Top Free Dispersed Camping near Edwards, CO
Looking for the best dispersed camping near Edwards? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Find dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots from other campers.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Edwards, CO (107)
1. Red Sandstone - Primitive Dispersed
11 Reviews•27 Photos•610 SavesThere are many dispersed camping opportunities on the forest ranging from backpacking to car-camping along designated Forest Roads. Visitors are encouraged to minimize resource impacts by utilizing established sites rather than creating new ones. Dispersed camping sites along Forest Roads are shown on Motor Vehicle Use Maps, which are available free of charge at ranger district offices. Visitors are permitted to drive vehicles up to 300 feet from designated routes for purposes of dispersed camping as long as no resource damage is incurred in the process. Dispersed camping within 100 feet of lakes, streams, and forest system trails is prohibited unless otherwise designated. Campers may stay for a maximum of 14 days. Some areas may have additional special restrictions. This dirt road begins at the paved Red Sandstone Road near Vail and ends at either Piney Lake or Hwy 131 north of Wolcott: This road gets heavy vehicle traffic and also a fair number of mountain bike riders, so please share the road. The climb is gradual and steady, and all but the very lowest of passenger cars can handle this relatively easy dirt road. The road winds its way up along Red Sandstone Creek and then Indian Creek with occasional views south over Vail Mountain, before reaching its high point near the trailhead for Lost Lake Trail. Here you can choose to head west toward Muddy Pass and Hwy 131, or head toward Piney Lake as your destination. Enjoy the peace and beauty here or take a hike up the Upper Piney River Trail, but remember that the lake is surrounded by the Eagles Nest Wilderness and is closed to bikes.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Drinking Water
2. Yeoman Park
8 Reviews•32 Photos•237 Saves** Due to recent drought conditions, bear activity has been increasing. For this reason a "food storage order" is in effect at the Yeoman Park Campground, requiring all food and refuse to be stored in hard-sided vehicles or approved bear-resistant containers, or supended at least 10 feet clear of the ground at all points and four feet horizontally from any supporting tree or pole. This order has been issued to provide for public safety and wildlife conservation. Hopefully it will reduce wildlife habituation problems. ** At an elevation of 9,000 feet, Yeoman Park Campground is located on the edge of a wetland meadow near Brush Creek and is partly within a mature spruce forest. There are beautiful views of Craig peak (11,902 ft). Yeoman Park campground has 24 campsites with picnic tables, fire ring grills and 11 sites have tent platforms; 15 of the sites are within a forested area while the other 9 are in the open. Eighteen sites can accommodate RV's 15-30 feet long and 6 sites have room for vehicles longer than 30 ft. Part of the campground has been redesigned to accommodate visitors with disabilities. Two campsites, one on either side of the accessible vault toilets in Loop A, are equipped with a modified picnic table and a low fire grill. There is also a fishing platform on Brush Creek near the park entrance. Yeoman Park is a good place to view an extensive beaver colony. There are many opportunities to watch small mammals such as tree and ground squirrels and to see birds of prey like the red-tailed hawk. The Yeoman Park Discovery Trail (200 yards) is accessible to those who have disabilities. There are interpretive signs encouraging visitors to use their senses to experience the nature of Yeoman Park. The Lake Charles Trail #1899 (5.35 miles) begins near the Fulford Cave Campground and goes into the Holy Cross Wilderness. From this trail you can also connect with Ironedge Trail #1873. Fulford Cave Trail #1875, will take you to the entrance of Fulford Cave. A visit to the historic mining town of Fulford is just a few miles up Forest Road 418. Foundations of an old Civilian Conservation Corps camp built in the 1930's can be seen in the meadow northwest of the campground. View a printable Recreation Quicksheet (.pdf) for this campground.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
$8 / night
3. Lincoln Creek Dispersed Campground
27 Reviews•132 Photos•1298 SavesThere are 22 dispersed campsites for car camping along Lincoln Creek Road. High Clearance required and 4x4 recommended to access all campsites. All sites are first come first serve. No facilities such as toilets or water are available. Maximum 5 day stay limit.
- Dispersed
- Trash
- Toilets
- Alcohol
4. Homestake Reservoir Rd Milemarker 3 - Dispersed
7 Reviews•28 Photos•315 SavesThere are many dispersed camping opportunities on the forest ranging from backpacking to car-camping along designated Forest Roads. Visitors are encouraged to minimize resource impacts by utilizing established sites rather than creating new ones. Dispersed camping sites along Forest Roads are shown on Motor Vehicle Use Maps, which are available free of charge at ranger district offices.
Visitors are permitted to drive vehicles up to 300 feet from designated routes for purposes of dispersed camping as long as no resource damage is incurred in the process. Dispersed camping within 100 feet of lakes, streams, and forest system trails is prohibited unless otherwise designated. Campers may stay for a maximum of 14 days. Some areas may have additional special restrictions.
