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Dispersed camping near Drake, Colorado centers around several primitive areas that require varied levels of vehicle clearance and offer minimal amenities. The region contains multiple free camping options including Hell Canyon Dispersed, which sits just outside Estes Park, and Pole Hill Road Dispersed, located in the surrounding mountains. These Forest Service-managed lands provide backcountry access for tent campers and some RVs without developed facilities or designated sites.
Access roads to most dispersed areas require high-clearance vehicles and often 4WD capabilities, particularly for Hell Canyon and Pole Hill Road. Many visitors report challenging terrain that becomes progressively more difficult the further you travel from main roads. As one camper noted, "The road is steep, but nothing crazy. Our RAV4 had no issues at all." However, another cautioned, "4x4 drive is a requirement." These primitive sites lack amenities such as water, restrooms, or trash service. Standard public land regulations apply, including a 14-day camping limit in most locations and seasonal fire restrictions that vary throughout the year.
The dispersed sites near Drake provide scenic mountain views with varying levels of seclusion. Campers can find spots with excellent vistas despite proximity to roads. A visitor commented, "Beautiful views of the mountains from my spot. Only complaint is you can hear the road below which the wind drowns out anyways." Sites fill quickly during summer weekends and holidays, though midweek camping often allows for greater privacy. Cell service is available at some locations, with reviews mentioning "Good Verizon signal" at Hell Canyon. Most camping areas are within reasonable driving distance to Estes Park, providing access to supplies while maintaining a backcountry experience. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and summer thunderstorms are common in the mountains.
"4x4 drive is a requirement. Good Verizon signal. Narrow road, however not busy at all. Stayed here for 4 days, no issue. The Google Maps directions is slightly wrong."
"A few camper vans were here as well."
"Fire ban was in effect when we went, but lots of fire circles available otherwise. Bring bug spray, the flies are bold."
"Great spots right next to the river. It was roaring in late May. We ended up near the end of the road and high clearance and 4WD was a must"
"You have to drive through a neighborhood to get to the serving road. Follow the directions on Google and you’ll be fine. The best spots are a little further back. The road will come to a Y go left."
"Awesome scenic drive, great spacious spot. But only for one party. If someone else is there, you're outta luck. Fire road is gated off so no other options."
"We were right up on the lake but turns out it's private property and you cannot even go up to the water."
"You are pinned up against private property around the lake, the camp sites are in the dirt area when you get to the lake down to the left."
"The road is pretty rough and high clearance is recommended. A Subaru need our help a little bit. We camped on a weekend and the road and other sites got pretty busy."
"So the Gordon Gulch dispersed camping area has around 15 numbered sites that are ok... but if you keep driving further down 233.1 you will find many more unnumbered campsites."
"Like the title suggests, this campsite is typical for a free forest service campground. Prior campers have left some trash, bullet casings and obviously neglected to dig cat holes."
"New Bronco in front of me turned around. Once past the obstacles (which is why we do this, right?) lots of nice camping. The only drawback is the large power lines in the vicinity. No Verizon. "
"Moderate to heavy foot traffic -Busy, mostly big groups staying at sites having their own fun but plan ahead for finding a site -Friendly and respectful people -Very well maintained sites, trails, signage"
"A number of sites will dot both sides of the road on the way into Pingree (take the CSU mountain campus exit off of Poudre Canyon). Most are good, some are in burn scars."
"Arrived around 7:30pm on a Friday. There were 2 soots left available totaling about 8 spots for dispersed camping. Stayed until Sunday morning."
"No water source that I know of."
ScoutDon’t believe the navigation apps and go through lyons, it’s private property ; furthermore if you like I did make the drive though Estes park, have 4WD high clearance and a small vehicle… maybe you’ll make it to this brutally elusive last free camping spot off the main mountain roads
GuideWe drove our BRAND NEW 4x4 Revel and were nervous the entire trip up and back. We are a high profile vehicle, luckily we had plenty of clearance but it was very nerve wracking both up and back. It is about 7 miles of dirt road, and 4 miles of very challenging (for me) driving.
