Best Dispersed Camping near Glen Haven, CO
Looking for the best Glen Haven dispersed camping? The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Glen Haven, Colorado (102)
1. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
49 Reviews•96 Photos•1336 SavesNederland, ColoradoFive miles north of Nederland, National Forest System Road (NFSR) 226, commonly known as Gordon Gulch, turns east off of Colorado Highway 72. NFSR 226 intersects other forest roads: NFSR 314, 228, 233 and their off-shoots. There are 15 numbered, designated campsites scattered along the road system within 1.5 miles east of Highway 72. Camping is permitted in designated sites only. Take care when driving in this area. Snow and mud can persist through most of the year. The free Boulder Ranger District Motor Vehicle Use Map displays National Forest System (NFS) routes open to motorized travel and is available online and at the Boulder Ranger District offfice.
Streams; treat water for drinking.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
2. Allenspark Dispersed Camping
21 Reviews•54 Photos•968 SavesAllenspark, ColoradoWith a few exceptions, dispersed camping is allowed on National Forest System lands. Restrictions protect resources, minimize road damage, and reduce conflicts between landowners and visitors. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days in one location. After 14 days, the campsite must be moved a minimum of three miles. Camping can then continue for another 14 days. Camping is restricted to 28 days in any 60-day period. Some areas may require the use of designated campsites, and some areas, such as Indian Peaks Wilderness, require camping permits. More than 40% of lands within Boulder Ranger District's boundaries are private property. It is your responsibility to know if you are on private or public land.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
3. Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed
27 Reviews•87 Photos•1771 SavesWard, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
4. Hell Canyon Dispersed
17 Reviews•54 Photos•372 SavesPinewood Springs, ColoradoFree camping (dispersed) is allowed on most national forest lands except in highly developed areas - such as trailheads, campgrounds and picnic sites - and in some of our most visited places. Be sure to check for regulations in advance and look for signs in the area to indicate if camping is allowed.
Some areas allow camping in designated sites only.
Know Before You Go
Check the weather and road closures before heading up. Follow Leave No Trace principles. There are no facilities or trash receptacles. Pack out what you pack in. Make sure camping is allowed. Many lands within the national forest boundary are private or otherwise owned. Check that you’re on National Forest lands: maps. Don't stay too long. Camping is limited to 14 days within any continuous 30-day period at any location within the same 20-mile radius. See Order Plan on building a campfire? Campfire restrictions can occur any time of year. Check for fire restrictions and if you build a campfire, know how to extinguish it.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Firewood Available
- Alcohol
5. West Magnolia Campground
26 Reviews•69 Photos•1224 SavesNederland, ColoradoWest Magnolia Trailhead provides access to eight miles of singletrack trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding west of the Peak-to-Peak Highway south of Nederland. An additional eight miles of Forest Roads are open seasonally (check the Road Status Table before your visit) to motorized and non-motorized activities. Along these roadways are designated campsites. Camping is allowed within 50 feet of the campsite markers. There are no facilities of any kind. The free Boulder Ranger District Motor Vehicle Use Map displays National Forest System (NFS) routes open to motorized travel and is available online and at the Boulder Ranger District offfice. Recreational shooting closures exist in this area. Click here for more information.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
6. Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping
19 Reviews•37 Photos•1152 SavesNederland, ColoradoNOTE: Campers who build any fires face fines up to $5,000 and/or up to six months imprisonment for open fire violations.
Leave No Trace must be observed, as in any outdoor space.
In any season this area is prone to very strong dry winds that can pick up a hot coal from a campfire that has lain dormant for as much as three days and ignite dry vegetation, causing horrific devastation. People from outside Colorado may not understand how tinder dry this area can be. 197 homes in this area have been destroyed by wildfires. All of these fires were started by humans.
Local residents overlook this area and if they see visible flame or smoke they will call the Boulder County sheriff. Any campers who require a campfire are recommended to disperse camp near Sugarloaf Mountain where fires are permitted.
- Pets
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
7. Stillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite
14 Reviews•47 Photos•678 SavesGrand Lake, ColoradoFree camping (dispersed) is allowed on most national forest lands except in highly developed areas - such as trailheads, campgrounds and picnic sites - and in some of our most visited places. Be sure to check for regulations in advance and look for signs in the area to indicate if camping is allowed.
