Best Dispersed Camping near Copper Mountain, CO

Several national forest areas around Copper Mountain let you camp for free if you're willing to rough it. The dispersed sites in White River National Forest need high-clearance vehicles to reach - many roads become nearly impassable after rain. You'll find primitive spots along Mayflower Gulch and near Clinton Reservoir, both about 15 minutes from the ski area. Since these are true backcountry sites, you must bring everything you need, including water, and pack out all trash. Most areas limit stays to 14 days, and you'll need to camp at least 100 feet from any streams or lakes. Cell service is spotty at best once you leave the main roads. Summer weekends get busy, so arriving Thursday gives you better chances at the good spots. Fire bans are common during dry months, so bring a camp stove instead of planning on campfires. The closest supplies are in Frisco, about 8 miles west, where you can get groceries, fuel, and anything you forgot to pack.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Copper Mountain, Colorado (169)

    1. Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping

    39 Reviews
    Blue River, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 468-5400

    "I drove a Nissan camper van the whole way with a trailer. I saw every kind of car on the road so easy (a little rough in some places) drive the whole way"

    "Most are accessible to any vehicle. Further on up the mountain you will find the remanence of an old train stop, cabin, train car... It's all free but there's been a fire ban all summer."

    2. Rock Creek Designated Dispersed Camping

    20 Reviews
    Silverthorne, CO
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 468-5400

    "WARNING: The road to the camping locations is very bumpy, narrow, and has some large rocks. AWD with high clearance or 4x4 is recommended.

    This location was great!"

    "This spot was easily accessible with high clearance. I arrived at 11am on Wednesday July 3 and only two sites were occupied."

    3. McCullough Gulch Designated Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Blue River, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 468-5400

    "Access road is up the groomed gravel road to McCullough Gulch Trailhead. Road has gate, but it is not closed at night. No parking along road."

    "As the other reviews describe, it’s a groomed dirt road entrance near the parking lot for the Mount Quandary trail."

    4. Lower Crystal Lake- Dispersed Camping

    6 Reviews
    Blue River, CO
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 468-5400

    "We were at Lower Crystal Lake on July 27-28, 2022.  This was our first overnight backpacking trip with our 9 and 12 year old. "

    "The road up can be a bit challenging, especially for novice offroaders, but it's doable. The lake is beautiful but can be very windy."

    5. Homestake Reservoir Rd Milemarker 3 - Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Red Cliff, CO
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 945-2521

    "Level and had a turn around for a larger rig. Many tent sites around. Road is in good shape."

    "Firewood is not for sale nearby and the forest doesn't have much, so you should bring your own."

    6. Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping

    6 Reviews
    Blue River, CO
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 945-2521

    "As of 6/9/24 there are 3 spots accessible with 2wd. Up the road high clearance 4x4 is needed due to snow and washout. Pretty spot otherwise."

    "Great little spot right off the highway for an evening of camping, or longer. There is a bit of foot traffic with hikers coming in but still really peaceful."

    7. Spruce Creek/Crystal Creek Designated Dispersed Camping

    4 Reviews
    Blue River, CO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 468-5400

    "Great dispersed campsite very close to Breckinridge. The road getting to the campsites is VERY rocky/bumpy, 4-wheel drive is recommended. There are a few popular trails nearby which is a bonus."

    "There are a number of easily accessible trails nearby."

    9. Red Sandstone - Primitive Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Vail, CO
    19 miles
    Website

    "It is a hidden gem. You can drive or walk down a mile which leads to a trail to Lost Lake, which you can swim in."

    "Plenty of dispersed camping up Red Sandstone Road. Go 2.5 miles up a smooth dirt road once you leave the paved road to reach the start of camping (head right at a junction after those 2.5 miles)."

    10. Miners Creek Rd Designated Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Frisco, CO
    9 miles

    "This is a great spot that allows dispersed camping per the signs on the road."

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Showing results 1-10 of 169 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Copper Mountain, CO

611 Reviews of 169 Copper Mountain Campgrounds



Guide to Copper Mountain

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Copper Mountain, Colorado, where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures await. With a variety of options for camping, you can enjoy the tranquility of nature while being close to exciting activities.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Copper Mountain, Colorado

Enjoy breathtaking views while free camping near Copper Mountain

Dispersed campers should check out popular hiking trails

  • Camp near the trailheads for easy access to hiking adventures, such as those found at McCullough Gulch Designated Dispersed Camping, which is close to the McCullough Gulch Waterfall trail.
  • For a more rugged experience, Kirby Gulch offers access to various hiking trails and is known for its beautiful scenery and wildlife sightings.
  • If you enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path trails, consider Peru Creek Designated Dispersed Camping, where you can find access to the Lewanee trail and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Copper Mountain, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Copper Mountain, CO is Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping with a 4.6-star rating from 39 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 169 dispersed camping locations near Copper Mountain, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.