Be sure to follow the sign LEFT to Chinns Lake. When you arrive, there are several dispersed campsites around the lake. All the spots have beautiful views and tons of space between other campers. There are firepits (even though CO is on a fire ban) that will be nice for future visits. We visited on Sept 17-19, 2020, so the evenings are cold and the days short. Additionally, the water level was very low.
The area is nice for hiking and exploring, and especially to get away from it all. No cell phone service.
As the weekend approached, there were several ATV's heading up for the day. While we were there, only 3 other groups camping on the weekend.
You will be at 11,000 feet looking at the Continental Divide! THIS is Colorado camping! Enjoy and please remember to leave no trace!
TravelerBeautiful views of gold lake, this specific spot has a rough road that will require high clearance. The other spots are off of a well maintained fire road if you’re in a low clearance vehicle. High 38mph winds all night long at 24 degrees F. Lake is private and there’s lots of private property lines to look out for. The only reason it’s not a 5/5
RangerSo the Gordon Gulch dispersed camping area has around 15 numbered sites that are ok... but if you keep driving further down 233.1 you will find many more unnumbered campsites. I am reviewing one of these unnumbered campsites in particular, because this one had the best view. Before you read too far, I can't guarantee you will be able to reach this campsite without a 4X4 high clearance vehicle. We got to the site with a Jeep Wrangler and Toyota Tacoma TRD so we had no problems... I can't definitely say a Subaru would make it though. In the pictures I have included a map of the Gordon Gulch trail system. Entering through the Gordon Gulch entrance and taking 226.1 to 233.1 is the hardest route - there is one very steep and washed out spot. Entering via 120J/Switzerland Trail from the Peak to Peak Hwy and then turning right onto 233.1 is the easier option. On that map I have marked the general area of the campsite with a pink dot and here are the coordinates.
DMS: 40°01'18.5"N 105°28'37.6"W
DD: 40.021814, -105.477103 - if you type this into Google Maps it will locate it
As for the actual campsite, it is a great option for spring/fall camping in Colorado. The elevation is about 8,800 ft and it is on the south side of a hill so it gets a lot of sunlight and is protected from northern winds. In terms of privacy, there are no other campsites that can be seen from this one. However, Gordon Gulch is a popular off-roading area so dirt bikes and Jeeps pass by frequently. This campsite is set up high above and away from the road though, so it is really not that bad. Another thing to point out is that this is a popular area for shooting as well, so if you absolutely hate guns it may not be the place for you. Also, as stated before, this is a dispersed campsite the only thing it has is a fire ring. Pack it in, pack it out!
GuideWent up Rollins pass road (you can access it from the Lakota Trail neighborhood or down the road a bit on 80). The first gate was open but not the second or third to get to the top where there are def more spots and fire rings. You can only camp places where there are dots on the side of the road on the official county map. Check the Rollins pass website it’s very informative and a sacred land so leave no trace. We got one of the like 3-4 spots we saw with a fire ring that wasn’t taken yet. (No fire ban 6/14/25 I check don’t worry :).. Some back trails are very hairy, pretty busy with motor vehicles but a lot of the new electric dirt bikes which don’t make much noise, probably 10-15 ppl the entire night riding by only once. Got great weather and the main trail is pretty easy up to the second gate which is supposed to be open June 15-Sept 15 I think.
ScoutMy son and I joined a friend from Longmont and headed to this trail to camp for a couple days. Very accessible road, lots of spots to choose from (we showed up on Thursday, it did get a little busier on Friday and Saturday). Our spot was set back from the trail, right next to the stream. Just an amazing view, ample room for lots of tents, nice fire rings and huge logs around them for sitting. Fire wood abounds but it was all a little wet still from the rains they've been getting. Some folks didn't seem to be aware of the "leave no trace" rule when it comes to going to the bathroom, which was a little gross. Overall, great experience, pretty trail views, caught lots of trout (none big enough to keep). A great getaway.
