B
Brigid K.
Traveler
TravelerBlack Canyon Dispersed Camping
Very muddy but easily found a spot. Not crowded at all (granted it is mid to late October but still).
Dispersed Camping near Curecanti National Recreation Area, CO
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Blue Mesa Reservoir cuts through Curecanti National Recreation Area for roughly 20 miles, and dispersed camping along the roads and bluffs above the water puts you in terrain that gets much less traffic than the developed sites closer to the water's edge. The Dyrt campers working through this corridor flag the reservoir views as the draw, but note that wind comes up fast in the afternoon and open sites have no natural windbreak.
No water, no restrooms, no fees at dispersed sites. The 14-day stay limit applies. Road conditions vary by access point. Some pullouts are accessible by standard passenger vehicles, but rougher two-tracks into more remote sections want a high-clearance rig, especially after rain. No-fee dispersed sites in the Gunnison corridor extend the range of options south and east if Curecanti's roads are occupied.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison dispersed camping is another option in the region if you want to base near the canyon rather than the reservoir. Elevation across the Curecanti corridor runs between 7,500 and 8,700 feet, so nights get cold even in July. Warm layers matter regardless of the daytime forecast.
Best Dispersed Campgrounds near Curecanti National Recreation Area (83)
1. Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
"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."
2. Red Creek Rd Dispersed Camping
"Existing campsites lots of space"
"The dispersed site is pretty level, has a fire ring, will see some traffic going further up the road (could be nicer sites?)."
3. Hartman Rocks Recreation Area
"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. red creek primitive
"A few miles off the turnoff for 50 there are a few primitive campgrounds. River access. Easy road and just a few minutes drive and all you can hear is nature. Nice views too."
"Great spot with easy access. It’s quiet and secluded. There are a few different spots to choose from along this road."
5. Red Creek Road
"Close to the road but silent spot. The first spot offers view of the reservoir. No cell signal but great to relax."
6. Soap Creek Road
"We spent 7 days here in what we refer to as spot#5(the best spot) but be advised any of the spots in this area are difficult to get into unless you have a high clearance vehicle and rig."
7. Soap Creek Camp
8. Hartman’s Rocks FCFS campsites
"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."
9. Black Canyon
"Easy to find BLM land with decent roads and lots of spots. I stayed here 3 days and never saw or heard another person. It’s only 5 miles from the North Rim of Black Canyon National Park."
"this site was easy to find and not too far from the main road but very quiet. we arrived at night and there was plenty of spots. we camped in the car just for the night but plenty of flat land for tents"
10. Soap Creek Corral & Coal Mesa Horse Camp
Drive Time
- 1 hr 43 min from Grand Junction, CO
- 3 hrs 15 min from Pueblo, CO
- 3 hrs 36 min from Colorado Springs, CO
- 3 hrs 52 min from Farmington, NM
Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Curecanti National Recreation Area
279 Photos of 83 Curecanti National Recreation Area Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Slate River Road Designated Dispersed - DISPERSED NO LONGER ALLOWED
Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
Hartman’s Rocks FCFS campsites
Hartman Rocks Recreation Area
Throughline/Coal Creek TH (Dispersed)-Paonia RDE
Owl Creek Passr
Engineer Pass CampM
Kebler Pass Designated Dispersed - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
Lake Irwin Dispersed Sites - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
Jack’s Cabin Pass
Dark Canyon Trailhead (Dispersed)
Dispersed Camping Reviews near Curecanti National Recreation Area
420 Reviews of 83 Curecanti National Recreation Area Campgrounds
Landon C.
RangerHorse Ranch Park (dispersed)-paonia Rd
Lots of open space where you can set up camp. This spot is mostly for elk hunters, although normal folks are of course welcome. Just don’t set up camp next to one of the horse hitching rails unless you actually have a horse. Note that you can only camp here for 7 days within a 30 day window, which is unlike the normal 14 day limit. This area gets extremely crowded in the summer and fall peeping seasons. I was here in mid October and the crowd was mostly gone.
