Best Tent Camping near Granite, CO
Looking for tent camping near Granite? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Granite. You're sure to find the perfect tent campsite for your Colorado camping adventure.
Best Tent Sites Near Granite, Colorado (61)
1. Portal Campground
26 Reviews•147 Photos•1874 SavesAspen, ColoradoPortal Campground is located eleven miles southeast of Aspen on Independence Pass Road and seven miles south on Lincoln Creek Road at an elevation of 9,400'. Campers can access some wonderful day hikes from this location as well as terrain for motorcycle riding, mountain biking, ATV riding, fishing and horseback riding, among other recreation activities. Portal Campground has 5 campsites with limited spurs. 5 day stay limit. High clearance vehicles are required and 4x4 recommended.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Picnic Table
2. Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
37 Reviews•102 Photos•2100 SavesBlue River, ColoradoThis designated dispersed camping area along County Road 10 has 23 sites.
**Please note: Camping is ONLY allowed in areas designated by a sign. ** Camping in undesignated spots could result in a citation from the U.S. Forest Service. Not adhering to camping duration maximums or using U.S. Forest land for residential purposes could result in a citation from the U.S. Forest Service.
Please refer to special orders and contact the USFS Offices with questions: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd842796.pdf
Regulations pertaining to designated dispersed camping are as follows:
Camp only in designated sites.
No camping at trailheads.
Food and garbage must be properly secured in bear-resistant containers or inside vehicles in sealed containers.
Pack out all waste: human, garbage, paper, organics, etc.
There are many dispersed camping opportunities in the forest ranging from backpacking to car-camping along designated Forest Roads. Visitors are encouraged to minimize resource impacts by utilizing established sites rather than creating new ones. Dispersed camping sites along Forest Roads are shown on Motor Vehicle Use Maps, which are available free of charge at ranger district offices.At the start of the tour you immediately have spectacular views of the Blue River Valley and the majestic Tenmile Range. The road, managed by Summit County, follows the old South Park and Pacific Railroad bed, climbing on a gradual 3% grade. The road climbs past Bakers Tank to the summit of Boreas Pass at the Continental Divide. The road then continues down the other side of Boreas Pass for another 10.4 miles to the town of Como in Park County. From 1872 to 1938 the road was used as a narrow-gauge railroad and gained fame as the nation’s highest narrow-gauge railroad, running from Como to Breckenridge. This is a great road to view Fall colors. This road is open to highway legal vehicles only during May-October, and closed to motorized vehicle access seasonally at Summit County discretion, generally October to May.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
3. Kite Lake
13 Reviews•47 Photos•284 SavesFairplay, ColoradoKite Lake Campground is located 5.5 miles NW of Alma on CR 8. It has five campsites and none are recommended for trailers; camping season begins in May and continues until the road is snowed in. The camping fee is $12.00 per night with a $3.00 day-use parking fee. Facilities include fire ring, tables, and outhouse toilets, but there is no water and no trash service at this campground. Campsites at Kite Lake are first-come, first-serve.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Picnic Table
$5 - $15 / night
4. Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 2 West
11 Reviews•42 Photos•1098 SavesGranite, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
5. North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping
8 Reviews•33 Photos•963 SavesBuena Vista, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
- Standard (Tent/RV)
6. Whitestar Campground
3 Reviews•4 Photos•124 SavesGranite, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
7. Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping
9 Reviews•74 Photos•606 SavesNathrop, ColoradoThe Browns Creek trail offers beautiful scenery with changing vistas and vegetation. The trail follows the stream and small waterfalls can be found along the way. The lower portion of the trail begins in primarily a Ponderosa pine environment and gradually moves into spruce/fir forest. At higher elevations the trail travels through pristine meadows that end at Brown's Lake. Camping is not permitted at the trailhead, in order to prevent erosion of the banks along Little Browns Creek. Campers are encouraged to find camp sites further south on County Road 272.
