Best Dispersed Camping near Cowdrey, CO
Several dispersed camping sites exist near Cowdrey, Colorado on public lands including State Wildlife Areas and Routt National Forest. Free camping is permitted at Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping, which sits approximately 6 miles south of Cowdrey. Additional options include Forest Road 939.1 (Mahogany Road) dispersed sites in Routt National Forest and Cowdrey Lake State Wildlife Area. These primitive sites typically have established fire rings but minimal other infrastructure. Miller Lake dispersed camping and Evans Creek dispersed sites are available slightly farther north across the Wyoming border.
Access routes to these sites vary from maintained dirt roads to rougher forest service roads. Walden Reservoir sites are accessible by standard vehicles, while Forest Road 939.1 may require higher clearance, especially after rain. Many dispersed sites in Routt National Forest demand careful navigation as some access points cross private property with no trespassing signs. Fire restrictions are common during summer months. Most sites lack drinking water, restrooms, and trash facilities. State Wildlife Areas require an annual permit for camping and have additional restrictions including prohibitions on pets and alcohol at some locations.
The camping experience varies significantly between sites. Walden Reservoir offers open terrain with mountain and lake views but limited privacy and shade. One camper noted the area has "amazing views but lacks tree coverage" and warned about "tons of ants." Forest sites provide more seclusion and tree cover, though accessibility can be challenging. A visitor to the Routt National Forest sites described them as having "plenty of campsites designated by fire rings along the road that are well spread out and offer plenty of seclusion." Wildlife viewing opportunities are common across the region, with campers reporting moose, foxes, pronghorns, and black bears. Be prepared for mosquitoes, particularly near water sources.
