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Best Dispersed Camping near Crestone, CO

233 Reviews

Numerous dispersed camping areas surround Crestone, Colorado, located primarily along forest service roads in the Rio Grande National Forest and on BLM lands near the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The Dispersed Sand Area 1, Crestone Needle Trail, and Willow Creek Trail provide free primitive camping opportunities without designated sites or facilities. These public lands allow campers to find secluded spots with mountain views, particularly along Forest Road 949 and other unpaved routes leading toward trailheads and the Great Sand Dunes National Park.

Many access roads to these sites feature rough, rocky terrain requiring careful navigation. While some areas like Cotton Creek Trailhead can accommodate high-clearance vehicles and even some RVs, others demand 4WD capability. South Colony Basin access is particularly challenging, with extremely rough roads that have turned away unprepared vehicles. Most dispersed sites have no water, toilets, or trash facilities, requiring proper preparation and adherence to Leave No Trace principles. Fire regulations vary seasonally, with fire rings present at some locations but restrictions common during dry periods.

The dispersed camping experience near Crestone offers exceptional stargazing, mountain views, and access to wilderness trails. Campers consistently mention the stunning night skies, with one visitor noting "I've never seen so many stars" at Cotton Creek Trailhead. Wildlife sightings add to the experience, as one camper reported "a large gathering of mountain goats hanging out along the road" near Dispersed Sand Area 1. Summer visitors should prepare for significant mosquito activity, which multiple reviews described as "horrendous" or "absolutely awful" in July. Despite this seasonal challenge, the solitude and scenery provide ample compensation, with one camper reporting: "The spots are spread out enough to where I did not see or hear a soul while camping 2 nights."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Crestone, Colorado (63)

    1. Dispersed Sand Area 1

    5 Reviews
    Crestone, CO
    2 miles
    Website

    "There are about 10-15 dispersed camping spots along the dirt road that leads up to trailheads at the end. The spots are spread out enough to where I did not see or hear a soul while camping 2 nights."

    "Plenty of dispersed spots available. Stayed here in a truck with a rtt. With others in a group. Close enough to town where we hit up the local brewery for drinks and food."

    2. The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    9 Reviews
    Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, CO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 378-6395

    "Backcountry dispersed camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park offers an unforgettable and truly unique wilderness experience."

    "It's tent camping only, and no pets are allowed in the back country dunes. You also need to pack everything you need in with you and leave no trace."

    3. Crestone Needle Trail

    2 Reviews
    Crestone, CO
    1 mile

    "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."

    "This place was a nice spot for dispersed camping! Lots of spots, and super easy to find just off the road. A bit sandy, but the soil underneath worked for stakes."

    4. Willow Creek Trail

    1 Review
    Crestone, CO
    2 miles
    Website

    "Approx 15 or so dispersed camp sites along the forest road up to the parking lot for Willow Lake trail. Easy access to sites, easy access to trail head. Restrooms also available at trailhead."

    5. Medano Pass Primitive Road — Great Sand Dunes National Preserve

    9 Reviews
    Crestone, CO
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 378-6395

    "Medano Pass is the route it's believed that Pike took into the San Luis Valley, and is one of the only primitive roads accessing the valley."

    "Definitely need 4 wheel drive and decently high clearance. I only saw Jeeps, 4 runners, and trucks. Rocky and steep at parts, it was pretty damn rough."

    6. Cotton Creek Trailhead

    3 Reviews
    Crestone, CO
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 657-3321

    "Do not route via Apple Maps, it will try to take you through a private road. Don’t follow the “major trail” signs, just find the side road this spot is on and drive up and you’ll find it."

    "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!"

    7. Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead

    3 Reviews
    Crestone, CO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 657-3321

    "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."

    8. Sacred White Shell Mountain

    54 Reviews
    Blanca, CO
    33 miles
    Website

    "This is BLM land that's free to camp on for up to 14 days every 45 days. The camp sites are just off a dirt road that leads to the trailhead for hiking to Blanca Peak."

    "We spent two nights here, in our camper van, while visiting the national park. It’s proximity is so great."

    9. South Colony Basin

    2 Reviews
    Crestone, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "To get to the campground you must first brave the road to the trailhead. If you have a 4x4 truck/SUV the road is achievable but very rough."

    10. Lake Deweese state wildlife area

    8 Reviews
    Westcliffe, CO
    19 miles
    Website

    "This is dispersed camping. There are pit toilets but no other services or amenities."

    "This is a great dispersed camping spot with outhouses around the lake for convenience, well kept and clean! DO NOT let kids or dogs in water, as there is a level red warning for toxic algae!!"

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Crestone, CO

227 Photos of 63 Crestone Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Crestone, CO

233 Reviews of 63 Crestone Campgrounds

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 15, 2024

    The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    Wild and Untamed

    Backcountry dispersed camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park offers an unforgettable and truly unique wilderness experience. If you’re seeking solitude and raw, untamed landscapes, this is the perfect spot to pitch your tent. With no designated sites, you have the freedom to find your ideal spot beyond the busy dunes and under an expansive star-filled sky.

