Best Dispersed Camping near Estes Park, CO

Estes Park is the gateway to Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park. Expect long entrance lines heading through Estes Park into Rocky Mountain but know that your campsites will be worth it.

Obviously, the best camping near Estes Park is in Rocky Mountain National Park. RV and tent camping spots go quickly in Rocky Mountain, especially in peak season, so get your reservations well in advance. If you can’t get a spot in one of the park’s campgrounds, you can utilize ample Forest Service land on the other side of Estes Park. If you’re looking for something a bit less trafficked, head towards Pinewood Springs, CO, and climb any of the numerous mountains on the way.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Estes Park, Colorado (119)

    1. Hell Canyon Dispersed

    29 Reviews
    Pinewood Springs, CO
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "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."

    "(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$. Sweet!"

    2. Allenspark Dispersed Camping

    28 Reviews
    Allenspark, CO
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "Only 30 minutes away from Estes Park. The only downside to it was that there was absolutely no service whatever."

    "Fire ban was in effect when we went, but lots of fire circles available otherwise. Bring bug spray, the flies are bold."

    3. Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed

    33 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    17 miles
    Website

    "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."

    4. Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot

    9 Reviews
    Pinewood Springs, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "Quick drive to Estes Park. No Verizon cell service."

    "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."

    5. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    54 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    25 miles
    Website

    "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."

    6. Forest Road 119

    7 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    4 miles

    "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."

    7. Stillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite

    18 Reviews
    Grand Lake, CO
    21 miles
    Website

    "The coordinates are a bit early on 4. Roads are easy to navigate. Continue up the road for multiple flat locations. Some of the roads were closed but 4 is open."

    "Even though this forest was impacted by the troublesome fire in 2020, this place is still very beautiful. We found a great camping spot close to a hiking/biking trail."

    8. Over the Hill Backcountry Campsite — Rocky Mountain National Park

    3 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    5 miles
    Website

    $20 - $25 / night

    "This is a secluded backcountry site about 2.2 miles from Sprague Lake TH or 1.3 miles from East Portal TH. The hike is fairly easy to follow with signs guiding along the way."

    9. Pole Hill Rd Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Drake, CO
    6 miles

    "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. "

    10. Johnny Park Road Camping

    3 Reviews
    Allenspark, CO
    10 miles

    "No water source that I know of."

    "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."

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Showing results 1-10 of 119 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Estes Park, CO

557 Reviews of 119 Estes Park Campgrounds



Guide to Estes Park

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Estes Park, Colorado, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for adventurers seeking a more rustic experience.

Enjoy Scenic Views While Free Camping Near Estes Park

  • The Gold Lake Area Dispersed offers breathtaking views and plenty of spots to set up camp, making it a favorite among those looking for a picturesque backdrop.
  • At Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed, you can enjoy the tranquility of the lake while taking in the surrounding mountain scenery, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
  • For those who appreciate a more secluded experience, the Stillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite provides ample space and stunning vistas, ideal for a peaceful getaway.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Allenspark

  • The Allenspark Dispersed Camping area features beautiful creekside spots that are perfect for families and nature lovers alike, offering a serene environment for relaxation.
  • If you're looking for a bit of adventure, the Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping provides access to hiking trails and the chance to explore the stunning valley.
  • For a unique experience, consider the Hell Canyon Dispersed area, where you can find diverse wildlife and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Estes Park, Colorado

  • Always pack out what you pack in; areas like the Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area have received feedback about litter, so maintaining cleanliness is crucial for preserving the beauty of these spots.
  • Be prepared for varying road conditions; some areas, such as Pingree Road Dispersed Camping, may require high clearance vehicles to access certain sites.
  • Check for fire restrictions before your trip, especially in areas like Stillwater Pass Grand Lake Colorado - Dispersed, where fire bans can be in effect during dry seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there free camping available around Estes Park?

Yes, free camping exists around Estes Park, though sites can fill quickly during peak seasons. Pole Hill Rd Dispersed offers free camping but requires high clearance 4WD vehicles and can be challenging to access. Hidden Wilderness Roadside Camp provides free camping with spots scattered along the road. When seeking free camping, arrive early (especially on weekends), have backup options ready, be prepared for no facilities (bring water and waste disposal bags), and follow leave-no-trace principles. Always check current regulations as they may change seasonally, and some areas implement temporary fire restrictions during dry periods.

What is boondocking like near Estes Park?

Boondocking near Estes Park means self-sufficient camping with no hookups or facilities in beautiful but challenging terrain. Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping offers scenic boondocking spots but requires navigating rough roads with high clearance vehicles. Rollins Pass Dispersed Camping provides boondocking opportunities with established fire rings, though some areas are gated seasonally. Expect variable cell coverage, no water sources (bring 1-2 gallons per person per day), and pack out all waste. Weather changes rapidly at higher elevations, so bring warm gear even in summer. Most boondocking sites follow a 14-day stay limit, and campers should maintain at least 100 feet distance from water sources.

Where can I find dispersed camping near Estes Park?

Dispersed camping opportunities can be found in Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest surrounding Estes Park. Popular spots include Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area with numbered and unnumbered sites along Forest Road 233.1, offering more secluded experiences. Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping provides accessible options with numerous spots alongside a stream. Other options include Forest Road 119, Johnny Park Road, and areas along Rollins Pass Road. Most dispersed sites require adherence to Forest Service regulations including camping at least 100 feet from water sources and using existing fire rings when allowed.

Where is BLM land for camping near Estes Park?

While Estes Park itself is primarily surrounded by National Forest and National Park land rather than BLM (Bureau of Land Management) property, dispersed camping options on public lands are available. For BLM-managed camping areas, you'll need to travel further from Estes Park toward areas west of Loveland or north toward Red Feather Lakes. Hot Sulphur Springs SWA - Joe Gerrans Unit offers dispersed camping with bear-proof dumpsters and basic facilities. When camping on any public lands, verify current regulations at local ranger stations or visitor centers, as rules change seasonally and some areas require permits.

What are the popular dispersed camping roads near Estes Park like Forest Road 119 and Pole Hill Road?

Forest Road 119 and similar dispersed camping roads near Estes Park offer rustic experiences with varying accessibility challenges. Forest Road 119 provides drive-in and walk-in access to dispersed sites. Pole Hill Road requires high clearance 4WD vehicles and smaller rigs—navigation apps often route incorrectly through private property, so approach from Estes Park instead of Lyons. Johnny Park Road Camping is more big-rig friendly than many other dispersed options. These roads typically feature primitive sites with existing fire rings but no facilities. Road conditions worsen after rain or snow, and sites fill quickly on weekends and during summer months.