Best Dispersed Camping near Jamestown, CO

Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Jamestown, Colorado, primarily in surrounding Roosevelt National Forest and adjacent public lands. Free primitive sites can be found along several forest roads and near water features such as Gordon Gulch, Gold Lake Area, and Beaver Park Reservoir. Other notable dispersed camping zones include West Magnolia, Dream Canyon, Forest Road 332, and several areas near Allenspark. Most sites require visitors to practice proper leave-no-trace ethics and observe local regulations, as these are undeveloped areas with minimal management presence.

The majority of dispersed camping areas feature dirt or gravel forest roads with varying degrees of accessibility. Several locations like Gordon Gulch and Gold Lake Area permit both tent and RV camping, though high-clearance vehicles are recommended for many access routes. According to one visitor, "We did fine to a good spot in a 2WD Promaster," though they noted navigation challenges. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with many areas allowing campfires in established rings when conditions permit. Almost all sites lack amenities - no toilets, drinking water, or trash service is available. Camping is typically limited to 14 days within a 30-day period on national forest land.

These primitive sites attract campers seeking solitude and natural experiences within relatively close proximity to Front Range communities. Many areas provide scenic mountain views and access to hiking trails. "Beautiful spot with a gorgeous view of a couple of mountain peaks with the reservoir in the foreground," noted one camper at Beaver Park Reservoir. The Ceran St. Vrain Trail offers walk-in sites along a creek, with a visitor describing it as "a short hike to some of the campsites" with "signs stating to not build fires and be within 1/4 mile of creek." Wildlife encounters are common, with reports of fox, moose, and even mountain lion sightings at some locations. Visitors should be prepared for variable weather conditions, especially at higher elevations, and exercise caution during hunting seasons.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Jamestown, Colorado (123)

    1. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    54 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    9 miles
    Website

    "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."

    "Like the title suggests, this campsite is typical for a free forest service campground. Prior campers have left some trash, bullet casings and obviously neglected to dig cat holes."

    2. Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed

    34 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    7 miles
    Website

    "We were right up on the lake but turns out it's private property and you cannot even go up to the water."

    "You are pinned up against private property around the lake, the camp sites are in the dirt area when you get to the lake down to the left."

    3. Allenspark Dispersed Camping

    28 Reviews
    Allenspark, CO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "Fire ban was in effect when we went, but lots of fire circles available otherwise. Bring bug spray, the flies are bold."

    "Was super simple to access. the coordinates take   you to the beginning of the rural part of Ski road."

    4. Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping

    22 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    7 miles
    Website

    "Was desperate to find "something" after driving 11 hours that day, and normal paid camp grounds were full. HOWEVER I was pulling a smaller trailer, and that turned out to be a real issue."

    "Went on a Tuesday afternoon and there was foot traffic around our spot from people headed on hikes."

    5. Gold Lake Area Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    4 miles

    "My GPS from the coordinates just took me to the nearest town of Ward, CO. This is how I got there coming from the North:

    Take RT72 South to County Road 100."

    "Many spots along the CR once you find it, came in around 4pm on a Friday and there were still plenty of spots but started filling up fast. By 7pm, people were turning around as no spots were left."

    6. West Magnolia Campground

    26 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    14 miles
    Website

    "Oe of my family's fav places, beautiful views, camping spots super far away from one another so awesome privacy, and completely free. Spots fill up quick on weekends, you can stay 14 days."

    "The roads around the whole campground were a little rough but i did okay in my Ford Escape. All of the sites seems to be really spread out. There were several people in the campground."

    7. Hell Canyon Dispersed

    29 Reviews
    Pinewood Springs, CO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "4x4 drive is a requirement. Good Verizon signal. Narrow road, however not busy at all. Stayed here for 4 days, no issue. The Google Maps directions is slightly wrong."

    "Turn just before or after Yogi Bear Campground and go up the decently maintained dirt road. (You will pass RVs at the beginning of the road as you head up)."

    8. Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Jamestown, CO
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 541-2500

    $1 / night

    "My son and I joined a friend from Longmont and headed to this trail to camp for a couple days."

    "We went here with our 2 dogs for a quick overnighter-only about 45 minutes outside of Boulder. It was a Sunday morning and the lot was almost full when we got there around 9am."

    9. Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot

    10 Reviews
    Pinewood Springs, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "You have to drive through a neighborhood to get to the serving road. Follow the directions on Google and you’ll be fine. The best spots are a little further back. The road will come to a Y go left."

    "Awesome scenic drive, great spacious spot. But only for one party. If someone else is there, you're outta luck. Fire road is gated off so no other options."

    10. Forest Road 332 Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "If you go further down the road a high clearance vehicle is necessary the road gets worse as you go further. Lots of trash at the campsite. Overall, woke up to a nice view of mountains."

    "Found a nice big spot with sun and shade and a great overlook. Was a touch concerned that it would get ATV trafficy over the weekend as it was at a junction where 3 roads jet off."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Jamestown, CO

621 Reviews of 123 Jamestown Campgrounds


  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 20, 2024

    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.
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Pole 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

  • Meg G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2020

    Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping

    Spectacular - 4x4 is required to access.

