Pike National Forest surrounding Bailey, Colorado contains numerous dispersed camping opportunities at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet. Nights remain cool even in summer, often dropping into the 30s at higher elevations. The area features a mix of forested campsites with creek access and open mountain sites with rock formations that create natural boundaries between camping spaces.
What to do
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake offers non-motorized water recreation. "Great for paddleboarding (rentals available), kayaking, canoeing & kid's floats," notes Heather L. The lake has restrictions that enhance the paddling experience: "No motors allowed on lake," which creates a peaceful environment for water activities.
Mountain biking: Buffalo Creek Recreation Area serves as an excellent base for cyclists. "Great camping spot, esp. if you like mountain biking... Not whistler in terms of terrain but plenty of trails for various ability levels," explains andrew B. The area has become popular with the biking community as Sierra T. confirms: "Welcoming campground, spur trails connecting it straight to the Colorado Trail and other connections in the Buffalo Creek Recreation Area."
Hiking: Several connecting trails around Bailey link to the Colorado Trail system. "The trail is well maintained as is the campground and sites," reports Amanda M. about Kenosha Pass Campground. For serious hikers, "the trailhead for section 6 of the Colorado Trail is right next to the campgrounds," adds Steve C.
What campers like
Creek access: The sound of running water enhances many campsites near Bailey. At Green Mountain Campground, "we had 4 adults, 2 tents, and a pup on #2, walked our gear across an adorable bridge making the whole experience seem like a fairy tale," shares Stefan. The creek provides natural cooling: "The creek wasn't too high and was perfect for us to relax with our feet in," adds Hayley K.
Rock formations: Unique geological features surround many campsites. "The surrounding area is filled with hiking and biking trails, including the Colorado Trail," notes Hayley K. about Buffalo Creek Campground. At Spruce Grove Campground, "You are on the river, nestled amongst gorgeous boulders, easy to get in and out of even with a large travel trailer," Aaron M. explains.
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed camping areas offer good separation between neighbors. "The sites are pretty far apart from each other. Depending where you camp you can hear the water from the stream," explains Alexandra M. about Deer Creek Campground. At Redskin Creek Road, "Sites are spaced well apart, some sites are covered in trees while others are wide open," according to David H.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Fire bans are common during dry periods. "Currently they don't have day-use open, so there's plenty of space at the lake to set-up and spend the day playing with the kids," notes Heather L. about Castle Mountain Recreation Area during COVID restrictions. Always verify current fire status before your trip.
Road conditions: Many sites require planning for rough roads. "The road is a bit of a washboard, but that is nothing compared to most of the forest roads in Colorado," says Rebecca L. about Redskin Creek Rd. Some areas have improved access: "Finally, a nice campsite on a road that isn't horrible. There are 30+ designated, numbered, dispersed campsites on this road."
Crowding factors: Sites fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. "Beautiful spot with easy access to lots of trails and Wellington lake. Only downside is that it is very difficult to find a spot on a weekend," warns Keiko F. about Buffalo Creek Recreation Area. Similar patterns occur at most free sites near Bailey.
Water availability: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water. "According to the camp hosts the Government didn't approve for them to be turned on this year... I tried to turn on but no water came out," reports Amber M. about Buffalo Campground. Always bring adequate water supplies when camping near Bailey.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water access: Spruce Grove Campground provides excellent opportunities for children to enjoy water safely. "This is a very popular spot for families with easy access to the South Platte for tubing and swimming," notes Amanda M. The variety of water depths accommodates different ages: "There are calm, protected shallows along the creek for supervised play as well," adds Jennie R.
Wildlife education: Turn animal sightings into learning opportunities. "The only critters we saw around were Magpies. They were 'worming' their way through the grounds and had breakfast with us each morning," shares Hayley K. at Buffalo Campground. Teaching children about proper food storage is essential as "there are black bears in the area."
Group site selection: For family gatherings, look for specific site configurations. "There is a big loop with a field in the middle for larger parties," notes Hayley K. about Spruce Grove Campground. Sites on outer loops often provide better family experiences: "The outer circle sites are better and some like 11 even have cool rock boulders to camp by," suggests Laria S.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Finding flat parking at dispersed sites requires preparation. At Redskin Creek Road, "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," notes Rebecca L. Site research before arrival helps avoid difficulties.
Site size considerations: Chatfield State Park Campground offers more developed options for larger vehicles. "Great layout and facilities. This is one of our favorite spots to stay when visiting Denver area. Great for biking and all kinds of water sports. Laundry facility on each loop sites are spread out giving plenty of room between sites," reports Rick.
Campground access: Many roads leading to dispersed sites present challenges. "The road to get up here is a pretty rough and I would say that RVs and small cars might have a hard time but it is doable," explains Hayley K. about Green Mountain Campground. Buffalo Campground offers easier access with "sites for RV's, tent, or van stay."
