Best Dispersed Camping near Loma, CO

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands dominate the camping landscape around Loma, Colorado, with numerous dispersed sites offering primitive, no-fee camping options. Areas like BLM #174 Road Dispersed Camping and Nine Mile Hill provide accessible locations for both tent and RV campers seeking basic accommodations without amenities. The terrain features desert landscapes with canyon views, mesa formations, and open spaces that attract outdoor enthusiasts. Most sites sit within 30 minutes of Loma, creating convenient access points for travelers exploring western Colorado or passing through on longer journeys to Utah destinations.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many campsites requiring travel on unpaved routes that can become challenging after rainfall. As one camper noted about BLM roads near Nine Mile Hill, "The road is a bit iffy so snagging a spot at the front would be best if you don't have 4WD." Cell service remains spotty but generally available at sites closer to highways. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with minimal shade available at most locations, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions. Campers should arrive prepared with all necessary supplies including water, as no services exist at these primitive sites. Fire restrictions frequently apply during dry summer months.

Visitors consistently mention the expansive views and night skies as highlights of camping in this region. "The views of the sunset and sunrise were amazing," reported one camper at Nine Mile Hill. Many sites feature established fire rings and flat parking areas suitable for various camping setups. Highway noise affects some locations, particularly those near major routes like Highway 139, though it typically diminishes at night. Several areas serve dual purposes as OHV recreation zones, which can create occasional noise and traffic during peak seasons. The proximity to Grand Junction (approximately 20 miles) makes these sites popular for weekend trips and as convenient overnight stops for travelers heading to destinations like Moab.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Loma, Colorado (32)

    1. BLM #174 Road Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Loma, CO
    8 miles
    Website

    "Large designated area for dispersed camping.  Ground is lumpy, I wouldn't want to tent camp.  Several existing fire rings.  Solid Verizon service.  Lots of pit toilets in the area. "

    "The drive in was a little rough due to washboard roads, but then it turned into pavement after the 1st mile...not great but better than the dirt road."

    2. Grand Junction Desert Road Recreation Area BLM

    12 Reviews
    Grand Junction, CO
    15 miles
    Website

    "After searching for a campsite for a while, we finally stumbled across this place around 10pm on a Saturday night at the end of April 2021."

    "Easy access for low clearance vehicles like my Subaru. Busy but I found a spot no problem tossed some firewood down and had a great night."

    3. BLM Camping off 139

    4 Reviews
    Mack, CO
    6 miles

    "Entrance is via 139 just before the 8 mile marker, you have to drive over a cattle grate and road is gravel."

    "Quiet area for a quick stop overnight. 3 pull through spots great for a camper or smaller RV plus a couple of back in spots with rock fire rings. Near town and close to i70."

    4. Bitter Creek Overlook Camping Area

    6 Reviews
    Mack, UT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 259-2100

    "I came out here for a night's rest while on a trip, it was very remote, and slept well. I came in late in the night, but woke up to beautiful views of the surrounding area."

    "Free dispersed campground. Nothing super special about it besides that it’s free and right off the highway."

    5. Rattlesnake and Mee Canyons

    1 Review
    Fruita, CO
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 244-3000

    "My wife and I did the Rattlesnake Arches hike and camped nearby. There were three campsites we found on the way to Rattlesnake Arches."

    6. Upper Access Road #1

    1 Review
    Fruita, CO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 244-3000

    "Great location with amazing views of the distant book cliffs across the Fruita/Grand Junction valley."

    7. Nine Mile Hill

    16 Reviews
    Whitewater, CO
    26 miles
    Website

    "Like other reviews, the highway noise was a bit loud but nothing too crazy, especially really late. There were other campers spread out nicely, you wouldn’t even know they were there."

    "+ came late at night, 10pm, was able to find a spot

    • drove a high clearance 4x4 and the spot I was in needed AWD at minimum, sedans will get banged up
    • spot was decent but awful leveling
    • plenty of"

    8. Grand Junction BLM/OHV

    4 Reviews
    Glade Park, CO
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 244-3000

    "This was sort of near an airport, which could be annoying. It was a huge area for ohv riding and it looked like a lot of dirtbikers were having tons of fun."

    9. Pyramid Rock Camp

    14 Reviews
    De Beque, CO
    30 miles

    "It is a designated OHV area so no worries about people stopping you from ripping around and exploring."

    "Easy to find with Google maps. Plenty of open space. 15min off 70.
    Dirt road, a bit bumpy, but we easily pulled our 21ft Micro Minnie and it was doable for almost any vehicle."

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Showing results 1-10 of 32 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Loma, CO

111 Reviews of 32 Loma Campgrounds



Guide to Loma

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Loma, Colorado, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of spots that cater to different camping styles and preferences.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Loma

  • Mountain biking is popular at the BLM #174 Road Dispersed Camping, where you'll find numerous trails and a vibrant biking community.
  • If you're into off-road adventures, the Grand Junction BLM/OHV area is a hotspot for dirt biking and ATV riding, providing plenty of excitement for thrill-seekers.
  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the access to trails near the Rattlesnake and Mee Canyons, where you can explore unique rock formations and enjoy the high desert landscape.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Loma, Colorado

  • Always bring plenty of water and a portable toilet, especially when camping at places like the BLM Camping off 139, which lacks facilities.
  • Be prepared for varying road conditions; for instance, the drive to the Mel’s Loop Single Track Dispersed Site can be rough, so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended.
  • Keep an eye on your pets, particularly in areas like the Upper Access Road #2, where wildlife such as coyotes may be present.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Loma, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Loma, CO is BLM #174 Road Dispersed Camping with a 3.9-star rating from 7 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Loma, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 32 dispersed camping locations near Loma, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.