Best Tent Camping near Heeney, CO
Looking for the best tent campgrounds near Heeney? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Heeney. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Heeney campsites are perfect for tent campers.
Best Tent Sites Near Heeney, Colorado (95)
1. Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
37 Reviews•102 Photos•2100 SavesBlue River, ColoradoThis designated dispersed camping area along County Road 10 has 23 sites.
**Please note: Camping is ONLY allowed in areas designated by a sign. ** Camping in undesignated spots could result in a citation from the U.S. Forest Service. Not adhering to camping duration maximums or using U.S. Forest land for residential purposes could result in a citation from the U.S. Forest Service.
Please refer to special orders and contact the USFS Offices with questions: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd842796.pdf
Regulations pertaining to designated dispersed camping are as follows:
Camp only in designated sites.
No camping at trailheads.
Food and garbage must be properly secured in bear-resistant containers or inside vehicles in sealed containers.
Pack out all waste: human, garbage, paper, organics, etc.
There are many dispersed camping opportunities in the forest ranging from backpacking to car-camping along designated Forest Roads. Visitors are encouraged to minimize resource impacts by utilizing established sites rather than creating new ones. Dispersed camping sites along Forest Roads are shown on Motor Vehicle Use Maps, which are available free of charge at ranger district offices.At the start of the tour you immediately have spectacular views of the Blue River Valley and the majestic Tenmile Range. The road, managed by Summit County, follows the old South Park and Pacific Railroad bed, climbing on a gradual 3% grade. The road climbs past Bakers Tank to the summit of Boreas Pass at the Continental Divide. The road then continues down the other side of Boreas Pass for another 10.4 miles to the town of Como in Park County. From 1872 to 1938 the road was used as a narrow-gauge railroad and gained fame as the nation’s highest narrow-gauge railroad, running from Como to Breckenridge. This is a great road to view Fall colors. This road is open to highway legal vehicles only during May-October, and closed to motorized vehicle access seasonally at Summit County discretion, generally October to May.
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- Fires
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- Dispersed
2. Red Sandstone - Primitive Dispersed
11 Reviews•27 Photos•611 SavesVail, ColoradoThere are many dispersed camping opportunities on the forest ranging from backpacking to car-camping along designated Forest Roads. Visitors are encouraged to minimize resource impacts by utilizing established sites rather than creating new ones. Dispersed camping sites along Forest Roads are shown on Motor Vehicle Use Maps, which are available free of charge at ranger district offices. Visitors are permitted to drive vehicles up to 300 feet from designated routes for purposes of dispersed camping as long as no resource damage is incurred in the process. Dispersed camping within 100 feet of lakes, streams, and forest system trails is prohibited unless otherwise designated. Campers may stay for a maximum of 14 days. Some areas may have additional special restrictions. This dirt road begins at the paved Red Sandstone Road near Vail and ends at either Piney Lake or Hwy 131 north of Wolcott: This road gets heavy vehicle traffic and also a fair number of mountain bike riders, so please share the road. The climb is gradual and steady, and all but the very lowest of passenger cars can handle this relatively easy dirt road. The road winds its way up along Red Sandstone Creek and then Indian Creek with occasional views south over Vail Mountain, before reaching its high point near the trailhead for Lost Lake Trail. Here you can choose to head west toward Muddy Pass and Hwy 131, or head toward Piney Lake as your destination. Enjoy the peace and beauty here or take a hike up the Upper Piney River Trail, but remember that the lake is surrounded by the Eagles Nest Wilderness and is closed to bikes.
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
3. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
49 Reviews•96 Photos•1332 SavesNederland, ColoradoFive miles north of Nederland, National Forest System Road (NFSR) 226, commonly known as Gordon Gulch, turns east off of Colorado Highway 72. NFSR 226 intersects other forest roads: NFSR 314, 228, 233 and their off-shoots. There are 15 numbered, designated campsites scattered along the road system within 1.5 miles east of Highway 72. Camping is permitted in designated sites only. Take care when driving in this area. Snow and mud can persist through most of the year. The free Boulder Ranger District Motor Vehicle Use Map displays National Forest System (NFS) routes open to motorized travel and is available online and at the Boulder Ranger District offfice.
Streams; treat water for drinking.
