Best Dispersed Camping near Gateway, CO

Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Gateway, Colorado, with several free primitive sites scattered throughout the surrounding public lands. Buffalo Creek Recreation Area, Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping, and Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite offer no-fee camping options with varying levels of accessibility. These sites feature established fire rings but minimal amenities. According to reviews of similar Colorado dispersed sites, "campsites are well-spaced, providing plenty of privacy, and the area is generally clean, thanks to considerate campers."

Road conditions to these dispersed sites vary significantly by season and recent weather. High-clearance 4WD vehicles are strongly recommended, particularly after rain or snow. Many access roads become rutted, washed out, or impassable for standard passenger vehicles. Several campers noted that "the road to get in is very rutted" and that "you need to take it very slow" when approaching these sites. The most accessible spots fill quickly on summer weekends, so midweek arrival is advised.

No drinking water, trash facilities, or toilets are available at these primitive sites. Campers must pack in all necessary water and pack out all waste. Cell service is extremely limited or nonexistent. Fire regulations change frequently based on conditions; always check current fire restrictions with the local ranger district before your trip. Nights can be cold even in summer due to the elevation, with temperatures often dropping below 40°F. Prepare for significant temperature swings between day and night. Practice strict Leave No Trace principles, as these areas depend on responsible use to remain open for dispersed camping.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Gateway, Colorado (86)

    1. Buffalo Creek Recreation Area

    28 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    24 miles

    "So busy that we had to go in the middle of the week to get a spot, so plan ahead here and expect crowds. That being said, each spot is unique and we loved it."

    "We stayed here a couple weekends in a row and we were able to try out some different spots and trails close to those spots. This free campground is perfect! "

    2. Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping

    35 Reviews
    Monument, CO
    34 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. Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite

    5 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    24 miles

    "Over 30 dispersed campsites along a moderately smooth dirt road. Sites are spaced well apart, some sites are covered in trees while others are wide open."

    "There are 30+ designated, numbered, dispersed campsites on this road."

    4. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    51 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."

    5. Bailey Area Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    27 miles

    "The first 3 are out in the open and then the remaining 5 are past the trailhead. Nice area for Starlink and solar and dog walks. It’s a burn site."

    "I had to slow down to a crawl at points because it was thrashing my rig around so much. There is also one turn on the road where if you’re not careful, I could imagine getting stuck."

    6. West Magnolia Campground

    26 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    42 miles
    Website

    "Oe of my family's fav places, beautiful views, camping spots super far away from one another so awesome privacy, and completely free. Spots fill up quick on weekends, you can stay 14 days."

    "The roads around the whole campground were a little rough but i did okay in my Ford Escape. All of the sites seems to be really spread out.

    There were several people in the campground."

    7. Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park

    21 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    41 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"

    8. Rainbow Falls - Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Woodland Park, CO
    31 miles
    Website

    "Lots of shade in the morning at our spot. We were by a dirt road and did have a few vehicles drive by but not bad. There is bear scat, not old and not new, in the area but no wildlife was seen."

    "Terrain was interesting on the drive in, some of the pull off camping spots are pretty steep off the road. However, the sights were beautiful and it was very quiet and peaceful when we visited :)"

    9. Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping

    21 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    41 miles
    Website

    "Was desperate to find "something" after driving 11 hours that day, and normal paid camp grounds were full. HOWEVER I was pulling a smaller trailer, and that turned out to be a real issue."

    "Safe for car camping. Make sure you follow the stay on road signs."

    10. Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping

    17 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    41 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."

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Showing results 1-10 of 86 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Gateway, CO

525 Reviews of 86 Gateway Campgrounds



Guide to Gateway

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Gateway, Colorado, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of activities, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience breathtaking mountain vistas at Buffalo Creek Recreation Area, where well-maintained dirt roads lead to numerous dispersed sites nestled among the trees.
  • Enjoy the serene atmosphere at Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite, which features designated spots surrounded by impressive rock formations, ideal for a peaceful getaway.
  • Capture stunning sunsets and sunrises at Bailey Area Dispersed, where the elevated terrain offers panoramic views that are perfect for photography.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Gateway

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Gateway, Colorado

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Gateway, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Gateway, CO is Buffalo Creek Recreation Area with a 4.5-star rating from 28 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Gateway, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 86 dispersed camping locations near Gateway, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.