Best Dispersed Camping near Grover, CO
Dispersed camping near Grover, Colorado centers around the Pawnee Buttes area within the Pawnee National Grasslands, where free primitive sites are available for self-contained camping. The main camping areas include Pawnee Buttes Dispersed Camping and Pawnee Butte View, both offering access to public lands without developed facilities. These grassland sites provide open spaces for both tent and RV camping, with most sites situated along gravel roads leading to the Pawnee Buttes trailhead. Camping is restricted to established pull-offs within 300 feet of designated roads.
Access requires navigation across gravel and dirt roads that can be challenging but remain passable for most vehicles in dry conditions. Many visitors report that roads are well-maintained due to oil and gas operations in the area, though some sections have deep ruts that may challenge larger RVs or trailers. No drinking water is available, and campers must pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Vault toilets can be found at the Pawnee Buttes trailhead parking area, but no other facilities exist. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with some areas permitting campfires in existing fire rings while others prohibit fires entirely.
The camping experience features wide-open grassland views with the distinctive Pawnee Buttes formations providing scenic backdrops. "Spectacular view of the Pawnee Buttes to the east. Perfect spot to catch sunrise and sunset," noted one visitor. The area is known for its night sky viewing opportunities, with minimal light pollution making it ideal for stargazing. Cell service is generally available but varies by location and carrier. Weather conditions can be extreme, with persistent winds being the most commonly reported challenge. According to another camper, "It was very windy, especially at night (the wind rocked the car most of the night)." Wildlife sightings typically include pronghorn antelope and cattle, which graze throughout the area and may approach campsites.
