Pike National Forest covers over 1 million acres near Green Mountain Falls, Colorado, with elevations ranging from 6,000 to 14,000 feet. The region experiences afternoon thunderstorms during summer months and significant snowfall from October through May. Dispersed camping sites in this area typically require preparation for temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night.
What to do
Rock climbing adventures: The Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites offer access to numerous rock formations. "The drive to the campsites was amazing. We got there around 6:30 so the sun was coming through the trees and creating a warm golden light... The tunnels were also super cool to go under," notes Jayden W.
Fishing opportunities: Some tent campsites near Green Mountain Falls provide fishing access, particularly near water features. "Lone Duck also had a small pond/lake to fish in," reports Amanda M., who stayed at one of the developed campgrounds nearby.
Wildlife observation: Early morning and dusk offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities. At the Matukat Road Dispersed Camping area, campers report seeing diverse wildlife. "Livestock do graze in the area, we saw a herd of cows that initially we thought were bears so we had a split second of worry before realizing what they were," shares John M.
What campers like
Solitude and space: Many primitive campsites allow for distance between campers. "Matukat rd dispersed - nr Lake George. People seem to really like it yet it's incredibly quiet. No OHVs, no gunfire - so refreshing," writes Chris P. The sites "are open and spaced out from one another."
Natural features: Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide offers unique landscape elements. "We found a great little campsite and had a fox as a neighbor!" shares Amanda D. Another camper, Lily R., notes, "Tons of level, large spots. Road is meant for ATV use, and was a fair amount of traffic throughout the day but tolerable."
Accessibility options: Tent campsites near Green Mountain Falls range from easy access to more remote. "All in all, it was a good site. Flying insects caused some grumpy people," reports John T. about Pike National Forest Divide camping areas, indicating that even accessible sites have their challenges.
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access to many dispersed sites requires careful driving. At Rampart Range Area Dispersed Campsite, a camper advises, "We were going from direction Divide town using provided coordinates. All went fine until we ended up in a dead end road with private residence... Hence, make sure you follow the 'Rampart Range Road Reservoir' to get there."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "During summer months, fire restrictions are common due to wildfire danger in Colorado's forests," and "We ended up at the top of the mountain and the view is gorgeous. Gets a bit windy and definitely colder," warns Seanna M.
Limited amenities: Most dispersed tent camping near Green Mountain Falls requires self-sufficiency. "Since these sites are dispersed camping, don't expect any toilets or amenities. Some spots did have pre-made (from campers before) fire pits," explains Charles G. about Matukat Road.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with activities: Some areas offer more family-friendly features. The Mt. Herman Road Dispersed Site 2 provides "endless sites on this road. If you feel like spending some time searching you are bound to find the perfect site," according to Alyson M.
Safety considerations: Families should be aware of wildlife and terrain. "Plenty of exploring and climbing around," notes Chelsie B. who camped at Matukat Road, but adds "cattle roam freely throughout the property and you can hear coyotes at dusk and dawn."
Plan for temperature changes: Mountain weather affects children more quickly than adults. "The area is cool and we enjoyed going up to Pike's Peak," shares one camper. Always pack extra layers, especially for evenings when temperatures drop significantly.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all roads accommodate RVs. "Red Canyon Park was absolutely beautiful! Campsites were very spread out, and I barely saw anyone drive by the whole time," shares Emily, but cautions, "Once you're there, there's a long dirt road to the sites that's pretty rocky."
Leveling challenges: Many dispersed sites have uneven terrain. "We drove a couple of miles up the decently maintained dirt road and found the second dispersed camping spot and decided to set up our roof top tent for the night," writes Charles G., noting that "2-wheel drive was more than enough to get us to our spot nestled in the rocks."
Seasonal access limitations: Snow and rain can make roads impassable for heavier vehicles. "The road getting in was doable. We didn't need to engage the four-wheel-drive so the only thing I would advise is you need some reasonable clearance to get all the way back in here," advises a camper at Matukat Road.
