Dispersed camping near Hot Sulphur Springs, Colorado offers varied terrain from sagebrush plains to dense forest at elevations ranging from 7,500 to 9,000 feet. Temperatures fluctuate significantly, with summer days reaching the 80s but dropping to the 40s at night. Most dispersed sites lack facilities, so campers must come prepared with sufficient water and waste management plans.
What to Do
Lake activities: Try Lake Granby for fishing and non-motorized water sports. "Beautiful lakeside stay. This park has a LOVELY location right on the lake; try and pay attention when you are booking to get a really good spot. Just walking around the loop of the park a few times was a great activity and saw lots of fishing and paddleboarding," notes Katie H.
Wildlife viewing: Visit Williams Fork Reservoir where animals gather near water. "We had a fox visit our site as well as a marmot & many other creatures. A great experience," shares Michele A. The reservoir's shoreline provides excellent opportunities for spotting deer, foxes, and various bird species.
Mountain biking: Access trails from Vasquez Ridge for rides suitable for various skill levels. "Popular with dogs and trail bikers. Before the road loops around, there is a pretty easy trail that leads to a water diversion tunnel," according to Jamie B. Trails connect to larger networks within Arapaho National Forest.
What Campers Like
Lakefront access: Campers enjoy sites with direct water access at Sunset Point Campground. "We were lucky enough to snag one of the tent camping sites at Sunset Point, which had direct access to the lake and awesome views! It was great to be able to launch our paddle boards directly from our site and hang out on the shore during the day," writes Brooke C.
Clean facilities: Even at more rustic sites, campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms. "Beautiful. Many spots to choose from, all with great views of the water. Very clean pit toilets are available. Some cell service, more spotty in some areas than others," notes Anne M. about Williams Fork Reservoir.
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more seclusion than others. At Green Ridge Campground, "Although this was a busy campground, the sites are well spaced. Clean toilets, both flush and vault. Great walks/hikes or bike rides into the Rocky Mountains from the campground," according to Ingrid.
What You Should Know
Burn restrictions: Fire rules change frequently and vary by location. "We stayed in a first come first serve RV site with power and water during early season snow (the day after Labor Day!) with high winds. There is a dump station but it was closed due to freezing temps when we left," reports Ashley M. at Stillwater Campground.
Reservation systems: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. "The app says this used to be free but now you have to pay a fee that began May 22, I was very disappointed that you have to pay," mentions Jess G. about Williams Fork Reservoir.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "We got hit with some crazy wind/rain but it passed fast," notes Taylor C. about Sunset Point Campground. Pack layers and rain gear even in summer months when afternoon thunderstorms are common.
Tips for Camping with Families
Entertainment options: Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain offers extensive amenities. "This place has everything! Bowling, an amazing pool and hot tubs, super clean facilities, full hookups, rent an airstream or chuckwagon for the weekend, stay in a tiny home - really, there's so much to do especially for families," writes Meghan T.
Beach areas: Look for campsites with gentle water access. "The lake was a 100 ft walk from our site and had a pebbly beach all to ourselves that was a great place to hangout for the afternoon. It made a super launching point for paddle boarding and canoeing," shares Keith S. about Sunset Point.
Wildlife education: Turn wildlife sightings into learning opportunities. "We had a fox visit our site as well as a marmot & many other creatures. A great experience. Grand Lake town is lots of fun," says Michele A. about Green Ridge Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in the area. "Our site had water and electric. There were toilets and showers on site. The lake is beautiful and the little boat ramp and dock is just right on the other side of the campground," notes Sadie D. about Stillwater Campground.
Dump station access: Plan your waste management carefully. "There is also a dump station that is free as well but there is NO water (not even rinse water) so bring your own," warns Laura M. about Williams Fork Reservoir.
Site selection: Choose sites based on shade and access needs. "Camp hosts were awesome and quick access to the lake. Clean and quiet little place," reports Matthew B. about Willow Creek Campground, which offers more trees than many nearby options.
