Top Free Dispersed Camping near Colorado City, CO

Looking for dispersed camping near Colorado City? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Colorado excursion.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Colorado City, CO (28)

    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Common Rec Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Common Rec Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Common Rec Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Common Rec Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Common Rec Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Common Rec Site

    1. Penrose Common Rec Site

    9 Reviews
    29 Photos
    83 Saves

    Penrose Commons Recreation Area offers a warm, arid climate among pinon and juniper woodlands. The best time to visit is September through May when temperatures are comfortable and the snowy peaks of the Sangre De Cristo mountain range are visible in the distance. With 30 miles of motorized trail, the area is popular for ATVs, motorcycles and four wheeling. Independence Trail system is known for its extreme 4x4 rock crawling opportunities with easy access for spectators to enjoy the trail activity. Penrose Commons is also popular for horseback riding, hunting and dispersed camping. The area has a restroom, trail map information and ample parking space for trailers. A wet weather gate closes the area to motorized use during wet conditions. For more information, please contact the Royal Gorge Field Office.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield

    2. The Dunefield

    7 Reviews
    46 Photos
    337 Saves

    Explore any part of the 30 square mile dunefield you wish; there are no designated trails in the sand. A dunes-accessible wheelchair is available for free loan at the Visitor Center. Summer air temperatures are pleasant at this high elevation, but during afternoon hours the sand surface can reach 150F degrees, and dangerous thunderstorms can develop. Plan to hike the dunes in early morning or evening to avoid heat exhaustion, burned feet, or fatal lightning strikes.

    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Deweese state wildlife area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Deweese state wildlife area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Deweese state wildlife area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Deweese state wildlife area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Deweese state wildlife area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Deweese state wildlife area
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from South Colony Basin
    Camper-submitted photo from South Colony Basin
    Camper-submitted photo from South Colony Basin
    Camper-submitted photo from South Colony Basin
    Camper-submitted photo from South Colony Basin
    Camper-submitted photo from South Colony Basin

    6. South Colony Basin

    2 Reviews
    8 Photos
    100 Saves

    South Colony Basin and the surrounding 14,000-foot peaks offer a broad range of recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, backpacking, mountaineering, fishing and hunting. This diversity of activities, combined with the natural beauty of the basin and the rough but passable access provided by the road, has made South Colony Basin the most popular destination in the Sangre de Cristo Range. Trailhead register data indicate 3,500 to 4,500 persons (7,000 to 9,000 visitor days) visit the small (1500 acre) upper basin at the head of the South Colony drainage during the summer season. Since 1996, the Forest Service has worked in partnership with Rocky Mountain Field Institute, Colorado Fourteeners Initiative, Colorado Outward Bound, and other educational and environmental service organizations to reconstruct trails and climbing routes within the basin, stabilize eroding alpine slopes (caused by user-created trails), inventory and restore undesirable campsites and social trails. To date, nearly $1,000,000 (of mostly non-federal funds) and 40,000 volunteer hours have been spent restoring long-term recreational impacts, rebuilding the lower road, constructing trailhead facilities and creating sustainable summit trails in South Colony Basin.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon

    7. Phantom Canyon

    4 Reviews
    25 Photos
    135 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    • No image available
      • No image available
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150

        10. BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150

        6 Reviews
        17 Photos
        115 Saves

        BLM off grid camping - please remember to Leave No Trace in this area. Thank you.

        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • RVs
        • Tents
        • Standard (Tent/RV)
      Showing results 1-10 of 28 campgrounds

      Recent Dispersed Reviews In Colorado City

      61 Reviews of 28 Colorado City Campgrounds


      • CThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed
        Oct. 13, 2024

        BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed

        Great Spot

        Was able to find a really nice open spot with amazing views of the mountains. Was big and spacious enough for me and my friend to camp in our vans. No one around for miles!

      • Amy L.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Lake Deweese state wildlife area
        Aug. 25, 2024

        Lake Deweese state wildlife area

        Fine for a night

        The directions from this app didn’t exactly take me to the campsites. The campsites are along Lake Deweese Rd at the NE end of the reservoir. There are several sites all in very close proximity. There is virtually no privacy from neighbors but it worked from me for a night. It looked like some campers may be permanently occupying the sites.