    We drove our BRAND NEW 4x4 Revel and were nervous the entire trip up and back.  We are a high profile vehicle, luckily we had plenty of clearance but it was very nerve wracking both up and back.  It is about 7 miles of dirt road, and 4 miles of very challenging (for me) driving.

    Be sure to follow the sign LEFT to Chinns Lake.  When you arrive, there are several dispersed campsites around the lake.  All the spots have beautiful views and tons of space between other campers.  There are firepits (even though CO is on a fire ban) that  will be nice for future visits.  We visited on Sept 17-19, 2020, so the evenings are cold and the days short.  Additionally, the water level was very low.  

    The area is nice for hiking and exploring, and especially to get away from it all.  No cell phone service.

    As the weekend approached, there were several ATV's heading up for the day.  While we were there, only 3 other groups camping on the weekend.

    You will be at 11,000 feet looking at the Continental Divide!  THIS is Colorado camping!  Enjoy and please remember to leave no trace!

  • Kelly G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2021

    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.

  • Karl G.
    May. 6, 2019

    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!

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 16, 2025

    Rollins Pass Dispersed Camping

    Great spot close to Winter Park

    Went up Rollins pass road (you can access it from the Lakota Trail neighborhood or down the road a bit on 80). The first gate was open but not the second or third to get to the top where there are def more spots and fire rings. You can only camp places where there are dots on the side of the road on the official county map. Check the Rollins pass website it’s very informative and a sacred land so leave no trace. We got one of the like 3-4 spots we saw with a fire ring that wasn’t taken yet. (No fire ban 6/14/25 I check don’t worry :).. Some back trails are very hairy, pretty busy with motor vehicles but a lot of the new electric dirt bikes which don’t make much noise, probably 10-15 ppl the entire night riding by only once. Got great weather and the main trail is pretty easy up to the second gate which is supposed to be open June 15-Sept 15 I think.

  • A L.
    Aug. 21, 2017

    Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping

    Gorgeous getaway within minutes from Longmont

    My son and I joined a friend from Longmont and headed to this trail to camp for a couple days. Very accessible road, lots of spots to choose from (we showed up on Thursday, it did get a little busier on Friday and Saturday). Our spot was set back from the trail, right next to the stream. Just an amazing view, ample room for lots of tents, nice fire rings and huge logs around them for sitting. Fire wood abounds but it was all a little wet still from the rains they've been getting. Some folks didn't seem to be aware of the "leave no trace" rule when it comes to going to the bathroom, which was a little gross. Overall, great experience, pretty trail views, caught lots of trout (none big enough to keep). A great getaway.

  • Eileen S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 1, 2021

    Peru Creek Designated Dispersed Camping

    Crowded Camping Near Keystone

    This is beautiful camping close to keystone and likewise gets crowded in the summer months. If you want a spot on a weekend, get there early. There are a few pull offs along the road suitable for most cars, but if you have a high clearance 4WD you can go on a few offshoot roads and find more spacious spots. No cell phone signal or water, and frequent fire bans in the summer.

  • Alyse P.
    May. 21, 2021

    Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    Good but tricky

    I went here the week before campgrounds opened in this area, around May 7th. I had a pop up trailer and got there around 5pm on a Friday. Most spots were already taken and the road was a bit washed out. We got stopped by a camper letting us know not to go further because of the road condition and we shared a spot for the night. I would recommend this spot if you have a 4 wheel drive car with high clearance. Later in the season when the water levels are lower it might be easier to navigate but we saw a car or two get towed out


Guide to Jamestown

Dispersed camping areas near Jamestown, Colorado range in elevation from 7,000 to 9,500 feet throughout Roosevelt National Forest and surrounding public lands. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from October through May, with summer highs averaging 75-85°F. Most accessible dispersed sites require driving on unpaved forest roads that vary significantly in quality and maintenance status after spring snowmelt or summer storms.

What to do

Mountain biking nearby: West Magnolia Campground offers direct trail access for riders. "Great spot for mountain biking, hiking, and camping," notes one visitor who mentioned the area has "some more open [sites] than others but all were a good distance apart."

Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forested areas around Allenspark Dispersed Camping attract diverse wildlife. A camper reported, "We ran into a bear and scared him off. Two hours later he came back and we scared him off again. He's afraid of humans but he did try to get into the car while we were sleeping."

Creek access for cooling off: Several sites near Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot provide water features. One camper noted, "Most spots sit on a creek that gives a good ambiance. Few spots need 4x4 or really good tires, but there's a spot for everyone."

Star-gazing: The remote location away from urban light pollution offers excellent night sky viewing. A camper at Ceran St. Vrain Trail mentioned, "The stars were AMAZING and the sky was perfectly clear."

What campers like

Creek sounds for peaceful sleeping: Many campers appreciate the natural white noise at dispersed sites. A visitor to Allenspark mentioned, "Good whitenoise from the creek" helped create a serene camping experience.

