Dispersed camping near Glen Haven, Colorado offers primitive sites within Roosevelt National Forest. Located at elevations between 7,000-8,000 feet, the area experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations even in summer months, often dropping below 40°F at night. Sites typically sit among lodgepole pine and aspen groves with seasonal creek access depending on snowmelt conditions.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Access the Flowers Trail from Pingree Road Dispersed Camping for day hikes with moderate elevation gain. "The Flowers Trail is a great hike nearby," notes camper Nidhi S., who appreciated the well-maintained access road that accommodated her "FWD low clearance sedan."
Wildlife viewing: Camp at Allenspark Dispersed Camping for potential wildlife encounters. Camper Ben O. reports, "The second day staying there we ran into a bear and scared him off. Two hours later he can back and we scared him off again." Bear activity is common in summer months, requiring proper food storage.
Mountain views: Drive to the rocky outcroppings near Beaver Park Reservoir for panoramic vistas. "If you walk over to the lake the view is amazing. There is a super easy family-friendly mini hike with great view and a little cell access," writes reviewer johny R., who recommends following a specific path: "If you are facing the lake, to your right just behind you there are some rocks. Walk twoard them and then maybe 30 yards away from the lake."
What campers like
Seclusion from crowds: Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot offers natural isolation with creek ambiance. "Most spots sit on a creek that gives a good ambiance. Few spots need 4x4 or really good tires, but there's a spot for everyone," notes Marcos D.R., adding that the area has "clear skies at night, but tree cover if you prefer."
Cell connectivity options: For remote workers, some sites offer surprising connectivity. Beaver Park Reservoir campers report limited service: "I also was able to get some service with Verizon periodically. Was able to send some texts but no pictures," writes James S. Connectivity varies by carrier and specific location within campsites.
Natural sound barriers: Creek-side camping provides natural white noise to mask nearby campers. Kevin F. notes at Allenspark Dispersed Camping that the "good whitenoise from the creek" enhances the camping experience, though initially "the campgrounds were hard to find. Keep driving down Ski road until you find a fork in the road, and from there onwards are the campsites."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements vary by site: Pingree Road Dispersed Camping offers accessibility options for different vehicles. "The Pingree Road is also super well maintained so I was able to comfortably get to the campsite with a FWD low clearance sedan," notes Nidhi S., though other reviewers recommend "at least AWD but 2wd should absolutely be able to go on the main road and access most sites."
Seasonal closures impact planning: Forest Road 119 experiences extended closures. Multiple reviewers reported "Road still closed" and "There was a gate that appears to be locked until sometime in summer." Always check current status before attempting access.
Fire regulations change frequently: Always verify current restrictions. Alex O. notes at Hell Canyon, "Fires allowed in established rings only, always check with Roosevelt National Forest website to see if fires are allowed during your stay as this varies by season."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with flat terrain: Beaver Park Reservoir offers family-friendly spots. "There are several good sized RV spots. We have a 25 foot camper and feet nicely in," reports James S., noting the "road in was good as well (May 2025)."
Consider wildlife education opportunities: Allenspark provides opportunities for wildlife education with proper precautions. Renee observed that the area is "Beautiful, secluded and right next to a creek. BUT a huge bear got into my tent while I was gone for 2 hours and absolutely destroyed it." Use these experiences as teaching moments about proper food storage.
Plan for weather fluctuations: Pack warm clothing even in summer. Mark W. at Beaver Park Reservoir warns, "just be sure to check the weather before you get there as there is no service, and a storm with high wind caused us to have to tear down camp in the middle of the night."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions limit options: Pole Hill Rd Dispersed camping requires careful vehicle selection. Mike C. reports navigating in a "Stock 2005 GMC 4x4 work truck, very basic. Some obstacles that were pretty much to the limit of my truck capabilities." He notes a "New Bronco in front of me turned around."
Road conditions vary dramatically: Rustic camping areas near Glen Haven demand vehicle preparation. Joshua L. at Hell Canyon notes, "Haven't been out camping in a while, should have 4x4 but we made it without. One vehicle had a 20' cargo trailer. (Required 4x4)."
Alternative parking strategies: When main dispersed sites are inaccessible, consider alternative approaches. Justin H. acknowledges Hell Canyon's limitations: "The road was a little rough for a pop up camper. More for tents." Consider parking at established campgrounds and using dispersed areas for day use.
