Best Dispersed Camping near Johnstown, CO

The foothills and mountain areas west of Johnstown, Colorado feature predominantly dispersed camping options within Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest. Areas like Hell Canyon Dispersed, Gordon Gulch, and Allenspark Dispersed Camping provide primitive sites without amenities, typically at elevations between 8,000-10,000 feet. Most locations are free to use and feature established fire rings, though seasonal fire bans are common during dry periods. These sites are generally located 30-60 minutes from Johnstown, with the closest options near Estes Park and the more remote sites scattered throughout the national forest lands toward Nederland and Allenspark.

High-clearance 4WD vehicles are strongly recommended for accessing most dispersed camping areas. As one camper noted, "Scout out the area ahead if you don't have high clearance AWD/4X4. You could find yourself on a washed out road in a hurry." Navigation can be challenging as many forest roads cross private property, with one reviewer warning, "Don't believe the navigation apps and go through Lyons, it's private property." Weather conditions significantly impact accessibility, particularly during spring runoff when roads may become impassable. Cell service varies widely, with Verizon generally providing the most reliable coverage. Seasonal considerations include cold nights even in summer due to the elevation, and strong winds in some exposed areas.

Mountain views and creek-side locations rank among the most sought-after features according to visitor reviews. Campers frequently mention wildlife sightings including moose, fox, and various bird species. Privacy between sites varies considerably, with areas like West Magnolia Campground offering well-spaced sites while others may be closer together. Noise from off-highway vehicles is common in certain areas, particularly Gordon Gulch. Several reviewers mention issues with previous campers not following Leave No Trace principles, requiring cleanup before setting up camp. As one visitor advised, "Definitely check out your campsite before you decide on it. Ours had broken glass that we had to pick up." Despite these challenges, the scenic beauty and accessibility from Front Range cities make these areas popular weekend destinations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Johnstown, Colorado (64)

    1. Hell Canyon Dispersed

    28 Reviews
    Pinewood Springs, CO
    25 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)."

    2. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    53 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    38 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."

    3. Allenspark Dispersed Camping

    26 Reviews
    Allenspark, CO
    33 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. Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed

    32 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    34 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."

    5. Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot

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

    "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."

    "Keep driving down Ski road until you find a fork in the road, and from there onwards are the campsites. Good whitenoise from the creek"

    6. Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping

    21 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    34 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."

    "Safe for car camping. Make sure you follow the stay on road signs."

    7. Gold Lake Area Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    33 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."

    8. Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Jamestown, CO
    31 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. West Magnolia Campground

    26 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    41 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."

    10. Pole Hill Rd Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Drake, CO
    25 miles

    "New Bronco in front of me turned around.  Once past the obstacles (which is why we do this, right?) lots of nice camping.  The only drawback is the large power lines in the vicinity.   No Verizon. "

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Showing results 1-10 of 64 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Johnstown, CO

351 Reviews of 64 Johnstown Campgrounds



Guide to Johnstown

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Johnstown, Colorado, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, these locations offer a perfect escape into the wilderness.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience breathtaking vistas at Hell Canyon Dispersed, where you can find multiple camping spots amidst the national forest.
  • The Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping area features beautiful creekside sites, perfect for those who appreciate the sound of running water while enjoying their surroundings.
  • For those seeking a more secluded experience, Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot offers a peaceful atmosphere with plenty of space to set up camp.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Johnstown, Colorado

  • Always check road conditions before heading to Forest Road 119, as access can be challenging and may require a high-clearance vehicle.
  • When camping at Johnny Park Road Camping, be prepared to hike in a bit to find the best spots, as they are spread out and may require some exploration.
  • Bring your own firewood and water, as many dispersed camping areas, like Canyon Lakes Ranger District Dispersed Camping, do not provide these amenities.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Johnstown

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Johnstown, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Johnstown, CO is Hell Canyon Dispersed with a 3.5-star rating from 28 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Johnstown, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 64 dispersed camping locations near Johnstown, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.