Some areas allow camping in designated sites only.
Know Before You Go
Check the weather and road closures before heading up. Follow Leave No Trace principles. There are no facilities or trash receptacles. Pack out what you pack in. Make sure camping is allowed. Many lands within the national forest boundary are private or otherwise owned. Check that you’re on National Forest lands: maps. Don't stay too long. Camping is limited to 14 days.within any continuous 30-day period. at any location within the same 20-mile radius. see Order Plan on building a campfire? Campfire restrictions can occur any time of year. Check for fire restrictions and if you build a campfire, know how to extinguish it.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
8. Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest Dispersed Camping
13 Reviews•51 Photos•375 SavesRed Feather Lakes, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Dispersed
9. Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot
6 Reviews•12 Photos•659 SavesPinewood Springs, ColoradoFree camping (dispersed) is allowed on most national forest lands except in highly developed areas - such as trailheads, campgrounds and picnic sites - and in some of our most visited places. Be sure to check for regulations in advance and look for signs in the area to indicate if camping is allowed.
Some areas allow camping in designated sites only.
Know Before You Go
Check the weather and road closures before heading up. Follow Leave No Trace principles. There are no facilities or trash receptacles. Pack out what you pack in. Make sure camping is allowed. Many lands within the national forest boundary are private or otherwise owned. Check that you’re on National Forest lands: maps. Don't stay too long. Camping is limited to 14 days.within any continuous 30-day period. at any location within the same 20-mile radius. see Order Plan on building a campfire? Campfire restrictions can occur any time of year. Check for fire restrictions and if you build a campfire, know how to extinguish it.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
10. Pingree Road Dispersed Camping
5 Reviews•34 Photos•245 SavesRed Feather Lakes, ColoradoFree camping (dispersed) is allowed on most national forest lands except in highly developed areas - such as trailheads, campgrounds and picnic sites - and in some of our most visited places. Be sure to check for regulations in advance and look for signs in the area to indicate if camping is allowed.
Some areas allow camping in designated sites only.
Know Before You Go
Check the weather and road closures before heading up. Follow Leave No Trace principles. There are no facilities or trash receptacles. Pack out what you pack in. Make sure camping is allowed. Many lands within the national forest boundary are private or otherwise owned. Check that you’re on National Forest lands: maps. Don't stay too long. Camping is limited to 14 days within any continuous 30-day period at any location within the same 20-mile radius. See Order Plan on building a campfire? Campfire restrictions can occur any time of year. Check for fire restrictions and if you build a campfire, know how to extinguish it.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Recent Dispersed Reviews near Glen Haven, CO
462 Reviews of 102 Glen Haven Campgrounds
- H
Hannah L.
Guide
Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed
Nice dispersed campsites
Free dispersed camping with zero amenities but man made fire pits. Windy and cold but beautiful!
- Claire L.
Scout
Forsythe Canyon Trailhead Forest Service Road 357 Dispersed — Golden Gate Canyon
Not a site anymore but ....
The location for this does not take you to a campsite but rather a sign that says “NO trespassing” it’s private property now but if you drive farther on the dirt road (about 5 minutes) and take a left at the sign that says 68 you will continue for 2 miles and find a trailhead with a campsite that is very nice. I parked at the trail head but continue down the road that’s there and there are designated free dispersed camping.
Look up forsythe canyon trailhead
PS This is up a very high mountain road. I have a 91 westfalia and I do not recommend for older vehicles such as. Puts lots of wear on it going up and down that huge hill.
- mmeghan G.Guide
Forest Service Road 700 Designated Dispersed Camping
Large RV Friendly and Beautiful
Came upon Vedauwoo while road tripping from Denver, CO to Yellowstone National Park. Free dispersed camping with easy dirt road access for any size RV.
No worries about RV size. All camp sites located on roads which loop back to main road. So no need to stress about dead ending and attempting a turn around.
Must camp in designated areas.
Even if you don’t plan to spend the night, it is well worth the beauty to pull off and relax or picnic for the afternoon.
I’ve been everywhere and this place was BREATHTAKING! Rock formations like I have never seen. I can see why those mountains are steeped in Native legend of spiritual inhabitants.
Spots fill up fast in the summer months. Trails, rock climbing, fishing, horseback riding and wildlife. Sites are first come first serve.