Reduce Resource Damage
Avoid making new impacts. Whenever possible, use an existing campsite rather than creating a new one. Dispose of human waste, including toilet paper, carefully. Use self-contained waste disposal systems whenever possible. When unavailable, deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 – 8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water, camp sites, and roads or trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished. Properly manage sanitation. Dispose of waste, gray water, sewage, and sewage treatment chemicals from self-contained toilets at authorized facilities provided for that purpose. Pack it in, pack it out. Do not leave behind any waste or litter. Leave no trace. Leave established sites in better condition than you found them. Leave new sites in as natural condition as you found them. Don’t move firewood. Moving firewood long distances can help spread harmful pests. Use only locally sourced or dead or downed firewood. Be bear aware. You are in bear country. Leave food, trash, and all items with fragrance (e.g., toothpaste, deodorant) in vehicle, bear-proof canisters, or suspended in bear bags. Do not eat in your tent. Visit the Colorado Division of Wildlife's web site for more information.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
5. Forest Road 130
18 Reviews•65 Photos•799 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
6. Bellyache Road
4 Reviews•10 Photos•41 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Cabins
7. Twin Lakes View
17 Reviews•50 Photos•1261 SavesAccessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
8. Tigiwon Road
3 Reviews•6 Photos•170 SavesAccessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
9. Blue Lake Camp
2 Reviews•9 Photos•137 SavesThe Castle Peak Wilderness Study Area is a semi-primitive backcountry area with no facilities. There is no motorized or mechanized use within the WSA to help preserve erosive soils, wildlife, scenic values, water quality and cultural resources.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
10. Ute Pass Dispersed Camping
11 Reviews•26 Photos•809 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Showing results 1-10 of 107 campgrounds
Recent Dispersed Reviews In Edwards
395 Reviews of 107 Edwards Campgrounds
Leah K.
Traveler
Twin Lakes Overlook Dispersed Camping
Great Camping Spot
This was a great camping spot. There are several campsites by the water and other campsites, not by the water. The campsites are kind of close together, but not terrible. I went early on a Friday and got a beautiful spot by the water. By the end of the day, all the sites around the water were full. So if that's important to you, be sure to get there early. There were still plenty of other gorgeous campsites, not by the water available all weekend. There are also hiking trails located here. One of which is called "Interlaken Trail." It's about a 5 mile hike total and takes you to a "Ghost Resort" called "Inter-Laken" that was abandoned around WW1. You can even go inside one of the buildings, and there are Historical Marker plaques that talk about the abandoned resort. The signal is great so I had cell service and data the entire time. Highly recommend!
- eelizabeth M.
Scout
Boreas Pass Roadside Campsites
Stunning views and close to town
I came on a Sunday afternoon before Columbus Day and there were plenty of spots open. Super close to town and stunning views.
Melissa G.Traveler
Basalt Mountain Dispersed
Basalt Mountain Road
Multiple sites up here for camping. Trailer/RV friendly.
Courtney D.Scout
Bruno Gulch Dispersed
Loved it!
Not super busy! Lots of open spaces when we arrived around 6pm.
Conner
GuideBoreas Pass Roadside Campsites
<15 min from town, great views, amazing fall colors
I came in October when the aspens and birch still had some leaves .
- ConnerGuide
Breckenridge Overlook
Sleep in car only - park on the edge of a cliff with breathtaking views
Just one mile further up the road or so you will reach Destinated camp sites which I prefer.
Although I saw 5 camp cars parked on the side of the road (this is a Monday night) facing the cliff that night and like 2 the next morning when I left for work. I was jealous a little bit of their views
Adam D.Scout
Bellyache Road
Super rutted out, but unbelievable views
Definitely would advise 4x4, and not for travel trailers at all. Bringing one up could lead to a serious situation , since there are no places to turn around whatsoever. That said, views were absolutely breathtaking. We also lucked out and saw the northern lights while at site.
Dwight R.Traveler
Twin Lakes Dispersed
Late Sept Fall colors
We had a blast with this spot, arrived late at night and woke up inside an aspen grove. There is a lot of hiking trails and some cool spots to visit down by the lakes.
jsbeezgGuide
FR 48 Dispersed Camping
Road is CLOSED!
The road has been closed and there is no longer access to this camp area.
- ttommy S.Scout
Spruce Creek/Crystal Creek Designated Dispersed Camping
Autumnal leaf-peeping and star-gazing
Site 4 featured 3 well established campfire rings, one with a lean-to. The three spots are separated enough to enjoy with seclusion, also had plenty of parking. There are a number of easily accessible trails nearby. Surrounded by pines there weren't a lot of Aspens turning for the season visible from camp, but the hikes in the area led to some beautiful vistas and meadows that afforded opportunities to see seas of leaves turning. This site required AWD and good clearance to get to, but well worth it and offered a good out of the way camping experience and great star gazing opportunity as there was a new moon when we went, so saw plenty of shooting stars and the milky way!
