Top Free Dispersed Camping near Cripple Creek, CO
Want to go dispersed camping near Cripple Creek? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Colorado excursion.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Cripple Creek, CO (60)
1. Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping
15 Reviews•63 Photos•649 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
2. Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed
11 Reviews•84 Photos•834 SavesDon't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".
Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.
Please observe the following requirements when dispersed camping:
In some areas, dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers where posted. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites. BEARS and other wildlife When you go to the mountains and forest, you are in bear county. Do not leave ANY food, trash or other animal attractant unattended. Store all food and trash securely and pack out what you pack in. Failing to do so can result in a fine. Also be aware that; where not otherwise restricted, camping or leaving camping equipment at any location more than 14 days within a continuous 30 day period, and/or occupying any campsite within three miles of any prior camping or equipment location for a combined total of more than 28 days within any continuous 60 day period, is prohibited. Also, leaving camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours is not allowed. In addition; discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge. Plan your trip; phone ahead for restrictions and special regulations. Contact your local Ranger District office for more information.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
3. Matukat Road Dispersed Camping
15 Reviews•55 Photos•937 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
4. Rampart Range Area Dispersed Campsite
9 Reviews•17 Photos•417 SavesDon't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".
Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.
Please observe the following requirements when dispersed camping:
In some areas, dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers where posted. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites. BEARS and other wildlife When you go to the mountains and forest, you are in bear county. Do not leave ANY food, trash or other animal attractant unattended. Store all food and trash securely and pack out what you pack in. Failing to do so can result in a fine. Also be aware that; where not otherwise restricted, camping or leaving camping equipment at any location more than 14 days within a continuous 30 day period, and/or occupying any campsite within three miles of any prior camping or equipment location for a combined total of more than 28 days within any continuous 60 day period, is prohibited. Also, leaving camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours is not allowed. In addition; discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge. Plan your trip; phone ahead for restrictions and special regulations. Contact your local Ranger District office for more information.
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
5. Penrose Common Rec Site
9 Reviews•29 Photos•83 SavesPenrose Commons Recreation Area offers a warm, arid climate among pinon and juniper woodlands. The best time to visit is September through May when temperatures are comfortable and the snowy peaks of the Sangre De Cristo mountain range are visible in the distance. With 30 miles of motorized trail, the area is popular for ATVs, motorcycles and four wheeling. Independence Trail system is known for its extreme 4x4 rock crawling opportunities with easy access for spectators to enjoy the trail activity. Penrose Commons is also popular for horseback riding, hunting and dispersed camping. The area has a restroom, trail map information and ample parking space for trailers. A wet weather gate closes the area to motorized use during wet conditions. For more information, please contact the Royal Gorge Field Office.
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Dispersed
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
6. Dispersed Camp off Tarryall
11 Reviews•43 Photos•736 SavesPer camper review, high clearance 4x4 vehicle recommended
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
7. Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide
6 Reviews•42 Photos•230 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Firewood Available
8. Buffalo Creek Recreation Area
26 Reviews•78 Photos•1736 SavesThe Buffalo Creek Recreation Area contains over 50 miles of multi-use, non-motorized trails that tie into the Colorado Trail in several places. There are numerous options available for riding or hiking. Some of the old logging roads provide two-track while connecting trails offer single track. It takes about an 1.5 hours to drive to this area from Denver. Please know and respect local area restrictions including; parking and camping in designated sites only. Developed camping is available at nearby Forest Service campgrounds including Buffalo, Green Mountain, Kelsey, and Meadows Group Campground.
- Pets
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Toilets
9. Cripple Creek BLM Area
3 Reviews•8 Photos•245 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Drinking Water
- Alcohol
10. Phantom Canyon
4 Reviews•25 Photos•135 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
Showing results 1-10 of 60 campgrounds
Recent Dispersed Reviews In Cripple Creek
248 Reviews of 60 Cripple Creek Campgrounds
Landon C.
Ranger
Bailey Area Dispersed
Difficult road to get to but beautiful views
The road here has some gnarly washboards. I had to slow down to a crawl at points because it was thrashing my rig around so much. There is also one turn on the road where if you’re not careful, I could imagine getting stuck. However, the views are incredible and it was well worth the effort. Cell signal from Verizon is extremely good, I am getting 5G UWB and download speeds of 180mbps. There’s some cool hills to climb and many great views.
- aandrew G.
Scout
Cripple Creek BLM Area
Great secluded spot!
We went on a Saturday and it wasn’t crowded at all. The dispersed sites aren’t far from the road since most of the road goes down a valley with hills on both sides however there’s a nice creek running down the whole way. Definitely check it out if you don’t mind a colder night in a valley. Not much room to explore outside your vehicle unless you’re okay walking down the dirt road to see other sites and views.
Bryce B.
Guide
Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping
Great site
Pretty great dispersed site. Beautiful sun sets. I had great phone service. There are three campsites running along three different fingers. The second one has a portable bathroom. I talked to some locals who said grabbing deadfall was fine for fire wood. Quick 20 minute drive to get back into town for supplies. No water sources so you’ll have to pack out water. All the fire pits are hand build and being on the finger you’re pretty exposed to the wind keeping the fires small and not very hot. Most of the sites are not flat. If you enjoy camping with little amenities you’ll like this site 
- KK D.