But no running water, restroom or hook ups.
Tent or RV spots.
Carrie C.
LegendForest Service Road 700 Designated Dispersed Camping
Free and Fun!
Places to explore galore! You can climb, mountain bike. hike, fish, and ATV in some areas.
All of the free dispersed camping sites are along Vedauwoo Road that leads to Happy Jack Road from I-80. The exit to Vedauwoo State Park is right off I-80 and only 17 miles west of Laramie WY. The Vedauwoo Road itself was a bit wash-boarded, but freshly laid with crushed granite. There are a few spur roads that allow camping. The map in the attached photo shows the area pretty well. There are no amenities here. A rock fire ring and a numbered post will show you where camping is permitted. The camp areas are spaced very far apart. You are near the road, but no other campers. You need to pack out everything you bring in. I had a very nice time here. The next evening I did go into the established campground. Please see my ranger review for Vedauwoo Campground. (includes a review of the ICEMULE cooler seen in some photos!)
Activities in the area include: mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking, horseback riding, ATV's, and fishing. Nearby, continue on Vedauwoo Road until it meets Happy Jack (paved) take a right and you will encounter Curt Gowdy State park where you can rent paddling equipment or boat and tour 2 of the lakes in the State Park. It is beautiful there and they do have a couple campgrounds on the waterfront.
- RRyan B.Scout
Canyon Lakes Ranger District Dispersed Camping
Nice but kind of developed
It was pretty rough driving in, there were so many “private” lands even when you hit the national forest. The dispersed camping we found had 3 sites stacked on top of each other. Went a little further up the road and did find much else except more houses. It’s right next to a hiking trail which is great on cold afternoons. Stars were beautiful too very little light pollution.
Sun H.ScoutPole Hill Rd Dispersed
Access not worth the trouble
Don’t believe the navigation apps and go through lyons, it’s private property ; furthermore if you like I did make the drive though Estes park, have 4WD high clearance and a small vehicle… maybe you’ll make it to this brutally elusive last free camping spot off the main mountain roads
Jason H.Scout
Allenspark Dispersed Camping
Easy Access. Beautiful Setting
About 1 hour from Boulder. Was super simple to access. the coordinates take you to the beginning of the rural part of Ski road. Keep driving on Ski road, you'll see the "Entering National Forrest" sign and soon after that you will see dispersed camping spots.
Lots of spots available. Just keep driving along Ski Road and pick one that looks good. Lots of fire pits already build and most camp spots are along the creek.
A 2wd car can access quite a bit but if you want to go further up Ski road, definitely bring a 4x4 with high clearance.
- JOE M.Scout
No Name Dispersed Site - Hwy 40 West
No Name
Free camp sites. First come, first serve
shawn L.Guide
Deadman Road Dispersed
Lives up to the eerie feeling of its name
Road stretches for quite a ways into the national forest with lots of pull off camping spots many that are hidden Forrest gems as well. It makes you feel as if the camping area is very remote and far from people. I have camped a couple spots along this road both with creepy vibes at nighttime especially late at night when the wildlife is much more active. Overall hiking to the peaks of mountains to get the views is great and stargazing at 2am is absolutely stunning.
Karl G.
Ranger
Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
Dispersed Campsite with Views - Gordon Gulch (4x4 recommended)
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. I am reviewing one of these unnumbered campsites in particular, because this one had the best view. Before you read too far, I can't guarantee you will be able to reach this campsite without a 4X4 high clearance vehicle. We got to the site with a Jeep Wrangler and Toyota Tacoma TRD so we had no problems... I can't definitely say a Subaru would make it though. In the pictures I have included a map of the Gordon Gulch trail system. Entering through the Gordon Gulch entrance and taking 226.1 to 233.1 is the hardest route - there is one very steep and washed out spot. Entering via 120J/Switzerland Trail from the Peak to Peak Hwy and then turning right onto 233.1 is the easier option. On that map I have marked the general area of the campsite with a pink dot and here are the coordinates.
