Looking for the best Lake City dispersed camping? Here you'll find a diverse selection of places to camp, including remote dispersed camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Lake City's most popular destinations.
Alta Lakes is a popular dispersed camping area that offers fishing and camping in a spectacular alpine setting. There are 20 designated campsites that are completely undeveloped. The access road to the area is narrow and rough, requiring a high clearance vehicle. Trailers and RV's are not reccomended.
2024 - THIS IS NOW PRIVATE PROPERTY
All roadside vehicle and tent campers are required to camp ONLY in designated sites. Accessibility is not guaranteed. Please use caution when venturing down forest roads.
Sites are designated by the presence of a 6in X 6in wooden post with a site number and camping symbol along with a permanent metal fire ring. All sites are first come first serve, if a site is occupied please look for another site.
Fires are only permitted in the established metal fire rings. Extinguish all fires so they are cold to the touch.
Sites are limited to two vehicles only per site.
Finding a site to camp and enjoy dispersed recreation activities in remote areas or in relative solitude has become a popular form of camping throughout the Forest. At some more popular areas,toilet facilities may be provided. Contact the local Forest Service office for current information and refer to the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for each forest (Grand Mesa, Gunnison, and Uncompahgre National Forests). Dispersed camping is permitted in most areas of the Forest. Some caution should be used in selecting a site because of intermingled private lands within the National Forest. Recreation maps are available at all local Forest Service offices. Personnel at each office can answer questions on specific sites. Unlike developed campgrounds which are designed and maintained to protect the vegetation, soils, and natural setting, camping in undeveloped areas require more from the camper to help keep the site in the condition in which it was found. Dispersed camping must not occur within 100 feet of water sources (rivers, streams, ponds, or wetlands) or within 100 feet of any road or system trail. In some areas, dispersed camping is restricted to specific sites, contact the local Forest Service office for current information. Campsites can be occupied for no more than 14 days, then the site must be moved at least 3 miles away. Camping is also limited to a total of 28 days in a 60 day period.
In areas closed to the use of vehicles off forest roads, where developed parking sites are not provided, and where not otherwise prohibited, direct access to a suitable parking site within 300 feet of the road is permitted. Such travel must not damage the land or streams. Please select your route carefully, and do not cut live timber. Off road travel should be limited to when the ground is dry. The public is encouraged to camp in locations where others have previously camped and utilized existing routes to those camp areas. Campers are required to leave a clean camp, not to damage vegetation or pollute streams and lakes on the National Forest and implement “Leave No Trace” practices.
Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads.
Please note that 4wd may be necessary.
In areas closed to the use of vehicles off forest roads, where developed parking sites are not provided, and where not otherwise prohibited, direct access to a suitable parking site within 300 feet of the road is permitted. Such travel must not damage the land or streams. Please select your route carefully, and do not cut live timber. Off road travel should be limited to when the ground is dry. The public is encouraged to camp in locations where others have previously camped and utilized existing routes to those camp areas. Campers are required to leave a clean camp, not to damage vegetation or pollute streams and lakes on the National Forest and implement “Leave No Trace” practices
Finding a site to camp and enjoy dispersed recreation activities in remote areas or in relative solitude has become a popular form of camping throughout the Forest. At some more popular areas,toilet facilities may be provided. Contact the local Forest Service office for current information and refer to the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for each forest (Grand Mesa, Gunnison, and Uncompahgre National Forests). Dispersed camping is permitted in most areas of the Forest. Some caution should be used in selecting a site because of intermingled private lands within the National Forest. Recreation maps are available at all local Forest Service offices. Personnel at each office can answer questions on specific sites. Unlike developed campgrounds which are designed and maintained to protect the vegetation, soils, and natural setting, camping in undeveloped areas require more from the camper to help keep the site in the condition in which it was found. Dispersed camping must not occur within 100 feet of water sources (rivers, streams, ponds, or wetlands) or within 100 feet of any road or system trail. In some areas, dispersed camping is restricted to specific sites, contact the local Forest Service office for current information. Campsites can be occupied for no more than 14 days, then the site must be moved at least 3 miles away. Camping is also limited to a total of 28 days in a 60 day period.
