Dispersed camping near Bailey, Colorado ranges from 7,700 to 10,500 feet elevation across the Pike National Forest. Overnight temperatures from June through September average 35-50°F with daytime highs of 65-85°F depending on elevation. Winter brings heavy snowfall closing many forest roads from November through April.
What to do
Fly fishing access points: Multiple dispersed sites along Matukat Road provide easy fishing access nearby. "We took a short trip to the Happy Meadows campground for some time in the river. It's close enough that it doesn't warrant staying at Happy Meadows," notes one Matukat Road Dispersed Camping visitor.
Mountain biking trails: The Buffalo Creek area features extensive trail networks suitable for various skill levels. "Great camping spot, esp, if you like mountain biking. Not whistler in terms of terrain but plenty of trails for various ability levels," shares an experienced rider at Buffalo Creek Recreation Area.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and dusk offer prime wildlife spotting opportunities. "Cattle roam freely throughout the property and you can hear coyotes at dusk and dawn," reports a camper at Matukat Road. Another visitor to Bruno Gulch Dispersed notes, "Beautiful area, seen a moose and goats close to our campsite."
What campers like
Natural seclusion: Many dispersed sites provide substantial privacy from neighboring campers. "The sites are well-spaced, providing plenty of privacy, and the area is generally clean, thanks to considerate campers," writes a visitor to Kirby Gulch.
Geological features: The area's unique rock formations create interesting landscapes for exploration. At Matukat Road, a camper found "Such a gem. Campsites went back far from main road you turn on to...Plenty of exploring and climbing around."
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "We were lucky to find a fantastic, more spacious spot...The views were absolutely breathtaking, with sweeping mountain scenery that made every moment feel special," reports a visitor to Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Site availability timing: Weekends fill extremely quickly during summer months. "This is a very nice area with many walking/biking trails. It is clear the sites are heavily used though...The area is busy and can easily fill for the weekend by Thursday mid-day," warns a Buffalo Creek visitor.
Road conditions: Many roads deteriorate significantly after rain. "The road to get in there is pretty gnarly. Definitely need four-wheel-drive. Lots of rocks and deep holes and even some flooded areas," cautions a Kirby Gulch camper.
Cell service variations: Coverage varies dramatically by location and carrier. "We had between two and three bars of Verizon service at the site but no Verizon service at the main road so it is spotty," reports a Matukat Road camper, while a Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite visitor notes, "Cell service with At&t in site 6 is decent. Calling is 2 bars."
Campsite cleanliness: Some visitors report trash issues at popular sites. "30-40 yards behind our fire ring there were 5 piles of human crap with TP smushed on them and with the wind alot of used TP was scattered across the site," reports a disappointed Redskin Creek camper.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Arrive Thursday for weekend camping. "We arrived early Friday morning and most spots were already claimed. There are a total of 35 free camp sites but if you continue down 550 there are some paid camp sites as well," advises a Buffalo Creek visitor.
Weather preparation: Pack for cold nights even in summer. "It did get pretty cool at night, and our kids definitely let us know about it. Luckily we have extra blankets to insulate their bags and another person in our party had a small heater. But even in July, plan for cooler night time temps and rain!" warns a Kirby Gulch family.
Water play opportunities: Several creeks provide safe wading for children. "Sites 25,26 and 27 appear to be good and site number 31 may be on the creek...The creek is a great place for kids to splash and play," notes a Kirby Gulch camper.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Not all dispersed sites accommodate larger vehicles. "We're in a van, and while some spots would have been great, not all would work for our van," notes a Bailey Area Dispersed visitor. "About 32 or more spots along redskin creek road that goes back a few miles with spots with fire rings along the dirt road," explains a Redskin Creek camper.
Leveling challenges: Many sites have uneven parking areas. "The parking areas tend to be very unlevel and there are only a few that you can pull right up to your campsite. #6 had a level spot large enough for my van and the camping area just a few steps away," reports a visitor to Redskin Creek.
