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Best Dispersed Camping near Fountain, CO

227 Reviews

Several dispersed camping areas surround Fountain, Colorado, with Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 offering numerous creekside sites. This area features established fire rings and access to Boehmer Creek, which is suitable for trout fishing. The road can be rutted and narrow in places, making it challenging for larger vehicles. As one camper noted, "The road was pretty bumpy, windy and very narrow in some areas but nothing too crazy."

Penrose BLM sites provide more accessible options with spacious sites and mountain views. These areas typically allow 14-day stays and include basic vault toilets at entrance points but no other amenities. Rampart Range Road and Mount Herman Road also offer free dispersed camping opportunities with varying road conditions. Most sites are tent-friendly, though some accommodate smaller RVs. A recent review mentioned, "We got our 19 foot travel trailer into a spot with icy conditions, but the road does get quite a bit rougher if you keep going in." All areas require pack-in, pack-out practices as trash service is not provided. Cell reception varies widely, with better connectivity at higher-elevation sites.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Fountain, Colorado (43)

    1. Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed

    15 Reviews
    Victor, CO
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "Amazing location right next to Boehmer Creek. There are 5 or 6 sites mainly for tents. You might be able ti get an rv in there but low hanging trees and narrow rutted trails would be a problem."

    "Make sure to bring your bug spray. Nice fire pit and gorgeous views. Saw fish in stream a couple of deer and tons of chipmunks. Saw a little trash here and there."

    2. Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping

    35 Reviews
    Monument, CO
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    "If you enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies, drive in dispersed camping and putting your off-roading skills to the test, this dispersed campsite is a must visit!"

    "It took us about 15 minutes driving past the coordinates (trailhead) to start seeing campsites. There was nobody around, and we picked a very spacious one with a great view."

    3. Penrose Common Rec Site

    11 Reviews
    Penrose, CO
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 269-8500

    "Road in is rough, but manageable with a high clearance vehicle. Plenty of space to spread out. Popular with those ATV things. Pit toilet, no trash."

    "There’s lots of trails in the area (OHV) but other than that, not much else to do. There is a clean vault toilet at the entrance, no trash services. Plenty of spots as you keep driving up the hill."

    4. Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park

    21 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    29 miles

    "A Long rocky and dirt road lays ahead of these dispersed camping areas. This park has set up campgrounds, but we chose to drive off road a bit and set up camp on the edge of a rocky overlook."

    "Had to walk a bit but thats ok. Great veiws no one around. Sadly no campfires, so early to bed. Very close to great trialheads"

    5. Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping

    19 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    "Rampart Range Road is the main dirt road that has plenty of smaller trails branching off of it to keep you busy exploring all summer."

    "Tucked back in National Forest land."

    6. Rampart Range Area Dispersed Campsite

    12 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "We were going from direction Divide town using provided coordinates. All went fine until we ended up in a dead end road with private residence."

    "Rough road getting there though"

    7. clyde dispersed camping

    4 Reviews
    Victor, CO
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 269-8500

    "It sits in the meadow right next to the creek. There are two sites one of which is definitely big enough for a decent size rig."

    "The coordinates provided get you onto Gold Camp Road but you have to drive way further. There is a super cool tunnel which means you are close. There is a lack of fire wood around some spots."

    8. Phantom Canyon

    5 Reviews
    Penrose, CO
    24 miles

    "I’m a rooftop tent camper and the views are amazing but was hoping to be close to the water and isolated from other campers."

    "Dispersed area that is very spread out so you are not near others. Also has access to climbing walls right by sites."

    9. Penrose BLM sites

    3 Reviews
    Penrose, CO
    23 miles

    "These are blm campsites. There are pit toilets right when you cross into blm land and a sign that explains that you have to camp in designated areas. Like most blm locations there is a 14 day max."

    "I was the only one around camping when I was there. Super peaceful! The reservoir is 10 minutes away too which is great for fishing and paddle boarding."

    10. Rampart Reservoir Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    28 miles
    Website

    "There are three dispersed camping areas on this road. It is close to the rampart reservoir, which is very nice."

