Best Dispersed Camping near Larkspur, CO

Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Larkspur, Colorado, with several free primitive sites in Pike National Forest. Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping offers panoramic mountain views and multiple pull-offs suitable for tent camping. Rampart Range Road provides numerous camping options along its main route and side trails. According to reviews, "Rampart Range Road is accessible by 2WD vehicles while some of the smaller trails that branch off do better with a 4WD with high clearance." Buffalo Creek Recreation Area and Cascade-Chipita Park areas feature additional dispersed sites with varying levels of accessibility.

Most dispersed sites in the Larkspur area lack amenities such as drinking water, toilets, or trash service. Campers must pack in all necessary supplies and pack out all waste. Fire restrictions are common throughout the region, especially during dry summer months. Always check current fire regulations with the local ranger station before your trip. Cell service is typically limited or non-existent. Several campers noted that "there is no water source in this area so come well prepared," emphasizing the importance of bringing sufficient water supplies.

Vehicle requirements vary by location. Sites closer to main roads may be accessible with standard vehicles, while more remote areas require high-clearance 4WD. The southern portion of Rampart Range Road remains open year-round, while the northern section closes seasonally during winter. Weather conditions can change rapidly at these elevations (7,000+ feet), with cool nights even in summer. Weekends tend to see higher traffic, particularly in popular areas. For the most secluded experience, campers recommend exploring side roads: "Find the right forest service road and you'll feel like you are a million miles from it all."

Best Dispersed Sites Near Larkspur, Colorado (53)

    1. Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping

    35 Reviews
    Monument, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    "If you enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies, drive in dispersed camping and putting your off-roading skills to the test, this dispersed campsite is a must visit!"

    "It took us about 15 minutes driving past the coordinates (trailhead) to start seeing campsites. There was nobody around, and we picked a very spacious one with a great view."

    2. Buffalo Creek Recreation Area

    30 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    21 miles

    "So busy that we had to go in the middle of the week to get a spot, so plan ahead here and expect crowds. That being said, each spot is unique and we loved it."

    "We stayed here a couple weekends in a row and we were able to try out some different spots and trails close to those spots. This free campground is perfect! "

    3. Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park

    21 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    20 miles

    "A Long rocky and dirt road lays ahead of these dispersed camping areas. This park has set up campgrounds, but we chose to drive off road a bit and set up camp on the edge of a rocky overlook."

    "Easy to access for any mobility-level or age. Peaceful and quiet except for the occasional passing car which is to be expected. Spots are relatively well spaced apart. Fire-pits galore!"

    4. Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping

    19 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    "Rampart Range Road is the main dirt road that has plenty of smaller trails branching off of it to keep you busy exploring all summer."

    "Tucked back in National Forest land."

    5. Rainbow Falls - Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Woodland Park, CO
    14 miles
    Website

    "Lots of shade in the morning at our spot. We were by a dirt road and did have a few vehicles drive by but not bad. There is bear scat, not old and not new, in the area but no wildlife was seen."

    "Terrain was interesting on the drive in, some of the pull off camping spots are pretty steep off the road. However, the sights were beautiful and it was very quiet and peaceful when we visited :)"

    6. Mt. Herman Road Dispersed Site 2

    5 Reviews
    Palmer Lake, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    7. Ice Cave Rd Dispersed Site - Pike National Forest

    5 Reviews
    Palmer Lake, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    "RWD accessible."

    "Someone has built a den next to the firepit. The only downside to camping on Rampart Range is the noise from target shooting which we heard frequently. "

    8. Rampart Range Area Dispersed Campsite

    12 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "We were going from direction Divide town using provided coordinates. All went fine until we ended up in a dead end road with private residence."

    "Rough road getting there though"

    9. Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide

    9 Reviews
    Woodland Park, CO
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    "This dispersed camp site has numerous spots with rock fire pits. There are a lot of dirt bikes and atvs driving during the day however I didn’t find it overly disruptive."

