Dispersed camping sites near Leadville, Colorado include a mix of roadside pull-offs and designated areas at 9,000-12,000 feet elevation. Sites along Boreas Pass, Homestake Reservoir, and County Road 390 provide no-fee alternatives to established campgrounds. Winter conditions can persist through late May at higher elevations, with road access limited by snowpack until early summer in some locations.
What to do
Hike nearby fourteeners: From Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping, access several 14,000-foot peaks including Mt. Elbert. "If you have a 4x4 vehicle and can make your way toward the trailhead for south Mt Elbert, there are some amazing spots. A few spots allow you to pull off and set up a tent with great views. The site we stayed in was about 50 ft from the trailhead and could accommodate a group," explains Brielle E.
Fish at reservoirs: Fish in alpine lakes throughout the region. "There is great hiking in the area. We loved to hike on the other side of the lake to the old resort," notes Kate W. about Whitestar Campground. The campground provides walking-distance access to Twin Lakes fishing.
Mountain biking: The area offers forest roads ideal for mountain biking. The road to Portal Campground serves as a starting point. "Very easy flat dirt road I can see a sedan making it up there slowly. Potholes and few rocky bumps exist," notes Joe M. about Boreas Pass, highlighting the road conditions suitable for biking.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Tent campers appreciate the privacy found at dispersed sites. "We were lucky to find a fantastic, more spacious spot. It had plenty of room for our truck, a large tent, and a canopy—perfect for spreading out and relaxing," says Jenny B. about Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping. "One of the best parts was the privacy. Our site was far enough from the neighboring spots that we couldn't see or hear other campers."
Wildlife viewing: The high-altitude environment hosts diverse wildlife. "Wildlife was another highlight—there were clear signs of moose activity nearby, and fellow campers just up the road mentioned seeing a moose wander around their site," Jenny B. adds about Boreas Pass. Deer, marmots, and various bird species are commonly spotted.
Cooler summer temperatures: Higher elevations provide relief from summer heat. "We stayed here in Early July and it was pretty busy but were able to snag a spot by the Lake. This is definitely worth the trip," notes Connor M. about Portal Campground. The alpine environment typically maintains daytime highs in the 60s-70s during summer months.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Access to many sites requires appropriate vehicles. "The road to get out here was pretty rough, 5.5 miles of ruts and bumps. I would stick to a decently high clearance car, 4 wheel drive if the weather is bad," advises Anthony P. about Kite Lake.
Limited amenities at dispersed sites: Most dispersed camping locations lack facilities. "This is a really basic campground option right on the Homestake Reservoir road. It has space for one tent for sure, and several more tents if you aren't picky about smooth and level ground under you," notes Greg about Homestake Reservoir. Most sites have fire rings but lack toilets or water.
Weekend crowds during summer: Popular areas fill quickly on weekends. "I would definitely come back just to look at the view! About 12 miles deep the road turns very rocky, didn't go through there since it started raining and wanted to find a place to stay for the night," mentions Joe M. regarding Boreas Pass.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds for amenities: Families often prefer sites with basic facilities. "Great campground on the shores of Turquoise Lake. Lots of clean toilets. Sites are well placed with space between them," reports Craig R. about Baby Doe Campground. Established campgrounds typically offer more reliable access for family vehicles.
Prepare for variable weather: Mountain weather changes rapidly year-round. "Temps were high 70s in the evenings and low 40s at night in mid July so prepare with layers," advises Justin J. about McCullough Gulch Designated Dispersed Camping. Rain gear and warm clothing are essential even in summer.
Plan arrival time strategically: Arriving mid-week improves site selection for tent camping in Leadville. "We arrived here on a Friday afternoon in late August and were pleasantly surprised to find several spots still available, even later in the day," notes Jenny B. about Boreas Pass. Thursday arrivals often secure better locations.
Tips for RVers
Limited trailer access to dispersed areas: Many roads prohibit large RVs. "If you are in a tent, these may provide some great options. We went by the first 6 sites. Even with our lifted AWD van, there were sites we didn't want to drive up to," reports Rebecca B. about McCullough Gulch. Higher clearance vehicles with limited length fare better.
Scout ahead before committing: Narrow forest roads challenge larger vehicles. "Drove up Homestake Road on a Thursday afternoon, lots off spots taken already. We took our offroad capable teardrop to the loop at the reservoir but I don't recommend taking a non-offroad trailer past Gold Park," warns Elizabeth S. about Homestake Reservoir.
Choose level areas at lower elevations: RVers find more suitable terrain at lower elevations. "Road is in good shape. Any car will make it," notes Anthony P. about Chaffee County Road 390, referencing the accessibility for smaller vehicles. Dispersed sites along main roads provide better options for larger vehicles than remote locations.