    The journey begins with a hike deep into the park’s rugged terrain, where you’re surrounded by towering sand dunes, alpine forests, and sweeping views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The lack of light pollution makes stargazing an absolute highlight—this is one of the best places to witness the Milky Way.

    Keep in mind, this is true backcountry camping: no facilities, no water sources, and you must pack out all waste. Permits are required, so be sure to plan ahead. The environment can be challenging, with extreme temperature swings and strong winds that shift the sand beneath your feet. Good preparation and Leave No Trace practices are a must.

    The rewards are well worth the effort. From sunrise hikes to the serene sound of nothing but wind across the dunes, this camping experience immerses you in nature’s raw beauty like few others can. It’s an adventure you’ll carry with you long after you’ve left the dunes behind.

    Highly recommend skipping the tent and sleeping under the stars!

  • Jason L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2019

    Sacred White Shell Mountain

    Boondocking in the sun

    This is BLM land that's free to camp on for up to 14 days every 45 days. The camp sites are just off a dirt road that leads to the trailhead for hiking to Blanca Peak. The road gets pretty rough the further up you get, but there are plenty of large camp sites on the way up the mountain, some you'd have to home to if you decide to go to Blanca Peak. It's a fairly busy place as off-road vehicles and horse back riding are popular here. Beautiful views of the San Luis Valley, Great Sand Dunes National Park, and Mt. Blanca. Definitely worth checking out of you're in the area. No shade or amenities, so bring everything you need with you and as always, leave no trace.

  • Aliza N.
    May. 19, 2022

    Sacred White Shell Mountain

    Super close to Great Sand Dunes

    We spent two nights here, in our camper van, while visiting the national park. It’s proximity is so great. The area is easy to find, big and open and nearly all up the very upper parts are navigable by a regular car. There are some upper parts that could require 4WD and high clearance. Our only complaints were how dusty is was and that there really were no trees so potentially not much privacy depending whom is camping around you. If you don’t have a bathroom….this could also be an issue. Not much in the way of tree cover if you are going in the wilderness.
    We chose sites on the north side of the area, closer to the park and it seemed more private.

  • Izzy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 4, 2022

    Penrose Common Rec Site

    Delightful af

    Road in is rough, but manageable with a high clearance vehicle. Plenty of space to spread out. Popular with those ATV things. Pit toilet, no trash. Not many trees, but a great view of the surrounding area. T-mobile service was good enough to get some work and school done. Close enough to groceries and other stores. Love this spot.

  • Silouan A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 27, 2025

    Marshall Pass Dispersed

    Dispersed camping spots with amazing views

    Turn off Hwy 285 at “Mears Junction” and head up Marshall Pass Rd. The first few miles are through private property, but then it opens up into the National Forest, with dispersed campsites interspersed regularly along the roads. There are easy camper friendly spots, and tent spots, as well as some areas where a group could be easily accommodated. The views are fantastic, there are numerous trailheads, and Poncha Creek and other seasonal creeks are running beautifully.

  • Steve & Ashley G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2019

    Marshall Pass

    ATV Dispersed Camping

    This site is on Marshall Pass Road off of highway 285. The dispersed sites are near the intersection of Marshall Pass Road and Forest Service Rod 200. This intersection at the base off the access road up to Ohaver Lake Campground. The primitive sites are spread along the creek just off the Forest Service Road. Like many dispersed camps, the sites only have flat cleared areas with fire pits and no other amenities. The area is a great spot for ATV Riders to trailer into area as well as horse trailers to park and access the mountain roads and trails. The location is not the best for scenery and can get busy in the summer especially on weekends since it’s so close to the highway and Salida, Colorado.

  • S
    May. 8, 2021

    Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area

    Lots of sites and beautiful mountain views.

    If you ever been to any of the BLM camping locations around Salida, Mt. Shavano is not anything different. Some long dirt roads will lead you to multiple sites, though some of them are closer to people than I would want to be..

    There is no water source, no trash, bathrooms, and it would be difficult to get a spot with an RV or trailer at this location. I did have decent cell service (AT&T).

    One unfortunate thing I've noticed there was that it could be used as a dumpsite for illegal poachers. I saw numerous locations which had deer bones left but no head, as well as the area where presence of the animals sex was missing. I am debating reporting this to Colorado Parks and Wildlife as well as BLM to investigate.

    Overall my stay was pleasant. There was still snow in the forecast at the end of the month of April when I was there. There was quite a few people there for a Tuesday, which was quite odd but I guess it's a popular area. Some of the residents looked more permanent, but I couldn't tell since I was just there for one night.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Fooses Creek Dispersed Camping

    Great overnight for leaf peeping

    Very serene and beautiful stop. The road has alot of uneven terrain with some boulders. I would recommend 4WD & higher clearance - not for your standard sedan. Sites are spread apart and along the creek & somewhat level. The road in is a single lane so be kind & patient. Really beautiful place to boondock. No problems getting there in my 4x4 sprinter van.