Remember your OUTDOOR ETHICS when enjoying your public lands. Please RECREATE RESPONSIBLY. Overview Hartman Rocks Recreation Area includes over 14,000 acres of public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management and 160 acres (The Base Area) owned and managed by The City of Gunnison, and Gunnison County. Hartman Rocks has 45 miles of singletrack trail, 45 miles of roads, 50 designated dispersed campsites, and countless climbing crags. Singletrack trails are perfect for mountain biking, dirt biking, hiking, and trail running. Roads are often traveled by 4x4 trucks, ROVs and ATVs. In the winter months, 16 miles of roads are groomed as cross-country ski trails for classic and skate skiing; and some single-track trails are groomed as winter singletrack for fat biking. For more information, please contact the Gunnison Field Office. Know Before You Go Camping There are 50 dry/primitive campsites available. All sites are first come, first serve. No fees. No hookups! No potable water or developed facilities. Need a Map? Hartman Rocks Recreation Area Map- Climbing, Bouldering, and Rock Climbing Areas Hartman Rocks Trail__Map Helpful Links Visit: Gunnison Field Office ADA Access: Sea of Sage, Lost Dog and Broken Shovel Trails are wide trails used by hand cycles. Accessible restrooms are located at The Base Area and at the intersection of BLM Roads 3505 and 3500.
Dispersed camping is a great way to enjoy the experience of camping away from developed campgrounds. Keep in mind, there are no picnic tables, drinking water, or toilets available.
Legend
Located about 20 minutes from the town of Crested Butte, Slate River Road is home to a bunch of campgrounds. Note: These areas differ from the BLM section you will drive through. After the Oh Be Joyful BLM land, you will then make your way into Forest Service operated areas where there is tons of dispersed camping and it is free.
We spent some time here around 4th of July and all the spots were filled as expected. Camp grounds are all dispersed, free and have no amenities at the site except some areas have vault toilets. There are a few campgrounds on the left side of the road and if those are all full there are many other spots just along the sides of the roads. The spot where the pin is for this site is one of the few “Camp grounds” where there is a small parking lot built and spots are somewhat defined.
Most of them were big enough for multiple cars and tents as well as full sized RV’s. The forest service does patrol this area and we saw them writing tickets for people who were parked in areas they should not be in. It seems they used rocks to define camping areas and people were parked beyond them. Keep that in mind when selecting a spot.
If you cannot find a spot in one of these campgrounds, keep driving. A good portion of the road is Forest Service and camping is allowed on the sides of the road. We saw people camping for miles up the road.
As is with most of Crested Butte, there is tons to do in this area. Drives, hikes, mountain biking, fishing…the list goes on. We spent a long weekend here, it was a great base camp spot however our spot was pretty exposed to the sun.
Bonus: We saw tons of wildlife every day right across the river from our camp chairs. Deer. Moose and a Bear!
Scout
BLM land just outside the south (main) entrance to Black Canyon National Park. Road can be rough, especially slippery mud after rain. Many dispersed sites with cleared space and fire rings along the road, which goes for miles. Reserved campsites within the National Park can be difficult to get ... there's no shortage of sites here, just outside. There's a small store at the junction of the Park access road with US 50, selling firewood, ice, and necessities. Montrose is a short 15 miles away for more substantial needs (gasoline, repairs, shopping).
Legend
Dispersed camping along the South Mineral Creek. This is dry camping with a vault toilet- no hook ups. This is popular with RV’ers and OHV’ers as it is free. The limit is the usual fourteen days. Some “sites” have fire pits, and there are a few picnic tables scattered about. There are a few sites right on the water. Further back in at some larger sites that could accommodate small rvs. The plus is the free camping right on the “river”. The minus is that the road to the forest service campground and the Ice Lake trailhead is very close, very busy, and very dusty.
