of trees for shade. There are 5 spots off of the Main road that I would say a small RV or travel trailer could stay at. The 2023 MVUM shows this place as a go for dispersed camping.
The first site, closest to the road, is pretty level, and lots of open space. The road does have the occasional car.
The other sites off of the main road are easy to get to as well, but not as level, and less room.
There is a turn off of the main road that has a steep drop and climb, and low clearance from trees, maybe 7ft. There are 4 additional fire rings that would make for great tenting spots.
The area as a whole could use some cleaning, there were spots where broken glass could be found in abundance.
- MMarashaGuide
Stillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite
Fine
Would have been a great spot if I’d arrived later—sundown or thereafter. But too sunny at 2 PM in June for my liking, especially with the bugs and the other people nearby. Would come back if I just needed a spot to boondock at night for a night. T-mobile service was fair. Area is decently trafficked so you might show up at night with no spots available.
- NN I.Legend
Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest Dispersed Camping
Country Cool
This is a beautiful area and well worth the visit. The gravel road in is in very good condition. The drive is totally beautiful especially during the fall. The road is lined with aspens and large boulders and massive rock bluffs. The road leads to several homes and there is quite a bit of traffic. The dispersed camping is a little over 3.4 miles in. If you follow the GPS you will be fine. All sites have rock fire rings and most sites are fairly level. All sites are in the sun which is great for solar. Verizon cell service was a major bonus. We did have several herd of cattle that would visit but the only downside were the gifts they would leave us. Just watch your step. There is a small stream that runs along the back side of the sites. Most sites were on the right side of the road. Be aware there is a lot of private property. Be courteous. Stay off. At the highway is is a post office and small grocery store and a hardware store.
LNT
Pack it in Pack it out
Stay safe happy travels
Opus 15 !.Guide
FR-302 Dispersed Camping - Rabbit Ears Pass
Great spot “in the middle of nowhere “ but close to Steamboat Springs
Very nice spot close to Steamboat Springs. (Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest) We arrived a little before noon on a Saturday in July. The road in was fine and very manageable with the OP 15 and a 1/2 ton truck. We found a beautiful spot 1.9 miles in on the East (left) side of the road. We saw 6-7 other campers set up on the way in… Mostly tent campers and a van or two. (Later in the weekend we did see some fairly sizable rigs occupying some “spots” along the 1.9 mile route to our spot) There may have been a place or two open that we could have chosen on the way in, but I’m glad that we kept going and settled in this spot. We had a beautiful view and the weather was perfect. Only downfall was the mosquitos. They were pretty bad this time of the year. Bring bug spray, or better yet, a misquote tent. We bought one in Steamboat Springs on our second day here and it was well worth the money! Verizon service was good and we had 2-3 bars all of the time. There was a little traffic on FR 302 but only about 1 car every 4-6 hours or so. Overall… Highly recommend!
amie M.GuideStillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite
Beautiful wildflowers
Even though this forest was impacted by the troublesome fire in 2020, this place is still very beautiful. We found a great camping spot close to a hiking/biking trail. The flowers are absolutely gorgeous and the Columbine flower is scattered amount the wildflowers. Also, just an FYI- Columbine is the Colorado State Flower. :)
Donovan A.Traveler
Buffalo Pass Dispersed
Must have Suspension
Just to update this since the last review had it closed. The road leading up to the summit is back open, but it is ROUGH. I had just done Rock Creek's drive up to dispersed near Dillon and thought that was bad, but this was worse.
You will not be able to get anything low clearance or anything you're towing that does not have independent suspension + high clearance (I dropped my 18' TT at Walmart and went to scout - glad I did) While I was 1/4 up into the climb, a Sprinter Van was stopped at what is probably the worst portion of the road. If you can make it past that first choke point, you'll pass a park then walk-in camp site on the left and then shortly after another camp spot on the right that is more van friendly. Both are not good for trailers. It is after those two sites the road goes from bad to worse.
If you have a Camper on a F350 or high clearance + tent, it has some of the best views I've seen at a park spot. It's worth the drive up there for pictures if you're curious, but I would unhook anything you're carrying before doing so.
Alyssa L.TravelerStillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite
Perfect camping spot!
The spot is perfect for camping! There is a private road pretty close to it so there’s only a handful of camping spots so make sure to get there early
Crystal G.Traveler
Deadman Road - Dispersed Site
So good.
Like with all good camping spots, ya gotta get there early. The good news is that even on a busy weekend, there's bound to be a spot SOMEWHERE off Deadman Road, even if it's not the best of the best, bc there are so many options. They all offer a form of privacy, but the variety of what's available here is what makes it so special... Boulders/rocks? check. Views? check. Trees? check. Water/stream? check. We've been up there 4 times, and each time offered something different than the last.
It's conveniently located near Red Feather, so if you need to fill up some water or grab a few things from the store, it's not too far of a drive.
Visiting Dowdy Lake was the highlight... We were lucky enough to find our own "private" beach where we got to swim and cool off during the most beautiful sunny day, and then head back to our campsite to enjoy the Milky Way Movie next to our campfire.
Heaven, and worth the drive.
michael H.Guide
Spring Creek Colorado- Dispersed Camping
Quiet and Secluded
Found a great little location on the creek. The area was busy, but the spots were separated very well. Off the main road we found a lightly traveled side road that led to the perfect camping spot. While the main road is well taken care of, some of the side roads definitely require an off-road vehicle. This is definitely going to be a place that we revisit.
Toni K.RangerBuffalo Pass Dispersed
Free camping outside of steamboat
Great free spot if you’re looking for somewhere not too far from the town. Awesome bike trails not very far. No bathroom or water it is dispersed. Not too hard of a road to get up either got up in a RWD Tacoma no problem.
- VVeronica G.Traveler
Manhattan Road Dispersed Camping & OHV
Forest Road 171J
We did not find a campsite right on the pin we drove up a little ways and came to a couple different dispersed spots. When you hit a Y in the road head left you will come across a couple fire pits. Great camping for dirt bikes, four wheelers and toys. We were right next to private property but the only ones out here.
- MMaggie H.Scout
Stillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite
definitely camping here again
there are a number if dispersed campsites on this road. they’re all lovely and pretty spaced out but if you’ve got a rowdy bunch in the spot next to yours you’ll definitely hear them. but the views here were great and it isn’t too far of a drive from granby/rmnp. also i had pretty good service here! definitely coming back to this spot next time i’m here :)
- JJannick V.Traveler
Stillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite
Crowded
We didn’t manage to get a spot at this campsite. It was crowded (we were there in the weekend). Drove further down the road to find a large (also free) campsite, which was allright. Views were okay, and there where a lot of other campers relatively nearby.
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 4.3-star rating from 16 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Coalmont, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 84 dispersed camping locations near Coalmont, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
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- Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland
- Medicine Bow-Routt NFs & Thunder Basin NG
- White River National Forest
- Gunnison National Forest