DMS: 40°01'18.5"N 105°28'37.6"W
DD: 40.021814, -105.477103 - if you type this into Google Maps it will locate it
As for the actual campsite, it is a great option for spring/fall camping in Colorado. The elevation is about 8,800 ft and it is on the south side of a hill so it gets a lot of sunlight and is protected from northern winds. In terms of privacy, there are no other campsites that can be seen from this one. However, Gordon Gulch is a popular off-roading area so dirt bikes and Jeeps pass by frequently. This campsite is set up high above and away from the road though, so it is really not that bad. Another thing to point out is that this is a popular area for shooting as well, so if you absolutely hate guns it may not be the place for you. Also, as stated before, this is a dispersed campsite the only thing it has is a fire ring. Pack it in, pack it out!
- Andrew W.Guide
Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail
My first Colorado camping spot!
I first camped in Colorado last year with a friend and we chose this dispersed due to it being close to travel too- yet still dispersed. I’ve come back 4 other times to camp here!
This trail does require some 4x4 action to get to the top. Lots of rocks, bumps, and pools of water to travel through to get anywhere.
The trail has a decent amount of dispersed sites along the way up to the top, although you can not camp the first mile or two, they are residential.
Even at the end of the trail, next to the reservoir there are some great spots to camp at. And a hike around the reservoir would show you that you could even do a bit of backpacking if you wanted to camp by a waterfall for the night.
This place has become a favorite camping spot of mine, and a place I love to bring friends. Quite clean, very scenic, and a beautiful creek rushing by most of the camp sites. There is also a really cool teepee stand waiting to be used to camp under at the top!
Jeni N.GuideGordon Gulch Dispersed Area
Great area!
The drive was beautiful and the map/directions were very clear. The roads within the dispersed camping area were pretty intense with dips, rocks and potholes but we got through just fine with a Subaru Forester. The permitted sites are marked which are easy to find. We chose to not go too far because it was getting dark out by the time we arrived. The first 5 or so campsites are pretty close to each other which limits privacy but I can not speak for campsites further into the campsite.
- Rachael J.Scout
Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
Pretty site not far from Nederland
This is a nice free camping site off of peak to peak highway. Mountain View’s and lots of wildflowers.
- Kenneth V.Scout
Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed
Great area, easy to get to.
Several sites with rock fire pits. Close to beaver reservoir but apparently it is a private reservoir. Still great option for free camping
Lindsey H.
TravelerAllenspark Dispersed Camping
The Perfect Stay
Allenspark Dispersed Camping provides an exceptional spot to stay. Our spot was near the creek, the sound was beautiful. The only downside was absolutely no cell service. The directions landed us near someone’s home, however dispersed camping is about 1.5 miles further down Ski Rd. No fire due to the current fire ban.
Haley H.Traveler
Lost Lake Dispersed
Leave No Trace
Great area w/ views & peace! Sites were spacious. Definitely check out your campsite before you decide on it. Ours had so much broken glass that we had to pick up the whole time and trash bags (full of gross things) scattered in the trees. If you’re going to camp & especially go to dispersed camping areas, make sure to leave no trace and pack in, pack out people!!!
- PParker R.Scout
Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping
NOT DISPERSED CAMPING
Drove more than 35 - 45 mins from boulder expecting a decent dispersed camping area like normal, but don’t let this fool you!! It is all residential and private land! I honestly don’t know of any dispersed camping near the city of boulder and so far this app is deceiving. Read the reviews before you head out!
Nick E.Traveler
Gold Lake Area Dispersed
Lots of spots, less crowded than other areas nearby
Gold Lake Road is one of the best spots for dispersed camping in the area. There are a ton of spots on the way to the lake. I've been able to find a spot even on a summer Saturday, which can be hard to do in many of these dispersed camping zones outside of Boulder. Convenient access to RMNP and Indian Peaks Wilderness.
- Josh S.Scout
Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest Dispersed Camping
Not so hidden but not marked gem
This area is in National Forest so it is free and there are no “designated” spots but there are lots of spots where people have made fire pits. Beautiful views and you don’t need 4x4.
Kevin W.GuideLost Lake Dispersed
Options for everybody
The whole area is dispersed camping as soon as you turn off of County Road 73C onto FR235. The ponds up the road from the main lake are full from lots of recent rain but all the campsites are still available. Most camp sites filled up for the weekend but we got there about 6pm on Friday evening and found a good site overlooking the big unnamed pond 1/2 mile up from Lost Lake.
- 2023 June 24, 25 there was no snow at all.
