Dispersed camping opportunities near Cripple Creek, Colorado range from 8,500 to 10,000 feet in elevation across Pike National Forest and Bureau of Land Management territories. Winter camping sees temperatures regularly dropping below 20°F while summer nights typically remain in the 40-50°F range. Most campsites feature native ponderosa pine and aspen forest coverage with underlying rocky terrain that can challenge tent setup.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Pike National Forest Divide area offers excellent wildlife spotting chances. "We had a moose and deer at our campsite during the mornings so I suggest being weary of wildlife," reports one camper at Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide. Morning and evening hours provide the best viewing windows.
Creek fishing access: Several sites offer direct access to seasonal streams. A visitor to Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed noted, "Saw fish in stream a couple of deer and tons of chipmunks." Most accessible fishing spots are found in the first 3-4 miles of service roads.
History exploration: The area contains numerous abandoned mining structures. At Phantom Canyon, one camper shared, "The spot closest to the mining town has been my favorite so far! It is in a canyon so you won't have any cell phone signal... The history is awesome, the drive is beautiful, and there is a creek that runs along close by at every site."
What campers like
Rock climbing access: Several sites feature climbing opportunities. A visitor to Phantom Canyon commented, "Sweet spots along the creek side. Dispersed area that is very spread out so you are not near others. Also has access to climbing walls right by sites."
Creek-side camping: Water features enhance many sites. One camper at clyde dispersed camping mentioned, "This site is right at the intersection of Gold, Camp Road and FR376. It sits in the meadow right next to the creek. There are two sites one of which is definitely big enough for a decent size rig."
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution makes stargazing exceptional. "The stars are beautiful at night," noted a visitor to Penrose Common Rec Site. Finding sites away from main roads reduces ambient light further.
What you should know
Fire restrictions enforcement: Local rangers actively monitor compliance. "Sadly no campfires, so early to bed," explained a camper at Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park. Penalties for violations start at $500.
Varying vehicle requirements: Road conditions differ significantly by site. One visitor to Rampart Range Area Dispersed Campsite advised, "There are so many places to camp on rampart range rd that you do not have to camp in the sites right off the main road. Too much dust from passing cars and this is a heavy ohv area. Head down one of the many connecting service roads for better options and some peace and quiet."
Trash management concerns: Pack-out discipline varies widely among visitors. "Unfortunately some of the campsites were absolutely trashed :( however, we walked a bit to find a good spot right next to the creek with a mini fire pit and enough flat ground to pitch a tent," noted a camper at Gold Camp Road. Bringing extra trash bags helps maintain sites.
Tips for camping with families
Best timing: Mid-week visits significantly reduce crowding issues. "Went early July 2024. Tons of open spots and only saw one other camper a couple hundred yards away. Make sure to bring your bug spray," advised a visitor to Gold Camp Road.
Kid-friendly sites: Look for locations with natural play features. "This site has an amazing sunset view every night. The nights were cold some lows 32° and it snowed the first night which we were hoping for. The sunrises were stunning watching the sunlight slowly shed light on the golden aspens was a beautiful sight," shared a camper at Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park.
Safety considerations: Wildlife activity requires proper food storage. "We seen very little wildlife at the site only an owl and a few birds however the drive to and from camp we seen many deer be cautious at night," noted a visitor to Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park.
Tips from RVers
Level site locations: Specific spots accommodate larger vehicles. A visitor to Gold Camp Road observed, "The spot was gorgeous and the sound of the creek completely drowned out any noises or people. When we went not many people out there however, the spots are super separated. Even has a nice big flat area to pull in an RV or something like that."
Road hazards: Several access routes present challenges. "It wasn't level enough so I don't think I will be back but I loved it, I spend 10 days and I have no complaints with temp of 65-45 it was wonderful taking off the crazy storm with having hailing one night," explained a Gold Camp Road camper about their 21-foot travel trailer experience.
Turnaround availability: Limited options exist for larger rigs. A camper at Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping warned, "Sorry, No photos. It is very beautiful up there. I have only been here once, and I did not do enough research. I recently purchased a 26ft sustainable travel trailer and decided to take it out for the first time. Well the road up is very tight. Very skinny switchbacks."