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
4. Cataract Creek Campground
4 Reviews•10 Photos•169 SavesHeeney, ColoradoThis small campground with 5 campsites is located in the Cataract Creek drainage just above Green Mountain Reservoir. There are many trails in the area that access the Eagles Nest Wilderness.
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
- Picnic Table
5. Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping
15 Reviews•57 Photos•1206 SavesEmpire, Colorado- Pets
- Phone Service
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- Dispersed
- Alcohol
6. Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail
15 Reviews•64 Photos•1035 SavesEmpire, ColoradoDispersed Camping information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd577265.pdf
With a few exceptions, dispersed camping is allowed on national forest public lands. Camping in the national forest at one location is limited to 14 consecutive days. The campsite must then be moved a minimum of three miles. Camping can then continue for an additional 14 days. Camping is restricted to a maximum of 28 days in any 60-day period.
More than 40% of lands within the Arapaho National Forest boundary are private or otherwise owned. A map showing land ownership is recommended. It is YOUR responsibility to know if you are on private, city, county, state, national park or national forest land.
Pack out all trash. There are no services.
Practice Leave No Trace ethics
- Pets
- Fires
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
7. Stillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite
14 Reviews•47 Photos•675 SavesGrand Lake, ColoradoFree camping (dispersed) is allowed on most national forest lands except in highly developed areas - such as trailheads, campgrounds and picnic sites - and in some of our most visited places. Be sure to check for regulations in advance and look for signs in the area to indicate if camping is allowed.
Some areas allow camping in designated sites only.
Know Before You Go
Check the weather and road closures before heading up. Follow Leave No Trace principles. There are no facilities or trash receptacles. Pack out what you pack in. Make sure camping is allowed. Many lands within the national forest boundary are private or otherwise owned. Check that you’re on National Forest lands: maps. Don't stay too long. Camping is limited to 14 days.within any continuous 30-day period. at any location within the same 20-mile radius. see Order Plan on building a campfire? Campfire restrictions can occur any time of year. Check for fire restrictions and if you build a campfire, know how to extinguish it.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
8. Peru Creek Designated Dispersed Camping
12 Reviews•36 Photos•1183 SavesMontezuma, ColoradoPLEASE NOTE: The water here contains heavy metals giving the water a distint blue/white color. People and pets should not drink from this water.
Please bring in drinking water
There are currently thirty designated sites with anticipation of adding more in the coming years. Please note that this area is surrounded by private land parcels and they aren't all marked. Campers must camp at a designated site or will otherwise likely be camping on private property.
Peru Creek is popular and will fill up on the weekends. Visitors should arrive early to make sure to get a site. The road can be narrow at times but is accessible to normal clearance vehicles. Low-clearance vehicles may have a hard time. Peru Creek Road is a popular place for OHV rentals to visit so drive slow and carefully. AT&T cell service is intermittent at the lower sites (1-8).
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- Group
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
9. Halfmoon Campground
8 Reviews•29 Photos•247 SavesRed Cliff, ColoradoBear activity has been increasing. For this reason a food storage order is in effect at all developed campgrounds on the Eagle/Holy Cross Ranger District, and the Piney Gaurd Station, Tigiwon Lodge, Mount of the Holy Cross Overlook, Homestake Road FSR 703, and Nolan Creek Road. This order requires all food and refuse to be stored in hard-sided vehicles, approved bear-resistant containers, or supended at least 10 feet clear of the ground at all points and four feet horizontally from any supporting tree or pole. This order has been issued to provide for public safety and wildlife conservation. Hopefully it will reduce wildlife habituation problems. The Halfmoon Campground is located at the top of Tigiwon Road #707 near the boundary for the Holy Cross Wilderness in a forested setting; all wilderness regulationsmust be observed when traveling in the wilderness (foot and horse travel only). This campground is located at the trailheads for several hiking trails and is heavily used by hikers who are climbing Mount of the Holy Cross. Due to the nature of the Forest Road to the campground and the short parking spurs within the campground, the Halfmoon Campground is not suitable for most RVs. There is a printable Recreation Quicksheet for this campground which is complete with directions, details, and other information about this campground.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
10. Eagle-Holy Cross Ranger District (Vail-Eagle area)
4 Reviews•11 Photos•192 SavesAvon, ColoradoThe Eagle-Holy Cross Ranger District lies between the Gore Range, the Sawatch Range, and the Flat Tops, and includes the forest areas surrounding the towns of Vail, Avon, Red Cliff, Eagle, Gypsum, and Dotsero. Recreation opportunities abound on the Eagle-Holy Cross Ranger District. View Eagle-Holy Cross Ranger District Recreation Quicksheets for downloadable Recreation Opportunity Guides, maps and other information. See below for information on recreation activities of all sorts.
