Top Free Dispersed Camping near Cotopaxi, CO

Are you planning a dispersed camping trip to Cotopaxi? We've got you covered. Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Cotopaxi just for you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Cotopaxi, CO (76)

    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area

    1. Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area

    14 Reviews
    21 Photos
    392 Saves

    Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/

    • Electric Hookups
    • Cabins
    • Tent Cabin
    • Yurts
    • Market
    • Firewood Available
    Camper-submitted photo from Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site

    2. Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site

    13 Reviews
    46 Photos
    556 Saves

    Don't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".

    Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.

    Please observe the following requirements when dispersed camping:

    In some areas, dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers where posted. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites. BEARS and other wildlife When you go to the mountains and forest, you are in bear county. Do not leave ANY food, trash or other animal attractant unattended. Store all food and trash securely and pack out what you pack in. Failing to do so can result in a fine. Also be aware that; where not otherwise restricted, camping or leaving camping equipment at any location more than 14 days within a continuous 30 day period, and/or occupying any campsite within three miles of any prior camping or equipment location for a combined total of more than 28 days within any continuous 60 day period, is prohibited. Also, leaving camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours is not allowed. In addition; discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge. Plan your trip; phone ahead for restrictions and special regulations. Contact your local Ranger District office for more information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    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 Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping

    5. Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    44 Photos
    555 Saves

    Dispersed camping at the base of Mount Shavano outside Salida, CO.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area

    6. Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area

    2 Reviews
    21 Photos
    46 Saves

    Don't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".

    Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.

    Please observe the following requirements when dispersed camping:

    In some areas, dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers where posted. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites. BEARS and other wildlife When you go to the mountains and forest, you are in bear county. Do not leave ANY food, trash or other animal attractant unattended. Store all food and trash securely and pack out what you pack in. Failing to do so can result in a fine. Also be aware that; where not otherwise restricted, camping or leaving camping equipment at any location more than 14 days within a continuous 30 day period, and/or occupying any campsite within three miles of any prior camping or equipment location for a combined total of more than 28 days within any continuous 60 day period, is prohibited. Also, leaving camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours is not allowed. In addition; discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge. Plan your trip; phone ahead for restrictions and special regulations. Contact your local Ranger District office for more information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Marshall Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from Marshall Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from Marshall Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from Marshall Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from Marshall Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from Marshall Pass

    7. Marshall Pass

    6 Reviews
    25 Photos
    198 Saves

    Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping

    8. Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    73 Photos
    599 Saves

    The Browns Creek trail offers beautiful scenery with changing vistas and vegetation. The trail follows the stream and small waterfalls can be found along the way. The lower portion of the trail begins in primarily a Ponderosa pine environment and gradually moves into spruce/fir forest. At higher elevations the trail travels through pristine meadows that end at Brown's Lake. Camping is not permitted at the trailhead, in order to prevent erosion of the banks along Little Browns Creek. Campers are encouraged to find camp sites further south on County Road 272.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Road 240 - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Road 240 - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Road 240 - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Road 240 - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Road 240 - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Road 240 - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotton Creek Trailhead
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotton Creek Trailhead
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotton Creek Trailhead
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotton Creek Trailhead
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotton Creek Trailhead
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotton Creek Trailhead

    10. Cotton Creek Trailhead

    2 Reviews
    9 Photos
    78 Saves

    The Cotton Creek Trail is 13.1 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 962 and ends at Forest Trail #745. Trail is well marked and maintained. It follow the creek through a rugged, steep canyon and diverse scenery, with views of high peaks and many beautiful wildflowers in season. Some stream crossings can be tricky if water level is high. Attractions are fishing in creeks and lakes, and many good campsites. Teacup Lake presents an opportunity for primitive route finding.

    The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Dispersed Camping, and Wildflower Viewing

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
Showing results 1-10 of 76 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Cotopaxi

187 Reviews of 76 Cotopaxi Campgrounds


  • Jordana P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful views and great privacy

    I stayed here for 1 night of car camping and will definitely go back. I only went about 4 miles in on the rocky/rutted road (vs the 5 miles that the directions say) and thought the sites were great. I stayed at a big site on the right with beautiful views and a fire ring. Aside from hearing some (maybe - not sure) coyotes at night, I wasn't aware of any other wildlife. I was in a 4Runner and my friend that I was with was driving a Highlander. As another poster commented, I saw a small sedan in one of the sites but wouldn't drive way out in anything but an SUV or truck. I have AT&T and had 2 bars of service.