Traveler
Easy to find BLM land with decent roads and lots of spots. I stayed here 3 days and never saw or heard another person. It’s only 5 miles from the North Rim of Black Canyon National Park. Crawford is about 8 miles away and has some restaurants with good home cooking.
GuideGreat dispersed camping! Spots were clearly marked and had easy access. The views were fantastic! We would definitely go back. Some of the spots are more exposed and offer less privacy than others. Our spot felt very secluded even though it was right by the road.
One negative was the dust/dirt. The dirt here is very fine and sticks to everything, so be prepared to get dusty/dirty, especially if you have kids.
Guide
Found a great dispersed campsite near Silverton Co. Golden Horn dispersed camping area is located about 5 miles from Silverton Co. This camping area is at 9600' elevation. Head north on HWY 550 out of Silverton and turn onto FSR 585 along South Mineral Creek, There are several boondocking sites packed into this 5 mile stretch. This time of year (July), many are occupied and full. We arrived on a Thursday morning to find only one space available at this dispersed campground. Sites are covered in river rock. Nothing is level, so bring the right gear to manage that if it's important to you. There is a vault toilet, bring your own tp. Generators hum all day and deep into the night. T-Mobile 5G/4G somewhat available. Access to several trails are nearby. Recommend off-road capable vehicle to get to Rico-Silverton trailhead.
Traveler
Amazing scenic drive with camp spots that have great vistas! Dispersed camping at its best!
LegendPopular dispersed camping spot close to silverton. Took our pups on a walk to the beautiful creek, mountains view all around. Bathroom pit toilet, clean but may run out of toilet paper semi frequently. Stayed two nights, wonderful time!
Traveler
Reach this BLM dispersed about 9 miles on route 90 from the center of Montrose, good paved until the last mile good graveled. IMMEDIATELY after hairpin switchback, turn left and you'll find a 2 acre mesa with junipers and views, probably can fit 5 camps in there with elbow room. I had 2 neighbors. Shade is limited so it'll be hot in the summer. Only good legal free camping near town!
Legend
Blue lakes is one of the most vibrant colored lakes in Colorado and you can camp right at its shores! This is dispersed/backcountry camping only. Spots can be found right before the lake, look for a clearing and setup. This area can get really busy with day hikers and campers so go early and try for a weekday. We went up there on a weekday and saw about 10 other tents. Camping is free, make sure to pack it out there.
Great jump off point to hike Mt Sneffles or up to the other lakes. The hike is around 3.2 miles one way but worth every step.
Guide
We were passing through town, and and all campgrounds in the area were packed out...on a Thursday. The actual lakes dispersed camping were full too, so we ended up parking on the side of the road going up to the lakes. It was a bit freaky just because it felt so isolating. I’m sure it would be fun if you’re fully prepared for bear prevention and enjoy that kind of isolation.
Ranger
Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed Camping, located near Mount Sneffels in Colorado, offers an incredibly remote and breathtaking camping experience. If you're looking to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in pristine wilderness, this spot is ideal. The campsites are dispersed along the trailhead, offering peace and solitude with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and alpine lakes.
The beauty of this dispersed camping area is its complete immersion in nature. With no designated campsites or amenities, you get to choose your own perfect spot in the forest, whether it’s near the rushing creek or with views of the towering mountains. This is truly a wilderness experience, so you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient—bring your own water, food, and a solid plan for waste disposal.
The Blue Lakes Trailhead offers some of Colorado’s most scenic hiking, including access to the famous Blue Lakes and a challenging ascent of Mount Sneffels. The hike itself rewards adventurers with awe-inspiring views of alpine lakes, wildflowers, and rugged mountain terrain. It’s perfect for those seeking an immersive backcountry experience.
One downside of this dispersed camping is that the road leading to the trailhead is rough, so it’s best suited for high-clearance vehicles, and be prepared for the possibility of unpredictable weather, as storms can roll in quickly in the mountains.