Space between campsites: Forest Road 332 Dispersed camping offers privacy. One camper noted, "Plenty of space between spots. Not too crowded when we arrived. We picked a site with more trees rather than over looking the mountain."

Early weekday arrival recommended: Popular areas fill quickly during peak season. At West Magnolia, a visitor arrived "at 5:30 to find all of the spots were full aside from one (#18), possibly because of the negative review of it on this app? The sites are VERY spaced apart."

Quick access from Front Range: Most dispersed camping zones can be reached within 1-2 hours from Boulder or Denver. A camper mentioned Gold Lake Area Dispersed is "one of the best spots for dispersed camping in the area. 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."

What you should know

Vehicle requirements vary by site: Many roads deteriorate further from main access points. At Dream Canyon Campsites, "The trailhead parking lot has one giant rut that you must be careful to navigate around. 2 Wheel Dr. and low clearance vehicles can do it, but should be extremely careful in how they approach."

Fire restrictions change seasonally: Always check current regulations before your trip. At some sites like Dream Canyon, fires may be prohibited entirely regardless of season.

Wildlife precautions essential: Food storage precautions prevent animal encounters. At Allenspark, one camper warned about bears, stating their site was "beautiful, secluded and right next to a creek. BUT a huge bear got into my tent while I was gone for 2 hours and absolutely destroyed it."

Limited turnaround space: Forest roads often narrow with limited areas to turn vehicles. A visitor to Gold Lake Area noted, "Be forewarned, the private land area at the end of the road does not have any turn around space."

No lake access at Gold Lake: Despite the name, one camper explained, "The owners of the lake have cameras on all sides but there was one section left open for shores access but no swimming, fishing, or use of the lake itself."

Tips for camping with families

Site selection for young ones: Choose sites closer to main roads for easier access with children. At Beaver Park Reservoir, a visitor mentioned "a super easy family-friendly mini hike with great view and a little cell access. If you are facing the lake, to your right just behind you there are some rocks. Walk toward them and then maybe 30 yards away from the lake you can walk right up."

Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly year-round. One camper at Gold Lake experienced "beautiful sunshine, but some wind, and frigid single digits overnight, but it was Colorado mountain camping at its finest."

Time arrivals strategically: Avoid disappointing children by securing a spot early. A visitor to West Magnolia noted, "It can get busy and can be challenging to find a spot with only 15 sites. Plan on getting there early."

Check for ticks: Several areas have reported tick activity. One camper at Gold Lake Area warned, "The only thing I would caution about this area is the ticks. We brushed about five off of us just during the visit."

Tips from RVers

Length restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. At Beaver Park Reservoir, a camper with "a 25 foot camper fit nicely in. Road in was good as well. Some spots are close to each other and others have more space."

Limited leveling options: Prepare for uneven terrain at most sites. At Forest Road 332, sites vary in flatness, with one visitor noting some areas are "better for large groups the further east you go."

Road condition reports: Ask locals or check recent reviews before attempting rough roads. At Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot, a camper warned, "This is not meant for travel trailers, pop ups, or anything except tents. Even then, while the 1 area was tiny, the second was large and open but the ground was all dust-ash."

Connectivity concerns: Cell service is spotty throughout the region. A camper at Beaver Park Reservoir noted, "I also was able to get some service with Verizon periodically. Was able to send some texts but no pictures."

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best season for dispersed camping around Jamestown, Colorado?

The best season for dispersed camping around Jamestown is late spring through early fall (mid-May to late September), when temperatures are moderate and mountain roads are most accessible. Summer offers ideal conditions, but expect more crowds, particularly on weekends. Rollins Pass Dispersed Camping typically opens later in the season when the gates are unlocked, while Pole Hill Rd Dispersed areas may be accessible earlier in spring. Fall brings spectacular colors but cooler nights. Winter camping is possible but challenging due to snow, cold temperatures, and limited road access, requiring winter-specific gear and experience.

What permits or regulations apply to dispersed camping in Gordon Gulch near Jamestown?

Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area follows standard National Forest dispersed camping regulations. No permits are required, but camping is limited to 14 consecutive days within a 30-day period. Campsites are marked with numbered posts (approximately 15 official sites), but additional unnumbered sites exist further down Forest Road 233.1. Follow Leave No Trace principles and use existing fire rings only. During high fire danger, fire bans may be in effect. For similar regulations in the area, Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping offers streamside camping under the same National Forest rules.

Where is Gold Hill dispersed camping located near Jamestown, Colorado?

Gold Hill dispersed camping is located in the mountains northwest of Boulder, near Jamestown, Colorado. The primary dispersed camping area in this region is Gold Lake Area Dispersed, accessible via Forest Road 372. Another popular option near Gold Hill is Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, which is situated off the Peak to Peak Highway (CO-72) between Nederland and Ward. Both areas offer multiple sites with varying levels of accessibility, though high-clearance vehicles are recommended for reaching the more remote spots.