  • Wendy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area

    Great views

    Lots of open spots in mid October. Slow going on rocky and bumpy dirt road but Chevy express 2wd did fine. Low clearance vehicles take extreme caution. Stayed in loop A, also a B&C.

  • Angela E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotton Creek Trailhead
    Oct. 7, 2024

    Cotton Creek Trailhead

    Beautiful and peaceful 💚

    The sky is GORGEOUS. The road is very rocky & very rough, so you'll want to have decent clearance and be prepared to take it slow. I've never seen so many stars!

  • aThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cripple Creek BLM Area
    Oct. 6, 2024

    Cripple Creek BLM Area

    Great secluded spot!

    We went on a Saturday and it wasn’t crowded at all. The dispersed sites aren’t far from the road since most of the road goes down a valley with hills on both sides however there’s a nice creek running down the whole way. Definitely check it out if you don’t mind a colder night in a valley. Not much room to explore outside your vehicle unless you’re okay walking down the dirt road to see other sites and views.

  • Lily R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed

    Secluded sites along creek

    Drove ~3 miles along the service road to find our spot, it was the second pull off “open-area” with several fire pits to choose from. Road was a little bumpy but would be fine with a 2WD. Gorgeous, secluded spot next to the creek. No Verizon service.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
    Sep. 11, 2024

    Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area

    Lots of Options

    A lot of stuff if the road. I was pulling a popup trailer so we didn’t go too far up the road just in case it got choppy. Seemed like there is quite a few spaces. Talked to a few people who had been staying there for around a week.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Hendricks Flat
    Sep. 9, 2024

    Hendricks Flat

    Beautiful little spot

    My friend and I are roadtripping around a couple states and found this cute little camp site!! There is no running water or toilets but we didn’t mind :)) absolutely gorgeous place!

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed

    great spot by creek

    loved this spot even stayed a couple extra days right by nice size creek the cooler weather was nice and meant not alot of bugs. more traffic on road than expected but not bothersome. people close by but not close enough to hear or bother you in anyway. site was clean. there were more shaded ones but we chose next to water. were a couple empty close by on a holiday weekend.

  • Luke R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 8, 2024

    North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping

    Solid Camp Spot for early September

    My sister drove up from Denver Saturday morning. My daughter and I drove from Paonia and met her there. Road was bumpy but manageable in my Outback. Drove down the road and took a hike with the dogs. Great trail. Rained a little but it was not a big deal. Decent amount of traffic on the road throughout the day and into the evening. Really cool to be able to snag a spot around lunchtime on a Saturday.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shavano Mountain
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Shavano Mountain

    Amazing vistas

    Amazing vistas! Big private sites. Tough road that gets progressively technical as you go farther up towards trail head.

  • Emma H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Road 240 - Dispersed
    Sep. 3, 2024

    Road 240 - Dispersed

    mount shavano camping

    believe the reviews when they say the road to get to these campsites are ROCKY. i was able to get there in my hyundai santa fe but got nervous a couple of times. despite this, we found a campsite that had a little waterfall and fast flowing creek next to it. it was the perfect little spot. got cold at night but it was to be expected. access to a lot of hiking and if you continue driving up the rocky road, you’ll get to billings lake which was gorgeous.

  • W D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead
    Aug. 27, 2024

    Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead

    Quiet camping and stars

    Several good spots with fire pits right near the trailhead. A few bugs in late August but nothing terrible. Very quiet except for the sound of the rushing creek. Verizon cell service was between 1 and 3 bars LTE depending on your line of sight to the tower. Road in is rougher towards the end but definitely doable in any SUV

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Hayden Creek Roadside Camp

    great spot!

    This is a terrific find! level, shaded, right by nice size creek. perfect for exploring and quiet. we were in tent but saw several largeRV. some traffic but never heard another person. were a few spots right next to us but we were the only ones there . several a long road though nicely spaced out. small gas station close for gas and ice if needed otherwise about 45 min for supplies. ark river couple miles great spot to enjoy also rafting close etc.stayed couple extra days we just enjoyed the quiet. was also very clean and maintained. will definitely be back!

  • 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.

