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Best Dispersed Camping near Colorado Springs, CO

272 Reviews

Pike National Forest surrounds Colorado Springs with multiple dispersed camping areas, including Mount Herman Road, Rampart Range Road, and Gold Camp Road dispersed sites. These free camping locations sit at elevations typically above 7,000 feet on U.S. Forest Service land, requiring no reservations or fees. Most sites feature established fire rings and accommodate both tent and small RV camping, though amenities are non-existent. The 14-day camping limit applies throughout these areas.

Access roads vary significantly in quality and difficulty. Mount Herman Road includes steep grades and switchbacks, while Rampart Range Road offers better maintained dirt surfaces suitable for most vehicles. Many dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain or snow. According to one visitor, "The road to get in is mainly washboard. Totally possible even with a low clearance 2-wheel drive vehicle." However, other areas demand more capability, with another camper noting that "FR 250 starts to get quite rutted so high clearance would be required." No drinking water, toilets, or trash service exists at any location, requiring campers to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste.

The surrounding terrain provides panoramic mountain views and outdoor recreation opportunities. Rampart Reservoir offers a popular 4-mile hiking trail accessible from nearby camping areas. Weekend traffic increases substantially with ATVs and off-road vehicles common on many forest roads. "We found a gorgeous spot, and it seems like there are a lot of spots available as the road is very long," reports one camper about the Rampart Reservoir area. Sites closer to main roads experience more dust and noise, while those on secondary forest roads provide greater seclusion. Cell service varies dramatically by location and carrier, with some areas maintaining usable connections while others have no signal. Summer weekends fill quickly, especially at easily accessible sites, making weekday arrival recommended during peak season.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Colorado Springs, Colorado (47)

    1. Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping

    35 Reviews
    Monument, CO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    "If you enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies, drive in dispersed camping and putting your off-roading skills to the test, this dispersed campsite is a must visit!"

    "It took us about 15 minutes driving past the coordinates (trailhead) to start seeing campsites. There was nobody around, and we picked a very spacious one with a great view."

    2. Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park

    21 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    15 miles

    "A Long rocky and dirt road lays ahead of these dispersed camping areas. This park has set up campgrounds, but we chose to drive off road a bit and set up camp on the edge of a rocky overlook."

    "Easy to access for any mobility-level or age. Peaceful and quiet except for the occasional passing car which is to be expected. Spots are relatively well spaced apart. Fire-pits galore!"

    3. Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping

    19 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    "Rampart Range Road is the main dirt road that has plenty of smaller trails branching off of it to keep you busy exploring all summer."

    "Tucked back in National Forest land."

    4. Rampart Range Area Dispersed Campsite

    12 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "We were going from direction Divide town using provided coordinates. All went fine until we ended up in a dead end road with private residence."

    "Rough road getting there though"

    5. Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed

    14 Reviews
    Victor, CO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "Amazing location right next to Boehmer Creek. There are 5 or 6 sites mainly for tents. You might be able ti get an rv in there but low hanging trees and narrow rutted trails would be a problem."

    "Make sure to bring your bug spray. Nice fire pit and gorgeous views. Saw fish in stream a couple of deer and tons of chipmunks. Saw a little trash here and there."

    6. Rampart Reservoir Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    15 miles
    Website

    "After a long day of traveling we looked for a campsite close to Colorado Springs. This place was very nice with a great view of Pikes Peak."

    "There are three dispersed camping areas on this road. It is close to the rampart reservoir, which is very nice."

    7. Rampart Range Dispersed Site

    6 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "Dispersed is further up the mountain but what a beautiful drive! We found a wooded spot that was super private and cozy! Climbed nearby rocks for some amazing views 🏔️"

    "Awesome views and close to fishing"

    8. Rampart Reservoir Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Woodland Park, CO
    14 miles

    "This free campsite is about 40 minutes from Colorado Springs, which sounds kinda far, but the gorgeous views on the way up are stunning, so it makes it feel like a shorter drive!"

    "We reserved the site ahead of time, right above the reservoir with an easy path down to the water . Garbage and bathrooms available . Spacious sites with a good amount of privacy from neighbors ."

    9. Mt. Herman Road Dispersed Site 2

    5 Reviews
    Palmer Lake, CO
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    10. Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide

    9 Reviews
    Woodland Park, CO
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    "This dispersed camp site has numerous spots with rock fire pits. There are a lot of dirt bikes and atvs driving during the day however I didn’t find it overly disruptive."

