Dispersed camping sites near Jamestown, Colorado range from high-elevation forest locations to creek-side retreats, with most situated between 7,000 and 10,500 feet. Temperatures at these mountain campsites can drop dramatically after sunset even in July and August, often falling 30-40 degrees from daytime highs. Sites along roads like Ski Road in Allenspark feature established fire rings near creeks, while higher elevation campsites offer more seclusion but require better vehicle clearance.
What to do
Stream fishing access: Multiple campsites in the area provide direct creek access for fishing. At Allenspark Dispersed Camping, sites are positioned near water. "Lots of spots available. Just keep driving along Ski Road and pick one that looks good. Lots of fire pits already built and most camp spots are along the creek," explains one camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk offer prime animal sighting times. Dream Canyon provides canyon views where wildlife congregates. A visitor noted, "This spot is super cool, def a little busy but some really awesome canyon views. Went on a Tuesday afternoon and there was foot traffic around our spot from people headed on hikes."
Mountain biking trails: Several trail systems connect with camping areas. At Golden Gate Canyon State Park, trail options abound. "The options for trails are endless. Great for mountain biking or hiking enthusiasts. There are facilities, ideal for car camping or families. The park feels like it's far from the city, but the drive is easy for a weekend camping trip!"
What campers like
Creek-side campsites: The sound of running water provides natural white noise for sleeping. At Camp Dick Campground, sites border a stream. One camper reported, "It was awesome! The dogs loved the creek. It was quiet and beautiful. We stayed at site #41 right by the entrance after you cross the bridge. Not a lot of shade so our coleman canopy came in handy."
High-elevation lakes: Several camping areas sit near alpine lakes with fishing access. At Beaver Park Reservoir, visitors enjoy lake views. "Beautiful lake with several good sized RV spots. We have a 25 foot camper and feel nicely in. Road in was good as well (May 2025). Some spots are close to each other and others have more space. Will definitely be back," shares a camper.
Fire ring availability: Most dispersed sites feature established fire rings. At Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, visitors note pre-built fire areas: "We went on a Sunday, the weekend after the 4th of July. It was quite easy to find a campground for dispersed camping with other sites marked. Recommend a 4-wheel drive vehicle to reach some of the spots, especially if there is poor weather."
What you should know
Weather preparation requirements: Mountain conditions change rapidly at these elevations. At Pawnee Campground, altitude affects weather patterns: "The views are absolutely breathtaking, as was the altitude (10,600'). Summertime temperatures are warm in the day and cool at night. Afternoon thunderstorms are common."
Road condition challenges: Many access roads deteriorate further from main highways. At Beaver Park Reservoir, road conditions vary: "Road is passable by standard cars. Layout can be crowded with little space between but was pretty empty through the week. You are pinned up against private property around the lake, the camp sites are in the dirt area when you get to the lake down to the left."
Bear activity reports: Proper food storage is essential in this area. Multiple Allenspark campers reported bear encounters: "The second day staying there we ran into a bear and scared him off. Two hours later he came back and we scared him off again. He's afraid of humans but he did try to get into the car while we were sleeping."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some established campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Mary's Lake Campground, facilities include family-friendly options: "Great staff and great people! Big area and right across the road from the Lake so easy walk. Has super clean bathroom showers and facilities. Cute very well stocked store with anything you might need. Nice safe playground and relaxing pool."
Short hiking trails: Several camping areas feature family-appropriate walks. At Moraine Park Campground in Rocky Mountain National Park, trails begin near campsites: "We camped in Moraine Park Campground in Rocky Mountain National Park in September 2017, and had a lovely experience! The site was in the very back of the campground, had a large distance between the two neighboring sites, and faced the mountains. There were horse trails and game trails - we saw some horseback riders and some deer wandered through our campsite."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Scheduled times for animal sightings help keep kids engaged. Dream Canyon offers wildlife encounters: "Beautiful, secluded and right next to a creek. BUT a huge bear got into my tent while I was gone for 2 hours and absolutely destroyed it. Very easy to find and spacious."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most dispersed areas accommodate smaller RVs only. At Beaver Park Reservoir, size constraints exist: "There are some more private wooded spots on the way in, but these were full so we stayed in an open area further down the road where there was not much/any privacy from neighbors. Super windy in early August. Pretty good views. Moderately busy. Road in was not too bad."
Generator restrictions: Many areas prohibit generator use. At Glacier Basin Campground, quiet hours are enforced: "Glacier Basin campground is one of three in RMNP. There are 150 standard and 12 group campsites. The sites are distributed in 4 loops with each site having a picnic table, tent pads, and fire grates. There is a limit of 35 feet for RV/Trailer length. Campsites are quite close together, but there are quiet hours and limits to generator use."
Dump station locations: Plan waste management in advance. Mary's Lake Campground offers facilities: "Clean and well maintained campground. Price is good compared to other campgrounds near by. A couple down falls, no shade trees for RV full hookup sites and lower sites are a little crowded when filled up."