- Pets
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
8. CR 306 -Dispersed Site
4 Reviews•7 Photos•233 SavesBuena Vista, ColoradoDon't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike and San Isabel National Forests where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".
Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/responsible-recreation
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
9. Road 240 - Dispersed
9 Reviews•51 Photos•580 SavesMonarch, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
10. Homestake Reservoir Rd Milemarker 3 - Dispersed
7 Reviews•28 Photos•318 SavesRed Cliff, ColoradoThere are many dispersed camping opportunities on the forest ranging from backpacking to car-camping along designated Forest Roads. Visitors are encouraged to minimize resource impacts by utilizing established sites rather than creating new ones. Dispersed camping sites along Forest Roads are shown on Motor Vehicle Use Maps, which are available free of charge at ranger district offices.
Visitors are permitted to drive vehicles up to 300 feet from designated routes for purposes of dispersed camping as long as no resource damage is incurred in the process. Dispersed camping within 100 feet of lakes, streams, and forest system trails is prohibited unless otherwise designated. Campers may stay for a maximum of 14 days. Some areas may have additional special restrictions.
Reduce Resource Damage
Avoid making new impacts. Whenever possible, use an existing campsite rather than creating a new one. Dispose of human waste, including toilet paper, carefully. Use self-contained waste disposal systems whenever possible. When unavailable, deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 – 8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water, camp sites, and roads or trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished. Properly manage sanitation. Dispose of waste, gray water, sewage, and sewage treatment chemicals from self-contained toilets at authorized facilities provided for that purpose. Pack it in, pack it out. Do not leave behind any waste or litter. Leave no trace. Leave established sites in better condition than you found them. Leave new sites in as natural condition as you found them. Don’t move firewood. Moving firewood long distances can help spread harmful pests. Use only locally sourced or dead or downed firewood. Be bear aware. You are in bear country. Leave food, trash, and all items with fragrance (e.g., toothpaste, deodorant) in vehicle, bear-proof canisters, or suspended in bear bags. Do not eat in your tent. Visit the Colorado Division of Wildlife's web site for more information.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
Recent Tent Reviews near Granite, Colorado
1883 Reviews of 61 Granite Campgrounds
el barto
Traveler
Musician's Camp
Great for First-time Campers
My boyfriend and I spent our first time camping here! It was early October, we only stayed for 2 nights, and we stayed in a tent.There were other people there, but they stayed near the fire ring and slept in their cars. We wore 6-7 layers and were warm the whole night. Very quiet, very peaceful, and the town of Crested Butte is not too far away, we even caught a movie! Even in the beginning of October, not too hot but not too cold, just right. Heard coyotes at night, no cows came over to our site. Actually got a little lost/going in circles finding this campsite, but it's important to read and understand the signage to get here. Took a Honda SUV, handled the bumpy roads very well!
Lydia N.
Guide
Dispersed Camping - Turquoise Lake
Many sites and very close to town.
Stayed here multiple times, and it has been great every time! Many, many sites as you continue down the road. Road is not perfect, but even with a low clearance vehicle, it's doable if you take it slow. Not a whole ton of foliage cover so you are kind of exposed to other campsites, but not a huge deal.
- Lydia N.Guide
Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 2 West
Pretty views and conveniently close to Mt. Elbert
Very beautiful view of Mt. Elbert Forebay. Road is a bit rough in a couple of spots, but doable if you take your time, even with a small vehicle. Does fill up fairly quickly.
- Lydia N.Guide
Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping
Great spot with beautiful views and hiking opportunities!
Very pretty area with well maintained road. Comfortable distance between campsites, yet still many to choose from! Convenient hiking just down the road as well.
- ddanny H.Traveler
Salida North BLM
Nice spot to camp
Nice easy spot to camp right off of 285. The spots are small-ish. But they’re well kept. Fire ring, and picnic table. This was just a quick over night stay for us. But if you were looking for a free spot with some nice views around BV or salida. I’d recommend. Not sure how busy it gets in the “better weather”. Also there’s more spots further down the trail right off the Arkansas River they have to reserved in the BLM site though.