TravelerI went here the week before campgrounds opened in this area, around May 7th. I had a pop up trailer and got there around 5pm on a Friday. Most spots were already taken and the road was a bit washed out. We got stopped by a camper letting us know not to go further because of the road condition and we shared a spot for the night. I would recommend this spot if you have a 4 wheel drive car with high clearance. Later in the season when the water levels are lower it might be easier to navigate but we saw a car or two get towed out
GuideNice area to set up camp and fish on the Colorado River. There is a bear-proof dumpster and a portapotty (BYO TP) available. Not a lot of traffic along the highway at night, but there is a train that comes through which can be pretty loud. Roughly a dozen established dispersed sites are available here. Bring the bug spray, the mosquitoes are thick! There is zero T-Mobile cell signal here at all.
GuideThis is a great place to start car camping or backpack camping. The roads for my truck were easy to traverse and navigate. Saw some hatchbacks, SUV’s, and other lower clearance vehicles. They did just fine so if you have that you can do it if you take your time. But stay on the main road to the lake some side roads are extremely hard even for my truck. But there is plenty of sites to disperse camp. Pretty much if you explore around you’ll find a nice place to set up with a made campfire already. Also please take care of the fire, pet and alcohol restrictions. They had a fire restriction and they gave out tickets to those who had them, just be aware. Have a great time, it’s beautiful country out there
Dispersed camping areas near Drake, Colorado range in elevation from 7,500 to 9,000 feet throughout Roosevelt National Forest. The region experiences significant seasonal closures during winter months, with most remote sites inaccessible from November through mid-May. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day while dropping to 45-55°F at night, requiring campers to prepare for substantial temperature fluctuations.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Allenspark Dispersed Camping, visitors regularly encounter diverse wildlife. One camper reported, "We had a great night here! Spacious site with a fire ring. Easy time finding, just follow all the arrows when there is a fork in the road." The area supports substantial wildlife populations including deer, elk, and various bird species.
Creek exploration: Numerous creeks flow through the rustic camping areas near Drake. At Allenspark Dispersed Camping CO, one visitor noted, "Beautiful, secluded and right next to a creek. BUT a huge bear got into my tent while I was gone for 2 hours and absolutely destroyed it." Another reviewer highlighted, "It was gorgeous! Lots of spots, and also lots of people. Some folks coming in late night. It's definitely a bumpy ride in."
Short hiking options: Several primitive trails connect camping areas with scenic overlooks. At Beaver Park Reservoir, campers can find "a super easy family-friendly mini hike with great view and a little cell access. If you are facing the lake, to your right just behind you there are some rocks. Walk twoard them and then maybe 30 yards away from the lake you can walk right up."
Natural sound buffers: Many campers appreciate how natural features mask road noise at Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed. One visitor shared, "Road is passable by standard cars. No cell service. Layout can be crowded with little space between but was pretty empty through the week." Water features provide ambient noise that enhances the camping experience.
Weather variations: The mountain climate creates distinct experiences through different seasons. At Beaver Park Reservoir, a camper noted, "This was a wonderful campsite, incredible views, fairly easy to access (we did it in a Honda civic), and was an overall great environment. Not much out there, except what appears to be a small town on the other side of the lake."
Site spacing: Many campers value the distance between sites at Pingree Road Dispersed Camping. A reviewer stated, "These camp sites are nicely dispersed. The Pingree Road is also super well maintained so I was able to comfortably get to the campsite with a FWD low clearance sedan! Most of these sites already have fire rings set up."
Access challenges: Vehicle requirements vary significantly between sites. At Pole Hill Rd Dispersed, a camper warned, "Don't believe the navigation apps and go through lyons, it's private property; furthermore if you like I did make the drive though Estes park, have 4WD high clearance and a small vehicle… maybe you'll make it."
