Best Dispersed Camping near Fort Collins, CO

Several dispersed camping areas surround Fort Collins, where campers can find free sites on public lands without developed facilities. You'll find good spots in the Poudre Canyon about 30 minutes west of town, with pull-offs along dirt roads that lead to established fire rings. The drive from Fort Collins toward Wyoming passes through Roosevelt National Forest, which has multiple dirt roads with dispersed sites marked by previously-used clearings. Most sites sit at higher elevations, making them cooler options during hot summer months. These areas have no bathrooms, trash service, or water sources, so you'll need to bring everything and haul it all back out. Many roads become difficult or impassable after rain, especially in spring when snowmelt creates muddy conditions. Most dispersed areas around Fort Collins enforce the standard 14-day stay limit. Cell service drops quickly once you leave the main highways. Fire bans frequently affect this region during dry periods, so bring a camp stove for cooking. The closest grocery stores and gas stations are in Fort Collins itself, though smaller supplies can be found in communities like Laporte and Bellvue.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Fort Collins, Colorado (80)

    1. Hell Canyon Dispersed

    29 Reviews
    Pinewood Springs, CO
    24 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."

    "Turn just before or after Yogi Bear Campground and go up the decently maintained dirt road. (You will pass RVs at the beginning of the road as you head up)."

    3. Allenspark Dispersed Camping

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

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

    "Was super simple to access. the coordinates take   you to the beginning of the rural part of Ski road."

    4. Pingree Road Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Red Feather Lakes, CO
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "-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."

    5. Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot

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

    "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."

    "Keep driving down Ski road until you find a fork in the road, and from there onwards are the campsites. Good whitenoise from the creek"

    6. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    54 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    44 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."

    7. Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed

    33 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    38 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."

    8. Lost Lake Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Red Feather Lakes, CO
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "If you’re going to camp & especially go to dispersed camping areas, make sure to leave no trace and pack in, pack out people!!!"

    "The road to lost lake requires high clearance. It is located 30 min away from Red Feather Lakes. There are a lot of dispersed camp sites."

    9. Forest Service Road 700 Designated Dispersed Camping

    37 Reviews
    Buford, WY
    44 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 745-2300

    "Only a little over an hour from Fort Collins Colorado and boy were we impressed with this place. Beautiful hills and rocks for good wind blockage and plenty of trees for great cozy scenery."

    "Just past the campground is dispersed primitive camping 🏕️. All sites are well established. There was a 🔥 ban so no campfires. Good hiking and rock climbing"

    10. Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest Dispersed Camping

    13 Reviews
    Red Feather Lakes, CO
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "Great spot with lots ofspace, beautiful views and only a little over an hour west from Fort Collins"

    "As long as you steer clear from the private property you'll find a site. Some roads will turn sour and require high clearance."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Fort Collins, CO

469 Reviews of 80 Fort Collins Campgrounds



Guide to Fort Collins

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Fort Collins, Colorado, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, campers can enjoy the great outdoors while embracing the freedom of primitive camping.

Dispersed campers should check out Hell Canyon Dispersed

  • Located in the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, Hell Canyon Dispersed offers ample space for camping with a few different spots to choose from, making it a great option for those seeking solitude.
  • Campers can enjoy a campfire under the stars, as fires are allowed, but be mindful of local regulations to avoid any issues with rangers.
  • The area is known for its good Verizon coverage, making it a convenient choice for those who want to stay connected while enjoying the wilderness.

Scenic views while free camping near Fort Collins

  • For breathtaking views, Comanche Peak View Campground provides a picturesque setting with large fields and rock formations, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
  • This spot is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle, as it tends to be quieter, especially on weekends.
  • With plenty of firewood available for gathering, campers can enjoy cozy evenings by the fire while soaking in the stunning surroundings.

Top activities while dispersed camping in Poudre Canyon

  • Poudre Canyon Road Camp is a great base for outdoor activities, including hiking and fishing, with easy access to the river.
  • The area is popular for its scenic drives and offers a variety of camping spots, making it a favorite among those who enjoy exploring the outdoors.
  • Campers should be prepared for some road noise, but the overall experience is enhanced by the natural beauty and wildlife in the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I find dispersed camping near Horsetooth Reservoir?

Dispersed camping directly at Horsetooth Reservoir is not permitted as it's a managed recreation area with designated campgrounds only. However, nearby options exist in the surrounding national forest lands. Pingree Road Dispersed Camping is relatively close and offers free sites with some areas that can accommodate larger vehicles. Pole Hill Rd Dispersed is another option in the general vicinity, though access requires careful navigation and high-clearance vehicles. When seeking dispersed camping near Horsetooth, be extremely careful about land ownership boundaries, as much of the immediate surrounding area consists of private property where camping is prohibited. Always check current Forest Service maps or use apps like The Dyrt to confirm you're camping legally on public land.

Is there free dispersed camping in Poudre Canyon near Fort Collins?

Yes, free dispersed camping is available in Poudre Canyon. Chambers Lake Dispersed Camping offers excellent sites accessible from Highway 14. Once you turn onto the dirt road from Route 14, you'll find a well-maintained route suitable for 2WD vehicles with sites on both sides accommodating everything from car camping to RVs with trailers. Another option is Canyon Lakes Ranger District Dispersed Camping, which oversees numerous free sites throughout the Poudre Canyon area. Remember that dispersed camping in this region typically follows Forest Service regulations: camp at least 100 feet from water sources, practice Leave No Trace principles, and be aware that most areas limit stays to 14 days within a 30-day period.

Where can I find dispersed camping near Fort Collins?

Several dispersed camping options exist within an hour of Fort Collins. Deadman Road - Dispersed Site is about an hour from town with plenty of spots and amazing sunsets and stargazing opportunities. For those willing to venture slightly further, Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest Dispersed Camping offers beautiful views and ample space. Most dispersed sites in the area require no reservations and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. For the best experience, arrive early on weekdays, bring everything you need (including water), and be prepared for variable road conditions. Many sites are accessible with standard vehicles, but high-clearance 4WD is recommended for reaching the more remote and secluded spots.