Traveler
Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed
Great spot!
Was pretty busy, hard to find a spot at first but found a campsite across the stream that you cross a log on. Beautiful drive to get to.
- LLinnell W.Guide
Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide
Beautiful Spots
Wanted to stay for two nights but only did two days, because a mountain lion tore a deer to shreds about a day or two prior to my arrival by my campsite and i was spooked. Had two dogs but had an eerie feeling and left early but it was gorgeous. Loads of OHVs tho
Lily R.TravelerDispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide
Great spots along ATV trail
Tons of level, large spots. Road is meant for ATV use, and was a fair amount of traffic throughout the day but tolerable. Hardly any at night. Restrooms at base of road. Found our spot 2.5 miles up the road, definitely needed AWD.
- Lily R.Traveler
Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed
Secluded sites along creek
Drove ~3 miles along the service road to find our spot, it was the second pull off “open-area” with several fire pits to choose from. Road was a little bumpy but would be fine with a 2WD. Gorgeous, secluded spot next to the creek. No Verizon service.
- VVictoria P.Traveler
Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping
BEAUTIFUL SPOT
Loved being here. In the process of getting an apartment so this spot was perfect for the wait
- DDeitz B.Guide
Rampart Range Dispersed Site
Great Access to Rampart Reservoir
Handful of spots stretched out along the road. It was hard to find some open space on a Saturday around 3.
- SSofia T.Scout
Hendricks Flat
Beautiful little spot
My friend and I are roadtripping around a couple states and found this cute little camp site!! There is no running water or toilets but we didn’t mind :)) absolutely gorgeous place!
- mmichelle H.Traveler
Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed
great spot by creek
loved this spot even stayed a couple extra days right by nice size creek the cooler weather was nice and meant not alot of bugs. more traffic on road than expected but not bothersome. people close by but not close enough to hear or bother you in anyway. site was clean. there were more shaded ones but we chose next to water. were a couple empty close by on a holiday weekend.
- WWill R.Guide
Buffalo Creek Recreation Area
Labor Day
Spent two nights here, lots of traffic but not enough to bother!
The only thing to dislike is the washboards but any reasonable suspension you’ll be fine.
- DDeitz B.Guide
Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed
Peaceful and Secluded
Came mid August. Arrived about 5pm on a Saturday and there were a handful of spots left. I was right next to the river. Had 2 groups close to me that I could see, but it wasn’t an issue. Easy enough to get to.
Lesa L.Scout
Matukat Road Dispersed Camping
Excellent!
We spent 10 days at the top of the mountain. There were a few people that came in for a night or so, but not even close enough to hear them or see lights. The views are breathtaking! I am from NY. Drove all the way here just too camp. Was not disappointed!!! Can not wait to come back.
- AAshlee D.Traveler
Rampart Range Dispersed Site
Great free camping stay
Dispersed is further up the mountain but what a beautiful drive! We found a wooded spot that was super private and cozy! Climbed nearby rocks for some amazing views 🏔️
- mmichelle H.Traveler
Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
great spot!
This is a terrific find! level, shaded, right by nice size creek. perfect for exploring and quiet. we were in tent but saw several largeRV. some traffic but never heard another person. were a few spots right next to us but we were the only ones there . several a long road though nicely spaced out. small gas station close for gas and ice if needed otherwise about 45 min for supplies. ark river couple miles great spot to enjoy also rafting close etc.stayed couple extra days we just enjoyed the quiet. was also very clean and maintained. will definitely be back!
- Amy L.Guide
Lake Deweese state wildlife area
Fine for a night
The directions from this app didn’t exactly take me to the campsites. The campsites are along Lake Deweese Rd at the NE end of the reservoir. There are several sites all in very close proximity. There is virtually no privacy from neighbors but it worked from me for a night. It looked like some campers may be permanently occupying the sites.
- MMichael B.Scout
Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping
Great dispersed camping close to denver
There are many great spots much closer to the road (i.e. 20m less driving). Beautiful area. Relatively clean where we parked. Not crowded. Close to denver.
Lidia B.Scout
North Round Mountain
Nice place to sleep under the stars
We got there late at night and it was plenty of space. Unpaved road but no problem to get there with a campervan. Really close to the hwy but not noisy at all. Good option to spend the night.
Carla B.Traveler
clyde dispersed camping
Amazing place
First time dispersed camping and it was amazing. Beautiful. The warms days and cold nights were incredible.
Tabor P.ScoutBuffalo Creek Recreation Area
Always busy
We usually take this road up to get to Wellington lake or I’m here to go mountain biking. All dispersed camp sites are numbered and on the side of the road and there’s some really great looking spots but they are always taken. No matter what day of the week or time of day we have gone, not one single spot has been open. It looks like a lot of people are there tent camping and might have just gotten lucky, but I really do think people are poaching these sites and staying semi-permanently in their vans and campers. Good luck getting a spot here! Happy hunting
- GGriffin M.Traveler
211E Overlook Dispersed
Good Campsite with great views
Beautiful views over the valley and mountains. No access to water or hiking trails.
