Best Tent Camping near Gypsum, CO

White River National Forest surrounding Gypsum, Colorado offers numerous primitive tent camping opportunities with varying levels of accessibility and amenities. Bellyache Road provides dispersed tent campsites in forested settings with established fire rings but minimal facilities. Blue Lake Camp, located in the Castle Peak Wilderness Study Area, features walk-in tent sites around a serene glacial lake. The Eagle-Holy Cross Ranger District manages several tent-only areas with both drive-in and walk-in access options. Most sites are situated within 15-30 miles of Gypsum, providing tent campers with mountain views and access to hiking trails.

Most tent campgrounds in the region require campers to be self-sufficient with supplies. Sites typically feature dirt or forest duff surfaces with minimal grading, and many lack potable water sources. Fire rings are common at established sites, though seasonal fire restrictions may apply, particularly during dry summer months. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing many of the dispersed tent camping areas, especially at Blue Lake Camp where deep ruts make the road challenging. Vault toilets are available at some locations like Halfmoon Campground, but most primitive tent sites require campers to pack out all waste and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Tent campers frequently report excellent stargazing opportunities at higher elevation sites. According to one visitor at Blue Lake Camp, "In the summer you are likely to be sharing the lake with another group or two, but it is never crowded. I have spent weekends here throughout the fall and had the place all to myself." Weekday camping typically offers more solitude than weekends. Temperature variations can be significant, with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 30s even during summer months at higher elevations. Wildlife sightings are common, with proper food storage essential for backcountry tent camping. Many sites serve as excellent basecamps for day hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in the surrounding wilderness areas.

Best Tent Sites Near Gypsum, Colorado (45)

    1. Bellyache Road

    6 Reviews
    Eagle, CO
    8 miles

    "Got in late and found a spot on a busy holiday weekend, it was forested with a good rock fire ring but some trash left over. Felt secluded enough but had hiking trails around. Saw a few other cars."

    "Camp sites here are not well defined (look for fire rings). The trail is heavily rutted, and if it just rained gets incredibly muddy."

    2. Upper Colorado Rec Area

    3 Reviews
    Gypsum, CO
    9 miles
    Website

    "You can also pay to camp ($6 per site/vehicle) at the Radium Recreation Site which offers a more developed campground with the usual tent pads, picnic tables, fire pits and decently clean toilets."

    "The views on the drive are SPECTACULAR! We found a great meadowy spot with a fire pit. It was peaceful and the view was awesome."

    3. Blue Lake Camp

    4 Reviews
    Eagle, CO
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 876-9000

    "Blue Lake is by far one of the most serene glacial lakes in the area and offers multiple primitive camp sites designated by fire rings."

    4. SE Flat Tops Area

    1 Review
    Glenwood Springs, CO
    18 miles

    "We entered through the White Mountain National Forest off-road areas. You can camp anywhere you’d like, though there are no electrical or plumbing hook-ups."

    5. Red Sandstone - Primitive Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Vail, CO
    30 miles
    Website

    "You can drive or walk down a mile which leads to a trail to Lost Lake, which you can swim in. It was definitely buggy, got my fair share of mosquito bites, so I recommend bug spray."

    "The campsites are decently spaced out but not the place to go if you don’t want neighbors, I chose the only single site I could find but could still hear dogs barking and music in the distance(to be fair"

    6. Cottonwood Site

    Be the first to review!
    Gypsum, CO
    9 miles
    +1 (970) 876-9000

    7. Halfmoon Campground

    8 Reviews
    Red Cliff, CO
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 945-2521

    "Halfmoon Campground is located at the end of Notch Mountain Rd (forest Rd 707) near Minturn, CO in White River National Forest."

    "during the week very few camper, campfires allowed. water. no electricity. it was wonderful. no rain, great stars"

    8. Eagle-Holy Cross Ranger District (Vail-Eagle area)

    4 Reviews
    Avon, CO
    26 miles

    "**Campground Review: **

    As an adventurer in Colorado, I often find myself driving down I-70 and over the Vail Pass."

    "Great area, be prepared for weather and elevation gain."

    9. Lower Prince Creek Campground

    2 Reviews
    Carbondale, CO
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 876-9000

    "This is a BLM site with five primitive camping sites available. However there is a bathroom. I didn't locate any potable water spigots."

    10. Portal Campground

    27 Reviews
    Aspen, CO
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 925-3445

    "We stayed here for most of our camping trip to Colorado and loved it! It's easily the most beautiful campground we've stayed at. There's only ~5 sites, each with a picnic table and fire ring."

    "This was a stunning campground tucked away high up in the mountains on Independence pass."

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Tent Camping Reviews near Gypsum, CO

1445 Reviews of 45 Gypsum Campgrounds



Guide to Gypsum

Tent camping near Gypsum, Colorado offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying stunning mountain views and a variety of outdoor activities.

Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $6

  • At the Upper Colorado Rec Area, you can find primitive dispersed campsites for free or opt for a more developed campground for just $6 per site.
  • The Blue Lake Camp offers free camping with multiple primitive sites, perfect for those looking to enjoy a serene glacial lake experience.
  • For a unique experience, the State Bridge area provides a great spot to camp after attending concerts, with no fees involved.

Local activities to enjoy while tent camping

  • The Upper Colorado Rec Area is ideal for river activities, including rafting and soaking in nearby hot springs.
  • At Bellyache Road, you can explore rugged trails and take in breathtaking views, especially if you're lucky enough to catch the northern lights.
  • The Lower Prince Creek Campground is surrounded by excellent hiking and biking trails, making it a great base for outdoor adventures.

Tips for tent camping near Gypsum

  • When heading to Bellyache Road, a high-clearance vehicle is recommended due to the rutted roads, especially after rain.
  • Be prepared for a lack of amenities at Blue Lake Camp, as it offers no toilets or trash services, so pack out what you bring in.
  • If you're looking for a peaceful spot, consider the SE Flat Tops Area, where you can camp anywhere you like and enjoy stunning starry nights away from cell service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Gypsum, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Gypsum, CO is Bellyache Road with a 3.8-star rating from 6 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Gypsum, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 45 tent camping locations near Gypsum, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.