Best Dispersed Camping near Hesperus, CO

Dispersed camping areas near Hesperus, Colorado provide primitive, no-fee options on public lands. Madden Peak Road offers secluded sites that become more separated as you travel farther up Forest Service Road 316. The Mesa Verde National Park Boundary BLM sites feature views of surrounding monuments with approximately 17 designated spots. Cherry Creek Gravel Lot serves as a reliable winter camping option when other forest service roads are closed. These areas accommodate both tent and RV camping with varying degrees of accessibility.

No amenities or facilities are available at these dispersed sites. Campers must pack in all water and supplies and pack out all trash. According to reviews, sites along Madden Peak Road are accessible in non-4WD vehicles for the first 4 miles, but high clearance is strongly recommended beyond that point. Several campers noted that Forest Road 316 can be "bumpy at times" with "rutted areas from prior mud." Fire rings mark established campsites, and campfires are permitted when no fire restrictions are in effect.

The standard 14-day stay limit applies to all dispersed camping in the area. Cell service varies significantly; Cherry Creek Gravel Lot receives adequate coverage while more remote sites have limited connectivity. Sites near highways may experience road noise, particularly at night. Weather conditions change rapidly in this mountainous region, with potential for sudden storms. Visitors should practice proper food storage as bears are present in the area. The proximity to Mesa Verde National Park, Durango, and Cortez makes these sites convenient basecamps for exploring southwestern Colorado's attractions.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Hesperus, Colorado (82)

    1. Madden Peak Road - Dispersed

    24 Reviews
    Mancos, CO
    8 miles
    Website

    "Could do it in a non 4wd non high clearance, but wouldn’t recommend beyond the 4.5 mark."

    "Madden Peak dispersed camping is a fantastic option for those seeking a peaceful and scenic camping experience near Mesa Verde National Park, Cortez, and Durango."

    2. Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp

    11 Reviews
    Mancos, CO
    10 miles

    "We got to town late and our preferred spots were all taken, so we came here as a backup. The spots are all right off of the road and easy to get to. The views aren’t much, but they’re good spots."

    "Big spaces easy access for larger campers very peaceful"

    3. Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land)

    30 Reviews
    Mesa Verde National Park, CO
    22 miles

    "These dispersed campsites were recommended to us and they did not disappoint! Secluded dry camping spots with great views of the monuments."

    "This is a good free spot near Mesa Verde, but if it is closed check out the many BLM spots on road 316 off the highway, barely West of Target Tree Campground slightly East of Mancos."

    4. Cherry Creek Gravel Lot

    4 Reviews
    Hesperus, CO
    5 miles

    "You can hear the highway, but it's not much. Just ambient background noise. I got a spot with shade all day, so that was awesome."

    6. Bayfield/Durango Dispersed Camping

    15 Reviews
    Bayfield, CO
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 882-7296

    "This spot is a little tough to find but can be worth it if you need a good free camp for the night. Located off Hwy 160, about 14 miles from Durango you will find BLM land."

    "You will see the blm sign. Gravel road, fire pits. We stayed in a camper van at one of the first spots and had 5g internet with AT&T. Can hear highway noise"

    7. San Juan Madden Road Pulloff Dispersed Campsite

    3 Reviews
    Hesperus, CO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 247-4874

    "But to access this location you will need at the least HIGH CLEARANCE. I did it in my lifted f-350. This is just the end of the road. There are many options on the way up. Like probably around 50?"

    8. BLM across from Mesa Verde

    18 Reviews
    Mesa Verde National Park, CO
    22 miles
    Website

    "This is a good free spot near Mesa Verde, but if it is closed check out the many BLM spots on road 316 off the highway, barely West of Target Tree Campground slightly East of Mancos."

    "This campsite is right outside of Mesa Verde and is easy to locate. Campsites are located along a dirt road and they are clearly marked."

    9. Junction Creek Rd Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Purgatory, CO
    9 miles

    "We stayed at a site a couple down from this one but it wasn’t on the map so I thought I’d add it. This one has space for 2 vehicles. Road in is decent, fine for bigger rigs."

    10. Chutes and Ladders Dipsersed

    16 Reviews
    Mesa Verde National Park, CO
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 882-7296

    "Close to Hwy 160, so easy to access. Campsite access road ok, rutted abit in some places from prior mud which has since dried."

    "Some are to steep for a camper, but perfect for truck or van camping. We got to our spot around 4pm and by the time we were set up and heading into town for stuff all the spots were taken."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Hesperus, CO

305 Reviews of 82 Hesperus Campgrounds



Guide to Hesperus

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Hesperus, Colorado, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of options available, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore the stunning landscapes.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Hesperus, Colorado

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Hesperus

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Hesperus, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Hesperus, CO is Madden Peak Road - Dispersed with a 4.5-star rating from 24 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Hesperus, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 82 dispersed camping locations near Hesperus, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.