    "Great dispersed camping here and relatively unknown, I was here for 3 days and didn’t see a single person."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Fountain, CO

177 Photos of 43 Fountain Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Fountain, CO

227 Reviews of 43 Fountain Campgrounds

  • Doug C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 10, 2022

    Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping

    Choose Your Own Adventure From Rampart Range Road

    Rampart Range Road is the main dirt road that has plenty of smaller trails branching off of it to keep you busy exploring all summer. Rampart Range Road is accessible by 2wd vehicles while some of the smaller trails that branch off of Rampart Range Rd do better with a 4wd with high clearance. The southern portion of the road (south of Devils Head Trail) is open year around while the northern half of the road is closed seasonally during winter. Easily accessible outside of Woodland Park on the south end of the road and west through Sedalia. Lots of dispersed camping sites along the road, some are very large and could easily accommodate a large RV or large groups. Other campsites are tucked away off the road a little which is great because this road can be very busy & dusty in the summer. All in all, this place makes for a fun and easy weekend getaway as long as some ohv traffic doesn’t bother you too much. The best part of Rampart Range Road is the several forest service roads that branch off with dispersed camping. These smaller trails and dispersed camping make for a much more relaxing and peaceful weekend, I highly recommend if you have a 4x4. Find the right forest service road and you’ll feel like you are a million miles from it all.

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2023

    Tarryall Creek- Dispersed Camping

    Good but not great

    Tarryall creek dispersed camping. The road in is a bit bumpy. I would not trade in a low clearance vehicle. Four-wheel-drive is needed if it should get wet or slippery. Once you get onto the road, the sites are big and spacious. This is dispersed camping, so there is no water no electric and very little cell service. We have periodic two bars of Verizon. The sites are definitely big enough to accommodate big rigs. You just have to take the road really slowly on the way up. If you carry on all the way up to 10, you get to fenced areas where there is no camping so we took 293 off to the left and immediately after the Turner a couple of sites. We followed it all the way down for a long way. The road is incredibly bumpy and four-wheel-drive is absolutely necessary. Along with high clearance. I would not advise it for big rigs. The Site that we got just on the left after the turn walls reasonably wide. Big enough to get a big rig into. It’s pretty flat too but it’s also very exposed. There’s not a lot of shelter for our tent or our gazebo. The views are OK but nothing spectacular.

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2023

    Fraile’s Campground - Dispersed

    Huge sites on gnarly road

    CR 290 off Tarryall Rd. Campsites are all designated on 290 but there are numerous firepits on the side roads. The road to get up is very rutted. I recommend a high clearance vehicle. Definitely four wheel drive is required. I did see a Subaru forester up near the top. The sites are wide open once you get onto the plateau at the top. Easily could accommodate a big rig, but the issue would be getting it up the road. The views from the top are really nice. It opens out and you get some spectacular views of Pike National Forest. The sites are spacious with some pine tree coverage for tent campers. This would definitely be a possible back up spot if nothing on Matukat rd was available. Because they are dispersed there is no electrical hook ups or water. There’s no Creek running through the area. I imagine it would be really quiet and remote up here because the road to get in is going to deter a lot of people. We did find some spots with fire pits, but not sure you can camp there given there is no sign post reading designated campsite but they are off the main road so give it a try.

  • Izzy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 4, 2022

    Penrose Common Rec Site

    Delightful af

    Road in is rough, but manageable with a high clearance vehicle. Plenty of space to spread out. Popular with those ATV things. Pit toilet, no trash. Not many trees, but a great view of the surrounding area. T-mobile service was good enough to get some work and school done. Close enough to groceries and other stores. Love this spot.

  • Monte P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 23, 2020

    Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping

    A small price for freedom

    If you enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies, drive in dispersed camping and putting your off-roading skills to the test, this dispersed campsite is a must visit! My 9 yr old son and I happened upon this mountain top paradise somewhat by accident. We were looking for a less challenging day hike with low traffic and decided to try the Mt. Herman trailhead. My ever burning desire for a view and solitude lead us up Mt. Herman rd to the location I marked on the map for this listing. Access was challenging, even with our 4x4 Jeep seeing as there was pretty deep snowfall accumulation, steep grades, and hairpin switchbacks heading up. However in warmer seasons this would be easy access for most stock 4x4 vehicles. No lift necessary, just a desire for the boundless views afforded at the summit. There are multiple pull offs, relatively low traffic aside from the occasional off-roading convoy passing through spreading merriment and good cheer. There are some really cool fire ring setups and plenty of epic views to make your own. If Colorado’s what you want, here’s a great place to experience the back country without having to drive for hours to access it. We had a blast! Please ALWAYS remember, be Kind & rewind!! Wait... wrong slogan😅 LEAVE NO TRACE & PACK IT OUT! Thanks & have fun! Photos are in my phone, I’ll update with photos... sure to amaze! 😉✌🏾

  • Charles L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Phantom Canyon

    Late July camping trip

    I’m a rooftop tent camper and the views are amazing but was hoping to be close to the water and isolated from other campers. Definitely was isolated and found one spot that worked out well for rooftop camper. Like 14 miles on dirt road, on the right, 20 feet before a sign that reads “leaving public land.” Had fire ring and more than enough room. About 20 yards away from creek. Quiet. No Att cell service but don’t expect anyone can get service in that canyon.