Connor M.Guide
Lincoln Creek Dispersed
Awesome and secluded
Very secluded, lots of dispersed spots. There's a lake with a campground and additional spots at the end of the road. This is very secluded so pack in pack out, bring everything you need because the road is very rough and requires a high clearance. Heading into town for supplies is a long drive.
No toilets obviously but the campground at the end of the road has a pit toilet.
Would stay here again, but its very busy on the weekends.
- Connor M.Guide
Portal Campground
Seclution and Tranquility along with adventure
Portal campground is a very secluded off the beaten path campground. There are number of designated camping spots on the way to the reservoir lake that include fire rings. The road is a high-clearance road that is fairly rutted out with tight turns and very small sections to pass people. I didn't see a single RV/trailer and most everyone was driving a 4Runner, Tacoma, or Jeep.
Keep in mind that the campground at Portal is 10,500 feet so if you aren't used to the altitude or familiar with altitude sickness you'll want to do a little research before camping here as it's a long bumpy drive out.
All this being said, Portal campground is a beautiful place to camp and has pit toilets available for use. We camped here in Early July and it was pretty busy but were able to snag a spot by the Lake. This is definitely worth the trip!
Paulina B.
Ranger
Kirby Gulch
Worth the Rough Drive
Kirby Gulch is a fantastic spot for anyone seeking a peaceful, off-the-grid camping experience near Grant, Colorado. Situated off Route 1038, this dispersed camping area offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching.
The campsites are well-spaced, providing plenty of privacy, and the area is generally clean, thanks to considerate campers. Since it’s a dispersed site, there are no amenities like water or toilets, so make sure to come prepared. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for accessing some of the sites, especially after rain or snow.
What makes Kirby Gulch truly special is its tranquility. You can enjoy the sound of the wind through the trees, the crisp mountain air, and dazzling stargazing at night. It’s also a great starting point for exploring nearby trails or simply soaking in the serene environment.
If you’re comfortable with primitive camping and leave-no-trace principles, Kirby Gulch is a hidden gem worth checking out.
- Paulina B.Ranger
White River National Forest Heaton Bay Campground
Lakeside Bliss at Heaton Bay
Heaton Bay Campground, located near Dillon Reservoir in Colorado, offers a stunning lakeside camping experience with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The campground is set in a picturesque location, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy water activities, hiking, and enjoying the serenity of nature.
The sites at Heaton Bay are spacious, well-maintained, and equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, providing a comfortable setting for both tent campers and RV travelers. There are flush toilets and potable water, but no hookups for RVs, so keep that in mind when planning your stay. The campground is nestled among tall pines, providing some shade and a peaceful atmosphere, though there are few trees at some sites, so be prepared for full exposure to the sun.
One of the biggest highlights of Heaton Bay is its proximity to Dillon Reservoir, where you can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The campground is also just a short drive from the popular town of Dillon and the many hiking opportunities in the area, including access to the nearby Swan Mountain Trail and many 14ers.
The only downside is that during peak summer months, the campground can be busy, as it’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends. The nights can also get chilly, so it’s essential to pack warm layers, even in the summer.
Overall, Heaton Bay Campground offers an excellent lakeside camping experience with a perfect balance of nature, water activities, and mountain views, making it an ideal spot for a Colorado getaway.
- Paulina B.Ranger
Portal Campground
Aspen Escape by the Lake
Nestled just outside of Aspen, Portal Campground offers a serene and scenic retreat in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. With its proximity to the Roaring Fork River and sweeping views of surrounding peaks, it’s a perfect spot for campers seeking both tranquility and adventure.
The campground features well-maintained sites surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, providing ample shade and privacy. Each site comes with a picnic table, fire ring, and nearby vault toilets, making it a comfortable, rustic camping experience. The sound of the river nearby adds to the peaceful atmosphere.
