Dispersed camping areas near Littleton, Colorado provide free, primitive alternatives to developed campgrounds. Most sites sit at elevations between 7,000-9,500 feet, where summer temperatures typically range 10-15 degrees cooler than Denver. Seasonal fire restrictions frequently impact these areas from June through September, with complete bans common during drought conditions.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: 35+ miles at Buffalo Creek Recreation Area connect to the Colorado Trail system. "Great camping spot, esp. if you like mountain biking... plenty of trails for various ability levels. Much of the area still shows scars from the 1996 fire here, but the sprouts and smaller trees show you a preview of how nature heals," notes one visitor.
Fishing access: under 10 minutes from several sites at Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping. A camper reports, "Chinns Lake is a beautiful spot for dispersed camping with plenty of campsites scattered around the lake and surrounding area. Some are right next to the water, which makes for an incredible view and easy access for fishing."
Winter camping: possible year-round in lower elevation spots. "I slept ok at this pull-off spot and it was nice and big. A little bit of traffic but nothing crazy," mentions a winter visitor to a roadside site near Idaho Springs. Snow often blocks higher routes completely from November through May.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the separation at Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite. "Sites are spaced well apart, some sites are covered in trees while others are wide open... My visits were between May to October. Only a fire ring is provided, everything else you'll need to bring AND PACK OUT when you leave," states a regular visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Various wildlife appears at dawn and dusk. "Moose visitors at dawn and evening, and hungry bears scavenging for food at night is a common occurrence. Luckily my car alarm scared them off pretty easily," notes a camper at Gordon Gulch. Chipmunks and hummingbirds are common at higher elevations.
Proximity to small mountain towns: Quick access to supplies and restaurants appeals to many campers. "Nederland is close enough to run into town if needed," explains one visitor. Another camper at Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping mentioned, "The Pilot in Monument has showers and was an added bonus for being 15 minutes from our spot."
What you should know
Early arrival essential: Competition for sites intensifies by Thursday afternoon. "Very difficult to find a spot on a weekend. We got up there around 6:30pm on Friday night and after driving around for a couple hours ended up bailing and going home," explains a Buffalo Creek visitor.
High clearance vehicle requirements: Many roads deteriorate quickly, especially in wet conditions. A visitor to Dream Canyon Campsites warns: "The trailhead parking lot has one giant rut that you must be careful to navigate around. 2 Wheel Dr. and low clearance vehicles can do it, but should be extremely careful."
Campsite cleanliness concerns: Previous campers don't always practice Leave No Trace. "We walked the grounds as site #13 goes pretty far back and down the mountain and is beautiful, here's why I gave it two stars. 30-40 yards behind our fire ring there were 5 piles of human crap with TP," reports a disappointed Redskin Creek camper.
Noise levels vary significantly: Some areas experience heavy recreational traffic. "It's right next to 72, so traffic sounds, and there's 4 wheelers and dirt bikes, so not exactly quiet," notes a Gordon Gulch visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Fire safety precautions: Teach children about fire safety rules that change seasonally. When fires are permitted, use established fire rings and keep water nearby. One camper at Bailey Area Dispersed explains: "All the sites have a bbq pit & fire ring. I give this site 3 stars cause of all the broken glass & shot gun shells."
Wildlife awareness: Store food properly and teach children wildlife safety. A camper at West Magnolia Campground notes: "Don't keep any valuables unsecured, as this campsite is a bus ride and a hitch away for the Boulder homebums."
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes rapidly, even in summer. "Even though it was close to the road, it snowed on me overnight and the road was still very passable," reports a winter camper at Gordon Gulch.
Tips from RVers
Size-appropriate site selection: Research specific sites before arrival. "Spot 21 is the best for privacy but the road is a bit rugged getting back there. I recommend a high clearance vehicle to enjoy," advises a West Magnolia visitor.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies dramatically between areas. "Cell Service is patchy at best. On Verizon I had 2 bars of gen 1 service, and could only get patchy data with my multi-directional cell booster. I moved on because of this. Gordon Gulch is five or so miles away with LTE service."
Road condition awareness: Several visitors recommend scouting roads before bringing in larger rigs. "The road up is very tight. Very skinny switchbacks. About half way up looking for a way to turn around. We got lucky and found a space just barely large enough to back in to carefully," shares a Mount Herman Road visitor.
