Dispersed camping near Grover, Colorado provides remote, self-contained camping opportunities throughout the Pawnee National Grasslands. The area sits at an elevation of approximately 5,000 feet, characterized by short-grass prairie with seasonal temperature extremes ranging from below freezing in winter to over 90°F in summer. Most primitive camping areas require visitors to navigate unmarked dirt roads with varied conditions depending on recent weather patterns.
What to do
Hike the grasslands: Several trails beyond the main Pawnee Buttes path offer exploration opportunities across the prairie landscape. "Easy drive to the campground area even towing a trailer. A bit dusty but at the end you can find nice grassy area. Very windy place but we were lucky to get some breaks in between," notes a visitor at Pawnee Buttes - Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide opportunities to spot pronghorn antelope grazing across the grasslands. "Cows in the distance and saw pronghorns on the way in," reports a camper at Pawnee Butte View. Binoculars are recommended for optimal wildlife viewing.
Photography: The unique geological formations and open landscapes create distinctive photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. "We camped on an overlook a quarter mile or so from the Pawnee Buttes trailhead which had beautiful, clear views of the sunrise and sunset," shares one camper who visited during winter months.
What campers like
Peaceful solitude: The remote location ensures minimal crowds, particularly during weekdays and non-summer seasons. "It's peaceful and not crowded. Be sure to check the forecast because it can get very windy at times," mentions one visitor about their experience at Pawnee Buttes - Dispersed Camping.
Stargazing opportunities: Limited light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. "Flat spots, great views, felt safe, nice and quiet. Great place to star gaze on clear nights. Bugs not bad," reports one camper.
Unique landscape: The contrasting geological features provide distinctive scenery different from mountainous Colorado camping. "This is an unexpected gem very close to our house where you can't see a tree for miles," notes a local visitor who frequently camps in the area.
What you should know
Weather challenges: Wind represents the most significant factor affecting camping comfort. "Plenty of dispersed sites; we camped on an overlook a quarter mile or so from the Pawnee Buttes trailhead. The only negative was wind. You have to drive for several miles on some bumpy roads, but my Ford transit handled it fine," reports a visitor who camped in the area.
Road conditions: Access roads vary in quality but many remain passable for standard vehicles. "The roads coming in are well maintained due to all of the oil rigs that are coming in and out," notes a camper at Pawnee Butte View.
Limited facilities: Come prepared with all supplies. "Long way to anything including gas, so fill up and bring your own water. Bugs are minimal probably due to the ever present wind," advises a camper who stayed in the area during holiday periods.
Seasonal closures: Certain areas implement restricted access during portions of the year. "Not really much of a camping area and when you arrive there's a large sign that says 'NO OHV USE APRIL-NOVEMBER'," warns a visitor to Main Draw OHV Area.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for wind protection: Structure your campsite to create wind breaks for cooking and gathering areas. "It can probably be done in and 1h to 1.30h," notes a camper regarding hiking times for families visiting the buttes.
Water activities nearby: Supplement primitive camping with day trips to developed recreation areas. "Between the serenity, lack of bears, ease of access to water activities at the local State Park. This has been my favorite find so far!" shares a camper at Pawnee Butte View.
Bring shade structures: The grasslands offer minimal natural shade. "No trees obviously because of the grassland, so no shade or wind protection. Wasn't very cold or super windy when we visited in July," advises a summer visitor.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance considerations: While many roads are passable, some sections require careful navigation. "It's a bit of a drive out here over some iffy gravel and dirt roads. Was worried about bringing my 25 foot Jayco out here as it's a standard unit. Pulled it with a one ton Ford 2 wheel van. Some steep inclines in, but did just fine," reports an RVer who visited Pawnee Butte View.
Check accessibility before traveling: Some primitive camping areas have unexpected closures or restrictions. "Husband and I drove out of the way to stay here, and when we arrived, there was a barbed wire fence up and a notice stating it was closed until November 2026. We have a 38' TT, so trying to turn around on this road was impossible," warns a visitor to Weld Road 49 Dispersed Camping.
Wind protection for RVs: Position larger vehicles to create wind breaks for outdoor living spaces. "We came at the tail end of January to test out our new Airstream. It was very nice and secluded but REALLY windy. Wind was fine in the trailer but would be awful to tent camp this time of year," advises a winter visitor.