- David H.Guide
Route 31 Camp
David Hathaway
I just enjoyed a 6 day camping trip at this dispersed camping area. Yes it had one-two short showers each day which cooled things down. Even with the Saturday Night Rave until 2 am it was a great time. Only the fire ring is provided. Pack it in and Pack it out. Two towns close by should you run out of something. Very little bugs.
Xavier P.ScoutNorth Round Mountain
ATVs, Dust, noise and a lot of drinking
I wanted to stay here based on past reviews, but the place was full of ATVs. It was loud, and there were many campsites where people were partying.
This was in late June, so maybe it's different at other times.
Brian C.Traveler
Buena Vista Overlook
1st timer
This was my first go at dispersed camping in my new travel trailer. Google Maps took me to the right location off of 285 and the dirt roads were manageable. I would recommend 4x4 or AWD vehicles but they're nothing too crazy. Lots of good and large camping spots and I'd recommend a location on the left side of the road.
Sites didn't seem to be makred, and I stopped a bit short of what the coordinates that are listed.
Ben H.GuideMount Herman Road Dispersed Camping
Remote
I camped here for a little over a week. There is plenty of dispersed camping along the mountainous Road. Four wheel drive is required. There is also some dispersed camping allowed at the parking lot at the bottom of the mountain. However it is common for homeless people to be there and or larger size vehicles to be camping there. There is good Verizon signal for a while going up the mountain. It does go away once you get closer to the top. The larger camping sites are located closer to the top. With great views. Lower down on the mountain there are some spots to pull off on the side of the road. I camped like this for a while and walked a short distance to a pre-made camp fire. This is a popular place to camp especially over the weekends. So the road is a bit busy and narrow at some points
Amanda D.Scout
Mt. Herman Road Dispersed Site 2
We had a fox friend all weekend!
Found a great little campsite and had a fox as a neighbor! Only downfall was there was broken glass everywhere 😔
Guide to Cripple Creek
Camping near Cripple Creek, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning views and outdoor adventures. Whether you're into tent camping, RVing, or glamping, there are plenty of options to suit your style.
What to do:
- Hiking and Exploring: The area is surrounded by beautiful trails. Many campers enjoy the scenic hikes, with one reviewer from Mueller State Park Campground saying, "High elevation campground. Sites well spread out. Many pull through RV sites."
- Water Activities: If you love water sports, check out Stoll Mountain Campground — Eleven Mile State Park. A visitor mentioned, "Take a canoe, kayak, or fishing poles and enjoy a day on the lake with a great view of the mountains."
- Wildlife Watching: Campers often spot deer and other wildlife. One reviewer at Cheyenne Mountain State Park Campground noted, "We saw deer multiple nights, rabbits and a skunk."
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Chatfield State Park Campground said, "The staff is really nice and you have all the services that you need."
- Spacious Campsites: Campers enjoy having enough room to spread out. One reviewer at Arkansas Point Campground — Lake Pueblo State Park mentioned, "The spots are pull through which makes setup and tear down so much easier for camp!"
- Beautiful Views: Many campgrounds offer stunning scenery. A camper at Turtle Rock Campground shared, "This place is beautiful. Easy to get to. Has cell service and wonderful for mountain biking."
What you should know:
- Extra Fees: Some campgrounds charge additional fees for park entry. A camper at Cheyenne Mountain State Park Campground noted, "You had to pay an extra $10 to get into the park even though you paid to camp there."
- Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Mueller State Park Campground mentioned, "No water at site but several drinking water stations with hose hookups."
- Noise Levels: Some areas can be noisy due to nearby activities. A camper at Chatfield State Park Campground said, "We were woken up multiple mornings before 7AM to the sound of model airplanes."
Tips for camping with families:
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with fun activities for kids. One reviewer at Colorado Springs KOA said, "They do fun activities on the weekends like mining for gems and tie-dye shirts."
- Safety First: Ensure the campground has safe play areas. A visitor at Lone Duck Campground and Cabins mentioned, "Great location and I would definitely stay there again."
- Plan for Quiet Time: Many campgrounds have quiet hours. A camper at Garden of the Gods RV Resort noted, "Quiet time starts at 11pm so it’s nice and quiet for the evenings and bedtime."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A reviewer at Arkansas Point Campground — Lake Pueblo State Park said, "Sites spaced out. Electricity at site."
- Be Prepared for Steep Roads: Some campgrounds are on steep inclines. A camper at Cheyenne Mountain State Park Campground warned, "The road up to the campground for about a mile and a half was pretty steep."
- Bring Extra Supplies: Not all campgrounds have stores nearby. A visitor at Mueller State Park Campground advised, "There may be other such sites, but many loops of the park are closed for our April visit."
Camping near Cripple Creek, Colorado, has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, you'll find a spot that fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Cripple Creek, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cripple Creek, CO is Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping with a 4.6-star rating from 15 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Cripple Creek, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 60 dispersed camping locations near Cripple Creek, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.