- aamber H.
GuideRed Mountain Creek
busy on weekends great river/ creek spots
I arrived around 4 on a Friday in the fall and it was packed. I had to leave but came back the following Monday and there were lots of spots right off 550 close to Ouray
- AAnthony M.Guide
Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)
Great spot
This is an amazing 7day spot with spectacular views but the rd here is rocky and rutted! I made it in my van but probably wouldn’t recommend it
Vinny D.RangerLast Dollar Road
Absolutely one of the best spots I’ve ever camped at
This is pretty easy to find on the right.
- KKate H.Traveler
Last Dollar Road
Awesome view of the whole valley.
The first sites are pretty easy to get to: as soon as you leave the private property and enter the national forest, there is a ridge with a large dirt lot and a sign for last dollar road. This is where we stayed, there’s a few spots in the trees a little, or you can park right on the ridge. Any further up the road and it gets more technical.
- HHeidiTraveler
Washington Gulch - Dispersed Camping
Decent Spot
Lots of spots but most them are all pretty close to one another.
- DDarlene D.Guide
red creek primitive
Easy to find and beautiful location.
We actually turned our class b with motorcycle trailer around in the 3rd turnout after the gate and signs, as it was large and level and there wasn't a soul around. I think 3 pick up trucks came past the entire afternoon/evening, and one really early the next morning. Good packed gravel that was very slightly washboard. No Tmobile service at all, but we had Verizon.
- RRobert L.Guide
Kendall Campground
Busy but quiet where it counts.
Kendall is definitely a busy dispersed camping spot, with everything from tents to large RVs. I was still able to find a nice secluded spot tucked away for my Bronco and tent. Despite the crowd, it was surprisingly quiet overnight. There was some generator noise from the larger rigs during the busier hours, but nothing that really bothered me. Great location just outside Silverton, vault toilets available, and Verizon service was good enough for calls and texts. I’d definitely stay here again.
Guide to Curecanti National Recreation Area
Dispersed camping near Curecanti National Recreation Area features a network of primitive sites on public lands north of Montrose and throughout Gunnison County. The area sits at elevations between 7,000-8,500 feet, creating large temperature swings between day and night even in summer months. Most dispersed sites require navigating unmaintained dirt roads that become increasingly challenging after rainfall, with many campers reporting deep ruts and steep access points.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Hartman Rocks Recreation Area offers extensive trail networks for biking enthusiasts. "This area is large and has tons of dispersed campsites, but they're connected by a network of bumpy and rocky roads," notes Dan E., highlighting the adventure potential beyond just camping.
Wildlife viewing: The dispersed areas provide opportunities to observe native animals, though caution is advised. At Black Canyon dispersed camping, one camper reported, "We did find a few deer legs left behind, so keep an eye out for Mountain Lion," a reminder to secure food properly.
Rock climbing: Hartman's Rocks Dispersed Site features unique geological formations ideal for climbing. As Peaches E. observed, there are "plenty of camping even for my 20ft camper and lots of rock climbing!"
What campers like
Solitude: Black Canyon offers remarkable privacy on the north rim. According to Kevin S., "I stayed here 3 days and never saw or heard another person. It's only 5 miles from the North Rim of Black Canyon National Park."
Proximity to towns: Many dispersed sites provide good access to nearby communities. Kevin S. mentioned that "Crawford is about 8 miles away and has some restaurants with good home cooking," making supply runs convenient.
Stargazing opportunities: The area's limited light pollution creates ideal conditions for astronomy. Brooks G. noted at Black Canyon Dispersed Camping that "It's quite pretty and you can make out some of the milky way on clearer nights."
What you should know
Road conditions: Red Creek Rd Dispersed Camping requires navigation of variable terrain. One camper advises "The road is a good gravel but gets narrower as you go up," which affects site accessibility.
Vehicle requirements: Many sites demand appropriate vehicles. At Hartman Rocks, Austin H. warns, "You will not make it with 2 wheel drive," and Lauren M. confirms, "We were able to drive around some of the roads in our 2WD van looking for sites but honestly would not recommend for similar vehicles."
