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Best Dispersed Camping near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests

334 Reviews

Free dispersed camping options surround the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests near Montrose, with several established areas on BLM land. Black Canyon Dispersed Camping provides approximately 10 sites off the main road to Black Canyon of the Gunnison, while Escalante Canyon Road (650 Rd) offers numerous flat sites along a well-maintained gravel road. According to one visitor, "The road was in good shape and even the largest RV could go down it. Sites were pretty level."

Dry Creek Ditch Camp and Springhill Mesa provide additional options about 9 miles from Montrose on Route 90, with spots suitable for tents and some RVs. These areas feature minimal amenities—no water, toilets, or trash service. Sites become hot and dusty during summer months with limited shade. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, and visitors should be prepared for potentially strong winds, particularly in canyon locations. Most sites have established fire rings when fires are permitted. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, many locations offer "beautiful views" though some contain "broken glass" and visitors should watch for small cacti in desert areas.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests (71)

    1. Black Canyon Dispersed Camping

    61 Reviews
    Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, CO
    24 miles
    Website

    "This was my first time using Dyrt and accessing BLM/public land. The campgrounds at Black Canyon OTG were packed and hotels in the area were outrageously priced (2-star hotel for $200)."

    "Nestled right on the access road to Black Canyon of The Gunnison NP, camps did not require a ton of dirt driving to access."

    2. 90 Rd Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Montrose, CO
    8 miles

    "Easy access off of 90 . Gravel road with easy switch backs our 30 ft TT and truck had no issues navigating the road once there decently level sites for dispersed camping ."

    "This camp is dispersed, with beautiful views of Montrose, gorgeous sunrise, and is daily level. There’s no maintenance of any kind, it was reasonably clean, and it was pleasant."

    3. Dry Creek Ditch Camp off Forest Road 90

    3 Reviews
    Montrose, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 240-5300

    "Wide open flat area right at the start of the Trailhead for the RimRocker trail to Moab."

    4. Springhill Mesa Dispersed Campsite

    1 Review
    Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests, CO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 240-5300

    5. Dry Creek Ditch

    1 Review
    Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests, CO
    8 miles

    6. Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)

    13 Reviews
    Delta, CO
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 244-3000

    "Location was right off the road but once you drive about 5 minutes down the road you cannot hear any traffic. No other campers. Road was packed gravel almost like highway."

    "Primitive camping but close to the main road, so access is easy. No shade, water, or amenities."

    7. Last Dollar Road

    28 Reviews
    Placerville, CO
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 874-6600

    "Some of the best in Colorado. I had good cell service too (working remotely). There are some larger dispersed campgrounds near the top trailhead that are more in the woods."

    "It took us over an hour for I believe 10 miles on very rough road in a Subaru Outback. It was beautiful but there was miles of ranches and private properties before you got to campsites."

    8. Flat Tops OHV Area

    2 Reviews
    Montrose, CO
    16 miles

    "Just outside of town, peaceful, and absolutely beautiful. Big ohv and dirt bike spot. However, you basically pull into a parking spot."

    9. Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)

    41 Reviews
    Ophir, CO
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 327-4261

    "Perfect lake views, snow capped mountain tops, and wildflowers for days."

    "20 spots to camp and first come first serve no reservations. Recommended to take a 4x4 vehicle up here."

    10. escalante ridge camping

    1 Review
    Delta, CO
    22 miles

    "We stopped here on a roadtrip back to Denver as it was close to grand junction but far enough to feel secluded and boy I am happy we did. It’s on ridge line so the views are as expected - gorgeous."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests

250 Photos of 71 Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests

334 Reviews of 71 Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests Campgrounds

  • Annie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2018

    Anvil Dispersed Campground- ROAD CLOSED

    Dispersed camping next to the creek

    Dispersed camping along the South Mineral Creek. This is dry camping with a vault toilet- no hook ups. This is popular with RV’ers and OHV’ers as it is free. The limit is the usual fourteen days. Some “sites” have fire pits, and there are a few picnic tables scattered about. There are a few sites right on the water. Further back in at some larger sites that could accommodate small rvs. The plus is the free camping right on the “river”. The minus is that the road to the forest service campground and the Ice Lake trailhead is very close, very busy, and very dusty.

  • Alexia L.
    Oct. 13, 2024

    Nine Mile Hill

    Great Views, Secluded

    Found this spot and was very happy with the setup. Like other reviews, the highway noise was a bit loud but nothing too crazy, especially really late. There were other campers spread out nicely, you wouldn’t even know they were there. The road is a bit iffy so snagging a spot at the front would be best if you don’t have 4WD (my Nissan car struggled, we had to back up & turn around). Overall great spot for tent camping! Remember to leave no trace 🫶🏼🏕️🌎

  • Annie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2021

    Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed up on the pass

    When you first pull in you will see several dispersed sites up and to your right. These are nice, but they fill up quickly. Instead, take a left onto Galloping Goose Trailhead road and pick one of the sites that back up to trees and have gray Mountain View’s. Be careful though as further down the road it becomes private property with no camping. Also, watch for winds if you want a fire. This is dispersed, so no toilet (tho there is one across the highway at the entrance) and no picnic tables. Fire rings made of stacked rocks mark sites. Also, be bear aware and keep your food inside your locked car.

