Tent sites near Greeley range from open meadows to forested settings at elevations between 5,000-8,000 feet across the Roosevelt National Forest. Most dispersed camping areas west of Greeley remain accessible from May through October, with summer thunderstorms common during July and August afternoons. Weekdays typically offer greater site availability compared to the crowded weekend conditions.
What to do
Paddleboarding on Horsetooth Reservoir: From the Backcountry Campground at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, campers access water recreation activities. "If you are okay for a little bit of a hike up the mountain I grantee you will not regret the views you get of the beautiful town of fort Collins. Great sunrises and away from traffic noise," notes camper Alyssa E.
Hiking to panoramic views: The trails from tent sites provide views across multiple terrain types. One camper at Horsetooth noted, "This backcountry site is a hidden gem just off of the commonly used Horsetooth Rock trail. Awesome panoramic views and plenty of wildlife."
Overnight backpacking trips: Lory State Park Backcountry offers shorter backpacking options suitable for beginners. "We did a quick overnight backpacking trip to one of the backcountry sites at the top of the Timber trail. It's a beautiful meadow with wildflowers in the summer. A relatively short hike in with multiple routes so good for a quick trip or with kids," reports Becky M.
What campers like
Creek-side campsites: At Allenspark Dispersed Camping, water features enhance the experience. "Most spots sit on a creek that gives a good ambiance. Few spots need 4x4 or really good tires, but there's a spot for everyone. Clear skies at night, but tree cover if you prefer," explains Marcos D.R.
Midweek solitude: Visiting during non-peak days dramatically improves the camping experience. At Winiger Ridge, one camper observed, "We tried to drive in Friday night and all the campsites were full so some kind people let us share theirs. I'd suggest getting their early to get a good spot!"
Secluded forest settings: Many tent campers value privacy at their sites. A visitor to Dream Canyon Campsites reported, "We camped a very short walk from the parking lot. Amazing camp site with not many people around."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. At Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, a camper advised, "Recommend a 4-wheel drive vehicle to reach some of the spots, especially if there is poor weather."
Seasonal wildlife activity: Bear encounters occur regularly at sites near Greeley. One camper at Allenspark Dispersed Camping reported, "The second day staying there we ran into a bear and scared him off. Two hours later he can back and we scared him off again. He's afraid of humans but he did try to get into the car while we were sleeping."
Construction impacts: Some campsites experience temporary noise disturbances. A visitor to Winiger Ridge observed, "We camped Sunday night and there is a Mine or Quarry on the other side of the 'lake' and they worked non stop for 24 hours, which means non stop noise."
Early arrival necessity: Competition for prime tent sites intensifies on weekends. "This dispersed site is pretty and is close to the highway, the road seemed a little sketchy in the snow but my RAV4 AWD made it just fine to most of the sites," noted a Gordon Gulch camper.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Choose sites with shorter access trails for first-time family backpacking. At Lory State Park, "At night, you've basically got the park to yourself because it closes at dark to all other users. We hiked to the top of Arthur's rock to watch the supermoon rise and it was pretty special!"
Site spacing considerations: At Hermits Hollow Campground, one visitor noted, "Sites have fire rings. Nice, spaced out campsites. Campsites average prices, but they add an entrance fee to the park for each day on top of the fee."
Weather preparation: Summer afternoon thunderstorms commonly occur in the mountains west of Greeley. A visitor to Hermits Hollow advised, "Each campsite had a bear box, picnic table, and fire ring. There are plenty of trees for shade and some privacy, but you are still near other campers."
Food storage requirements: Bear activity necessitates proper precautions with food items. One camper at Hermits Hollow explained, "The park provides every spot with a table, fire ring and bear box. The bear box is for more than just food. If you have anything that smells good, the animals (not just bears) WILL try to get into your vehicle to steal it. Sprays, lotions, deodorants… etc."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Most dispersed camping areas have restricted access for larger vehicles. At Boat In Sites at Horsetooth Reservoir, RV access is limited, but the sites offer unique advantages: "We took up 3 spots for a large family. It was the best time we had all in 2020 during the pandemic. There was a toilet of sorts, but due to the pandemic and it being boat-in spots, was not well maintained."
Roadway challenges: High-clearance vehicles prove necessary for many tent camping areas near Greeley. A visitor to Winiger Ridge noted, "All-wheel drive and higher clearance car helped getting in, as the road is pretty bumpy. Stayed in the last park-in campsite. Had to hike in to the lake, but was much easier that bringing in camping gear to the lake-side campsites."
Alternative parking approaches: When RV access is restricted, consider alternative transportation methods. At Gordon Gulch, a reviewer recommended, "This is right next to 72, so traffic sounds, and there's 4 wheelers and dirts bikes, so not exactly quiet. I will only stay the one night, too loud for me."
