Dispersed camping near Craig, Colorado primarily consists of primitive sites across national forest land. The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest covers much of the surrounding area, with elevations ranging from 8,000 to 10,000 feet. Summer nights remain cool even in July and August, with temperatures commonly dropping into the 30s after sunset. Most sites lack facilities but compensate with isolation and unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
What to do
Wildlife viewing and photography: Sand Wash Basin offers exceptional opportunities to observe wild horses in their natural habitat. "Bring your camera because you just may be able to see some of the 700 wild horses roaming the area! Beautiful moment and capture if you do!" notes one visitor to Sand Wash Basin.
Off-road exploration: The extensive network of forest roads provides access to remote camping areas and scenic viewpoints. A visitor to FR-302 Dispersed Camping mentioned, "We walked our dog on FR-302 a fair bit and only once encountered a vehicle on the road."
Mountain biking: The terrain around Craig offers trails suitable for various skill levels. "Good hiking and mountain biking throughout the forest. A few motorcycles to watch for," reports a camper at Buffalo Pass Dispersed.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many dispersed camping areas near Craig provide privacy even during busy periods. At Allen Basin Reservoir Dispersed, campers appreciate the isolation: "Plenty of coverage from the close by trees, access to the trail directly behind our camp spot, and there was a make shift bench made from a fallen tree!"
Accessibility without crowds: Some locations offer relative solitude while remaining accessible. "We arrived a little before noon on a Saturday in July. The road in was fine and very manageable with the OP 15 and a 1/2 ton truck. We found a beautiful spot 1.9 miles in on the East (left) side of the road," reports one camper at FR-302 Dispersed Camping.
Cell service in select spots: Despite the remote setting, some areas provide adequate connectivity. "If working had excellent Verizon cell service. The site was unleveled but not too bad for a van with rocks and firewood under wheels," notes a visitor to Rabbit Ears Pass.
What you should know
Road condition challenges: Many sites require appropriate vehicles to access. A visitor to White River National Forest dispersed cautions, "If you approach from the south side (County Rd 48?), you will need a high clearance 4wd. If you approach from the north side (County Rd 51) it is accessible by any mid-clearance AWD vehicle, unless it's wet."
Seasonal closures: Winter and spring conditions limit access to many sites. A camper at Buffalo Pass Dispersed reported, "Drove a long ways to find out the gate isn't open like prior post of members and will not open until June 15 on the steamboat side as posted at gate."
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be abundant, particularly near water sources. "This place is beautiful, found multiple spots on Monday June 30th that were beautiful and had fire pits. HOWEVER, When you see other reviews that say there are lots of bugs… they were not exaggerating, there are massive swarms of mosquitoes everywhere."
Tips for camping with families
Moderate elevation campsites: For families not acclimated to altitude, consider sites below 8,500 feet. Routt NF Dispersed offers suitable options: "There are numerous dispersed sites in Routt National Forest. This site had an elevation of about 8800'. CR 27 was very good but the site was about 8 miles from highway 13."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The chance to see wild horses makes Sand Wash Basin particularly appealing to children. "This area is located directly in the middle of the Wild Horse area of Northwest Colorado. This seems to be the place to ride dirt bikes or do some mountain biking."
Tree cover for shade: Look for sites with natural shelter from the sun. At Allen Basin Reservoir Dispersed, campers note good tree coverage that provides both shade and recreation options: "Had the same campsite as the first review and I couldn't think of a better spot to camp. Lots of downed trees for fire wood, perfect trees for hammocks and a rock circle."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites cannot accommodate large RVs. A camper at Buffalo Pass Dispersed advises, "The road up got rough and really did a number on my top mounted bike racks. I wouldn't take anything more than a teardrop or Airstream Basecamp up."
Scout before committing: For RVers, checking sites before bringing in larger vehicles is essential. "Leaving this review for anyone else pulling trailer. You can get a small TT into the first 4-5 sites. I would not continue after what I think is site 5 on the right that has a fairly large rock fire pit and good loop for when leaving. Great parking area to drop and go scout with your vehicle first and I'd recommend doing so."
Limited solar capabilities: Tree cover can affect power generation for those relying on solar. "The tree coverage is affecting my solar generation enough where I may need to move sooner than I'd like," reports an RVer at FR-302 Dispersed Camping.