  • Jason L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2019

    Medano Pass Primitive Road — Great Sand Dunes National Preserve

    4 wheel drive required

    Medano Pass is the route it's believed that Pike took into the San Luis Valley, and is one of the only primitive roads accessing the valley. The road starts in the Great Sand Dunes National Park, and runs over the mountain and exits on RT 69, or if you want an easy up and hard way down the mountain start off RT 69 and go to the dunes. From 69 to the top of the pass takes about an hour, and you only need high clearance 4 wheel drive for the last two miles of the 12 mile journey to the top. That's not the route we took.

    We started at Point of No Return in the Great Sand Dunes National Park, don't worry there are plenty of places to turn back if you get nervous. There's DEEP sand throughout the first six miles, I aired down to 50 from 65, LOL. I figured I'd make it on 35's 12.5" wide, but I can definitely see where as the Sand ets softer I would have gone down to the recommended 20psi. If your going over the mountain have an air compressor to fill your tires when you get to the rocks. There's air at the ampitheater parking lot at the National Park, but no air on RT 69 until you get to a gas station at least twenty miles away.

    We made it no issues, buy squeezing a super crew cab, F 250 through was TIGHT! It was FUN though, and my God the place is breathtaking!

    Campsites start about five miles in and are spread all the way to the top of Medano Pass. This is National Preserve land, and it is primitive camping. There are fire pits and bear boxes, use the bear boxes as bear encounters are frequent. The sites are clearly marked, and nice size. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO TAKE A TRAILER, if you do you won't make it, I promise you that.

    The Park, Preserve, and Forrest boundaries are clearly marked. To camp along the Great Sand Dunes National Park and the Preserve area of the road you must have a permit, free at the visitor center. I suggest reservations. After the Preserve it is a National Forrest and its first come first serve primitive camping only. You can stay for up to 14 days, as with most National land.

    The 12 mile trip up from the Park takes about 4 hours, yes it's that rough. AND you will stop alot to take in the amazing views.

    Even if you don't camp, take the drive, it's worth it. You will need high clearance 4 wheel drive, all wheel drive will not cut it here.

Guide to Crestone

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

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Crestone, Colorado

  • When heading to Medano Pass Primitive Road, be prepared for a rugged drive; high clearance and 4WD vehicles are recommended to navigate the terrain.
  • For a quieter experience, consider Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead, where you can find several secluded spots with fire pits, perfect for a peaceful night under the stars.
  • Always pack out what you pack in, especially at locations like Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area, where maintaining the natural beauty is essential for future visitors.

Dispersed campers should check out Medano Pass

  • The Medano Pass area is known for its breathtaking views and challenging trails, making it a favorite among adventurous campers.
  • Be aware that this area requires a permit, so plan ahead to ensure you have the necessary documentation for your stay.
  • With its proximity to the Great Sand Dunes National Park, camping here offers unique opportunities for exploration and photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Enjoy hiking and fishing while free camping near Crestone

  • The Lake Deweese State Wildlife Area provides excellent fishing opportunities, making it a great spot for anglers looking to catch trout in a picturesque setting.
  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the trails around Cotton Creek Trailhead, which lead to stunning vistas and diverse wildlife.
  • Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby Crestone Needle Trail, where you can enjoy a challenging hike with rewarding views of the surrounding peaks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping near Crestone?

Dispersed camping near Crestone follows standard public land regulations. On BLM land like BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed, camping is generally limited to 14 days within any 45-day period. At Medano Pass Primitive Road in Great Sand Dunes National Preserve, a high-clearance 4WD vehicle is required, and specific designated sites must be used. For backcountry dune camping, free permits are required and must be obtained at the visitor center. Always practice Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, bury human waste properly (6-8 inches deep, 200 feet from water sources), and minimize impact on vegetation. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, so check current conditions before your trip.

Are there any amenities available at dispersed camping sites in Crestone?

Dispersed camping sites around Crestone are primarily primitive with minimal to no amenities. Penrose Common Rec Site offers basic pit toilets but no trash service. At Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area, you'll find no water sources, trash facilities, or bathrooms. Most dispersed sites require complete self-sufficiency: bring all water, pack out all waste, and prepare for no electricity or hookups. Cell service varies significantly by location—some areas like Marshall Pass Dispersed have enough coverage for basic communication, while more remote sites have none. The nearest supplies and facilities are typically available in Crestone or neighboring towns, so plan accordingly before heading to your campsite.

Where can I find dispersed camping in Crestone, Colorado?

Several excellent dispersed camping options exist near Crestone. Sacred White Shell Mountain offers free BLM land camping for up to 14 days in a 45-day period. It features numerous large sites along a dirt road leading to Blanca Peak trailhead, with spots suitable for various vehicle types. For a unique experience, The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park provides backcountry camping on 30 square miles of dunes (free permit required from the visitor center). Additional options include BLM land along Mt. Blanca Road and Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead. Most sites are accessible via dirt roads, though some require high clearance vehicles, especially after wet weather.

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