  • Lidia B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Round Mountain
    Aug. 24, 2024

    North Round Mountain

    Nice place to sleep under the stars

    We got there late at night and it was plenty of space. Unpaved road but no problem to get there with a campervan. Really close to the hwy but not noisy at all. Good option to spend the night.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
    Aug. 18, 2024

    Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site

    Cows?

    Great site, plenty of room, but there were so many open-range cows wandering around. Really didn’t mind during the day, until they started loudly mooing and screaming during the night. All the reviews here say it was quiet at night, so this must be a new development or we just got unlucky with timing. Never experienced anything like it. Put a damper on what was otherwise a great area for camping

  • David H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Route 31 Camp
    Aug. 16, 2024

    Route 31 Camp

    David Hathaway

    I just enjoyed a 6 day camping trip at this dispersed camping area. Yes it had one-two short showers each day which cooled things down. Even with the Saturday Night Rave until 2 am it was a great time. Only the fire ring is provided. Pack it in and Pack it out. Two towns close by should you run out of something. Very little bugs.

  • Xavier P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Round Mountain
    Aug. 14, 2024

    North Round Mountain

    ATVs, Dust, noise and a lot of drinking

    I wanted to stay here based on past reviews, but the place was full of ATVs.  It was loud, and there were many campsites where people were partying. 

    This was in late June, so maybe it's different at other times.

  • 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!?

  • Brian C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Buena Vista Overlook
    Aug. 13, 2024

    Buena Vista Overlook

    1st timer

    This was my first go at dispersed camping in my new travel trailer.  Google Maps took me to the right location off of 285 and the dirt roads were manageable. I would recommend 4x4 or AWD vehicles but they're nothing too crazy.  Lots of good and large camping spots and I'd recommend a location on the left side of the road.  

    Sites didn't seem to be makred, and I stopped a bit short of what the coordinates that are listed.

  • 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.



Guide to Cotopaxi

Camping near Cotopaxi, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking and Exploring: The area is surrounded by beautiful trails. Campers at Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites rave about the "multiple really rad drive-through tunnels and towering canyon walls." It's a great spot for those who love nature and want to hike along scenic routes.
  • Fishing and Water Activities: If you enjoy fishing, the Ruby Mountain Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is known for its great views and access to the river. One visitor mentioned, "The campsite has an awesome view of the mountains and at some sites the river as well."
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers at Salida North BLM have spotted mountain goats during their stays. One camper shared, "Very quiet stay with few visitors except for the mountain goats who were just as curious of us as we were of them."

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Many campers appreciate the breathtaking views. At Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, one reviewer said, "Spacious sites that are magnificently kept. Big flat tent sites at each site, right near the river."
  • Privacy and Space: Campers at Red Canyon Park enjoy the seclusion. One camper noted, "This is a beautiful park with great dispersed sites! We went quite a ways in and found a site for our campervan. Needed leveling blocks but saw several occupied sites more level."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many campgrounds, like Browns Creek, offer a peaceful environment. A visitor mentioned, "This isn’t one of those horribly loud OHV spots. There are tons of dispersed spots along these trails and many are spread out from one another."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like East Ridge Campground in Royal Gorge do not have drinking water or electric hookups. One camper pointed out, "Pit toilets were pretty standard, and a camp host was available if needed."
  • Mosquitoes in Summer: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. Campers at Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites mentioned, "In June there were plenty of mosquitoes."
  • Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A visitor at Salida North BLM noted, "The road going in was a little bumpy but any car should be able to make it."

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby trails and water access. At Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA, one parent shared, "Lots of great stuff for kids. Slide, playground, mini golf."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water. Campers at Ruby Mountain Campground enjoyed the river but reminded others to be cautious, saying, "Fishing is also an option."
  • Plan for Bugs: Bring bug spray, especially in summer. Campers at East Ridge Campground noted, "Lots of bugs when it gets hot."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Alvarado Campground mentioned, "The campground won't accommodate fifth wheels only horse and RV up to 30 or so."
  • Bring Leveling Blocks: Some sites can be uneven. Campers at Hecla Junction Campground advised, "Some of the RV/trailer sites are uneven. So bring extra leveling blocks!"
  • Plan for Limited Services: Many campgrounds don’t have full hookups. A visitor at Chalk Creek Campground noted, "No water or electrical hookups."

Camping near Cotopaxi, Colorado, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot for families, RVers, and nature lovers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cotopaxi, CO is Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area with a 4.5-star rating from 14 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 76 dispersed camping locations near Cotopaxi, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.