- JJordyn B.Scout
Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping
Overall nice spots
We stayed one Saturday on Hoosier and we were able to find a spot. Not super private and lots of off leash dogs but beautiful walking trails!
- hhercules N.Scout
Red Sandstone - Primitive Dispersed
Beautiful, but a little busy
Went out late on a Friday night. My timing was wrong to get a good spot, but I was hoping there would be at least one spot left, unfortunately all the established sites I could reach were taken! I couldn't get more than a few miles up the road, the first few were manageable in my Impreza but having a higher clearance vehicle is definitely ideal. I was able to find a spot to pitch my tent for the night, but it was far from level or smooth. Still, incredible views of the stars and absolutely gorgeous to see the Aspen leaves changing!
Leah S.TravelerBoreas Pass Roadside Campsites
Beautiful & Easy
We stayed on site 21, arrived around 5pm on a Thursday night and it was amazing! We were shocked the site was still available, a couple other sites also had great views but 21 was definitely impressive. We read the previous reviews which made it easy for us to find. Sunset was beautiful, it was quiet and peaceful, and the moon lit up the entire area. Each site had a stoned fire pit and there are marked site numbers. The road up was busy with people leaf peeping so drive carefully, as of Sept 19th aspens were bright yellow and leaves were changing beautifully.
Pete K.Guide
Ute Pass Dispersed Camping
Easy and secluded
We came here after failing to find a dispersed location closer to Silverthorne. It turned out to be a hidden gem with lots of secluded sites. Plus the drive in/out is super easy (apart from the final road to the campsite; that requires a 4WD vehicle, without question) - it was more-or-less the same drive time as original choice. Just without the hassle of navigating a busy one-way dirt road.
- Stacy T.Scout
Boreas Pass Roadside Campsites
Easy to get to, beautiful scenery
Easy to get to from metro Denver and it's super close to Silverthorne. Dispersed camping sites are still somewhat close together. We could definitely hear other campers around us talking and such. The road to get up was easy (we stayed in #9 - not sure about the ones farther up the road). I had to come in later as I had a work appointment, so I drove up in my Jetta to meet up with my husband. If my little Jetta can make it, almost any car can! Timing wise, we were up Sept 21 & 22 (2024) and the fall colors were GORGEOUS.
- LLydiaScout
Forest Road 130
Beautiful open campsites
We loved this campsite — still open in late September and already had a fire ring waiting for us. There were lots of dispersed spots right off the road and it was quiet and peaceful!
Tyler S.GuideSpruce Creek/Crystal Creek Designated Dispersed Camping
Spruce Creek Camping
Great campsite overall! You park and then walk to your site which is set back and surrounded by gorgeous trees. Lots of flat ground. It did get very chilly here, so beware! Also, lots of moisture in the air. The fire pit was fantastic!!
Kaydi R.TravelerBoreas Pass Roadside Campsites
Tent Camping
This campsite was gorgeous and fairly easy to get to. We drove a 2WD SUV with average clearance up and as long as you go slow and avoid the divots you’ll be fine. We got our campsite on a Friday morning, most/all campsites were gone by Saturday so it’s definitely a good idea to get there early. Our campsite was a short walk down the hill from the road and it did a good job and keeping our site private.
- KKanani C.Scout
FourMile Dispersed Camping
Tiny But Convenient
This dispersed camping area was extremely small but a convenient place to camp the night before summiting Sherman. It was a bit tricky to find/decipher what was dispersed and what was the intentional campground. Honestly not even sure if the place I found was the actual dispersed area. By other reviews left, it felt right to me. My friend and I car camped here, we had a quiet night. The neighbors were all very quiet and respectful of quiet hours and personal space. The vault toilet was extremely clean with no odor. I enjoyed the washboard road! During our time there were advisories for bear activity in the area.
Brittany R.Guide
McCullough Gulch Designated Dispersed Camping
Great campground!
My partner and I hiked the McCullough Gulch Waterfall trail and camped at this campground. Couldn’t have been a better location for the hike! No problem getting a site and the roads were fine to get to with our non-4wd rental car. There were a few sites (I’m assuming the ones with the valley view that we couldn’t access in our car though). Highly recommend overall though!
- EErich M.Scout
Four Mile Road Dispersed
Where are all the great sites???
Went here on a Saturday in Sept after reading all the great reviews. Drove for miles and every site taken. There aren't many sites like people would make you think. Have these people been to the San Jaun Mountains - so much better. Had to drive home because just nothing available.