Portal Campground is an excellent base for exploring the Aspen area, with plenty of hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching opportunities. The famous Maroon Bells are just a short drive away, and there are several trails nearby offering breathtaking views and alpine scenery.
- Paulina B.Ranger
Forest Road 272 Dispersed Camping
Spacious Mountain Views with a Few Cow Visitors
Coordinates: 38.702830,-106.160280
This dispersed camping area offers stunning mountain views, spacious sites perfect for large groups, and easy access to excellent hiking trails. The September weather was ideal—cool and crisp without being too cold. While the site feels fairly secluded, beware of grazing cows from local ranches that wander through; be sure to secure food and belongings you don’t want damaged. Dog owners should be mindful of cleanup, as cow and dog waste can be an issue. There are two porta-potties onsite that are cleaned weekly, but campers must pack out all their trash to maintain the area’s natural beauty. Overall, it’s a fantastic spot for those looking for a peaceful escape with plenty of room to spread out.
- GGreg P.Traveler
Bear Lake Backpack Site
Belle of Colorado @ Tourquoise Lake
Originally quite nice, tent camping, clean area, nice sites, water available, bathrooms, and access to fishing. Weekends tend now to religious services... :( Been 4 times but now prefer less commercial/church interuptions. RV crud makes for noisy generators, bouncy houses, karaoke... :( Some people swim. Boating. Good perimeter trail, biking allowed.
- cchris R.Traveler
Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 2 West
Nice little spot
Drove straight to the back, not many others camping. Can hear a few cars passing in the distance and not a ton of tree coverage but a great spot nonetheless
- FFred E.Traveler
Three Rivers Resort & Outfitting
Great location with easy access fishing
Great location with full hookups for RVs. The description mentions back-in sites only, and while our electric hookup was conveniently on the same side, we had to run our water and sewage lines underneath the RV since those hookups were on the opposite side—this seems to be the case for all sites. The campground is perfectly situated at the intersection of the Gunnison, Taylor, and East Rivers, making it ideal for fly fishing. They offer cabins, RV sites, and long-term housing options. There's a small store with basic items, beer, and merchandise, plus a fly shop in the same building. There's also a restaurant, though it was closed during our stay, and coin-operated laundry facilities. Overall, a great stay!
Jordana P.Traveler
Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping
Beautiful views and great privacy
I stayed here for 1 night of car camping and will definitely go back. I only went about 4 miles in on the rocky/rutted road (vs the 5 miles that the directions say) and thought the sites were great. I stayed at a big site on the right with beautiful views and a fire ring. Aside from hearing some (maybe - not sure) coyotes at night, I wasn't aware of any other wildlife. I was in a 4Runner and my friend that I was with was driving a Highlander. As another poster commented, I saw a small sedan in one of the sites but wouldn't drive way out in anything but an SUV or truck. I have AT&T and had 2 bars of service.
Leah K.Traveler
Twin Lakes Overlook Dispersed Camping
Great Camping Spot
This was a great camping spot. There are several campsites by the water and other campsites, not by the water. The campsites are kind of close together, but not terrible. I went early on a Friday and got a beautiful spot by the water. By the end of the day, all the sites around the water were full. So if that's important to you, be sure to get there early. There were still plenty of other gorgeous campsites, not by the water available all weekend. There are also hiking trails located here. One of which is called "Interlaken Trail." It's about a 5 mile hike total and takes you to a "Ghost Resort" called "Inter-Laken" that was abandoned around WW1. You can even go inside one of the buildings, and there are Historical Marker plaques that talk about the abandoned resort. The signal is great so I had cell service and data the entire time. Highly recommend!
- eelizabeth M.
Scout
Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
Stunning views and close to town
I came on a Sunday afternoon before Columbus Day and there were plenty of spots open. Super close to town and stunning views.
Courtney D.Scout
Bruno Gulch Dispersed
Loved it!
Not super busy! Lots of open spaces when we arrived around 6pm.
ConnerGuideBoreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
<15 min from town, great views, 2WD just fine
I came in October when the aspens and birch still had some leaves . Beautiful colors on bareus pass
- ConnerGuide
Breckenridge Overlook
Sleep in car only - park on the edge of a cliff with breathtaking views
Just one mile further up the road or so you will reach Destinated camp sites which I prefer.
Although I saw 5 camp cars parked on the side of the road (this is a Monday night) facing the cliff that night and like 2 the next morning when I left for work. I was jealous a little bit of their views
Alice S.
Legend
Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 1 West
Not Bad
The road up to the campground is pretty rough for the first 100 ft or so but then it gets a lot better. Quite a bit of space but no privacy. I would definitely not suggest for large rvs. I’m in a van and didn’t have much problems at all.
- ZZu Y.Guide
Valley Mobile RV Park
Great Management campground
The host, Margaret and her husband and few others working very hard to maintains this campsite.
Shower room have heat and hot water, environments are so peacefully and pretty, shops are close by, hot springs, rafting, nearby, my favorites is cottonwood lake!
Dwight R.TravelerPennsylvania/India Creek
Hard to get to, beautiful valley
The FR611 is narrow and requires a high clearance vehicle. I had to go to 4LO multiple times. I went up Boreas Pass and turned down FR611 which made it down hill most the way. The spot it self is open enough for multiple vehicles had three old fire pits. Very pretty spot but no fall colors all pines in this valley.
- Dwight R.Traveler
Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 2 West
Late Sept Fall colors
We had a blast with this spot, arrived late at night and woke up inside an aspen grove. There is a lot of hiking trails and some cool spots to visit down by the lakes.
jsbeezgGuide
FR 48 Dispersed Camping
Road is CLOSED!
The road has been closed and there is no longer access to this camp area.
- ttommy S.Scout
Spruce Creek/Crystal Creek Designated Dispersed Camping
Autumnal leaf-peeping and star-gazing
Site 4 featured 3 well established campfire rings, one with a lean-to. The three spots are separated enough to enjoy with seclusion, also had plenty of parking. There are a number of easily accessible trails nearby. Surrounded by pines there weren't a lot of Aspens turning for the season visible from camp, but the hikes in the area led to some beautiful vistas and meadows that afforded opportunities to see seas of leaves turning. This site required AWD and good clearance to get to, but well worth it and offered a good out of the way camping experience and great star gazing opportunity as there was a new moon when we went, so saw plenty of shooting stars and the milky way!
- JJordyn B.Scout
Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping
Overall nice spots
We stayed one Saturday on Hoosier and we were able to find a spot. Not super private and lots of off leash dogs but beautiful walking trails!
Guide to Granite
Granite, Colorado, offers a variety of tent camping options that immerse you in the stunning natural beauty of the area. Whether you're looking for well-reviewed campgrounds or unique dispersed sites, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities
- Enjoy the clean and well-maintained facilities at Turtle Rock Campground, where even the pit toilets are stocked with toilet paper.
- Kite Lake provides picnic tables and fire rings, making it a great spot for cooking and gathering around the campfire.
- At North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping, you'll find spacious sites along a beautiful creek, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Tent campers like these nearby activities
- Experience fantastic hiking trails right from Portal Campground, with stunning views and access to fishing spots.
- The area around Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 2 West is ideal for exploring numerous hiking trails and enjoying the fall colors.
- For mountain biking enthusiasts, Turtle Rock Campground offers easy access to trails and great cell service for navigation.
Tips for tent camping near Granite
- Arrive early at Kite Lake to secure one of the limited official sites, especially during peak season.
- Be prepared for varying weather conditions at Granite Rock Camp, as it can get chilly at night, even in summer.
- Bring your own toilet paper and supplies when camping at North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping, as amenities can be limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Granite, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Granite, CO is Portal Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 26 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Granite, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 61 tent camping locations near Granite, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
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