    "If you like dispersed camping with 360 views this is the place for you. This was our second time dispersed camping and off-roading here."

    10. Rampart Reservoir Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Woodland Park, CO
    18 miles

    "This free campsite is about 40 minutes from Colorado Springs, which sounds kinda far, but the gorgeous views on the way up are stunning, so it makes it feel like a shorter drive!"

    "We reserved the site ahead of time, right above the reservoir with an easy path down to the water . Garbage and bathrooms available . Spacious sites with a good amount of privacy from neighbors ."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Larkspur, CO

316 Reviews of 53 Larkspur Campgrounds


  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 20, 2024

    Kirby Gulch

    Worth the Rough Drive

    Kirby Gulch is a fantastic spot for anyone seeking a peaceful, off-the-grid camping experience near Grant, Colorado. Situated off Route 1038, this dispersed camping area offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching.

    The campsites are well-spaced, providing plenty of privacy, and the area is generally clean, thanks to considerate campers. Since it’s a dispersed site, there are no amenities like water or toilets, so make sure to come prepared. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for accessing some of the sites, especially after rain or snow.

    What makes Kirby Gulch truly special is its tranquility. You can enjoy the sound of the wind through the trees, the crisp mountain air, and dazzling stargazing at night. It’s also a great starting point for exploring nearby trails or simply soaking in the serene environment.

    If you’re comfortable with primitive camping and leave-no-trace principles, Kirby Gulch is a hidden gem worth checking out.

  • Doug C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 10, 2022

    Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping

    Choose Your Own Adventure From Rampart Range Road

    Rampart Range Road is the main dirt road that has plenty of smaller trails branching off of it to keep you busy exploring all summer. Rampart Range Road is accessible by 2wd vehicles while some of the smaller trails that branch off of Rampart Range Rd do better with a 4wd with high clearance. The southern portion of the road (south of Devils Head Trail) is open year around while the northern half of the road is closed seasonally during winter. Easily accessible outside of Woodland Park on the south end of the road and west through Sedalia. Lots of dispersed camping sites along the road, some are very large and could easily accommodate a large RV or large groups. Other campsites are tucked away off the road a little which is great because this road can be very busy & dusty in the summer. All in all, this place makes for a fun and easy weekend getaway as long as some ohv traffic doesn’t bother you too much. The best part of Rampart Range Road is the several forest service roads that branch off with dispersed camping. These smaller trails and dispersed camping make for a much more relaxing and peaceful weekend, I highly recommend if you have a 4x4. Find the right forest service road and you’ll feel like you are a million miles from it all.

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2023

    Tarryall Creek- Dispersed Camping

    Good but not great

    Tarryall creek dispersed camping. The road in is a bit bumpy. I would not trade in a low clearance vehicle. Four-wheel-drive is needed if it should get wet or slippery. Once you get onto the road, the sites are big and spacious. This is dispersed camping, so there is no water no electric and very little cell service. We have periodic two bars of Verizon. The sites are definitely big enough to accommodate big rigs. You just have to take the road really slowly on the way up. If you carry on all the way up to 10, you get to fenced areas where there is no camping so we took 293 off to the left and immediately after the Turner a couple of sites. We followed it all the way down for a long way. The road is incredibly bumpy and four-wheel-drive is absolutely necessary. Along with high clearance. I would not advise it for big rigs. The Site that we got just on the left after the turn walls reasonably wide. Big enough to get a big rig into. It’s pretty flat too but it’s also very exposed. There’s not a lot of shelter for our tent or our gazebo. The views are OK but nothing spectacular.

