Dispersed camping near Kremmling, Colorado offers outdoor enthusiasts access to free and low-cost sites with direct trail access. Located in Grand County at 7,300 feet elevation, the area experiences cool nights even in summer with temperatures that can drop below 40°F. Most dispersed sites lack designated facilities but provide proximity to the Colorado River and thousands of acres of public lands within Routt and Arapaho National Forests.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide access to productive fishing spots along the Colorado River and its tributaries. At Radium Recreation Site, campers can access excellent fishing. According to a visitor, "I have stayed at this campground many times over the last few times due to its' close proximity to access points along the Upper Colorado River and one of Colorado's best kept secrets, Radium Hot Springs."
Hot springs soaking: The natural hot springs near Radium provide a unique way to relax after a day of outdoor activities. As one camper notes, "It is a beautiful natural hot spring located at the bottom of a cliff along the banks of the Colorado River. Some call this a warm spring, as it stays around 80-90 degrees."
ATV and off-road exploration: The network of forest roads around Kremmling provides extensive off-road opportunities. At Winding River Resort, "There's a separately owned, but very convenient onsite place where you can rent ATVs, bikes and snowmobiles." This allows visitors without their own equipment to explore the area's extensive trail systems.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Kremmling support diverse wildlife populations. One camper at Winding River Resort observed that "Moose have a tendency to wander through the campground toward the evening and the local elk herds like to eat with the horses." Early mornings and evenings provide the best opportunities for wildlife sightings.
What campers like
Natural hot springs: The Radium Hot Springs accessible from Radium Recreation Site is particularly popular. A camper shares, "My favorite time to visit the hot spring is late at night during the week, when you are most likely to have the pool to yourself and enjoy the scenery and starry nights in seclusion."
Uncrowded weekday camping: While weekends can get busy, weekday visitors often find solitude. At Beaver Creek Campground, one visitor reports, "We've camped up Beaver Creek many times over the years and have enjoyed plenty of Dispersed Camping spots. Some are big enough for a group and some are small enough for a family."
Proximity to national parks: Many horse campgrounds near Kremmling are conveniently located near Rocky Mountain National Park. A visitor to Country Road 455 Camp praised its "Nice spot next to the Rocky Mountain" and noted the availability of sites even for larger rigs.
Trail access: Direct trail access from campsites is a significant advantage for hikers, riders, and ATV users. At Sugarloaf Campground, campers can access "the Darling Creek trail, the South Fork trail, the Kinney Creek trail and 4x4 road, the Ute Peak trail, and further north, the Williams Peak trail."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Fire bans are common during dry periods. A camper at Country Road 455 Camp noted, "while we were there there was a burning restriction so no fires allowed." Always check current fire restrictions before your trip.
Limited amenities: Most dispersed equestrian camping areas near Kremmling lack facilities. At Stillwater Pass Grand Lake Colorado - Dispersed, "some of the large lots have vault toilets! Which is a real treat when you spent two weeks on dispersed areas all over the west with no bathrooms."
Road conditions: Access roads to many equestrian camping sites can be challenging. At Buffalo Pass Dispersed, a reviewer warns it's "Crazy hard to get to in anything less than 4wd" and "Very busy on a weekend and hard road."
Seasonal access: Many horse-friendly campgrounds in the higher elevations have limited seasonal access. "Gates not open as of memorial weekend" and "will not open until June 15 on the steamboat side as posted at gate" indicates that planning for seasonal openings is essential.
Tips for camping with families
Campgrounds with activities: For families seeking structured activities, Winding River Resort offers extensive options. A visitor reports, "They offer all sorts of activities such as horseback riding, ice cream social, chuckwagon breakfast, square dancing, cowboy church. Some do have an additional fee."
Animal encounters: Children often enjoy the animal interactions available at certain campgrounds. According to one family, "Loved the petting zoo and stream to swim in. Also really enjoyed the horseback riding and ATV ride."
Playground access: Some equestrian campgrounds include play areas for children. At East Portal Campground at Estes Park, "The playground was small but my kids were satisfied. There was a rock climbing wall and swings."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Wildlife sightings can be a highlight for children. One family camping at Country Road 455 Camp reported, "It's quiet, and wildlife comes through our camp often. Moose, deer, fox, and some sort of cat have been seen."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Many dispersed camping areas can accommodate larger vehicles despite rough access roads. At Stillwater Pass, "Close to town, and had no issues getting our travel trailer into a site. There where some deep ruts getting into our site."
Limited hookups: Most equestrian camping options near Kremmling lack hookups. A traveler at Country Road 455 Camp noted, "There are no hookups for anything. You are literally on your own out here."
Supply runs: Being prepared for limited facilities is essential. A Country Road 455 camper advised, "There are two towns within 10-15 minutes, Granby and Grand Lake. Granby had a Dollar General, which is amazing for stuff that you may have forgotten."
Seasonal considerations: RVers should note that wildfire impacts have changed the character of some camping areas. One camper observed, "fire 3 years ago ruined the views" and mentioned "would stay again when forest gets into better condition."
