Best Dispersed Camping near Jamestown, CO
Searching for a dispersed campsite near Jamestown? With The Dyrt, it's easy to find peaceful dispersed camping near Jamestown. Search nearby dispersed campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Jamestown, Colorado (110)
1. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
49 Reviews•96 Photos•1331 SavesNederland, ColoradoFive miles north of Nederland, National Forest System Road (NFSR) 226, commonly known as Gordon Gulch, turns east off of Colorado Highway 72. NFSR 226 intersects other forest roads: NFSR 314, 228, 233 and their off-shoots. There are 15 numbered, designated campsites scattered along the road system within 1.5 miles east of Highway 72. Camping is permitted in designated sites only. Take care when driving in this area. Snow and mud can persist through most of the year. The free Boulder Ranger District Motor Vehicle Use Map displays National Forest System (NFS) routes open to motorized travel and is available online and at the Boulder Ranger District offfice.
Streams; treat water for drinking.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
2. Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed
27 Reviews•87 Photos•1770 SavesWard, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
3. Allenspark Dispersed Camping
21 Reviews•54 Photos•965 SavesAllenspark, ColoradoWith a few exceptions, dispersed camping is allowed on National Forest System lands. Restrictions protect resources, minimize road damage, and reduce conflicts between landowners and visitors. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days in one location. After 14 days, the campsite must be moved a minimum of three miles. Camping can then continue for another 14 days. Camping is restricted to 28 days in any 60-day period. Some areas may require the use of designated campsites, and some areas, such as Indian Peaks Wilderness, require camping permits. More than 40% of lands within Boulder Ranger District's boundaries are private property. It is your responsibility to know if you are on private or public land.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
4. West Magnolia Campground
26 Reviews•69 Photos•1224 SavesNederland, ColoradoWest Magnolia Trailhead provides access to eight miles of singletrack trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding west of the Peak-to-Peak Highway south of Nederland. An additional eight miles of Forest Roads are open seasonally (check the Road Status Table before your visit) to motorized and non-motorized activities. Along these roadways are designated campsites. Camping is allowed within 50 feet of the campsite markers. There are no facilities of any kind. The free Boulder Ranger District Motor Vehicle Use Map displays National Forest System (NFS) routes open to motorized travel and is available online and at the Boulder Ranger District offfice. Recreational shooting closures exist in this area. Click here for more information.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
5. Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping
19 Reviews•37 Photos•1150 SavesNederland, ColoradoNOTE: Campers who build any fires face fines up to $5,000 and/or up to six months imprisonment for open fire violations.
Leave No Trace must be observed, as in any outdoor space.
In any season this area is prone to very strong dry winds that can pick up a hot coal from a campfire that has lain dormant for as much as three days and ignite dry vegetation, causing horrific devastation. People from outside Colorado may not understand how tinder dry this area can be. 197 homes in this area have been destroyed by wildfires. All of these fires were started by humans.
Local residents overlook this area and if they see visible flame or smoke they will call the Boulder County sheriff. Any campers who require a campfire are recommended to disperse camp near Sugarloaf Mountain where fires are permitted.
- Pets
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
6. Hell Canyon Dispersed
17 Reviews•54 Photos•372 SavesPinewood Springs, ColoradoFree camping (dispersed) is allowed on most national forest lands except in highly developed areas - such as trailheads, campgrounds and picnic sites - and in some of our most visited places. Be sure to check for regulations in advance and look for signs in the area to indicate if camping is allowed.
Some areas allow camping in designated sites only.