Overall, Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed Camping is an incredible option for experienced campers looking to enjoy the wild beauty of Colorado’s high country. It’s remote, peaceful, and surrounded by some of the most stunning scenery in the state.
Traveler
one of the best spots for me dispersed camping. lots of room, and many secluded spots, only a 4-minute hike to the Delores River for fishing.
Guide
All the way down Hermosa Park Road (578) it's beautiful. We probably saw upwards of 15 (Probably more) dispersed camping spots until you hit hermosa camping loup where a lot of people bike. We found a gem of a spot across from Sigs Creek (paid) camping area that has the sig creek running north to south and the Hermosa Creek running east to west. There was also an awesome small water fall next to camp you could get in. Litterally, we were surrounded by water on 3 sides. The water was about 6" to 1' deep with the occasional Colorado Brook trout showing up. With a license and barbless hooks you can catch and release.
Some spots can be close to others. But overall they are spaces far enough that nobody can be heard. Only can see them from a distance.
We had no cell service and we use t-mobile. The closest gas station is about 8-10 miles away incase you forget something, which we did. We stayed 3 days and 3 nights and had an amazing time.
Legend
Quick stop while traveling. Several established dispersed camp sites nearby. Rock fire pit at this site doesn't appear to been used in awhile
Scout
Lodging isn’t always easy to find in the Telluride area especially if you find yourself passing through as we were but this is an absolutely amazing free camp spot 11 miles out of town. If you want a no frills but off the grid easy in and easy out spot fine for a tent or a trailer this place is an amazing option. Beautiful views at 10k+ feet. Fires are allowed in the fire rings as long as you stay at a previously disturbed spot you are good. There are toilets across the road at the trailhead. The road in is a bit rough but if you’ve got a high clearance vehicle you should be fine. If your pulling a trailer this is perfect. The night views are stellar. Like I said, this is a no frills spot but we loved it. I’ll probably stop here again if I’m in this area and thankful it is available and free. Had a great night here. Check it out
Guide
Lots of big pull offs for dispersed camping. There is also a decommissioned forest service campsite on the north side about halfway in with tables and fire rings still. Creek was a bit high but not bad.
Legend
Dispersed camping next to the creek(Anvil camp sites are on the other side of the creek). This is really pretty but REALLY close to the VERY dusty forest service road. But, it’s not too far from another designated dispersed area (Kendall) with vault toilets. The coolest little rabbits are running all over this site with white feet. Great views and the creek is nice and loud.
Scout
Great dispersed camping close to town with a decent number of spots that feel secluded, but people were NOT exaggerating about the road. I took my 4Runner up and spun in a few spots, though I also saw someone manage to get a teardrop up with some careful maneuvering. Overall great spot if you’re in Ouray with a vehicle that can handle some ruts
GuideThere are 12 decent spots of a several mile dirt road suitable for 2 wheel drive in summer along the spectacular slate river valley that leads up to the 4x4 paradise divide. The sites begin about 5 miles from town and end at the hairpin turn that begins the 4x4 section. Mostly open and clearly marked, sites 6-9 were most attractive to us in that they offered some shade and a bit of distance from road. They were all taken when we arrived mid weekday in July so we stayed at the currently unlisted musicians camp NFS campground still in it's infancy as a solution to previously unmitigated dispersed camping mayhem that i will review in detail when dyrt lists it. The campground offered movers sites (#15-17) than were the dispersed camping options and were (as of July 2021) also free.
RangerFirst off, make sure you’re using the GPSing to Blue Lakes Trailhead, Telluride 81435 There are two different trailheads and there is camping at the other one (going through Ouray), but you can find that through the NPS system (Thistledown Campground and Angel Creek Campground).
The true dispersed camping is along the route to the “telluride/ Ridgway” trailhead. You should be entering the forest through route 7. This is an 8-ish mile road from the highway to the forest entrance. The camping spots will not appear until you’re actually across the forest threshold (there is a sign and a cattle guard), with only about 1.5 miles left your gps-ed route. The round is rough and long, but manageable in a 2wd car. (I have a Camry.)
