Tent camping options near Henderson, Colorado extend beyond established sites into National Forest lands with varying levels of accessibility. Backcountry sites range from 5,000 to 10,000 feet in elevation, with many areas experiencing temperature swings of 30°F between day and night. Water access becomes more difficult at higher elevations, particularly in late summer when seasonal creeks often dry up.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Gross Reservoir offers non-motorized boating options near Winiger Ridge campsites. According to Karl G., "There are a lot of inlets to paddle into and trails to explore. However, there are some cons to the reservoir; there is no swimming in the reservoir, which is very tempting."
Wildlife observation: The forested areas around Hermits Hollow Campground provide regular wildlife sightings. One camper reported, "Moose and black bear apparently frequent but haven't caused any problems. This is our 3rd stay here, and one of our favorites."
Hiking access: Multiple trails connect to campsites throughout the region. At N Boulder Creek Dispersed Camping, Kristen M. notes, "Very seclude, easy to access. I saw about 10 different pull in sites, maybe more. Never found a creek or water but there are some cute cows nearby! Wildflowers were crazy 7/3/23."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed camping areas offer good separation between campers. At Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir, Amanda R. shared, "The best part? Our campsite was huge—plenty of space for our whole group, multiple tents, and a couple of cars. With a picnic table and fire pit included, it made for the perfect outdoorsy hangout spot."
Water features: Streams and creeks enhance the camping experience at several locations. At Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping, Dani S. described their experience: "We crossed the creek by foot and set up right under what we later learned was a mountain lions apartment. We were far enough away from the trail that we were not bothered by day hikers."
Proximity to towns: Quick access to nearby communities makes these sites practical for weekend getaways. According to a reviewer at Aspen Meadows Campground, "The proximity to Denver is nice but I was surprised that the walk-in sites (29-35) were so close together. This section is probably only worth it if you can get site 34 or 35 which are the furthest back."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many sites require high-clearance vehicles. Quinton T. noted about Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, "Recommend a 4-wheel drive vehicle to reach some of the spots, especially if there is poor weather."
Seasonal considerations: Snow impacts high-elevation sites well into spring. Catalina H. shared, "This dispersed site is pretty and is close to the highway, the road seemed a little sketchy in the snow but my RAV4 AWD made it just fine to most of the sites. It snowed on me overnight and the road was still very passable."
Facility limitations: Most sites lack basic amenities. Dream Canyon campsites have very minimal facilities, with Raymond H. reporting, "The coordinates on Dyrt are a little off from the actual location but if you drive down roads that lead to toward views of the canyon, you'll get there. The road passes through lots of private property, which can trick you into thinking you're driving down the wrong road."
Tips for camping with families
Easier access sites: Choose locations with shorter hikes for younger children. Jessica K. described Sawmill Hiker Campground: "My husband and I came in through the West Trailhead. It is a 1 mile, easy hike. The first 1/3 of a mile is dirt, the remainder is gravel. It is fairly hilly, but easy enough that we actually opted to push our Jogging Stroller with our kid the entire way."
Environmental awareness: Teach proper outdoor ethics at primitive sites. One camper at Allenspark Dispersed Camping advised, "The second day staying there we ran into a bear and scared him off. Two hours later he can back and we scared him off again. He's afraid of humans but he did try to get into the car while we were sleeping."
Established campgrounds: For added security with children, consider locations with more facilities. Andrew B. recommends, "Our family loves this spot, the privacy and natural beauty all easily accessible for a 1 night trip for a family breaking in some unruly toddlers to the camping experience."
Tips for RVers
Size restrictions: Large rigs struggle on most forest roads. Graham S. warned about Winiger Ridge, "Camp sites are nice, but except for a few (~5) the rest require a serious climb (drive) up a gnarly hill with deep ruts. I wouldn't try this with a camper/RV, or anything that doesn't have high clearance and power."
Leveling challenges: Many sites feature uneven terrain. At Bear Creek Lake Campground, Vicky G. observed, "Nice big sites, open space without a lot of trees, beautiful views, clean restrooms, showers (pay for) water fill stations, dump station, several restrooms."
Alternative tent options: Consider tent camping when RV access proves challenging. Kevin M. notes, "Super close to Denver and offered through the City of Lakewood. The sites are for tent/RV and have electric hookups. Beautiful area. Only drawback might be the bathrooms have no night lighting and you have a dumping station instead of sewage hookups."
