Dispersed camping areas near Hot Sulphur Springs offer primitive sites at elevations between 7,600-9,000 feet, with temperature ranges of 40-80°F in summer months. The surrounding Arapaho National Forest contains mixed pine and aspen groves, with camping options concentrated along forest roads and creek drainages. Most sites require high-clearance vehicles to access the better locations beyond the first mile of entry roads.
What to do
Creek fishing access: At Beaver Creek Campground, campers can find small brook trout in the creek. "We've camped up Beaver Creek many times over the years and have enjoyed plenty of Dispersed Camping spots... Great fishing spots for small brookies and plenty of backroads for ATVs," reports Kasy A.
Alpine lake hiking: From tent sites near Hot Sulphur Springs, several alpine lakes are accessible within a 45-minute drive. Cataract Creek Campground provides direct trail access. "A few hundred yards from multiple trailheads. The sites are only about 20-50 feet from the road, which has moderate vehicle traffic going to and from the nearby trailheads early morning through late afternoon, but quiet at night," notes Gary G.
Hot springs relaxation: Camping areas along Beaver Creek Road provide convenient access to the town's hot springs facilities. Most dispersed campers use this as a day trip. "It's nice to have the Hot Springs at the bottom of the road for a respite from the boondocking," explains Morgan Y. from Beaver Creek Unit.
What campers like
Creek-side locations: Many tent campers prefer sites along water features. At Allenspark Dispersed Camping, "Beautiful, secluded and right next to a creek... Very easy to find and spacious," reports Renee. The sound of flowing water helps mask other camping noises.
Morning wildlife viewing: Early risers at Vasquez Ridge Dispersed report frequent elk and deer sightings near dawn. "Went up for a day to try out my new Roof Top Tent... after driving up and up and up I found a beautiful private spot," notes Anne C., describing the higher elevation camping that attracts wildlife.
Escape from crowds: More remote tent sites require additional driving but reward with solitude. "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," says Catalina H., who camped at Gordon Gulch during winter months.
What you should know
Road condition challenges: Many tent sites require navigation of rough forest roads. At Stillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite, "The coordinates are a bit early on 4. Roads are easy to navigate. Continue up the road for multiple flat locations. Some of the roads were closed but 4 is open," advises Brian C.
Fire damage impacts: The East Troublesome Fire affected camping areas near Grand Lake. "I think this would be a wonderful place to camp, however due to the forest fires that happened, I won't lie it's a bit depressing to be around all of the burned trees. It must have been beautiful before the unfortunate fire. It just made it so there was little to no shade," writes Stephanie S.
Site availability timing: Weekends fill quickly at most tent camping areas. "Great site and location about 10 minutes from downtown Grand Lake. The sites had tons of space and a great view of the mountains. Only downside, there's only a few sites along this road and they filled up fairly quick on a Friday," notes Sydney R.
Tips for camping with families
Stream exploration sites: For family tent camping near Hot Sulphur Springs, choose sites with shallow water features. At Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail, "Very cool at night with the reservoir right there and the stream. It is a light off road trail and would recommend having high vehicle clearance and 4x4," advises Larry S.
Less-remote options: For easier family access, stay at established campgrounds. "Me and my friend stayed in site 4 on a sunday night in october. Its a great small spot with 5 well established sites right off the forest road hidden in the trees. Its a short walk to lower cataract lake with a good loop," describes Dylan J. at Cataract Creek Campground.
Early arrival strategy: For families tent camping, arrive mid-week before noon. "It's a very beautiful campsite altogether. With perfect views of the mountains and streams in all directions. Our tent was literally right next to a stream of water which was good fishing as me and my friend caught our daily limit of fish very quickly," shares Larry S.
Tips from RVers
Spacing requirements: RVs need specific sites with adequate clearance. At The Lost Site - Dispersed Campsite, "Beautiful quiet spot. Large sites with pull thru. Easy turn around. No facilites and cold in October," notes Leah S. This location offers more level parking than many alternatives.
Road assessment practice: RVers should scout roads before attempting with larger vehicles. "The sites were large. We found a nice spacious one a little off the road, there was a ditch between the road and the site so some higher clearance helped avoid scraping," explains Ryan L. about Stillwater Pass.
Advance planning needs: RV campers near Hot Sulphur Springs should have complete supplies. "We drove in to the area late on Friday before labour day. It was of course very full. It was still a great place to stay. The little lake was very beautiful," reports Omar R., highlighting the importance of having a backup plan during holiday periods.
