Dispersed camping near Gould, Colorado provides secluded sites at elevations ranging from 8,500 to 10,000 feet. The area sits within Roosevelt National Forest where summer temperatures typically hover between 40-75°F, with nighttime temperatures dropping significantly even in July. Most rustic camping spots remain accessible from late May through September, though higher elevation sites often retain snow until mid-June.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Chambers Lake Dispersed Camping offers excellent water activities with "a beautiful lake that is not too crowded. Great spot for fishing, paddle boarding and star watching," according to camper Kristin M.
Wildlife viewing: The Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping area provides excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. Camper terri noted the area has "amazing views but lacks tree coverage" and that visitors can expect to see "pelicans and seagulls" on the water, according to kathryn B.
Hiking trails: Multiple trails originate near Long Draw Reservoir Dispersed Camping, with camper shawn L. mentioning "a few really awesome hiking trails a couple different lakes to choose from for fishing kayaking."
Fishing access: Peterson Lake provides additional fishing opportunities near the Long Draw area. According to shawn L., "The dispersed by Peterson lake was very rough road high clearance recommended," but the fishing access makes the journey worthwhile.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Laramie River Road Dispersed camping receives high marks for site separation. Alex S. notes "Further down the road you get it opens up with some nice areas to camp" and that sites spread out significantly as you travel away from busier areas.
Night sky viewing: The lack of light pollution makes stargazing exceptional. James G. at Chambers Lake Dispersed Camping mentioned "Starlink worked excellent here" due to the clear skies and minimal obstructions.
Stream-side camping: Many sites feature water access. Justin D. described the Laramie River Road area as "Aspen wetlands and is beautiful" with "tons of deer and moose in the area."
Mountain views: Stillwater Pass campsites provide panoramic vistas. Camper Reilly enthused about the area saying "the neighbors are spaced but the views are amazing!"
What you should know
Fire recovery status: Many areas show signs of past wildfires. At Stillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite, camper stephanie S. observed "it's a bit depressing to be around all of the burned trees... It just made it so there was little to no shade at all at really any of the campsites."
Road conditions vary: Access roads range from well-maintained to challenging. For Chambers Lake camping, James G. found "a wide well groomed road that could easily be driven by a 2WD car" while shawn L. warned that roads to Peterson Lake are "very rough" requiring "high clearance."
Bug preparation essential: Insects can be intense, particularly at certain sites. At Walden Reservoir, Robert D. warned "during the day the gnats, bugs, and ants were everywhere. Literally crawled up our boots and bodies."
Limited facilities: Most areas lack infrastructure. Shawn L. noted at Long Draw Reservoir that while there are "29 really spread out dispersed camping spots along a very long road," he only "found two group campgrounds that are pay per night ($22 a night) they have toilets and water."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose camping areas based on your vehicle capabilities. A family visiting NFSR 120 Dispersed Site noted "We have 20' truck pulling 22' trailer and had no problems getting to our spot. Just scout the area first so you know where last turn around is."
Wildlife education opportunities: Many campers report significant wildlife sightings. At Laramie River Road Dispersed, Darla R. advised "We have had full grown moose run through our camp site and there has been reports of black bears near by as well as elk and deer."
Temperature preparedness: Pack warm clothing even in summer. Darla R. warned that "It does get cold at night even in summer as it's about 9,000 ft above sea level."
Water access planning: Some sites offer direct lake or stream access. At Chambers Lake, Kevin W. reported "We did walk down to the lake right behind our campsite. The bank is steep but passable by kids so most people can get down there and back up."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: Different areas accommodate various RV sizes. At Chambers Lake, James G. advised "For larger rigs keep on driving. Once you get to the end of the lake, keep driving about 1.5 to 2 miles, you will see a turn off to the right. Here you will see many Large sites that could easily accommodate an RV and trailer."
Supply planning: The remote location requires thorough preparation. James G. warned that rustic camping near Gould means you're "Very remote! Make sure you have plenty of gas and supplies as the closest real place to get supplies is Fort Collins an hour and a half away."
Road reconnaissance: Alex S. observed that around Laramie River Road, "Ive seen most vehicles make their way down this road with no issue and that includes RVs w/ toy haulers" but recommended scouting first to identify potential challenges.
Communications options: Cell service is limited but not entirely absent. At Stillwater Pass, Sarah L. reported "Great Verizon Service" despite being in a remote area with burn damage.