    "If you like dispersed camping with 360 views this is the place for you. This was our second time dispersed camping and off-roading here."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Colorado Springs, CO

234 Photos of 47 Colorado Springs Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Colorado Springs, CO

272 Reviews of 47 Colorado Springs Campgrounds

  • Blanche K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 10, 2020

    Rampart Reservoir Recreation Area

    Awesome spot near Colorado Springs!

    I’m so glad we found this spot, because it’s not an easy find online. This free campsite is about 40 minutes from Colorado Springs, which sounds kinda far, but the gorgeous views on the way up are stunning, so it makes it feel like a shorter drive! It is on a long dirt road, but you’ll be fine if it’s not calling for rain or hasn’t rained too hard recently. We found a gorgeous spot, and it seems like there are a lot of spots available as the road is very long. Open Fires are not permitted, at least right now. And our site did not have a fire ring. The sites were trashy, there was toilet paper all around. Please respect the land. People zoom down this dirt road so be cautious. The nights are cool and not buggy at all! I believe the elevation is over 7,000ft. There was a great 4mile round trip flat, easy hike walking distance from our campsite to Rampart Reservoir! Highly recommend! We walked it around 7AM- it was so quiet and the water was lovely. I would have given it 5 stars if it weren’t for the trash! Plug these coordinates in Google maps and it’ll take you there! GPS: 38.96252, -104.99779

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2023

    Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed

    Incredible creekside camping

    Amazing location right next to Boehmer Creek. There are 5 or 6 sites mainly for tents. You might be able ti get an rv in there but low hanging trees and narrow rutted trails would be a problem. There were insects around so bring bug spray and flytraps. The creek has trout if fishing is your thing. Not much wildlife but there are great hikes in the area. Skagway reservoir is close and a must see. You can also get supplies in the nearby town of Victor. To get there you are better off taking Goldcamp Road from the Victor side. We approached from Colorado Springs and the road is very rotted due to the amount of rainfall we’ve had. I would not recommend trying to get an RV through that. From Victor, you do have to go through a narrow tunnel with an 11’2” clearance but the road is far better maintained.

  • Doug C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 10, 2022

    Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping

    Choose Your Own Adventure From Rampart Range Road

    Rampart Range Road is the main dirt road that has plenty of smaller trails branching off of it to keep you busy exploring all summer. Rampart Range Road is accessible by 2wd vehicles while some of the smaller trails that branch off of Rampart Range Rd do better with a 4wd with high clearance. The southern portion of the road (south of Devils Head Trail) is open year around while the northern half of the road is closed seasonally during winter. Easily accessible outside of Woodland Park on the south end of the road and west through Sedalia. Lots of dispersed camping sites along the road, some are very large and could easily accommodate a large RV or large groups. Other campsites are tucked away off the road a little which is great because this road can be very busy & dusty in the summer. All in all, this place makes for a fun and easy weekend getaway as long as some ohv traffic doesn’t bother you too much. The best part of Rampart Range Road is the several forest service roads that branch off with dispersed camping. These smaller trails and dispersed camping make for a much more relaxing and peaceful weekend, I highly recommend if you have a 4x4. Find the right forest service road and you’ll feel like you are a million miles from it all.

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 17, 2023

    Manchester Creek Trailhead

    Good free dispersed camping

    We use to camp here a lot when we lived in colorado springs. Near town of divide for supplies. A water station is availanle on hwy 67 in divide. The forest rd is quite rough. A high clearance vehicle is a good idea. Lots of ATVs on the weekends. So lots of atv noise and dust. Lots of places to camp. I have taken my 37' 5th wheel there. No cell service and no amenities

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2023

    Tarryall Creek- Dispersed Camping

    Good but not great

    Tarryall creek dispersed camping. The road in is a bit bumpy. I would not trade in a low clearance vehicle. Four-wheel-drive is needed if it should get wet or slippery. Once you get onto the road, the sites are big and spacious. This is dispersed camping, so there is no water no electric and very little cell service. We have periodic two bars of Verizon. The sites are definitely big enough to accommodate big rigs. You just have to take the road really slowly on the way up. If you carry on all the way up to 10, you get to fenced areas where there is no camping so we took 293 off to the left and immediately after the Turner a couple of sites. We followed it all the way down for a long way. The road is incredibly bumpy and four-wheel-drive is absolutely necessary. Along with high clearance. I would not advise it for big rigs. The Site that we got just on the left after the turn walls reasonably wide. Big enough to get a big rig into. It’s pretty flat too but it’s also very exposed. There’s not a lot of shelter for our tent or our gazebo. The views are OK but nothing spectacular.