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2023

    Fraile’s Campground - Dispersed

    Huge sites on gnarly road

    CR 290 off Tarryall Rd. Campsites are all designated on 290 but there are numerous firepits on the side roads. The road to get up is very rutted. I recommend a high clearance vehicle. Definitely four wheel drive is required. I did see a Subaru forester up near the top. The sites are wide open once you get onto the plateau at the top. Easily could accommodate a big rig, but the issue would be getting it up the road. The views from the top are really nice. It opens out and you get some spectacular views of Pike National Forest. The sites are spacious with some pine tree coverage for tent campers. This would definitely be a possible back up spot if nothing on Matukat rd was available. Because they are dispersed there is no electrical hook ups or water. There’s no Creek running through the area. I imagine it would be really quiet and remote up here because the road to get in is going to deter a lot of people. We did find some spots with fire pits, but not sure you can camp there given there is no sign post reading designated campsite but they are off the main road so give it a try.

  • Monte P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 23, 2020

    Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping

    A small price for freedom

    If you enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies, drive in dispersed camping and putting your off-roading skills to the test, this dispersed campsite is a must visit! My 9 yr old son and I happened upon this mountain top paradise somewhat by accident. We were looking for a less challenging day hike with low traffic and decided to try the Mt. Herman trailhead. My ever burning desire for a view and solitude lead us up Mt. Herman rd to the location I marked on the map for this listing. Access was challenging, even with our 4x4 Jeep seeing as there was pretty deep snowfall accumulation, steep grades, and hairpin switchbacks heading up. However in warmer seasons this would be easy access for most stock 4x4 vehicles. No lift necessary, just a desire for the boundless views afforded at the summit. There are multiple pull offs, relatively low traffic aside from the occasional off-roading convoy passing through spreading merriment and good cheer. There are some really cool fire ring setups and plenty of epic views to make your own. If Colorado’s what you want, here’s a great place to experience the back country without having to drive for hours to access it. We had a blast! Please ALWAYS remember, be Kind & rewind!! Wait... wrong slogan😅 LEAVE NO TRACE & PACK IT OUT! Thanks & have fun! Photos are in my phone, I’ll update with photos... sure to amaze! 😉✌🏾

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2023

    Route 31 Camp

    Close to perfect if you’re in the right spot

    County Road 31 dispersed camping On entering the area, there is immediately a sign that reads that OHV’s are prohibited. At least in this area you know you’re going to get some peace and quiet. The road to get in is mainly washboard. Totally possible even with a low clearance 2 Wheel Dr. vehicle. The sights designated only. Once you get past the information board you’ll see turn off‘s on the left and right wave Campers and fire pits. If you continue down County Road 31 spectacular. The biggest issue I can see again is a lack of firewood. There appears to be no downed trees or burned trees in the area. You need to bring in your own. There’s also no water source in this area so come well prepared. Since this is dispersed camping, there is no reservation or electric hook ups or sewer hook ups. These sites are plenty big enough for big rigs, and most of them appear to be pull through sites. Tent campers the sites do appear to be a little bit too exposed. There are sites with better tree coverage for tent campers when you go further into the back areas of some of the side roads the downside is you lose the views of the surrounding mountains. If you keep going further back, CR 31 connects to 896, and there are sites way back there that give you the impression that you’re just even further removed from everybody else. There are so many sites in this area. This could be a good back up spot for Matukat Road if it’s not available. There is a site on 896 right before the no camping sign, which is designated as a campsite, and it has some tree coverage, and all the mountain views. 896 is a very tough road requiring high clearance and four-wheel-drive. Numerous places have deep holes and you need to take it very slow.

  • Charles L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Phantom Canyon

    Late July camping trip

    I’m a rooftop tent camper and the views are amazing but was hoping to be close to the water and isolated from other campers. Definitely was isolated and found one spot that worked out well for rooftop camper. Like 14 miles on dirt road, on the right, 20 feet before a sign that reads “leaving public land.” Had fire ring and more than enough room. About 20 yards away from creek. Quiet. No Att cell service but don’t expect anyone can get service in that canyon.