      • A
        Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
        Aug. 22, 2024

        Great Sand Dunes Dispersed

        Good spot if you get there early

        There’s plenty of spots off the main road, but seems like you need to get there early. We showed up around 6 pm. The road does get pretty rough eventually, and we didn’t trust our minivan going through the “unmaintained” section, we turned around and were able to find a connecting side road that had plenty of open space out there. When entering the road initially, the side road would be about half way up to your left. Pretty close to Great Sand Dunes National Park, so we were happy with this location! Nice mountain view.

      • Erika L.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Sand Area 1
        Aug. 14, 2024

        Dispersed Sand Area 1

        Door and peaceful

        Loved hearing the creek roaring in the background and feeling the sun on my skin surrounded by cactus - an I in Texas!?

      • MThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Crestone Needle Trail
        Jul. 30, 2024

        Crestone Needle Trail

        I stayed for days. Really liked the location.

        There are more than one listing for places to camp along FS 949. I stayed on a pad that was build along with the road. Loved the views, The area is very interesting. Crestone is a tiny town with just about anything you might want within a walk from where I parked. Plenty of camping spots all the way up to the end of the road where there is a fairly busy trailhead.

      • CThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon
        Jul. 30, 2024

        Phantom Canyon

        Beautiful, but Far from Pristine.

        Absolutely beautiful area! We pulled in on a Friday evening with thunderstorms all around. There were plenty of sites available when we showed up, but they were all full by Saturday morning. We weren’t able to get one of the spots near the creek, but had our own hidden ravine tucked away on the left side of the road. I believe it was the 3rd to last pull out and the last one on the left side of the road. Stunning… but the smell from previous campers unsuccessfully trying to burn their trash in the fire rings (thankfully we brought our solo stove to cook on) and all the litter was a bit overwhelming. Broken glass, toilet paper/feces not buried, cigarette butts, and just trash everywhere. Unfortunate for the area, our spot was the cleanest one we came across. We took some walks past others near the creek that looked like they had just hosted full on frat parties.

        It was just super unfortunate and disgusting to go to such a beautiful area and have previous campers all but ruin it for us.

      • HThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed
        Jul. 28, 2024

        BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed

        Quick Stop

        Quick and easy to find. Area was easily accessible. A great option for those on a budget and attempting to avoid paying fees for one night stays. Nice views of the valley and mountain behind. Sites were not the most level going up the mountainside and a bit rocky. Would stay there again!

      • Laneha E.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150
        Jul. 27, 2024

        BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150

        Beautiful views & Isolated

        This place is good for those who have clearance and a 4WD. Road can be rough but pretty much all pickups are good. Don’t need a jeep. If it rains, you could get in trouble. The views are beautiful. Especially higher up. Some spots, I didn’t find tons of spots. I was the only one here on a Friday night last week if July 🤷🏼‍♀️. Or if there were others I didn’t know it. You get cover of some trees quicker than the sacred mountain location farther south on same road. You have to open a gate to get in. I would recommend it, and will probably be back at some point.

      • Morgan E.
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed
        Jul. 23, 2024

        BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed

        Dispersed Mountain Views !

        This campsite is very popular, I would definitely recommend arriving early morning time to secure a spot. We got in fairly late in the night from Texas and had to drive in a ways. Many people left early in the morning so sites opened up fairly quickly. The road is graded and then turns into a rocky road that is manageable in a crossover for a ways then high clearance will be needed. There was a small flooded portion that is next to the helipad but we just drove up onto the helipad to get around it as to not risk getting stuck. There are plenty of sites available and even a circle drive in the front of the road if you don’t feel like venturing in during the night. There are A TON of flies! Lots of bug spray and loose clothing to avoid those pesky biting flies. We had a beautiful view of the mountain and Great Sand dunes is a short 20 minutes away. Our pups loved the large open spaces but beware of cacti and tiny burrs.