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2023

    Fraile’s Campground - Dispersed

    Huge sites on gnarly road

    CR 290 off Tarryall Rd. Campsites are all designated on 290 but there are numerous firepits on the side roads. The road to get up is very rutted. I recommend a high clearance vehicle. Definitely four wheel drive is required. I did see a Subaru forester up near the top. The sites are wide open once you get onto the plateau at the top. Easily could accommodate a big rig, but the issue would be getting it up the road. The views from the top are really nice. It opens out and you get some spectacular views of Pike National Forest. The sites are spacious with some pine tree coverage for tent campers. This would definitely be a possible back up spot if nothing on Matukat rd was available. Because they are dispersed there is no electrical hook ups or water. There’s no Creek running through the area. I imagine it would be really quiet and remote up here because the road to get in is going to deter a lot of people. We did find some spots with fire pits, but not sure you can camp there given there is no sign post reading designated campsite but they are off the main road so give it a try.

  • Izzy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 4, 2022

    Penrose Common Rec Site

    Delightful af

    Road in is rough, but manageable with a high clearance vehicle. Plenty of space to spread out. Popular with those ATV things. Pit toilet, no trash. Not many trees, but a great view of the surrounding area. T-mobile service was good enough to get some work and school done. Close enough to groceries and other stores. Love this spot.

  • Monte P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 23, 2020

    Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping

    A small price for freedom

    If you enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies, drive in dispersed camping and putting your off-roading skills to the test, this dispersed campsite is a must visit! My 9 yr old son and I happened upon this mountain top paradise somewhat by accident. We were looking for a less challenging day hike with low traffic and decided to try the Mt. Herman trailhead. My ever burning desire for a view and solitude lead us up Mt. Herman rd to the location I marked on the map for this listing. Access was challenging, even with our 4x4 Jeep seeing as there was pretty deep snowfall accumulation, steep grades, and hairpin switchbacks heading up. However in warmer seasons this would be easy access for most stock 4x4 vehicles. No lift necessary, just a desire for the boundless views afforded at the summit. There are multiple pull offs, relatively low traffic aside from the occasional off-roading convoy passing through spreading merriment and good cheer. There are some really cool fire ring setups and plenty of epic views to make your own. If Colorado’s what you want, here’s a great place to experience the back country without having to drive for hours to access it. We had a blast! Please ALWAYS remember, be Kind & rewind!! Wait... wrong slogan😅 LEAVE NO TRACE & PACK IT OUT! Thanks & have fun! Photos are in my phone, I’ll update with photos... sure to amaze! 😉✌🏾

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2023

    Route 31 Camp

    Close to perfect if you’re in the right spot

    County Road 31 dispersed camping On entering the area, there is immediately a sign that reads that OHV’s are prohibited. At least in this area you know you’re going to get some peace and quiet. The road to get in is mainly washboard. Totally possible even with a low clearance 2 Wheel Dr. vehicle. The sights designated only. Once you get past the information board you’ll see turn off‘s on the left and right wave Campers and fire pits. If you continue down County Road 31 spectacular. The biggest issue I can see again is a lack of firewood. There appears to be no downed trees or burned trees in the area. You need to bring in your own. There’s also no water source in this area so come well prepared. Since this is dispersed camping, there is no reservation or electric hook ups or sewer hook ups. These sites are plenty big enough for big rigs, and most of them appear to be pull through sites. Tent campers the sites do appear to be a little bit too exposed. There are sites with better tree coverage for tent campers when you go further into the back areas of some of the side roads the downside is you lose the views of the surrounding mountains. If you keep going further back, CR 31 connects to 896, and there are sites way back there that give you the impression that you’re just even further removed from everybody else. There are so many sites in this area. This could be a good back up spot for Matukat Road if it’s not available. There is a site on 896 right before the no camping sign, which is designated as a campsite, and it has some tree coverage, and all the mountain views. 896 is a very tough road requiring high clearance and four-wheel-drive. Numerous places have deep holes and you need to take it very slow.

