Best Dispersed Camping near Crested Butte, CO

The mountains around Crested Butte have several free dispersed camping areas for those who don't mind going without facilities. About a mile past Oh Be Joyful Campground, you'll find spots where you need to bring everything you need, including water and waste disposal solutions. Some campers head to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park for even more remote camping away from crowds. These areas require strict adherence to Leave No Trace practices - pack out everything you pack in. Forest Service rules state that you must camp at least 100 feet from any streams or roads in the area. You can stay up to 14 days before needing to move to a different location. Many of the best dispersed sites near Crested Butte sit at the end of rough dirt roads that need vehicles with good clearance to navigate. The area frequently has fire bans during dry periods, so check with the local ranger station before planning to have a campfire.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Crested Butte, Colorado (99)

    1. Lincoln Creek Dispersed Campground

    27 Reviews
    Aspen, CO
    23 miles
    Website

    "The further along the path you travel, the more rugged it becomes; so most people seemingly settled for the first few spots. Personally, site 5, 8, and 11 are best."

    "No water so bring in your own, or filter from the running stream/lake surrounding camp."

    2. Pearl Pass Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    Crested Butte, CO
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 319-2670

    "It is site #10 in the BC campground.

    100% need 4x4 high clearance to get to this site."

    "Just past the ghost town of Ashcroft you start your travels off road. A sign tells you only the numbered sights 1-9 are authorized for fires in metal pits."

    3. Hartman Rocks Recreation Area

    19 Reviews
    Gunnison, CO
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 642-4940

    "Fire metal rings, pit toilets in few areas. No water, no garbage (might be garbage at entrance?). Roads spread throughout, pretty rough in some areas. Plenty of places here, views are pretty cool."

    "This area is large and has tons of dispersed campsites, but they’re connected by a network of bumpy and rocky roads."

    4. Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Snowmass Village, CO
    17 miles
    Website

    "to turn around."

    "The last campsite had the most people, which was the one by Snowmass Lake."

    5. Throughline/Coal Creek TH (Dispersed)-Paonia RD

    1 Review
    Somerset, CO
    18 miles

    "This BLM land is well trafficked, the sizes are big and there are 5-6 in the first few miles of the road. They sit right along the river slow flowing. There is ZERO cell service or gas for 15+ miles."

    6. Black Canyon Dispersed Camping

    51 Reviews
    Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, CO
    46 miles
    Website

    "This was my first time using Dyrt and accessing BLM/public land. The campgrounds at Black Canyon OTG were packed and hotels in the area were outrageously priced (2-star hotel for $200)."

    "Nestled right on the access road to Black Canyon of The Gunnison NP, camps did not require a ton of dirt driving to access."

    7. Hartman’s Rocks Dispersed Site

    6 Reviews
    Gunnison, CO
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 642-4940

    "I got out here around 7:30 and got the first one I could find, there’s a bunch of roads so it’s kind of a pick your own adventure deal. ended up about 200 yards from the next site but that didn’t bother"

    "Dispersed camping with designated sites off dirt roads. Perfect place to rock climb, hike or dirt bike or ATV."

    10. Winfield Camping Area

    10 Reviews
    Granite, CO
    30 miles
    Website

    "There is a very rough ~2mile road up to the trailhead for Huron peak that requires a 4x4 vehicle with good clearance to get there, our friend had a Jeep Grand Cherokee and made it up while being cautious"

    "Cruising up the dirt road wasn't bad and easily maneuverable for smaller cars. Lots of spots just off the road - we had no trouble finding space on a Friday."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Crested Butte, CO

448 Reviews of 99 Crested Butte Campgrounds



Guide to Crested Butte

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Crested Butte, Colorado, where stunning landscapes and serene environments await outdoor enthusiasts. This area offers a variety of options for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Crested Butte, Colorado

  • Make sure to bring your own water, as many spots like Lincoln Creek do not provide drinking water or other amenities.
  • Be prepared for wildlife encounters; sites such as Pearl Pass Dispersed Camping are known bear territory, so pack bear canisters and food storage solutions.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak seasons, as places like Washington Gulch Dispersed Camping can fill up quickly.

Dispersed campers should check out Lincoln Creek

  • The Lincoln Creek area features designated spots that are well-spaced, providing a sense of privacy amidst the trees.
  • This location offers easy access to hiking trails, making it a great base for exploring the surrounding wilderness.
  • Visitors have reported sightings of moose, adding to the unique experience of camping in this beautiful area.

Enjoy breathtaking views while free camping near Crested Butte

  • The Paradise Divide Dispersed Camping area is renowned for its stunning mountain vistas, perfect for photography and relaxation.
  • Many sites here come equipped with fire rings, allowing for cozy evenings under the stars while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
  • The road to Paradise Divide can be challenging, so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended to fully enjoy this picturesque location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Crested Butte, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Crested Butte, CO is Lincoln Creek Dispersed Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 27 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Crested Butte, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 99 dispersed camping locations near Crested Butte, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.