  • Elias M.
    Jan. 23, 2025

    Penrose BLM sites

    Beautiful views of the mountains and the town

    These are blm campsites. There are pit toilets right when you cross into blm land and a sign that explains that you have to camp in designated areas. Like most blm locations there is a 14 day max.

    We got our 19 foot travel trailer into a spot with icy conditions, but the road does get quite a bit rougher if you keep going in. Great T-Mobile and Verizon service (2+ bars of 5g)

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 17, 2023

    Manchester Creek Trailhead

    Good free dispersed camping

    We use to camp here a lot when we lived in colorado springs. Near town of divide for supplies. A water station is availanle on hwy 67 in divide. The forest rd is quite rough. A high clearance vehicle is a good idea. Lots of ATVs on the weekends. So lots of atv noise and dust. Lots of places to camp. I have taken my 37' 5th wheel there. No cell service and no amenities

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2022

    Matukat Road Dispersed Camping

    Rock Formations

    AT&T between 1-3 5G in certain camp spots. Rock fire pits, wood around. No water, garbage, nor toilets. Cool temps, road in is rough go slow. Nice shady trees. First few spots you encounter left, then right seem ok. If you go back on road about 1/2 mile or so you come to a right turnoff. If you go down the road there preferably 4x4 a nice hidden secluded spot up hill. Continue down road only saw 1 more on left, not too hidden next to road. Overall a good 3-5 day stay I would say. Check out rock hiking mountains nearby. Bring water.

Guide to Fountain

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Fountain, Colorado, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of scenic spots to choose from, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Fountain, Colorado

  • When heading to Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed, be prepared for a bumpy drive; a 2WD vehicle can manage the road, but a high-clearance vehicle is recommended for the best experience.
  • Bring your own firewood, as many dispersed sites, like Penrose Common Rec Site, do not provide firewood, and collecting it from the area is not allowed.
  • Make sure to pack out all your trash, as sites like Phantom Canyon have reported litter left behind by previous campers, which can detract from the natural beauty.

Dispersed campers should check out Clyde dispersed camping

  • Located right off Gold Camp Road, clyde dispersed camping offers a serene environment next to a creek, perfect for those looking to unwind in nature.
  • This area is known for its beautiful scenery and is a great backup option if other nearby spots are full, ensuring you can still enjoy the outdoors.
  • Be mindful of bugs in the warmer months, as the proximity to water can attract them; bringing repellent is a smart move.

Enjoy fishing and hiking while free camping near Fountain

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is dispersed camping available near Fountain?

Several dispersed camping options are available within driving distance of Fountain. Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping offers numerous camping spots along the main dirt road with smaller trails branching off, accessible by 2WD vehicles. For a more scenic option, Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping provides panoramic views of the Rockies. Both areas require a free dispersed camping permit from the National Forest Service. Remember that dispersed sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early, especially on weekends, is recommended.

Is free boondocking available near Fountain?

Yes, free boondocking is available near Fountain. Penrose BLM sites offer free camping with a 14-day maximum stay on designated sites. The area has pit toilets at the entrance to BLM land, but no hookups or services. Phantom Canyon also provides free boondocking opportunities about 14 miles down a dirt road, offering isolation and beautiful views. These areas are popular among self-contained RVers and van campers. As with all boondocking locations, pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles.

What amenities or facilities are available at Fountain dispersed camping areas?

Dispersed camping areas near Fountain typically have minimal amenities. Penrose Common Rec Site offers pit toilets but no trash service. Tarryall Creek Dispersed Camping features spacious sites but no water, electric, or facilities. Most dispersed areas have established fire rings, though fire restrictions may apply seasonally. Cell service varies by location—some areas like Penrose have enough T-Mobile coverage for work and school needs. For water, the town of Divide on Hwy 67 has a water station. Remember to bring everything you need, including waste disposal solutions, as these are primitive camping experiences requiring self-sufficiency.

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