Guide to Colorado Springs

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Colorado Springs, Colorado, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning views and a variety of landscapes, these locations offer the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Colorado Springs, Colorado

  • When visiting Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park, be prepared for some road traffic, especially on weekends, but enjoy the beautiful surroundings and respectful neighbors.
  • At Rampart Range Dispersed, expect to find a variety of sites, but be mindful of the potential for trash left behind by previous visitors; always pack out what you bring in.
  • If you're looking for a spot with good cell service, Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping is a great choice, as it offers connectivity while still being immersed in nature.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Beaver Creek Road

  • Beaver Creek Road provides easy access to multiple dispersed sites, making it a convenient option for those looking to explore the area without straying too far from Woodland Park.
  • This location is known for its quiet atmosphere and beautiful views of Pikes Peak, perfect for campers seeking a peaceful retreat.
  • Be prepared for some bumpy roads, but the stunning scenery and the chance to spot wildlife make the journey worthwhile at Beaver Creek Rd Dispersed Site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there free camping available near Pikes Peak and Colorado Springs?

Yes, there's excellent free camping near Pikes Peak and Colorado Springs. Rampart Reservoir Recreation Area offers free dispersed camping about 40 minutes from Colorado Springs with stunning mountain views along the drive. Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed provides free sites next to Boehmer Creek, ideal for tent camping. Both areas are located in Pike National Forest surrounding Pikes Peak. These free sites have no amenities—no water, electricity, or trash service—so come prepared with supplies and practice Leave No Trace principles. Most free sites fill quickly during summer weekends, so mid-week arrival is recommended for better site selection.

Can I go boondocking or car camping around Colorado Springs?

Yes, Colorado Springs offers excellent boondocking and car camping opportunities. Manchester Creek Trailhead near the town of Divide provides numerous car camping spots, though the forest road is rough and high-clearance vehicles are recommended. You'll find a water station on Highway 67 in Divide for refills. Route 31 Camp offers quieter boondocking with OHVs prohibited, accessible even with 2WD vehicles despite some washboard roads. When boondocking, bring everything you need including water and waste disposal containers. Cell service varies by location but is generally available at higher elevations. Most sites have no facilities, so prepare to be self-sufficient and follow proper waste disposal practices.

Where can I find dispersed camping near Garden of the Gods?

For dispersed camping near Garden of the Gods, which is in Colorado Springs city limits, you'll need to head a bit outside the city. Phantom Canyon offers dispersed sites about 45 minutes from Garden of the Gods with amazing views, though it requires navigating about 14 miles of dirt road. Tarryall Creek- Dispersed Camping provides another option with spacious sites, though it requires 4WD if conditions are wet. For easier access sites, Pike National Forest dispersed camping areas west of Colorado Springs are your best bet. Remember that no dispersed camping is allowed within Colorado Springs city limits or at Garden of the Gods itself, as it's a city park. Plan to drive 30-60 minutes from the park to reach legal dispersed camping areas.

Where are the best dispersed camping areas near Colorado Springs?

The best dispersed camping areas near Colorado Springs include Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping and Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping. Rampart Range Road offers numerous smaller trails branching off the main dirt road, accessible by 2WD vehicles, though 4WD with high clearance is recommended for the side trails. Mount Herman Road provides panoramic Rocky Mountain views and drive-in sites, though the road requires moderate off-road driving skills. Both areas are within 30-45 minutes of Colorado Springs and offer spacious sites for various camping setups. Most sites are first-come, first-served, so arriving mid-week or early in the day is recommended during peak season.

What BLM land is available for dispersed camping near Colorado Springs?

Penrose BLM sites and Penrose Common Rec Site offer dispersed camping opportunities on BLM land relatively close to Colorado Springs. The Penrose area features rough access roads manageable with high-clearance vehicles. Penrose Common has basic facilities including pit toilets but no trash service, with plenty of space to spread out. These BLM sites are popular with ATV enthusiasts, so expect some traffic and noise, especially on weekends. Most sites offer decent cell service—T-Mobile users report sufficient coverage for remote work. The Penrose area tends to have fewer trees but provides excellent views of the surrounding landscape. Standard BLM camping rules apply: 14-day stay limits, pack out all trash, and use existing fire rings.

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