Dispersed camping areas near Crestone, Colorado provide options for primitive camping between 7,500 and 13,000 feet elevation. The region sits at the intersection of alpine forests and high desert, creating dramatic temperature variations that often drop close to freezing even during summer months. Mosquitoes can be particularly intense during mid-summer months, with multiple campers reporting the need for substantial insect protection.
What to do
Explore the Sangre de Cristo range: Take advantage of Hermit Pass OHV for high-elevation adventures. One camper warns about access challenges: "Your vehicle will prob need new brakes after this trip. Super beautiful but the road never eases up."
Camp on sand dunes: At The Dunefield in Great Sand Dunes National Park, campers experience unique overnight stays. "This hike up the dunes was brutal but it was so worth it! Endless spots to pitch your tent or just part your sleeping bag down for the night!" reports one visitor. Permits are required and available at the visitor center.
Observe wildlife: Dispersed Sand Area 1 offers unexpected animal encounters. "A large gathering of mountain goats hanging out along the road was a fun surprise! Gorgeous views of Crestone peak and other neighboring mountains," notes one reviewer. The area provides access to nearby trailheads.
Hike to alpine lakes: The trek to Medano Lake Backpackers Camp requires significant effort but offers stunning rewards. "For backpackers only - this may seem like a short distance from the trailhead, but it is a steep incline the entire way up. With packs, it took us close to 5 hours with short breaks."
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: Rabbit Hole Ranch offers exceptional night sky viewing. One camper describes the experience: "The sunset was gorgeous and once the night hit, thousands of stars lit up the night sky and it felt surreal, almost as if they were raining down on us."
Secluded camping spots: BLM land near Great Sand Dunes provides privacy without total isolation. "There are three dispersed sites listed along this road with the first being flat and open, the second being slightly uphill and fairly open, and the third being higher uphill and far more private," explains a camper at Great Sand Dunes Dispersed.
Natural sound environments: Many campers appreciate the quiet setting. One visitor to Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites noted: "My boyfriend and I live in our car and travel all over and this was a top notch car camping spot with endless beautiful views. Plenty of spots for everyone, super quiet with the occasional car passing."
Canyon landscapes: The geological features create unique camping backdrops. "The drive to the campsites was amazing. We got there around 6:30 so the sun was coming through the trees and creating a warm golden light," reports a camper at Phantom Canyon Road.
What you should know
Water management is essential: Most dispersed sites near Crestone lack water sources. At The Dunefield, planning ahead is crucial: "In total we brought about a gallon of water each, and by the time we hiked out the next morning we were down to the last couple of ounces."
Insect protection required: Multiple campers report significant mosquito issues. "Great spots available- plenty of room for multiple campsites along the road. Great views! - BUT mosquitoes were absolutely awful so be prepared (mid July)," warns a visitor to Dispersed Sand Area 1.
Vehicle requirements vary: Many camping areas require appropriate vehicles. One camper at Great Sand Dunes Dispersed notes: "Pretty close to Great Sand Dunes National Park, so we were happy with this location! Nice mountain view. When entering the road initially, the side road would be about half way up to your left."
Temperature fluctuations: Tent camping near Crestone demands preparation for significant temperature changes. A camper at The Dunefield recommends: "Just the tent, no rain fly and using our sleeping bags as quilts was perfect in June."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for kids: Choose established sites with amenities when camping with children. Davenport Campground provides more structure: "Designated tent spots. Some spaces have a shelter with table. Outhouses are clean. Fire pits are built and work great. Trail right off campgrounds is an easy, beautiful hike."
Location accessibility: Consider distance from parking to camp spots. One camper notes about Davenport Campground: "Have to carry gear to camp site but only short hike to campsite. Maybe 50 yards. Has a couple of sites with shelter."
Wildlife education opportunities: Multiple camping areas offer wildlife viewing chances. A visitor to Rabbit Hole Ranch shares: "We met two gorgeous Great Pyrenees dogs that hung out with us almost the entire time we stayed there! I cannot wait to come back here next year and spend more time in the most beautiful place I've ever been."
Stream play access: Some sites offer water features that appeal to kids. A reviewer at Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites found: "We found an amazing camp site that was down a slope. We parked up top and lugged everything down the slope. It was tough but so worth it. There was 5 different camp site areas at the bottom right next to the water."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Colorado Sports Ranch and Refuge offers electrical hookups but prepare for uneven terrain. RV campers report varying conditions across sites.
Road condition awareness: Many roads leading to dispersed camping require clearance. One camper at Great Sand Dunes Dispersed reported: "We selected this location because it got so many great reviews. I don't expect perfection in dispersed locations but, I was pretty disappointed in the quality of the established areas. They were very difficult to level our smallish travel trailer."
Arrival timing recommendations: RV spots fill quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor to Rabbit Hole Ranch suggests: "I think most of the sites are made for smaller 2 man tents. Since there weren't clearly marked sites so we did drive around a bit until we saw what looked like remnants of a former campsite and pulled in there."
