Dispersed camping options near La Veta, Colorado require campers to pack out all waste and adhere to fire restrictions within the San Isabel National Forest. Located in southern Colorado's Spanish Peaks country, this region sits at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet with alpine terrain characterized by dramatic rock formations and forested valleys. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking to mountain lakes: Alvarado Campground provides direct access to trail systems leading through varied terrain. "The campground was beautiful and had access to several wonderful trails. The night sky was amazing after the rain passed through and the clouds cleared," notes camper Glenna L. Trails accommodate various skill levels with some routes suitable for horses.
Stargazing opportunities: Purgatoire Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing away from light pollution. "Beautiful star viewing. 4 mile dirt road was a bit rough bringing my camper. Verizon coverage had 1 bar at the south end," reports Greg K. Best viewing occurs during new moon phases when skies remain clear.
Wildlife observation: Sacred White Shell Mountain Campground positions campers near diverse habitats supporting elk, deer and various bird species. "This is only about 12 miles from the Great Sand Dunes National Park and also on the way to Crater Lake. There are several dispersed campsites," shares Amanda S. who stayed while passing through the area.
What campers like
Remote location access: Huerfano State Wildlife Area provides isolation without difficult access. "This is a wonderfully isolated, dispersed camping area. There are group sites and individual ones, scattered bathrooms, and a few picnic tables," explains Kyle T. Sites accommodate both tent and RV camping with sufficient clearance for most vehicles.
Creek proximity: Many sites at Purgatoire Campground feature stream access for ambient sound and water activities. "Easily navigable fire road leads to great creekside campground. Nice facilities. Incredible mountain and creek views," writes Patrick W., highlighting the natural water features available to campers.
Site spacing: Alvarado Campground offers well-separated sites for privacy. "The sites were widely spaced on the lower level. There were plenty of sites. Make sure you check your vehicle length because some of the spots were pretty small," advises Steph C., noting the importance of checking site specifications before arrival.
What you should know
Limited services: Most dispersed camping areas require self-sufficiency. Purgatoire Campground offers minimal facilities. "Camp site is basic. Simple sites, some with a better set up for tents than others. It was late in the season but the outhouse was still open. There is water from the stream, I didn't see a fresh water spigot," reports Mike S. after his elk hunting trip.
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites present challenges for larger vehicles. "The 4 mile dirt road was a bit rough bringing my camper," notes Greg K. about Purgatoire Campground. Road conditions worsen after precipitation, particularly in spring.
Supply availability: Remote locations require advance preparation. "The nearby towns are VERY small and don't have much to offer for activities, restaurants or supplies if you forget something," cautions Marissa B. about the Purgatoire area. La Veta offers basic provisions but limited selection.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose sites carefully based on terrain. "We've stayed at campsite 36 and 41. 41 is our favorite. It has plenty of space and a nice creek running near it. We felt secluded," recommends Trish M. about Alvarado Campground. Sites near water features typically provide natural entertainment for children.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "We basically had the whole campground to ourselves on a mid-week evening, maybe two others in the entire campground. There was snow on the ground and snow flurries during our visit," shares Jeff T. about Purgatoire Campground, highlighting the need for warm clothing even in warmer months.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours. "There was a group at a lower loop that was playing really loud music until well after quiet time. I do wish the host had put an end to that," notes Glenna L. about Alvarado Campground. Midweek visits typically offer quieter experiences.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Soft ground complicates stabilization. "It made leveling our rig a little tricky as the levelling blocks kept sinking in the soft Dyrt under the weight of our wheels, but we eventually figured it out," explains Jeff T. about Purgatoire Campground. Extra leveling blocks and stabilization equipment help manage uneven or soft terrain.
Length restrictions: Verify site dimensions before arrival. "Our rig is 28' long, and if the place had been more crowded we may have had trouble finding a spot long enough for us," notes Jeff T. about fitting his RV at Purgatoire Campground. Many primitive horse campgrounds near La Veta accommodate smaller trailers but present challenges for larger rigs.
Hookup availability: Plan for dry camping at most locations. "No water or electrical hookups," confirms Steph C. about Alvarado Campground. Generator use regulations vary by location, with many prohibiting operation during quiet hours.