I stayed here the past two nights and was lucky enough to have some campers split their space with me. We were right by the stream, maybe a half mile from the TH itself. It’s shortly after the meadow, on your left as you drive in. Cars definitely came and went throughout the evening, but the sound of the stream drowned them out. The temps are def dropping at night this time of year and it was in the 30s. There was ZERO cell service for Verizon. Would def stay here again - in warmer conditions!
You are also able to hike your gear in and camp at the Lower Blue Lake level itself, if that’s you’re thing!
Ranger
This BLM at San Juan National Forest is gorgeous! (Se pics) the spots are kinda leveled, the road to get there is a dirt road but not that bad (I have a converted sprinter full of sh$&@$ and I did it great) it is primitive so no hook ups, restrooms nor trash cans, so PLEASE Leave no Trace! Everything was super clean so I guess people is finally getting it. Te river passes right next to you and the views are amazing! There are a few trails next (like the Rainbow trail). Awesome place to stargaze!
GuideThis site rivals my favorite spot in Big Sur. I chose this campground thanks to the previous reviewers. The spot I chose on the map was already taken when I got there, which was next to the creek. After scouting out a few more sites up the road, I landed on one that was even better than I could have imagined. There was a little brook running through and I had to carry my gear over a log to the actual site (though you could definitely set up camp where I parked) and burning the extra calories was worth it. My backdrop was beautiful and even though it rained the entire time I was there, this is still one of my favorite camping spots I’ve stumbled across here in Colorado. It looks like there were multiple fire rings where I camped so I imagine it gets really busy with hikers once summer is in full swing. Totally perfect for anyone who enjoys truly primitive camping. The road up was muddy and had big divots but I think any vehicle would be fine, as long as you take it slow. No cell signal up here so plan for that. Not that you’ll need it :) Enjoy, guys!
Ranger
Dispersed camping with designated sites off dirt roads. Perfect place to rock climb, hike or dirt bike or ATV.
Legend
This, like many of the areas around Telluride is dispersed camping. Down a winding path and into the mountains where you will have a view of some of the best vistas Telluride has to offer.
This is a smaller site perfect for tents but it is set apart from some of the other dispersed camping sites I have found in this area in that it has a vault toilet on the grounds. BIG UPGRADE!!
This site is not one of those I would want to find myself adventuring to late fall through early spring, the roads are not great for driving in during that unpredictable time of year and it is to far to hike in from the main road. Not to mention there is a requirement posted on the kiosk of the campground about storing food only in hard sided vehicles, so hiking in would be out of the question.
One of my favorite features of this site itself was that it is completely FREE!! Usually when you find any improvements at all they want to charge a small fee for use, however this site is one of the exceptions I found in this area. For this reason it is a first come first serve campground, but I cannot imagine it being so busy that you couldn’t find a space.
I loved the appearance of this site and how secluded it is. When I look at a campsite I look at it for a number of reasons based on what I enjoy and also what I believe that my blog followers might enjoy. I feel like this hits the nail on the head for me as a person who doesn’t require much in way of amenities but also suits my less adventurous followers in that they world doesn’t have to be their bathroom and they can feel like their are still camping within their comfort.
I also enjoyed that this site is a part of several small trail systems nearby and has a map located as you first enter the site so you can have an idea of the full potential of the area. I found several people were horseback riding in the area, however I never saw where they had parked their trailers so I assume there must be another area that is a bit larger and designed for that.
TravelerDispersed camping, no amenities, but beautiful location. Little streams running nearby, wildlife viewing, the drive up the slope is beautiful as well
Traveler
Great dispersed camping. Sites with plenty of space. Close to town. Great trails and dirt roads for all types of activities. Excellent cell coverage.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lake City, Colorado, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Lake City, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Lake City, CO is Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed) with a 4.4-star rating from 39 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Lake City, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 83 dispersed camping locations near Lake City, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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