Dispersed camping near Fountain, Colorado provides access to multiple mountainous terrain options at elevations ranging from 5,500 to 9,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common from July through August. Roads to many sites deteriorate significantly after rain or snow, requiring vehicles with higher clearance for safe access.
What to do
Fishing access: Gold Camp Road sites offer creek fishing opportunities throughout spring and summer. "I've stayed at some great campsites but I think this one has them beat. HUGE site right next to a creek," notes a camper at Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed.
Mountain biking: Trails near Rampart Range connect to extensive networks. "There are so many places to camp on rampart range rd that you do not have to camp in the sites right off the main road," explains a visitor to Rampart Range Area Dispersed Campsite. "Head down one of the many connecting service roads for better options and some peace and quiet."
Rock climbing: Several sites feature climbing walls for various skill levels. "Sweet spots along the creek side. Dispersed area that is very spread out so you are not near others. Also has access to climbing walls right by sites," reports a camper at Phantom Canyon.
What campers like
Creek sounds: Waterside sites provide natural white noise that masks other camping sounds. "The spot was gorgeous and the sound of the creek completely drowned out any noises or people," writes a visitor about their experience at Gold Camp Road.
Dark skies: Higher elevation sites away from city lights offer superior stargazing. "Very quiet, fairly secluded. Dark skies, direct access to creek. Multiple dispersed loops off this road," notes a camper at Phantom Canyon.
Privacy options: Many areas offer secluded spots away from main roads. "Endless sites. Every FS road off from Rampart seems to go on forever. We spent 2 hours on one of them and found so many amazing sites!" reports a visitor to Rampart Range Area Dispersed Campsite.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain. "The road in is gravel and pretty choppy, but the weather was good and my car made it fine but I was going like 5 mph. If the weather wasn't good you would probably need 4x4," warns a camper at Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping.
Trash issues: Some popular sites suffer from litter problems, particularly on weekends. "We arrived and notice the trash not the beauty of the mountain. We cleaned up as much as we could in our camp spot so please, do your part and leave the beautiful place better than you found it," advises a visitor to Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park.
Seasonal access: Winter conditions can close higher elevation roads from November through April. "We went there in May 3rd week and I loved it despite 'bad weather'. Our city car got stuck in the snow and we had to shovel our way out," reports a camper at Rampart Reservoir Dispersed.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly sites: Penrose BLM areas offer easier access for first-time dispersed campers. "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," explains a visitor to Penrose BLM sites.
Wildlife viewing: Morning hours increase chances of deer and small mammal sightings. "Saw fish in stream a couple of deer and tons of chipmunks. Saw a little trash here and there. Please be respectful and pack in and PACK OUT!" advises a camper at Gold Camp Road.
Weekend planning: Arrive Thursday or early Friday to secure family-friendly spots. "Ended up a parking lot by the end of the night. Too busy with inconsiderate neighbors. Beautiful views though. I think it's luck of the draw depending what night you go," notes a visitor to Rampart Range Road.
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller trailers under 20 feet. "This site is right at the intersection of Gold Camp Road and FR376. 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," reports a visitor to clyde dispersed camping.
Leveling challenges: Bring extra leveling blocks as sites rarely offer flat parking. "Such a beautiful place makes it up for the narrow/bumpy 8 miles road to get there. The creek sound off the noise of the busy road since I camped close to the road with my 21'TT. It wasn't level enough so I don't think I will be back," shares a camper at Gold Camp Road.
Turn-around options: Scout potential sites without your trailer first when possible. "I recently purchased a 26ft sustainable travel trailer and decided to take it out for the first time. Well the road up is very tight. Very skinny switchbacks. About half way up looking for a way to turn around," cautions a visitor to Mount Herman Road.