Know Before You Go
Check the weather and road closures before heading up. Follow Leave No Trace principles. There are no facilities or trash receptacles. Pack out what you pack in. Make sure camping is allowed. Many lands within the national forest boundary are private or otherwise owned. Check that you’re on National Forest lands: maps. Don't stay too long. Camping is limited to 14 days within any continuous 30-day period at any location within the same 20-mile radius. See Order Plan on building a campfire? Campfire restrictions can occur any time of year. Check for fire restrictions and if you build a campfire, know how to extinguish it.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Firewood Available
- Alcohol
7. Gold Lake Area Dispersed
7 Reviews•16 Photos•642 SavesWard, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
8. Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping
7 Reviews•14 Photos•512 SavesJamestown, ColoradoDispersed camping is prohibited within ¼ mile of either side of South St. Vrain Creek beginning at the Ceran St. Vrain trailhead and ending ¼ mile from the intersection of South St. Vrain Creek and National Forest System Road 252.1. MAP: https://trails.colorado.gov/trailheads/ceran-2341
The easy Ceran Saint Vrain Trail follows the South Saint Vrain Creek downstream for 1.9 miles. The trail ends at National Forest System Road 252, a rough four-wheel drive road. This road climbs 0.5 miles northwest to a four-way intersection from which it is a steep half-mile to the left up to Miller Rock. Miller Rock is a scenic high-point that offers 360-degree views.
Motorized vehicles prohibited. Dispersed camping is allowed at sites that are least 200 feet away from the trailhead, trail and creek. Campfires are permissible unless seasonal restrictions are in effect (contact district office). Fishing and hunting are allowed in accordance with regulations established by the Colorado Parks & Wildlife.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
$1 / night
9. Forest Road 332 Dispersed
7 Reviews•38 Photos•657 SavesNederland, ColoradoFree camping (dispersed) is allowed on most national forest lands except in highly developed areas - such as trailheads, campgrounds and picnic sites - and in some of our most visited places. Be sure to check for regulations in advance and look for signs in the area to indicate if camping is allowed.
Some areas allow camping in designated sites only.
Know Before You Go
Check the weather and road closures before heading up. Follow Leave No Trace principles. There are no facilities or trash receptacles. Pack out what you pack in. Make sure camping is allowed. Many lands within the national forest boundary are private or otherwise owned. Check that you’re on National Forest lands: maps. Don't stay too long. Camping is limited to 14 days within any continuous 30-day period at any location within the same 20-mile radius. See Order Plan on building a campfire? Campfire restrictions can occur any time of year. Check for fire restrictions and if you build a campfire, know how to extinguish it.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
10. Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping
15 Reviews•57 Photos•1205 SavesEmpire, Colorado- Pets
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
Recent Dispersed Reviews near Jamestown, Colorado
491 Reviews of 110 Jamestown Campgrounds
- H
Hannah L.
Guide
Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed
Nice dispersed campsites
Free dispersed camping with zero amenities but man made fire pits. Windy and cold but beautiful!
- Claire L.
Scout
Forsythe Canyon Trailhead Forest Service Road 357 Dispersed — Golden Gate Canyon
Not a site anymore but ....
The location for this does not take you to a campsite but rather a sign that says “NO trespassing” it’s private property now but if you drive farther on the dirt road (about 5 minutes) and take a left at the sign that says 68 you will continue for 2 miles and find a trailhead with a campsite that is very nice. I parked at the trail head but continue down the road that’s there and there are designated free dispersed camping.
Look up forsythe canyon trailhead
PS This is up a very high mountain road. I have a 91 westfalia and I do not recommend for older vehicles such as. Puts lots of wear on it going up and down that huge hill.
- Sammy R.Scout
Ute Pass Dispersed Camping
This site is NOT on BLM Land
This site's operator is listed on the Dyrt as BLM land. It is NOT BLM land. Drove here during COVID to camp on BLM land and was frustrated it was not listed correctly. Do your research before going! Spots looks awesome just couldn't have a fire which is a no go for us when camping. Only giving 3 stars because it did look like a secluded spot. The post is just wrong.
- RRyan B.Scout
Canyon Lakes Ranger District Dispersed Camping
Nice but kind of developed
It was pretty rough driving in, there were so many “private” lands even when you hit the national forest. The dispersed camping we found had 3 sites stacked on top of each other. Went a little further up the road and did find much else except more houses. It’s right next to a hiking trail which is great on cold afternoons. Stars were beautiful too very little light pollution.
Paulina B.