      • Charles L.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon
        Jul. 22, 2024

        Phantom Canyon

        Late July camping trip

        I’m a rooftop tent camper and the views are amazing but was hoping to be close to the water and isolated from other campers. Definitely was isolated and found one spot that worked out well for rooftop camper. Like 14 miles on dirt road, on the right, 20 feet before a sign that reads “leaving public land.” Had fire ring and more than enough room. About 20 yards away from creek. Quiet. No Att cell service but don’t expect anyone can get service in that canyon.

      • Macy E.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon
        Jul. 2, 2024

        Phantom Canyon

        Great Spot

        It was absolutely beautiful! Upwards of 20 spots to park. There is no service which is fine but something to leave in a review. It is a very populated area so if you plan to go on a holiday weekend plan accordingly. We showed up around 10 at night on a Monday night of the fourth week and found lots of open spots. they were all very secluded away from everyone else Over all great spot!

      • phil G.
        Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Sand Area 1
        Jun. 30, 2024

        Dispersed Sand Area 1

        Beautiful views, remote feeling, near town

        There are about 10-15 dispersed camping spots along the dirt road that leads up to trailheads at the end. The spots are spread out enough to where I did not see or hear a soul while camping 2 nights. A large gathering of mountain goats hanging out along the road was a fun surprise! Gorgeous views of Crestone peak and other neighboring mountains. The only negative was the mosquitos. They are horrendous. If you can’t handle it or find a way to keep them away it could ruin someone’s ability to enjoy the beauty.

      • DThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150
        Jun. 26, 2024

        BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150

        Beautiful Spot

        A very short drive off the road, open and close the gate to get in. We parked up by a little stream in an E350 RV. Ground a bit bumpy, but drivable if you go slow. Cell signal okay, 5G 4bars AT&T but about 1-3 Mbps. Amazing wide open Mountain View’s. Many many bitey bugs!

      • Greg M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed
        Jun. 20, 2024

        BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed

        Happy we ended up here

        We ended up here by mistake, thinking we were at the Sacred White shell BLM. Glad we did though. Great views of The Twin Peaks and Blanca Peak. Lots of flat open space down low. We stopped as the road steepened and set up in a big spot that was close to the road. No complaints considering we got here an hour before dark. Views for miles here!

      • Matthew Z.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150
        Jun. 16, 2024

        BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150

        Campsite near Great Sand Dunes

        Beautiful spot with amazing views. Not sure what part the other reviewer stayed at, but the approach trial was a little hectic and I was glad to have a high clearance 4x4. Beautiful stream right next to the sites and plenty of fire pits.

      • M
        Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Common Rec Site
        Jun. 15, 2024

        Penrose Common Rec Site

        Great First stop in Colorado

        We got in at about 10:00 pm with no problems at all, 2wd Truck. Found a beautiful spot to park up for the night before doing the Royal Gorge. Previous camper even left a nice pile of pinewood by the fire ring! Restrooms were available at entrance as well as a loves a couple few miles away for showers. Definitely coming back to this spot, seems reliable and plenty of friendly campers around to keep company👍🏽

      • Stephani The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area
        Jun. 6, 2024

        Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area

        Nice balance

        We have neighbors 100 yards away and others further, so you won’t have the whole wilderness to yourself, but that might be comforting!

        Well maintained with an ice fire pit. Be careful of cactus, bring firewood, download the off-line maps. The trails can get confusing so remember your way in!

      • Jake M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Sand Area 1
        May. 29, 2024

        Dispersed Sand Area 1

        Great camping for some 14ers

        Stayed here some years ago before hitting challenger and kit carson. Plenty of dispersed spots available. Stayed here in a truck with a rtt. With others in a group. Close enough to town where we hit up the local brewery for drinks and food. Short drive from here to willow creek trailhead.

      • Shivors
        Camper-submitted photo from Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area
        May. 28, 2024

        Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area

        Nice quiet area

        Plenty of spots to stop. Entry road has multiple water runoff ditches that make the road best for vehicles with decent clearance. If dry 4x4 not necessary.

        We hiked some of the surrounding areas and found bear scat close to our pull off.

        Intermittent cell service for AT&T and Verizon. Periods with no connection.