- There were a few travel trailers parked in sites and all the roads are passable by 2WD. I counted at least 30 sites here and you can have several vehicles and set up multiple tents at many of them.
- Some spots are clearly marked with signs for dispersed camping. Most are not marked, but there are clear parking spots and fire rings at most of the sites.
- A few sites that look accessible from Google maps satellite view have been blocked off to allow nature to regrow. Backpackers can still walk in to the sites where the road is blocked off to cars - the signs say foot traffic welcome.
- As you get closer to Lost Lake itself the spots are smaller and less flat so you might have better luck parking up the road from the lake if you have a large trailer or tent.
- TTroy S.Traveler
Stillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite
Great RMNP Access
This dispersed camping area is great for western access to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Dee W.GuideForest Service Road 700 Designated Dispersed Camping
Beautiful
Just past the campground is dispersed primitive camping 🏕️. All sites are well established. There was a 🔥 ban so no campfires. Good hiking and rock climbing
Casey J.Scout
West Magnolia Campground
Beautiful dispersed spots in range of Boulder
Beautiful spot; close enough to civilization to feel secure yet secluded enough to feel private. In the section of camp spots I stayed at, most were full, but I got one as soon as I pulled in probably by luck. Judging by the fact that it is a Tuesday, I would assume this place would be packed on a weekend. The road getting here was a little rough but extremely short, no need for a four-wheel drive. The campsites are spread out enough to limit others noise pollution and feel secluded. There is a fire ring at all campsites, but no amenities. Overall, pretty good for dispersed.
Joseph B.Guide
Loch Lomond Dispersed
This place was great
This was a nice dispersed camping location, great views and some close encounters with local wildlife made it interesting.
- MMichelleScout
Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
Rare Free Camping Near Boulder
There isn't much free camping to be had in the Boulder area. So, our family has been grateful for this spot (and Magnolia Ridge nearby). This spot isn't far a far drive from Boulder but dirt roads can be rocky and rough on the way in. I wouldn't recommend driving in with a low clearance vehicle.
Our campsite did have some garbage left over from previous occupants which we cleaned up. The area was very regularly patrolled by deputies which might be disruptive to some looking for peace and solitude. However, they do help when it comes to some people being disruptive and not camping responsibly on the mountain. We enjoyed seeing wildlife including moose in the area and enjoyed having trees for shade from the Colorado sun.
The campground we occupied was very rocky and my six year old unfortunately fell while running and broke her arm. This may not be the best spot for little ones with unsure footing.
gloria P.TravelerDream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping
Beautiful site
It was a little hard to find however, once we found it we didn’t want to leave. Plenty of dispersed camping, hiking and climbing.
Rob B.TravelerGordon Gulch Dispersed Area
Great Spot!
Great spot for dispersed camping. Road a little rough especially with snow; 4x4 is probably necessary to avoid getting stuck. Really pretty, spread out spots.
Guide to Glen Haven
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Glen Haven, Colorado, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.
Tips for free and dispersed camping near Glen Haven, Colorado
- When visiting Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed, be prepared for windy conditions, especially if you plan to camp near the water.
- It's advisable to keep your campsite clean and respect the natural surroundings, as some visitors have reported issues with litter at locations like Allenspark Dispersed Camping.
- Always check for fire bans before your trip; for instance, some campers at Hell Canyon Dispersed noted restrictions during their stay.
Scenic views and hiking trails for dispersed campers
- The Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping area offers beautiful views and easy access to hiking trails, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Campers at Pingree Road Dispersed Camping can enjoy stunning mountain vistas and a variety of trails for hiking and exploring.
- If you're looking for a peaceful retreat, Long Draw Reservoir Dispersed Camping provides a scenic backdrop with multiple hiking options nearby.
Wildlife encounters and fishing opportunities while free camping near Glen Haven
- Campers at Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot have reported bear sightings, so be sure to store food securely and stay alert.
- Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby lakes accessible from Long Draw Reservoir Dispersed Camping, where you can cast a line after setting up camp.
- The Elkhorn Creek Dispersed Camping area is known for its tranquil creek, providing a perfect spot for both fishing and enjoying the sounds of nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Glen Haven, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Glen Haven, CO is Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area with a 3.6-star rating from 49 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Glen Haven, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 102 dispersed camping locations near Glen Haven, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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