Best Tent Camping near Hesperus, CO
Dispersed tent camping opportunities dominate the landscape near Hesperus, Colorado, with Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp and Bay City Campground offering primitive tent sites in the surrounding mountains. The Hermosa Park Road Dispersed area provides additional tent camping spots within manageable driving distance. These tent-only camping areas typically require campers to be self-sufficient, with most sites lacking designated facilities beyond basic fire rings.
Most tent campsites in the Hesperus region feature unimproved dirt or gravel surfaces with minimal site preparation. Campers should bring adequate water supplies, as drinking water is not available at any of the dispersed camping areas. Drive-in access exists for Forest Road 316 and Bay City campgrounds, but many sites require short walks from parking areas to reach suitable tent pads. Fire restrictions frequently apply during summer months, particularly in drought years. A visitor commented, "There are lots of sites along the road, never too busy. Can definitely hear some road noise, but good place to set up for a night or two."
Areas farther from the main roads provide better opportunities for solitude-seeking tent campers. The majority of tent camping areas feature natural rock fire rings, though campers should verify current fire restrictions before planning to cook over open flame. Tree cover varies significantly between sites, with some offering ample shade while others sit in open areas with minimal protection from sun or wind. Bay City Campground receives positive reviews for its mountain views and riverside location, making it popular among tent campers seeking scenic surroundings. During peak summer weekends, arriving early improves chances of securing preferred tent sites. A camper wrote, "We camped in early May. There are 3 (maybe 4) spots and it's beautiful! The CG is about a half mile from the end of the pavement. No bathroom but there was a fire ring."