Fire regulations: Fire restrictions change frequently throughout camping season. At Hell Canyon Dispersed, a reviewer explained, "Good spot for dispersed camping. Maybe 6 spots total going all the way up the road. 4x4 recommended. Fires allowed in established rings only, always check with Roosevelt National Forest website to see if fires are allowed."
Noise considerations: Rustic camping near Drake can have unexpected noise sources. At Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, a camper mentioned, "It's right next to 72, so traffic sounds, and there's 4 wheelers and dirts bikes, so not exactly quiet. I will only stay the one night, too loud for me."
Wildlife precautions: Proper food storage is essential at primitive sites. At Allenspark Dispersed Camping CO, a camper reported, "The second day staying there we ran into a bear and scared him off. Two hours later he can back and we scared him off again. He's afraid of humans but he did try to get into the car while we were sleeping."
Road navigation planning: Families should research road conditions thoroughly before arrival. At Johnny Park Road Camping, a visitor noted, "We arrived at around 10pm on a Saturday night and were able to find a spot way back, but it did require AWD. The site was small, but secluded. There were some sharp weeds, so recommend wearing pants while walking around."
Temperature preparation: Mountain temperature swings require extra clothing and bedding. At Allenspark Dispersed Camping CO, a camper advised, "We had a great night here! The weather was so nice we slept in hammocks all week!" Temperatures can drop 30+ degrees between day and night, even during summer months.
Size limitations: Most primitive sites accommodate smaller RVs only. At Hell Canyon Dispersed, one RVer cautioned, "The road was a little rough for a pop up camper. More for tents." Most dispersed camping areas limit RV length to under 25 feet due to narrow forest roads.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require substantial leveling equipment. At Beaver Park Reservoir, an RVer noted, "Beautiful lake with several good sized RV spots. We have a 25 foot camper and feet nicely in. Road in was good as well (May 2025)."
Resource planning: No hookups or dump facilities exist at any rustic camping near Drake. As one Hell Canyon camper stated, "Haven't been out camping in a while, Should have 4x4 but we made it without. One vehicle had a 20' cargo trailer. (Required 4x4) 10 minutes from Estes Park, lots of local places to go. The camp ground down below will even let you shower for 8$."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find dispersed camping near Drake, Colorado?
Several dispersed camping options exist near Drake, Colorado. Pole Hill Rd Dispersed offers free camping but requires high clearance 4WD vehicles and careful navigation to avoid private property (approach from Estes Park rather than Lyons). For more accessible options, Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping provides spots along a stream with relatively accessible roads. Many dispersed sites are located throughout Roosevelt National Forest. Canyon Lakes Ranger District also offers numerous dispersed camping opportunities within driving distance of Drake. Always check current forest service regulations before heading out as access and availability can change seasonally.
What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites in Drake?
Dispersed camping sites near Drake are typically primitive with minimal to no amenities. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area has numbered sites along with unnumbered sites further down road 233.1 that offer more seclusion and scenic views. Hot Sulphur Springs SWA - Joe Gerrans Unit is one of the few dispersed areas with basic amenities including a bear-proof dumpster and a porta-potty (bring your own toilet paper). Most dispersed sites have established fire rings but lack running water, electricity, trash services, or restroom facilities. Pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Cell service is typically limited or nonexistent. Be prepared for self-sufficient camping.
Are permits required for dispersed camping in Drake?
Most dispersed camping areas near Drake in the Roosevelt National Forest don't require specific camping permits, but there are important regulations to follow. At Rollins Pass Dispersed Camping, you can camp in designated spots marked by dots along the road, but access may be limited by seasonal gate closures. Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping requires no permits but demands high-clearance 4WD vehicles. While permits aren't typically needed, all dispersed camping requires following forest regulations including the 14-day stay limit, camping only in established sites, proper waste disposal, and obtaining fire permits when required during fire season. Always check with the local ranger district for current regulations before your trip.
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