Rustic camping near Hartsel, Colorado offers access to high-altitude wilderness at elevations ranging from 8,500 to 10,000 feet across the South Park basin. The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with summer days reaching the 70s while nights frequently drop into the 30s even in July. Most dispersed sites sit on decomposed granite soils that drain quickly after rain, making them suitable for camping shortly after precipitation.
What to do
Fishing at Tarryall Reservoir: Located approximately 30 minutes from Hartsel, the reservoir provides excellent fishing opportunities. "Tarryall reservoir is beautiful and a great fishing spot! If you plan to dispersed camp- get there early! The spots go fast! By Friday morning in the summer it is super slim pickings!" notes a visitor at Tarryall Creek- Dispersed Camping.
Explore rock formations: Many camping areas feature unique rock formations perfect for climbing and exploration. At Matukat Road Dispersed Camping, campers report "good hiking in the area" with "rocks behind us that are absolutely outrageous" making it ideal for families with children who "loved to climb rocks even with thin air in high altitude."
Mountain biking: The Midland Bike Trail network offers dedicated trails with mountain views. A camper noted, "Bike trails are awesome" with "half a dozen spots along the road, camping in designated sites only, gorgeous views" making it accessible for riders of various skill levels.
Wildlife viewing: The grasslands and forests around Hartsel host diverse wildlife. One camper at Matukat Road reported, "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." Others have spotted moose, minks, bighorn sheep, and foxes in the region.
What campers like
Secluded camping options: Despite popularity on weekends, many areas offer isolation during weekdays. One visitor at Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping mentioned, "We arrived late afternoon on a Sunday around 5 and had no trouble finding a private spot. The GPS coordinates do not take you to campgrounds, so don't depend on that. Just drive until you find something that's calling to you."
Varied terrain and landscapes: The region transitions from open grasslands to forested hills. A camper at Tarryall Creek- Dispersed Camping shared, "We ended up at the site with 320° view overlooking a small valley to the north and Pike's Peak to the south. It had a bit of tree coverage, but other sites had more."
Accessibility from urban centers: Most primitive camping areas near Hartsel can be reached within 2-3 hours from major cities. According to one visitor at Twin Lakes Dispersed, "Great location, 2.5hrs from Denver and about an hour from the Springs. Had great space for our setup. Only a 5-10 min drive to the state park with great fishing."
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. A camper noted, "The star gazing is great," while another mentioned camping "under the stars" as a highlight of their experience in the area.
What you should know
Seasonal insects: Mosquitoes can be problematic in certain areas during summer months. One camper at Forest Service Road 239 reported, "The mosquitoes were like the Hydra of Greek myth: kill one, 3 more will take its place. We had bug spray, a citronella candle, and a bug net around our canopy, but the mosquitoes didn't care."
Weather variability: Rapid weather changes occur frequently, especially in afternoons. A visitor described, "We dealt with some crazy wind so a fire wasn't even in question," while another mentioned, "The wind can get wild up here! Don't leave an awning out- ever and be prepared."
Cell service coverage: Mobile reception varies significantly by location and carrier. Campers report, "Intermittent AT&T service," while others note, "We had between two and three bars of Verizon service at the site but no Verizon service at the main road so it is spotty."
Site competition: Popular areas fill quickly during summer weekends and holidays. A camper observed, "Weekend crowds and recreational vehicle noise affect some locations, particularly those designated for OHV use."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible rock exploration: Several sites feature safe climbing opportunities for children. One family at Matukat Road Dispersed Camping shared, "Camped right underneath a few rocks and kid absolutely loved to climb rocks even with thin air in high altitude."
Wildlife education opportunities: The diverse animal population provides natural learning experiences. A visitor reported, "This is also where I saw my first moose, first pack of minks, big horn sheep, a fox, cool birds, etc. Can't beat it!"
Spacious sites for active children: Many areas offer ample room for play away from roads. According to a camper at Buffalo Springs Dispersed, "There are plenty of spots and plenty of distance between them," allowing children to explore safely within sight of camp.
Plan for temperature fluctuations: Pack appropriate clothing for significant day-to-night temperature changes. Temperatures can drop below 40°F overnight even in summer months, requiring warm sleeping bags and extra layers for children.
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Many access roads deteriorate after rain or with seasonal use. A visitor to North Round Mountain noted, "The road is a little rough. Lots of holes and rocks. A little tricky with a trailer but still doable."
Site selection for larger vehicles: Certain areas accommodate larger rigs better than others. One RVer at Buena Vista Overlook advised, "I would recommend a location on the left side of the road. Sites didn't seem to be marked, and I stopped a bit short of what the coordinates that are listed."
Wind protection considerations: Exposed sites can experience strong gusts. An RVer recommended, "All camping equipment (pop ups & tents) be mounted in all directions, the wind shifts direction in no time at all and rain showers occur sometimes daily but come & go."
Water management planning: With no water sources at most sites, RVers must arrive with full tanks. A visitor reported, "There is no creek running through the area so you need to have good supply of water."