Amy K.Guide
Deep Creek Trailhead Camp
Quiet spot
Pretty good spot with ok views. Used starlink with no issues. Driver further up the road and found a good spot on the side of the road with a fire pit.
JoshScout
Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 1 West
Party town
Too much partying and loud music until midnight-1am.... Campsites are nice though.
- LLorene N.Guide
Forest Road 130
Labor Day Weekend
We found huge spots spread far enough apart that you can’t see or hear neighbors on Labor Day weekend. Tried spots by Twin Lakes first but SO crowded. Close to Twin Lakes and Leadville. Bring your huge RVs cause this is the place for that.
Jeff A.TravelerMcCullough Gulch Designated Dispersed Camping
Nice spot between Alma and Blue River
As the other reviews describe, it’s a groomed dirt road entrance near the parking lot for the Mount Quandary trail. Most sites would be tricky with a trailer because of the lack of turn around space (sites 6 & 7 would work for this).
We took the road to its end, which is where you’ll find spots 9 & 10. These spots share a small parking area and turn around. The road to sites 8-10 gets tricky in a few spaces but we were able to make it up and down with an AWD SUV. Great views!
- DDevin G.Traveler
Kirby Gulch
People and bugs are the same problem
There was about 36 spots on a Friday morning (@1000am), was lucky to grab a spot that had a pull through and the spot was beautiful. We were lucky enough to find some leftover firewood when we got here and we were close enough to the river. The two major problems are the flys that will not leave the dogs alone and the constant cars that come through since the camping spots are so close to the road. Lots of campsites had spots saved 👎🏻 (if your friends wanna come up, tell them to get there on time 😒) other than that, great site, close access to shelf lake trail, which was beautiful and absolutely worth it.
- bbrandon W.Guide
Forest Road 130
Nice stay close to Mt. Elbert
This was a great stay which was close to Mt. Elbert. Many sites available as I came late around 9pm. Close to the town as well. I got there via the old trusty Honda Accord and pitched a tent.
Guide to Edwards
Camping near Edwards, Colorado, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.
What to do
- Hiking and Biking: Explore the beautiful trails around the area. One camper mentioned, "The fam stayed here for 3 nights and we had a nice experience. It was our home base while we took advantage of nearby hiking, biking, and other activities" at Prospector Campground.
- Water Activities: Enjoy swimming or paddleboarding at nearby lakes. A review from Arapaho Bay Campground highlights, "I day-camped for $5—multiple points to picnic with tables with loads of shade to SUP on lovely Lake Granby."
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One visitor at Difficult Campground shared, "Moose regularly passed through, but all five minutes from Aspen."
What campers like
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking scenery. A review for Turtle Rock Campground states, "This place is fantastic. I don't think I've been anywhere that is this nice for free before."
- Privacy: Many campgrounds offer a sense of seclusion. One camper at Lincoln Creek Dispersed Campground noted, "The spots are far apart and have fire pits and bear boxes."
- Well-Maintained Facilities: Clean facilities are a big plus. A visitor at Rifle Gap State Park Campground mentioned, "The showers and toilets were clean. 10/10 recommend and will be coming back!"
What you should know
- Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, like Prospector Campground, do not have electric hookups or showers. A reviewer pointed out, "The campground has standard hole in the ground toilets/out houses, but it was obvious they were well maintained and clean."
- Cash Payments: Be prepared to pay in cash at some sites. A camper at Rifle Gap State Park Campground mentioned, "All has to be paid in cash, including site fee."
- Busy Seasons: Campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. One camper at Arapaho Bay Campground said, "The whole campground was full by the time we got there at 8pm on Friday."
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with activities for kids. A review for Rifle Gap State Park Campground states, "This campground is great for a family site. Has a lake to swim/boat in as well as plenty of hiking trails around."
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand makes for happy campers. One visitor at Heaton Bay Campground mentioned, "Close to stores and restaurants in case you need anything."
- Plan for Activities: Bring games or outdoor toys. A camper at Peak One Campground noted, "Our site was also a short walk down to Lake Dillon which was perfect for the kids and dogs to splash around in."
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Peak One Campground mentions, "We had no trouble fitting our 29' Class C, tow dolly, and towed vehicle in the site."
- Look for Electric Hookups: If you need power, check for campgrounds that offer it. A camper at Rifle Gap State Park Campground appreciated, "Hot showers flush toilets. Site had electric."
- Be Mindful of Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A visitor at Lincoln Creek Dispersed Campground noted, "The road is a little rocky, but I didn’t have any trouble in my Promaster without 4WD."
Camping near Edwards, Colorado, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're in a tent or an RV. With beautiful scenery and plenty of activities, it's a perfect spot for your next adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Edwards, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Edwards, CO is Red Sandstone - Primitive Dispersed with a 4.4-star rating from 11 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Edwards, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 107 dispersed camping locations near Edwards, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.