Dispersed camping locations near Franktown, Colorado offer primitive camping experiences at elevations between 6,000-10,000 feet with variable weather patterns. Temperature swings can be significant in this region, with summer highs averaging 75-85°F and nighttime lows dropping to 40-50°F even in summer months. Sites typically feature pine and aspen forest cover with granite rock formations throughout the landscape.
What to do
Fish the South Platte River: Anglers can access premier fly fishing spots at Platte River Campground where sites are positioned for easy river access. "Great access to world class fly fishing so you can get started early in the morning. Expect the campground to be crowded! Very little privacy or trees," notes Steph A.
Explore rock formations: The weathered granite formations at Matukat Road Dispersed Camping provide natural climbing opportunities for all skill levels. "Had some nice rocks to explore and well built fire rings. Do not forget bug repellent! Intermittent AT&T service," reports Dee Z.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer the best wildlife sightings at lower-traffic camping areas. "We woke up one morning at our tent site with deer walking and eating down the creek right next to us," shares Tessa S. about her experience at Lone Duck Campground.
What campers like
Higher elevation camping: At Rampart Range Area Dispersed Campsite, campers appreciate the cooler temperatures and panoramic views. "There aren't many sites and everyone was taken except the turn around at the end of the road... it has an amazing view of Pick's Peak!" notes Bernie D.
Secluded forest sites: For the best tent camping near Franktown, Colorado, many prefer the more isolated sites. "Secluded camping with 360 views... Depending on which site you pick, you can get amazing views of Pikes Peak. The higher up you go, the more confident of a driver you will want to be," explains a camper at Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide.
River sounds: Many tent campers value sites near water for the ambient noise. "The river is right there for fishing and playing. If you like to fly fish it's a good spot to walk down to a quite area," mentions Amy F. about Osprey Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access to many of the best tent camping sites requires careful driving. "The roads coming in can be scary if you aren't used to driving on mountain roads. They're narrow, with mostly no guard rails, sharp corners and dirt roads. Take it slow," cautions Stacy O. from Osprey Campground.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites have no amenities. "No leveled tent sites- generally flat land...Cell service- none (t-mobile), Firewood- none, Camp host- none, Water - non, Toilets- port a potty, Fire ring- yes," explains CC C. about their experience.
Weather unpredictability: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "Denver's weather will not tell you what the weather here will be and most forecasts are inaccurate. It will be at least 20 degrees colder at night than Denver most likely so keep that in mind," advises a camper at Dutch Fred Trailhead #679.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites: Families with young children often prefer campgrounds with basic facilities. "All of the amenities. Pool, laundry room, gift shop/Grocery. Arcade, pond, clean bathrooms. Best place every. And surrounded by mountains!" recommends Cody K. about Lone Duck Campground.
Pack for temperature swings: Even summer camping requires warm clothing for children. "It gets a bit windy and definitely colder but a great site to spend some time at," notes Seanna M. about camping at Mt. Herman Road.
Plan for nearby water access: Hot summer days are more manageable with water access. "Right on the South Platte River where you can walk straight out your tent and into the streams. Very well supervised, clean bathrooms, trash dumps," reports a camper.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions on forest roads: Many dispersed camping areas have limited access for larger RVs. "The road up is rough but totally doable with pickup truck with slide in camper. This campsite was nice and level," shares Tim S. about his experience at Mt. Herman Road Dispersed Site 2.
Limited hookup options: Most sites near Franktown lack RV amenities. "Sites are super close together. The 'mountain stream' buts up against an apartment complex and the highway noise is awful," warns Lynnae C. about one of the rare sites with hookups.
Designated parking areas: Many sites require separate parking away from tent areas. "Can car/van/roof top tent camp in the parking lot, for the same nightly fee as listed on the notice board. However, no trailers," explains a visitor to the area.