Ranger
Kirby Gulch
Worth the Rough Drive
Kirby Gulch is a fantastic spot for anyone seeking a peaceful, off-the-grid camping experience near Grant, Colorado. Situated off Route 1038, this dispersed camping area offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching.
The campsites are well-spaced, providing plenty of privacy, and the area is generally clean, thanks to considerate campers. Since it’s a dispersed site, there are no amenities like water or toilets, so make sure to come prepared. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for accessing some of the sites, especially after rain or snow.
What makes Kirby Gulch truly special is its tranquility. You can enjoy the sound of the wind through the trees, the crisp mountain air, and dazzling stargazing at night. It’s also a great starting point for exploring nearby trails or simply soaking in the serene environment.
If you’re comfortable with primitive camping and leave-no-trace principles, Kirby Gulch is a hidden gem worth checking out.
Sun H.ScoutPole Hill Rd Dispersed
Access not worth the trouble
Don’t believe the navigation apps and go through lyons, it’s private property ; furthermore if you like I did make the drive though Estes park, have 4WD high clearance and a small vehicle… maybe you’ll make it to this brutally elusive last free camping spot off the main mountain roads
Jason H.Scout
Allenspark Dispersed Camping
Easy Access. Beautiful Setting
About 1 hour from Boulder. Was super simple to access. the coordinates take you to the beginning of the rural part of Ski road. Keep driving on Ski road, you'll see the "Entering National Forrest" sign and soon after that you will see dispersed camping spots.
Lots of spots available. Just keep driving along Ski Road and pick one that looks good. Lots of fire pits already build and most camp spots are along the creek.
A 2wd car can access quite a bit but if you want to go further up Ski road, definitely bring a 4x4 with high clearance.
- JOE M.Scout
No Name Dispersed Site - Hwy 40 West
No Name
Free camp sites. First come, first serve
Spencer B.Guide
Rock Creek Designated Dispersed Camping
Bumpy, Secluded, Close to Town
WARNING: The road to the camping locations is very bumpy, narrow, and has some large rocks. AWD with high clearance or 4x4 is recommended.
This location was great! I was looking for a quick dispersed camping spot near Dillon, Co that was not to far from town. Take Rock Creek Trailhead off of country road 1350. There are roughly 4-5 large spots where an RV could be parked, and then lots of drive in, or tent spots. The best camp spots are tent locations that require you to leave your car, but I was able to find a great spot near the river with plenty of space for a full size truck with roof top tent.
Donovan A.
TravelerRock Creek Designated Dispersed Camping
Great spot near Silverthorne / Dillon Amp
Used an F150 with aftermarket tires pulling a 19' travel trailer with also larger tires. I think I bottomed out the tongue once on the ride up once you get past Campsite 6 or 7.
There are some serious potholes and rocks so if you have low clearance, hit one of the early sites. They are not as secluded, but it's a great area for free camping with a town only 15-minute drive away.
I got here on a Thursday evening about 6 and saw plenty of people drive in after me only to turn around so I think the deeper spots past 10, 11, 12 area get filled much earlier.
Karl G.Ranger
Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
Dispersed Campsite with Views - Gordon Gulch (4x4 recommended)
So the Gordon Gulch dispersed camping area has around 15 numbered sites that are ok... but if you keep driving further down 233.1 you will find many more unnumbered campsites. I am reviewing one of these unnumbered campsites in particular, because this one had the best view. Before you read too far, I can't guarantee you will be able to reach this campsite without a 4X4 high clearance vehicle. We got to the site with a Jeep Wrangler and Toyota Tacoma TRD so we had no problems... I can't definitely say a Subaru would make it though. In the pictures I have included a map of the Gordon Gulch trail system. Entering through the Gordon Gulch entrance and taking 226.1 to 233.1 is the hardest route - there is one very steep and washed out spot. Entering via 120J/Switzerland Trail from the Peak to Peak Hwy and then turning right onto 233.1 is the easier option. On that map I have marked the general area of the campsite with a pink dot and here are the coordinates.