      • shelby  C.
        Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon Road Pull-Off
        May. 18, 2024

        Phantom Canyon Road Pull-Off

        Stunning Place

        Every summer I go on a road trip , camping ,backpacking and visiting national parks , while driving through Colorado we drove through phantom canyon road and we stopped about 20 times through our drive and just admired the view , it’s so beautiful and 100% worth going if your in the area

      • Clément S.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed
        May. 5, 2024

        BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed

        Good spot near Great Sand Dunes NP

        Several spots on this dirt road. The first ones are quite flat, then it's more complicated. It's close to the dirt road but there are not many people that use it

      • AThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150
        Mar. 24, 2024

        BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150

        BLM option near Great Sand Dunes

        We stopped overnight here for a day trip to the great sand dunes in March. This was a lovely spot , no one around and a large turnaround spot with plenty of space for our 20ft trailer . Multiple small BLM pull off roads along hwy 150 with BLM gates that you just open when you drive in and close on the way out. Thanks BLM!

      • rThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Oil Well Flats
        Feb. 21, 2024

        Oil Well Flats

        Probably not the best place for large trailers

        Fairly steep and rough road up into the campground. Once your in the roads are decent. Some sites had broken glass and trash and some were clean and decent

      • Kodie K.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
        Oct. 16, 2023

        Great Sand Dunes Dispersed

        Great overnight stay

        Spent one night only on my way home. It was perfect for what I needed. Quiet and peaceful. Wide open spaces. Loads of stars! Very sandy/dusty but not intolerable. Would definitely stay again but probably not for multiple days. Easy drive to Alamosa and the Dunes!



      Guide to Colorado City

      Camping near Colorado City, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax under the stars, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

      What to do:

      • Hiking: Explore the trails around the Pinon Flats Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "From the campground, you can easily hike up to the creek and the east face of the dunes within 15-30 minutes."
      • Visit the Sand Dunes: The Great Sand Dunes National Park is nearby. A camper shared, "You MUST take a walk down into the dunes after dark… simply breathtaking."
      • Fishing and Swimming: At Piñon Campground — Lathrop State Park, you can enjoy fishing and swimming. One visitor said, "Enjoyed bike riding, fishing, and swimming."

      What campers like:

      • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views at Zapata Falls Campground. A review noted, "So close to Sand Dunes and just beautiful with a waterfall."
      • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. One camper at Cheyenne Mountain State Park Campground said, "Very nice and clean park. Lots of wildlife. Tons of trails."
      • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of places like Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites. A reviewer mentioned, "You could walk down to the creek to explore and look for cool rocks."

      What you should know:

      • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in summer. A visitor at Pinon Flats Campground warned, "In July, there were a ton of mosquitoes everywhere except over the sand."
      • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Zapata Falls Campground, have basic facilities. One camper noted, "There are no frills at Zapata Falls—no hook-ups, no hosts, and only vault toilets."
      • Reservation Requirements: Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Great Sand Dunes Oasis mentioned, "You do have to reserve online now in advance."

      Tips for camping with families:

      • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. One parent at Colorado Springs KOA said, "They do fun activities on the weekends like mining for gems and tie-dye shirts."
      • Safety First: Ensure your campsite is safe for kids. A reviewer at Arkansas Point Campground noted, "The spots are pull-through which makes setup and tear down so much easier for camp!"
      • Plan for Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours to ensure everyone has a good night's sleep. One camper mentioned, "Quiet time starts at 11pm so it’s nice and quiet for the evenings and bedtime."

      Tips from RVers:

      • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Piñon Campground said, "All the sites were paved and pull through."
      • Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Great Sand Dunes Oasis offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. One visitor noted, "The showers were amazing at this place."
      • Be Mindful of Light Pollution: If you want to stargaze, choose a campground with minimal light. A camper at Great Sand Dunes Oasis mentioned, "This is a dark sky area with expansive views of the sky."

      Camping near Colorado City, Colorado, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Colorado City, CO?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Colorado City, CO is Penrose Common Rec Site with a 4-star rating from 9 reviews.

      • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Colorado City, CO?

        TheDyrt.com has all 28 dispersed camping locations near Colorado City, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.