Dispersed camping near Hillside offers access to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains at elevations ranging from 8,000 to 9,000 feet. The area experiences dramatic seasonal variations with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during days and dropping to 45-55°F at night. Many sites require high-clearance vehicles to navigate rough forest roads that become impassable during spring snowmelt and summer monsoon seasons.
What to do
Fishing access: Lake Deweese provides fishing opportunities but requires proper licensing. "Lota of sites available, some nicely secluded, some not so secluded. Very clean bathrooms," notes a visitor to Alvarado Campground, which offers trail access just 30 minutes from Hillside.
Mountain biking: The Rainbow Trail network connects multiple camping areas with varying difficulty levels. A camper at East Ridge Campground shares, "We took the Canyon Rim trail to the Overlook trail and got some gorgeous views of the gorge (out and back hike, a little over 4 miles)."
Stargazing: The lack of light pollution makes this region ideal for night sky viewing, particularly during new moon phases. "The night sky was amazing after the rain passed through and the clouds cleared," reports a visitor to Alvarado Campground.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Many visitors appreciate the balance of privacy and accessibility. At Hayden Creek, "There are a handful of dispersed camping sites along Hayden Creek Rd. The creek is nice and the sounds was much louder then we anticipated, which was good," reports one camper at Hayden Creek Roadside Camp.
Creek-side camping: Multiple sites offer water access for cooling off during hot summer days. "We've stayed here 3 times now and absolutely love it! We've stayed at campsite 36 and 41. 41 is our favorite. It has plenty of space and a nice creek running near it," shares a visitor to Alvarado Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife including bighorn sheep. At Bighorn Park, one camper reports, "We spotted big horn sheep on the cliff behind us! The park also had a live singer entertain one night!"
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Rapid temperature changes and afternoon thunderstorms occur frequently in summer months. A camper at Five Points Campground advises, "There is not much shade, but the spots are big and the restrooms are very well maintained."
Limited services: Most dispersed camping areas lack facilities. "The drawback to this campground was that there was no source of water. There were latrine vaulted toilets well supplied," notes a camper at Five Points Campground.
Navigation challenges: Forest roads can be confusing without proper maps. A camper at Cloverdale Mines notes, "The trails can get confusing so remember your way in!"
Water safety: Beyond the toxic algae at Lake Deweese, other water bodies may present seasonal hazards. At Valley View Hot Springs, a visitor cautions about hot springs conditions: "Valley View really went downhill with the new manager. Place is really run down and you cant enjoy the water there is so much blue green algae which irritates the skin."
Tips for camping with families
Recreational facilities: Several established campgrounds offer amenities for children. "We had a great time. The pools on site were perfect for the kids. On site mini golf was a blast," reports a visitor to Cutty's Resort.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing areas provide learning experiences. "Quite National Forest camp ground that is a pay per night. Site has a nice creek and offers lots of hiking. Vault toilets and several water fountains. No electricity. Lots of wildlife in the area," shares a camper at Alvarado Campground.
Safety precautions: Areas with mining history may contain hazards. At Cloverdale Mines, "Be careful of cactus, bring firewood, download the off-line maps."
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: Many dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles. "Entry road has multiple water runoff ditches that make the road best for vehicles with decent clearance. If dry 4x4 not necessary," notes a visitor to Cloverdale Mines.
Site sizes: Verify campsite dimensions before arrival as many dog friendly campgrounds near Hillside have limited space. "We easily got our 40' coach into a very level site," shares one RVer at Alvarado Campground, while another cautions, "The campground won't accommodate fifth wheels only horse and rv up to 30 or so."
Hookup availability: Most dog-friendly areas near Hillside lack hookups. A visitor to Bighorn Park notes, "Some full hookups, some water and electric only and about three tent sites."
Traveler