DMS: 40°01'18.5"N 105°28'37.6"W
DD: 40.021814, -105.477103 - if you type this into Google Maps it will locate it
As for the actual campsite, it is a great option for spring/fall camping in Colorado. The elevation is about 8,800 ft and it is on the south side of a hill so it gets a lot of sunlight and is protected from northern winds. In terms of privacy, there are no other campsites that can be seen from this one. However, Gordon Gulch is a popular off-roading area so dirt bikes and Jeeps pass by frequently. This campsite is set up high above and away from the road though, so it is really not that bad. Another thing to point out is that this is a popular area for shooting as well, so if you absolutely hate guns it may not be the place for you. Also, as stated before, this is a dispersed campsite the only thing it has is a fire ring. Pack it in, pack it out!
- Andrew W.Guide
Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail
My first Colorado camping spot!
I first camped in Colorado last year with a friend and we chose this dispersed due to it being close to travel too- yet still dispersed. I’ve come back 4 other times to camp here!
This trail does require some 4x4 action to get to the top. Lots of rocks, bumps, and pools of water to travel through to get anywhere.
The trail has a decent amount of dispersed sites along the way up to the top, although you can not camp the first mile or two, they are residential.
Even at the end of the trail, next to the reservoir there are some great spots to camp at. And a hike around the reservoir would show you that you could even do a bit of backpacking if you wanted to camp by a waterfall for the night.
This place has become a favorite camping spot of mine, and a place I love to bring friends. Quite clean, very scenic, and a beautiful creek rushing by most of the camp sites. There is also a really cool teepee stand waiting to be used to camp under at the top!
- Rachael J.Scout
Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
Pretty site not far from Nederland
This is a nice free camping site off of peak to peak highway. Mountain View’s and lots of wildflowers.
Jeni N.GuideGordon Gulch Dispersed Area
Great area!
The drive was beautiful and the map/directions were very clear. The roads within the dispersed camping area were pretty intense with dips, rocks and potholes but we got through just fine with a Subaru Forester. The permitted sites are marked which are easy to find. We chose to not go too far because it was getting dark out by the time we arrived. The first 5 or so campsites are pretty close to each other which limits privacy but I can not speak for campsites further into the campsite.
- Kenneth V.Scout
Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed
Great area, easy to get to.
Several sites with rock fire pits. Close to beaver reservoir but apparently it is a private reservoir. Still great option for free camping
Lindsey H.TravelerAllenspark Dispersed Camping
The Perfect Stay
Allenspark Dispersed Camping provides an exceptional spot to stay. Our spot was near the creek, the sound was beautiful. The only downside was absolutely no cell service. The directions landed us near someone’s home, however dispersed camping is about 1.5 miles further down Ski Rd. No fire due to the current fire ban.
- PParker R.Scout
Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping
NOT DISPERSED CAMPING
Drove more than 35 - 45 mins from boulder expecting a decent dispersed camping area like normal, but don’t let this fool you!! It is all residential and private land! I honestly don’t know of any dispersed camping near the city of boulder and so far this app is deceiving. Read the reviews before you head out!
Nick E.Traveler
Gold Lake Area Dispersed
Lots of spots, less crowded than other areas nearby
Gold Lake Road is one of the best spots for dispersed camping in the area. There are a ton of spots on the way to the lake. I've been able to find a spot even on a summer Saturday, which can be hard to do in many of these dispersed camping zones outside of Boulder. Convenient access to RMNP and Indian Peaks Wilderness.
Kelly G.
Legend
Grays Peak Summer Trailhead Dispersed Camping
Great base camp for summiting Gray’s/Torrey’s
Stevens Gulch Road (321) is a dirt road off of I-70 west of Denver in the Arapaho & Rosevelt National Forests and the Pawnee National Grasslands. It has amazing scenery and access to gorgeous hiking trails to summit Gray’s, Torrey’s and Kelso Peaks. It is a fairly mellow SUV road with plenty of space to pass other vehicles and you will occasionally see passenger cars as well. The road leads to a large parking lot that fills up fast with car overflow parking spilling down both sides of the road. There are pit toilets and bear proof trash cans at the parking lot. The road continues past the parking lot a very short ways to some dispersed campsites by a river that have stone campfire rings. Definitely filter this water as there are uphill toilet paper gardens along the climb to summit.
gloria P.TravelerGrays Peak Summer Trailhead Dispersed Camping
Stevens gulch
Good dispersed camping. A little rough if you have a small car.