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- Phone Service
- ADA Access
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- Group
Recent Tent Reviews near Heeney, Colorado
2030 Reviews of 95 Heeney Campgrounds
- Lyle R.
Scout
Gore Creek Campground
Great campground close to vail
Stayed at the tent camp site. Very nice. Close to the bike trail which was nice, rode up to vail pass. Beautiful. There is some noise from the freeway but if you are closer to the river it shouldn't be too bad. The tent sites are hike in but it is not far to walk.
Mackenzie B.
Guide
White River National Forest Heaton Bay Campground
360 view right on the lake!
- 14 day/night stay max.
- $24 a night for tent or RV camping (there are way more hook-up sites over tent sites. Loop D is one of the two options for tent camping and I highly recommend any of the sites in that loop.)
Bring your fishing pole, SUP, kayak, or hammock to hang out by the lake. This is my favorite campground in Colorado for the accessibility to the lake and town nearby.
- CCheryl S.
Traveler
Glacier Basin Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park
Great Campground
This Rocky Mountain National Park campground is fantastic. I tent camped with my husband for 3 nights in Loop B. We saw tents and all sizes of campers many with families. Our tent site included a nice tent pad, picnic table, fire ring, and a shared bear box. The fire ban had been lifted and we could buy fire wood each evening-and ice cream! Clean bathrooms with flush toilets. This campground is very close to a number of trails. We hiked the Sprague Lake Trail. It’s 2 miles round trip and pretty easy. Breathtaking views. If you don’t hike, you can drive all the way to the Trail Ridge gift shop and cafe at the top. This park fills up quickly-amost 3 million visitors a year-so plan to get started early. We love RMNP. We will be back this fall!
- Elyssa R.Scout
Arapaho National Forest Stillwater Campground
fantastic views
I stayed here in 2016 on a bicycle tour across America. It featured some fantastic views of the nearby lake and mountains and had very clean facilities. Only problem, from a camping in a tent perspective, is due to its location if a storm rolls in the wind can really hit from every angle. Otherwise the price is very reasonable.
Two SnoopsGuide
Kelly Dahl
Very open
Very open campground, we camped in a tent but probably better for an rv
Crystal C.
Legend
Meeker Park Overflow Campground
No Frills First Come First Serve Alternative For RMNP
When traveling in this area and looking to explore Rocky Mountain National Park or the surrounding areas finding camping ahead of time is very important. During summer months campground fill quickly and overflow camps like this become your backup plan which sometimes can be difficult to squeeze into last minute.
From May until September this campground opens its doors to the masses for only$12 per night. Clearly a lot less expensive than some of the campgrounds offered in the area, this camp is quite appealing for those who wish to find inexpensive camping and can enjoy their time in nature without all the frills of an improved campground. This campground is first come first serve which is very important to know if you are wanting to stay in the area and will be arriving later in the day or near a weekend.
When I visited the season had just opened, literally the day of and there was no one on a weekday at the campground early in the day. I took a stroll around the campground and noticed there is an honor box for paying camp fees and that rangers were in the area driving through the various properties placing kiosk signage up and checking sites.
This campground offers no running water for those camping here. There are toilets but they are primitive and non-flushing. The sites looked comfortable and like they would be great for camping in a tent or mid-sized RV however they could become a little cramped if visiting in larger units.
The floor of the campground is blanketed with pine needles which give a fragrant welcome.
Each campsite has a picnic table and bear box on the site in addition to a fire ring with a small grill on top. You are encouraged to bring your own fire wood and not collect the fallen and absolutely cannot cut firewood in this area.
Just across from the campground is a pull off and picnic area for Roosevelt National Park which does not offer camping but does have additional areas for hiking and enjoying the nature of the area. There is also another restroom in this area.
