Dispersed camping areas near Greeley, Colorado extend into the Roosevelt and Arapaho National Forests, with multiple sites situated along flowing creeks and mountain terrain. Most sites are accessible from May through October, with July and August offering the most reliable conditions. Winter camping is possible at lower elevations, though unpredictable snowfall can block access roads even in early spring.
What to do
Hiking trails access: At Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping, campsites connect directly to a network of hiking paths. "This camping is spread along a hiking trail that follows the St. Vrain river. In order to get to the camp spots you have to park in the parking lot and then walk over a bridge and about a .25 mile down the trail until you hit the first camping spot," notes Stephanie R.
Creek fishing: Several sites provide creek access for fishing. At Ceran St. Vrain, one camper reports, "caught lots of trout (none big enough to keep)." Sites located near water typically fill first, especially during summer months.
Night sky observation: The Pawnee Buttes area offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. "This area is also a 'dark site,' so on clear, moonless nights the stars/Milky Way are phenomenal," reports one visitor. The open grassland terrain provides unobstructed horizon views with minimal light pollution.
What campers like
Creek sound: Allenspark Dispersed Camping provides sites near flowing water. "Good whitenoise from the creek," notes Kevin F., while another camper mentions the "quick and easy get away" aspect of these locations.
Wildlife encounters: Animal sightings are common across the dispersed camping areas. At Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, visitors report: "Lots of chipmunks and hummingbirds due to the many wild flowers," and "Moose visitors at dawn and evening" according to different campers.
Solitude options: The camping areas vary in privacy levels. "The camp spots are pretty spread apart. They are set up along the river with fire pits and plenty of trees around," mentions a Ceran St. Vrain camper. However, another notes, "in the early morning when hikers start coming in it can get pretty loud."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many sites require navigating rough terrain. At Hell Canyon Dispersed, "Road up is a bit rough but I saw many SUVs make it, the gate sign recommends 4x4," says Jon S. Another camper warns: "My 2wd van made it up a little but I couldn't get passed one of the big hills."
Seasonal closures and restrictions: Some areas close entirely during certain periods. At Weld Road 49 dispersed camping, campers report finding "a barbed wire fence up and a notice stating it was closed until November 2026." Always check current status before traveling.
Private property boundaries: Several camping areas border private land with strict access limitations. At Gold Lake, a visitor notes: "The owners of the lake have cameras on all sides but there was one section left open for shores access but no swimming, fishing, or use of the lake itself."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection timing: Arrive early to secure the most suitable spots. "If you can get there early, definitely do so. Not all campgrounds are really that flat but it's free," advises one camper about Gordon Gulch. Weekends fill quickly, particularly at sites closest to Greeley.
Wildlife precautions: Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed campers report: "Lots of wildlife; squirrels, rabbits, and a moose that walked right by our campsite." Some areas have more concerning wildlife encounters: "We yelled and made a lot of racket but it didn't phase the lion," reports a camper who encountered a mountain lion at Ceran St. Vrain.
Weather preparation: Wind affects camping comfort significantly at open sites. At Pawnee Buttes - Dispersed Camping, a visitor warns: "Very windy area but nice enough for a quick stop driving though." Another notes: "The wind rocked the car most of the night. It wasn't an issue for us sleeping in the car, but I wouldn't tent camp."
Tips from RVers
Turnaround space: Several free camping areas near Greeley have limited space for larger vehicles to maneuver. "Husband and I drove out of the way to stay here, and when we arrived, there was a barbed wire fence up. We have a 38' TT, so trying to turn around on this road was impossible," cautions an RVer about Weld Road 49.
Site sizing limitations: Most sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At Hell Canyon, a camper notes: "The road was a little rough for a pop up camper. More for tents." For those with larger setups, Beaver Park Reservoir offers "several good sized RV spots. We have a 25 foot camper and feet nicely in."
Limited amenities: Free camping near Greeley means preparing for self-sufficient camping. No hookups, water sources, or dump stations exist at any dispersed sites. All water must be carried in, and waste packed out.
