Dispersed camping areas near La Junta provide basic overnight options in the southeastern Colorado plains, where summer temperatures frequently exceed 95°F and winter nights often drop below freezing. Most sites sit at elevations between 4,000-4,500 feet with minimal shade coverage. Road conditions frequently deteriorate after rainfall, creating challenging access situations for vehicles without adequate clearance.
What to do
Visit dinosaur trackways: The Picketwire Canyon area serves as a trailhead for viewing prehistoric dinosaur tracks. "The hike is easy going and very scenic. Started at 1 p.m. was back at camp by 7. Only con is there is lots of cactus around," reports Nick K. from Picket Wire Corrals.
Explore historic ruins: Short hiking trails near camping areas lead to remnants of pioneer settlements. Brian W. at Vogul Canyon notes there are "3 nice, relatively short hikes to see canyon, ruins of homestead sites and stagecoach stop" making it suitable for day trips.
Fishing opportunities: The Arkansas River provides fishing access at several wildlife areas, though a valid Colorado fishing license is required. Chris P. found Melon Valley suitable for overnight fishing trips, stating "This is a basic lot on the river with room for several vehicles. There isn't much level ground, but if you're able to park close to the river and parallel to it, you'll be ok."
What campers like
Sunset views: River locations offer scenic evening views. Mia W. at Melon Valley State Wildlife Area reported "Woke up to a beautiful sunrise. Wouldn't stay here for the day but a beautiful random spot!"
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and evening hours provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. One camper noted seeing animal tracks, commenting "Saw some tracks, bear maybe? Kept the doors locked." Wildlife areas sometimes have restrictions during hunting seasons.
Cell connectivity: Several sites maintain usable cell service despite remote locations. Linda C. mentioned "Good Verizon signal" at Melon Valley, making these areas suitable for remote workers needing occasional connectivity.
What you should know
License requirements: State Wildlife Areas require valid hunting or fishing licenses or habitat stamps for overnight stays. One camper at Lake Meredith Camping discovered this requirement after arrival, creating complications for their stay.
Limited flat terrain: Finding level spots for tents or vehicles presents challenges at many sites. As Nora S. described her experience at medano pass: "Very little flat spots but we made do."
Road conditions: Many access roads become impassable during wet conditions. "The road is a washboard for a couple miles but worth it," notes Tiffani H. about Picketwire Canyon. Free camping near La Junta, Colorado often requires planning for road conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: Shell casings at some sites indicate target shooting occurs in these areas. Tristan B. noted "Shell casings everywhere, seems like we always wake up and find out we're in a shooting range," suggesting families should select sites away from heavily used target areas.
Picnic facilities: Vogul Canyon offers covered picnic tables with grills for day use. Brian W. found "3 covered picnic tables with grills" making it suitable for family meals, though overnight camping in this area may be limited to self-contained vehicles in the parking area.
Bathroom access: Limited sites provide toilet facilities. Pam G. at Picket Wire Corrals mentioned the campground has "4 sites (no camping except in sites) with fire rings" and vault toilets are available at the trailhead.
Tips from RVers
Rig size limitations: Most dispersed sites cannot accommodate large RVs. Linda C. specifically warned that Melon Valley is "Not suitable for large rigs due to unlevel ground and very sharp approach from the east."
Vehicle clearance issues: High-clearance vehicles are required for many access roads. Nora S. warned about free dispersed camping near La Junta at Medano Pass: "not accessible unless you have a high clearance 4wd... my rav4 just did not have the clearance and it got kinda sketchy."
Alternative sites: When primary sites are inaccessible, nearby alternatives may be available. Vanessa M. suggested "driving the extra six miles to the Withers canyon campground, but keep in mind that road isn't passable when wet" when Picket Wire Corrals is unsuitable.