- TTroy S.Traveler
Stillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite
Great RMNP Access
This dispersed camping area is great for western access to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Casey J.Scout
West Magnolia Campground
Beautiful dispersed spots in range of Boulder
Beautiful spot; close enough to civilization to feel secure yet secluded enough to feel private. In the section of camp spots I stayed at, most were full, but I got one as soon as I pulled in probably by luck. Judging by the fact that it is a Tuesday, I would assume this place would be packed on a weekend. The road getting here was a little rough but extremely short, no need for a four-wheel drive. The campsites are spread out enough to limit others noise pollution and feel secluded. There is a fire ring at all campsites, but no amenities. Overall, pretty good for dispersed.
- MMichelleScout
Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
Rare Free Camping Near Boulder
There isn't much free camping to be had in the Boulder area. So, our family has been grateful for this spot (and Magnolia Ridge nearby). This spot isn't far a far drive from Boulder but dirt roads can be rocky and rough on the way in. I wouldn't recommend driving in with a low clearance vehicle.
Our campsite did have some garbage left over from previous occupants which we cleaned up. The area was very regularly patrolled by deputies which might be disruptive to some looking for peace and solitude. However, they do help when it comes to some people being disruptive and not camping responsibly on the mountain. We enjoyed seeing wildlife including moose in the area and enjoyed having trees for shade from the Colorado sun.
The campground we occupied was very rocky and my six year old unfortunately fell while running and broke her arm. This may not be the best spot for little ones with unsure footing.
Joseph B.Guide
Loch Lomond Dispersed
This place was great
This was a nice dispersed camping location, great views and some close encounters with local wildlife made it interesting.
- gloria P.Traveler
Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping
Beautiful site
It was a little hard to find however, once we found it we didn’t want to leave. Plenty of dispersed camping, hiking and climbing.
Rob B.TravelerGordon Gulch Dispersed Area
Great Spot!
Great spot for dispersed camping. Road a little rough especially with snow; 4x4 is probably necessary to avoid getting stuck. Really pretty, spread out spots.
Chelsea M.TravelerKirby Gulch
Accessible camping off guanella pass
Amazing dispersed camping, private. We brought our dogs and they enjoyed themselves. Very accessible- second weekend in august and was perfect! Around 55 degrees at night, 10,000ft elevation.
Guide to Jamestown
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Jamestown, Colorado, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. With numerous options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.
Dispersed campers should check out Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
- This area allows for a unique camping experience, but be prepared for some challenges, as trash and long-term campers have been reported.
- Located near Nederland, the Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area offers a drive-in access type, making it convenient for those looking to set up camp quickly.
- Campers should be aware that amenities are limited, with no drinking water or toilets available, so plan accordingly.
Scenic views while free camping near Jamestown
- For breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere, consider the Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed, where you can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
- This spot is well-reviewed for its accessibility, allowing both drive-in and walk-in access, making it suitable for various camping styles.
- Keep in mind that while the area is beautiful, it can get windy, so securing your campsite is essential.
Hiking and biking opportunities for dispersed campers
- The West Magnolia Campground is a great base for hiking and mountain biking, with numerous trails nearby.
- Although the area has seen heavy use, it still offers a chance to explore the stunning natural surroundings, especially if you venture further into the forest.
- Be prepared for some trash and signs of long-term camping, but the potential for adventure makes it worth the visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Jamestown, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Jamestown, CO is Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area with a 3.6-star rating from 49 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Jamestown, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 110 dispersed camping locations near Jamestown, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
- Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG
- White River National Forest
- Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland
- Medicine Bow-Routt NFs & Thunder Basin NG
- Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands
- Gunnison National Forest