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2022

    Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area

    Small tight - NO TTs or Big RVs

    Small rough road FREE dispersed area. 7 day camping limit. Lake is a pothole weedy area not really good for floating IMO..go to the public access at the much larger Trout Lake. Nine designated campsites are all walk in tent sites. One small vault toilet, no dumpsters or water. NO TTs allowed as NO turnaround. No big RVs either. Access road is rough rocky.

  • Whitney J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2021

    Last Dollar Road

    Amazing views and good cell service

    There is not a ton of campsites once you get up here. But there are a handful that have absolutely amazing views . Some of the best in Colorado. I had good cell service too (working remotely). There are some larger dispersed campgrounds near the top trailhead that are more in the woods. Road from Ridgeway was well maintained but definitely a little rocky getting closer to the top of the road. Road gets washed out in the rain so heads up. But just go slow if you’re in a lower clearance vehicle and you’ll be fine if it’s dry.

    https://www.colorado.com/articles/colorado-hidden-gem-last-dollar-road

  • K
    Aug. 1, 2025

    Twin Lake Dispersed Area - Grand Valley Rd

    Beautiful and Quiet

    I was up there on a Tuesday-Wednesday so it was very quiet and there was no one else at the site. It’s right on the water although there is a drop off you have to climb down, but it’s not bad. There were some cattle that walked through as I was setting up but otherwise very chill. All sites had areas for parking and fire rings. Driving off the forest road and onto the small road getting up to the campsite, 4WD isn’t required but highly recommended, it is a very rough road. High clearance is necessary. The sites seemed kinda close to each other however there are trees and stumps that define each site. Amazing views, light rain, and still my favorite forest.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 15, 2024

    Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed

    Remote Wilderness

    Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed Camping, located near Mount Sneffels in Colorado, offers an incredibly remote and breathtaking camping experience. If you're looking to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in pristine wilderness, this spot is ideal. The campsites are dispersed along the trailhead, offering peace and solitude with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and alpine lakes.

    The beauty of this dispersed camping area is its complete immersion in nature. With no designated campsites or amenities, you get to choose your own perfect spot in the forest, whether it’s near the rushing creek or with views of the towering mountains. This is truly a wilderness experience, so you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient—bring your own water, food, and a solid plan for waste disposal.

    The Blue Lakes Trailhead offers some of Colorado’s most scenic hiking, including access to the famous Blue Lakes and a challenging ascent of Mount Sneffels. The hike itself rewards adventurers with awe-inspiring views of alpine lakes, wildflowers, and rugged mountain terrain. It’s perfect for those seeking an immersive backcountry experience.

    One downside of this dispersed camping is that the road leading to the trailhead is rough, so it’s best suited for high-clearance vehicles, and be prepared for the possibility of unpredictable weather, as storms can roll in quickly in the mountains.

    Overall, Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed Camping is an incredible option for experienced campers looking to enjoy the wild beauty of Colorado’s high country. It’s remote, peaceful, and surrounded by some of the most stunning scenery in the state.

  • S
    Aug. 29, 2020

    Last Dollar Road

    Full of RVs

    A site with amazing views that were all blocked by large RVs and campers, no privacy for tent camping or between sites, it was also very crowded by early morning. 4WD and high clearance is needed to continue on Last Dollar Rd if you’re hoping to find more dispersed camping up the mountain.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 18, 2024

    Dry Creek Ditch Camp off Forest Road 90

    A free camp for a night

    Reach this BLM dispersed about 9 miles on route 90 from the center of Montrose, good paved until the last mile good graveled.  IMMEDIATELY after hairpin switchback, turn left and you'll find a 2 acre mesa with junipers and views, probably can fit 5 camps in there with elbow room.  I had 2 neighbors.  Shade is limited so it'll be hot in the summer.  Only good legal free camping near town!

Guide to Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests in Colorado. This area offers stunning landscapes and a chance to connect with nature while enjoying the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests in Colorado

  • When visiting the Black Canyon Dispersed Camping area, be prepared for some rough roads; higher clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing deeper sites.
  • Many sites at Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd) are level and suitable for larger RVs, making it a great option for those traveling with bigger rigs.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife while camping at Black Canyon Dispersed, as the area is known for its natural inhabitants, including deer and the occasional mountain lion.

Dispersed campers should check out Escalante Canyon Road

  • The Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd) offers a scenic drive with many available sites, both by the highway and deeper in the canyon for those seeking solitude.
  • This area is well-reviewed for its accessibility, allowing even larger RVs to navigate the smooth dirt roads without difficulty.
  • Stargazing is exceptional here, especially during clear nights, making it a perfect spot for those who enjoy the night sky.

Enjoy outdoor activities while free camping near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests

  • The Black Canyon Dispersed area is just a mile from the entrance to Black Canyon National Park, providing easy access for hiking and exploring the park's stunning vistas.
  • Campers at Dry Creek Ditch Camp off Forest Road 90 can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing and hiking, with the added benefit of being close to Montrose.
  • For those looking for a quieter experience, Springhill Mesa Dispersed Campsite offers peaceful surroundings and is ideal for nature walks and wildlife observation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests is Black Canyon Dispersed Camping with a 4.3-star rating from 61 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests?

TheDyrt.com has all 71 dispersed camping locations near Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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