One of the things I found to be very helpful about this campground for controlling traffic and also for accommodating groups was the placement of a few larger sites with additional parking toward the front of the campground. I noticed when I pulled in that in the front portion of the loop there were wider areas which made navigating a bit easier for RVs and also near the dumpsters in this area there seemed to be additional parking. Again during the first part of the season with no traffic passing through this might have been deceiving but it looked to be a great option.
TIPS:
- Check out Lucy Lake and the Camp Church in the area. The lake is an amazing location to see some of the picturesque views of Long’s Peak and hike without having to actually go into the park. The church is an actual Catholic Church build originally for a summer camp, its unique design and location are worth a pull off.
- Bring everything you might need with you. The closest store is more than 15 miles away so you will not be able to pick up last minute supplies without running into the larger community. Make sure you bring plenty of water for everyone and anything you might need for your stay.
- Check the reports for the area before you tent camp. This area has bear and upon occasion they have a few rogue bears visiting camps. You can find information in advance by checking out tourism centers in Estes Park or by looking at the Rocky Mountain National Park site.
- HHeatherScout
Roosevelt National Forest Camp Dick Campground
Loved it!
Great tent camping nice space. Beautiful area! The camp host was very nice made us feel welcome.
- LLogan C.Scout
Father Dyer
Not a bad site
Tent camping spots didn’t really have a flat spot to put the tent (atleast the one I was in). Had to put my tent in a slope. But restrooms and camping sites were clean.
- VVanpeDiem D.
Ranger
Adam Campground
More Tent / Walk-In Camping
The stream is nice, camping area is pretty small, maybe 3-4 tent sites. Drive in camping site is rutted and I didn’t feel comfortable driving van up into it. There were a few minor red flags; a large tent was set up in the back of the site, however no one ever showed up to occupy. Also a mule deer carcass was dumped between tent sites. I ended up parking off the side of the road for the night. It is close to Sylvan Lake. I would likely not camp here again as a van camper. Could work for tent campers.
- Heather C.Traveler
Ranger Lakes Campground — State Forest State Park
Nice, peaceful place
I tent camped at Ranger Lakes. I was the only one tent camping among all the RV’s. I didn’t mind that the spaces were visible from each other since I was camping alone. The pads were very spacious and flat. The lakes are very pretty and are a short walk from the campground. The trails around the lakes were nice to walk around. I wish there were facilities since there really aren’t any within most of the campgrounds of State Forest State Park. But Ranger Lakes is just a short drive from Cameron Pass as well as several beautiful trails. I’d definitely stay here again.
- Anna R.Guide
Guanella Pass Scenic Byway Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
One of my favorite spots we camped at during our Colorado trip!
Limited number of tent sites, which is wonderful, for privacy and enjoying peace and nature! Camp hosts were wonderful.
- SSarahGuide
Robbers Roost Campground
Great place to stop
Right off the road! Super neat with walk in tent sites. Has a bear box for each site and a bathroom.
- IIngridTraveler
Williams Fork Reservoir
Beautiful lake setting
Another peaceful setting, quite a few spots along the lake, RV friendly and some tent sites plus some vault toilets and fire pits
Isabelle K.Legend
Stagecoach State Park Campground
Junction city campground
Well appointed campground on the water. Seems to cater more towards families with RVs, no privacy or shade for tent camping. Clean facilities overall with great proximity to the water and marina.
Teresa D.Traveler
Vasquez Ridge
Amazing dispersed camping
Great place to car/tent camp or for small trailer. Accessible with places on the river. Mosquitoes can be bad though. Nice biking, hiking and views. Close to Winter Park and access to Grand County.
Amy N.Scout
Homestake Reservoir Rd Milemarker 3 - Dispersed
Great spot on the creek
Found a great spot on the creek. Level and had a turn around for a larger rig. Many tent sites around. Road is in good shape.
- Jason K.Scout
Cold Springs - Arapaho Roosevelt Nf (CO)
First time camping with the family
We had a blast and thanks to this site we plan on doing much more camping. Good tent sites, clean bathrooms, fire pits, and fun trails.
Kelsey L.Ranger
Base Camp at Golden Gate Canyon
Small campground close to city
Small campground with tent sites, RV sites, and cabins. Main building has camp store with a variety of items available for purchase. Nice bathrooms including showers available.
