Dispersed camping near Gunnison National Forest offers remote sites across diverse terrains from 7,000 to 11,000 feet elevation. Most sites experience rapid temperature shifts, with overnight lows frequently dropping below 40°F even in summer months. Camping opportunities range from accessible low-clearance sites to remote locations requiring significant off-road capability, with many areas becoming impassable during spring snowmelt through mid-June.
What to do
Fishing at surrounding lakes: Several dispersed camping areas provide direct access to fishing. At Twin Lake Dispersed Area, one visitor noted, "only other people were a few people fishing during the day. Great spot but road to campsite is long and bumpy."
Mountain biking on forest roads: The extensive network of roads throughout Washington Gulch - Dispersed Camping provides excellent biking opportunities. "We got their around 8 and it took us awhile to find a spot in a truck but we eventually did an was worth it. When it's not a busy time of the year you can find some amazing spots out here."
Wildlife observation: Many camping areas offer opportunities to view local wildlife. A camper at Four Mile Road Dispersed reported, "Heavy wildlife area, had a fox come right up to my car as I was making coffee. Only 30 minutes from Glenwood Springs."
What campers like
Isolation from neighboring sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy available at dispersed sites. At Four Mile Road Dispersed, one visitor mentioned, "The sites were beautiful and well separated. Would highly recommend."
Access to water features: Proximity to streams and lakes ranks high among camper preferences. At Overland Reservoir (Dispersed)-Paonia RD, a camper described, "This last minute find at the very end of May was definitely worth the long gravel road to get there... We went fishing & caught a few small trout and enjoyed the breeze over the water."
Free camping options: The abundance of no-cost sites attracts many visitors. At Black Canyon Dispersed Camping, a reviewer noted, "There is a lot of open space here, but it does fill up fast and several of the deeper paths aren't specifically marked and can be hard to find when camper vans and sprinter vans block the line of sight to them."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. For Lincoln Creek Dispersed Campground, a camper warned, "I would give this 5 stars, but it is very hard to access and the road it very scary in places. However, it is so gorgeous!"
Seasonal access limitations: Most higher elevation sites remain inaccessible until late spring. A camper at Washington Gulch noted, "Chilly nights and nice days. Incredible views!"
Limited facilities: Even sites with minimal amenities require preparation. At Overland Reservoir, a visitor shared, "Bring bug spray as the mosquitoes are pretty bad here."
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with natural features: Children often enjoy camping areas with streams or rocks to explore. At Twin Lake Dispersed Area, one visitor shared, "Make sure to bring your paddle board or fishing pole. Super quiet spot."
Select areas with vault toilets: Some dispersed areas do offer basic facilities. A visitor to Black Canyon Dispersed Camping remarked, "This is a really pretty campground near Montrose and Black Canyon NP entrance. We are in a Honda accord and didn't have trouble accessing the first front sites."
Be prepared for wildlife encounters: Family campers should know how to properly handle food. A Four Mile Road Dispersed camper reported, "This is all primitive camping and heavily used by 4x4 ATVs. There are no facilities ie: Toilets, power, water or fire pits."
Tips from RVers
Scout ahead for suitable pull-in spots: Many free camping areas near Gunnison National Forest have limited turnaround space. At Coal Creek Road Disbursed Camping, a visitor noted, "At the end of the paved road there is room to turn around if you don't find a suitable spot for the night."
Arrive early during peak seasons: RV-compatible sites fill quickly in summer months. A Lincoln Creek camper advised, "We initially tried to get one of the spots along the creek before the reservoir but had no success (late on a Friday afternoon, to be expected!)."
Consider length restrictions: Many forest roads narrow significantly after the first few sites. A Four Mile Road Dispersed camper mentioned, "You have to go a long way up and down Country Road 117 before you start seeing campsites. They're there. Look for a reasonably flat space and maybe a campfire ring."