Seasonal availability: Some areas have restricted access during certain months. At Black Canyon, Jaz C. notes an important restriction: "Signs say no camping 12/1-7/15," which limits winter and early summer options.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Look for established sites with natural barriers. At Hartman's Rocks, Lara S. recommends: "We found a nice large flat area all to ourselves. We were far away from the group sites which were loud."
Bring all supplies: No services are available at most dispersed sites. Greg L. from Soap Creek Camp observed only minimal amenities: "Vault toilets and I did see a water spigot. $16/$8 seniors," making it one of the few sites with any facilities.
Safety considerations: Prepare for changing weather and terrain hazards. At Hartman Rocks, johny R. advises: "Study Google maps sat images, stay to the main road and NEVER rush in at dusk, you will be sorry."
Tips from RVers
High-clearance vehicles required: Most dispersed sites demand appropriate rigs. The Wandering Shores notes at Soap Creek Road: "Any of the spots in this area are difficult to get into unless you have a high clearance vehicle and rig. I would suggest that no Class C or A try to camp in this area."
Scout before committing: Many campers recommend exploring on foot before bringing in larger vehicles. At Hartman Rocks Recreation Area, Ciara W. shares: "The uphill to get to the camping in a 2WD van was not easy. It's very steep and with the sun setting we couldn't see the road and just floored it hoping we'd make it."
Advance planning required: Free camping near Curecanti National Recreation Area demands preparation. At Hartman's Rocks, Leonard S. warns: "It took a lot of driving to find a campsite open. Midweek on September 20. Not that there aren't a lot of sites, you just have to do a lot of driving."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Curecanti National Recreation Area?
What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Curecanti National Recreation Area?
Dispersed camping in Curecanti National Recreation Area follows standard regulations: 14-day maximum stay within a 30-day period, camping at least 100 feet from water sources, and pack-in/pack-out waste management. Campfires are permitted in established fire rings only when fire restrictions aren't in effect. At FSR #689 Dispersed, like other dispersed areas, you'll find no amenities – no water, trash service, or restrooms. Twin Lake Dispersed Area - Grand Valley Rd exemplifies typical dispersed sites with minimal development but waterfront access. Vehicles must stay on established roads and camping is only allowed in previously used sites. Always check current regulations at the visitor center, as rules may change seasonally, particularly regarding fire restrictions.
Is dispersed camping allowed near Black Canyon of the Gunnison, and how far is it from Curecanti?
Is dispersed camping allowed near Black Canyon of the Gunnison, and how far is it from Curecanti?
Yes, dispersed camping is allowed near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, which is approximately 20-30 miles from Curecanti National Recreation Area. Dry Creek Ditch Camp off Forest Road 90 offers BLM dispersed camping about 9 miles from Montrose with good access roads until the final mile. Hartman Rocks Recreation Area provides additional dispersed camping opportunities between Curecanti and Black Canyon. When camping near Black Canyon, you'll need to follow BLM or National Forest rules rather than National Park regulations, which typically means a 14-day limit, no services, and pack-in/pack-out policies. The drive between Curecanti and Black Canyon takes about 30-45 minutes, making it possible to explore both areas during the same trip.
Where can I find dispersed camping near Blue Mesa Reservoir in Curecanti National Recreation Area?
Where can I find dispersed camping near Blue Mesa Reservoir in Curecanti National Recreation Area?
Dispersed camping near Blue Mesa Reservoir is available at several locations around Curecanti National Recreation Area. Red Creek Road offers drive-in access for dispersed camping with scenic views of the reservoir. Soap Creek Road provides additional dispersed camping opportunities near the water. These areas typically require no reservations and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Most dispersed sites around Blue Mesa have no amenities, so come prepared with water and pack-out waste bags. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing many of these areas, especially after rain. The standard 14-day stay limit applies throughout the recreation area. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and check with the visitor center for current conditions.
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