Jesse B.ScoutVasquez Ridge
Few spots in winter
The road is closed so there's just a few spots off the road in the beginning. Okay for car camping not so much for tent camping. Very muddy so having a fire is very optional. Alright if you're on the go
- Anna R.Guide
Reverend's Ridge Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
Tent camping with beautiful views if you get the right spot!
There are RV, Tent and Yurt camping sites. Bathrooms, showers, dishwashing area and laundry facilities but still in nature and beautiful views and trails, especially in the non-electric tent sites. Great staff at the check in area.
- KKyle T.Scout
Frazer Meadow Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
Well kept
Site #7 was clean, maintained. One official tent site and a good spot for another two person tent. Partial sun depending on time of day. Between two other campsites so possibly noisy in the evening depending on your neighbors.
- SSid A.Traveler
Sugar Loafin' RV/Campground & Cabins
Great last minute camp near Leadville
We were tent camping on motorcycles and rode into Leadville late in the evening. This campground was open (with staff) late, and were very friendly and accommodating. A very nice camp with everything we needed. They had tent pads that were flat and soft. We just barely missed the ice cream social. We will visit again.
Megan E.RangerReverend's Ridge Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
Not enough time
Stayed at a tent site one night and wish we had planned for two. Beautiful facilities and well-kept sites. Would love to explore all the trails next time. A place to go back to.
- cclinton H.Guide
Pull off with fire ring - Dispersed Site
Great spot, minus the “no camping” signs
We camped here after a Red Rocks show. The spot is a great area. About 20 minutes off of I-70. There are many pull offs along this road that could theoretically be good camp sites. However there are “no camping” signs, which is why I gave it 3 stars. Everything is great besides that: beautiful stars, good tent site, safe parking area.
The spot we chose is a bit farther down the road than the one listed here. It’s in between the bend in the road. We parked at the pull off and walked down a small hill to find a good tent site and a fire ring.
Also be aware it’s pretty chilly compared to just a few miles up the road. It was in the mid 30s at night.
- GGreg P.Traveler
Bear Lake Backpack Site
Belle of Colorado @ Tourquoise Lake
Originally quite nice, tent camping, clean area, nice sites, water available, bathrooms, and access to fishing. Weekends tend now to religious services... :( Been 4 times but now prefer less commercial/church interuptions. RV crud makes for noisy generators, bouncy houses, karaoke... :( Some people swim. Boating. Good perimeter trail, biking allowed.
Clint P.Traveler
Elbert Creek — Psicc
Massive or Elbert Climbs
Perfect location if hiking either of these two mountains. Great tent sites and multiple spots per campsite. As good a camping spot relative to a 14er trailhead as you can get. Cannot day enough good about this campground. Highly recommended.
Gordon B.Scout
Rifleman Phillips Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
Nice group site
I’d give it a 5 but the vault toilets need a little care. Also wasn’t stocked with TP so we ran out.
Everything else was very good for a large group. Plenty of tent sites. Good water supply. Bear proof storage containers.
Guide to Heeney
Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Colorado, Heeney offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure and tranquility.
Explore Scenic Trails and Lakes
- Experience the beauty of nature at Cataract Creek Campground, where you can hike to nearby lakes and enjoy serene views.
- The Eagle-Holy Cross Ranger District provides access to challenging trails and breathtaking vistas, perfect for those seeking a rugged outdoor experience.
- For a refreshing swim, head to Rock Creek Rec Area, where you can enjoy fishing and hiking amidst wildflowers.
Amenities for a Comfortable Stay
- At Red Sandstone - Primitive Dispersed, you can enjoy the freedom of campfires and the company of pets, though be prepared to bring your own water.
- Beaver Creek Unti - Hot Sulphur State Wildlife Area offers a rustic experience with access to fishing and wildlife viewing, though amenities are minimal.
- The well-reviewed State Bridge allows for a fun camping experience with the option to enjoy concerts nearby, making it a lively spot for music lovers.
Pricing for Tent Camping
- Tent camping at Cataract Creek Campground is free, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious campers.
- You can find affordable options at Red Sandstone - Primitive Dispersed, where camping is also free, though a permit is required.
- Prices for camping at Eagle-Holy Cross Ranger District are generally low, with many sites offering a no-cost experience in a beautiful setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Heeney, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Heeney, CO is Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping with a 4.6-star rating from 37 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Heeney, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 95 tent camping locations near Heeney, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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