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 17, 2023

    Manchester Creek Trailhead

    Good free dispersed camping

    We use to camp here a lot when we lived in colorado springs. Near town of divide for supplies. A water station is availanle on hwy 67 in divide. The forest rd is quite rough. A high clearance vehicle is a good idea. Lots of ATVs on the weekends. So lots of atv noise and dust. Lots of places to camp. I have taken my 37' 5th wheel there. No cell service and no amenities

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2022

    Matukat Road Dispersed Camping

    Rock Formations

    AT&T between 1-3 5G in certain camp spots. Rock fire pits, wood around. No water, garbage, nor toilets. Cool temps, road in is rough go slow. Nice shady trees. First few spots you encounter left, then right seem ok. If you go back on road about 1/2 mile or so you come to a right turnoff. If you go down the road there preferably 4x4 a nice hidden secluded spot up hill. Continue down road only saw 1 more on left, not too hidden next to road. Overall a good 3-5 day stay I would say. Check out rock hiking mountains nearby. Bring water.


Guide to Larkspur

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Larkspur, Colorado, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering stunning views and unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Dispersed campers should check out Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping

  • Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping offers numerous spots that are relatively close to Denver, making it a convenient getaway for city dwellers.
  • Many campers have noted the beautiful scenery and the relatively clean environment, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
  • Be prepared for some rough roads; a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended to navigate the terrain effectively.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Larkspur, Colorado

  • Always pack out what you pack in, as some areas like Buffalo Creek Recreation Area have reported litter left behind by previous visitors.
  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a good spot, as many sites can fill up quickly, particularly at popular locations like Rampart Range Area Dispersed Campsite.
  • Bring your own firewood, as some sites may not have enough natural resources available for a good campfire experience.

Enjoy hiking and wildlife watching while free camping near Larkspur

  • The Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park area is known for its beautiful trails and opportunities to spot local wildlife, including deer and moose.
  • Many dispersed sites are located near hiking trails, allowing for easy access to explore the stunning landscapes and enjoy nature.
  • Campers have reported breathtaking views of Pikes Peak from various dispersed sites, making it a perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Larkspur, CO?

Dispersed camping in the Larkspur area follows standard Forest Service regulations. Most areas like Route 31 Camp and Tarryall Creek- Dispersed Camping have a 14-day stay limit within a 30-day period. Camp only in established sites with existing fire rings, staying at least 100 feet from water sources. Campfires may be restricted during fire bans—check current conditions before your trip. Pack out all trash and waste, as there are no garbage services. Most dispersed sites require proper waste disposal—bring a portable toilet or bury human waste 6-8 inches deep, 200 feet from water. Some areas prohibit OHVs or have vehicle restrictions. Cell service is limited, so download maps in advance and always share your plans with someone before heading into these remote areas.

Is there camping available near the Colorado Renaissance Festival in Larkspur?

Yes, camping options are available near the Colorado Renaissance Festival. Matukat Road Dispersed Camping offers free primitive camping with rock fire pits and shady trees about 30 minutes from the festival grounds. For those wanting easier access, Hidden Wilderness Roadside Camp provides scattered roadside camping spots that are closer to Larkspur. Both are no-frills dispersed sites with no water, electricity, or facilities, so come prepared with everything you need. During festival weekends, these sites fill up quickly, so arrive early. If you prefer developed camping with amenities, several established campgrounds in nearby Castle Rock or Colorado Springs provide alternatives with showers and flush toilets, though they'll require reservations well in advance of festival dates.

Where can I find dispersed camping near Larkspur, Colorado?

Several excellent dispersed camping options exist near Larkspur. Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping offers numerous sites along a main dirt road with smaller trails branching off, accessible by 2WD vehicles. For those seeking panoramic Rocky Mountain views, Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping provides drive-in sites with breathtaking vistas. Both are located in Pike National Forest within 30 minutes of Larkspur. These areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving mid-week or early in the day is recommended, especially during peak summer months. Look for established fire rings that indicate designated camping spots, and remember to bring all necessary supplies including water as these are primitive sites without facilities.