Dispersed camping near Firestone, Colorado provides free primitive sites primarily within Roosevelt National Forest at elevations ranging from 8,800 to 11,000 feet. The area receives over 300 days of sunshine annually, with summer temperatures typically reaching 80-90°F during daytime and dropping to 40-50°F at night. The region experiences frequent afternoon thunderstorms during July and August, with lightning strikes posing significant wildfire risks throughout summer months.
What to do
Mountain biking on local trails: West Magnolia Campground offers direct access to several mountain biking trails of varying difficulty. "Great spot for mountain biking, hiking, and camping," notes one visitor to West Magnolia Campground.
Fishing in nearby waters: While Beaver Park Reservoir itself has access restrictions, the area offers fishing opportunities. "Decent trout fishing and great kayaking," reports a camper at Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed. Take proper fishing gear and check local regulations.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The camping areas support diverse wildlife including moose, bears, foxes, and various small mammals. "Long dirt road, with many spots to pick from along it. Road was bumpy but most cars could manage. Lots of wildlife; squirrels, rabbits, and a moose that walked right by our campsite," shares a visitor at Beaver Park Reservoir.
Stream hiking and exploration: Several sites feature small streams that can be followed. "We camped a very short walk from the parking lot. Amazing camp site with not many people around," states a visitor to Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping.
What campers like
Proximity to Boulder and Denver: Many dispersed sites offer quick escapes from urban areas. A reviewer at Gold Lake Area Dispersed shares, "Nice spot right outside of boulder, easy to navigate to. No access to the lake which sucks but other than that 10/10."
Privacy between sites: Certain locations offer secluded camping despite popularity. "Very quiet. Minimal traffic. Good open spots for up to medium sized rigs. Great views," notes a camper at Gold Lake Area Dispersed.
Water features: Creek-side camping provides ambient sound and scenery. "Spacious site with a fire ring. Easy time finding, just follow all the arrows when there is a fork in the road," says a visitor to Allenspark Dispersed Camping.
Natural beauty without crowds: Weekday camping often provides solitude. "It is populated with people on ATVs, as well as other campers near you if you decide on an easy-to-access campsite," mentions a reviewer about Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, suggesting weekday visits for fewer people.
What you should know
High clearance vehicle requirements: Roads deteriorate quickly during and after precipitation. "My 2wd van made it up a little but I couldn't get passed one of the big hills. Not very many sites," warns a camper at Hell Canyon Dispersed.
Fire restrictions: Check current regulations as restrictions frequently apply. "Signs were posted about no fires," notes a visitor at Hell Canyon Dispersed. Contact Roosevelt National Forest or check online for current status.
Private property boundaries: Several dispersed camping areas border private land with strict enforcement. "The owners of the lake have cameras on all sides but there was one section left open for shores access but no swimming, fishing, or use of the lake itself," reports a camper at Gold Lake Area Dispersed.
Cell service limitations: Most sites have minimal connectivity. "No Verizon service majority of the time using ATT or Verizon," indicates a reviewer at Gold Lake Area Dispersed. Download offline maps before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Consider weather extremes: Mountain weather changes rapidly, requiring proper preparation. "It was windy and snowing in February but overall a very good time! The snow was pretty deep in and especially behind the campsite, probably 3 feet at some places from accumulation," shares a camper at Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping.
Bring wildlife safety supplies: Bear encounters are possible in most areas. "We had a fox visit our site!" mentions a visitor at Gold Lake Area Dispersed. Always store food securely and carry bear spray.
Plan for noise sources: Some areas experience traffic from recreational vehicles or aircraft. "During daytime there's a lot of people passing with their motorcycles and buggies, which was a little bit noisy," reports a camper at Allenspark Dispersed Camping.
Choose sites for easy access: Some locations offer short hikes to camping areas. "A short hike downhill to many dispersed campsites along the creek. Beautiful and easy! A must-see," recommends a visitor to Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping.
Tips from RVers
Scout ahead for access: Many roads become progressively more difficult. "Sites themselves have obstructed view because of the little levy wall for the lake, but if you walk over to the lake the view is amazing," advises a camper at Beaver Park Reservoir.
Find appropriate RV spots: Certain areas accommodate small to medium RVs. "Beautiful lake with several good sized RV spots. We have a 25 foot camper and feet nicely in. Road in was good as well," mentions an RVer at Beaver Park Reservoir.
Pre-plan turnaround points: Narrow forest roads can create challenges for larger vehicles. "Be forewarned, the private land area at the end of the road does not have any turn around space," cautions a visitor at Gold Lake Area Dispersed.
Consider weekday arrivals: Weekend crowds limit available spaces. "By 7pm, people were turning around as no spots were left," notes a reviewer about Gold Lake Area Dispersed, indicating Thursday arrivals provide better options for RVers.
