Primitive camping near Longmont, Colorado takes campers into higher elevations ranging from 7,000 to 9,500 feet, where temperature swings of 40-50 degrees between day and night are common even in summer months. Roosevelt National Forest dispersed campsites typically sit at least 1,500 feet higher than Longmont itself, creating microclimates where afternoon thunderstorms develop rapidly. Many sites above 8,000 feet experience frost into June and as early as late August.
What to do
Mountain biking on established trails: West Magnolia Campground provides direct access to single-track trails. "Great spot for mountain biking, hiking, and camping," notes one visitor, while another points out that "it's a good place to gather firewood" near the designated campsites.
Wildlife watching in early mornings: Allenspark Dispersed Camping offers prime opportunities for wildlife sightings. "Lots of wildlife; squirrels, rabbits, and a moose that walked right by our campsite," reports a camper at nearby Beaver Park Reservoir. Another camper at Allenspark warns, "a huge bear got into my tent while I was gone for 2 hours and absolutely destroyed it."
Stream fishing for trout: Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping provides creek access for anglers. "Caught lots of trout (none big enough to keep)," mentions a reviewer. The area requires parking at a trailhead and hiking in with gear, typically a quarter-mile minimum to reach camping spots.
What campers like
Creek-side sites with natural white noise: Gold Lake Area Dispersed campsites offer peaceful creek sounds. One camper at Allenspark notes, "Good whitenoise from the creek," while another states, "Right next to a creek, nice to have a water feature."
Secluded options for those willing to hike: Beyond the drive-in sites, walk-in camping provides greater solitude. A camper at Ceran St. Vrain Trail notes, "A short hike downhill to many dispersed campsites along the creek. Beautiful and easy!" Another mentions, "The camp spots are pretty spread apart. They are set up along the river with fire pits and plenty of trees around."
Proximity to small mountain towns: Dream Canyon Campsites and surrounding areas provide quick access to Nederland and Allenspark. "Great removed campsites," says one camper about nearby areas. Another notes that despite feeling remote, these sites are "close enough to civilization to feel secure yet secluded enough to feel private."
What you should know
High-clearance vehicle requirements increase with distance: Most roads deteriorate significantly after the first few campsites. "The road was a little rough for a pop up camper. More for tents," reports a camper at Hell Canyon. At Gross Reservoir, another notes, "Once past site 6 I highly recommend SUV or truck. Getting up to site 6 is possible in a sedan if you're careful."
Weekend congestion requires Thursday arrival: Popular areas fill completely by Friday afternoon. "We went on a Sunday, the weekend after the 4th of July. It was quite easy to find a campground for dispersed camping," mentions a Gordon Gulch visitor, suggesting weekday visits are more reliable for finding spots.
Wildlife food storage is critical: Beaver Park Reservoir and surrounding areas have active wildlife. "Just watch your food or the Huskies might get it if you're not paying attention," warns one camper. Another reports, "We must've missed one because my wife ended up with one attached when we got home in her scalp," regarding ticks in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites with pre-built fire rings: Many family-friendly sites have basic amenities. "We had a great night here! Spacious site with a fire ring," reports an Allenspark camper. Another states, "There are about 10-12 tent spots here. They are spread out pretty well to where there is a good amount of privacy between camps."
Plan for rapid weather changes: Afternoon storms develop quickly in summer. "It was a super windy night," notes a Beaver Park camper. Another reports, "Weather was so nice we slept in hammocks all week!" at Hell Canyon, showing the variability of conditions.
Select areas with short hiking options: Hell Canyon Dispersed offers nearby trails suitable for families. "There is a super easy family-friendly mini hike with great view and a little cell access. If you are facing the lake, to your right just behind you there are some rocks. Walk toward them...15 minutes if you have a small child," advises a camper describing a nearby area.
Tips for RVers
Pre-scout access roads before bringing larger rigs: Many roads narrow and roughen quickly. "Road is passable by standard cars. No cell service. Layout can be crowded with little space between but was pretty empty through the week," explains a camper at Beaver Park Reservoir. Another notes, "Road up is a bit rough but I saw many SUVs make it."
Scout turnabout options before proceeding: Dead-end forest roads can trap larger vehicles. "Be forewarned, the private land area at the end of the road does not have any turn around space," warns a visitor to Gold Lake Area. "Very quiet. Minimal traffic. Good open spots for up to medium sized rigs," notes another.
Low-clearance RVs limited to first few sites: Many reviewers recommend stopping early on access roads. "We have a 25 foot camper and feet nicely in. Road in was good as well," explains a camper at Beaver Park Reservoir, while another advises "would not bring camper past site 10" at a similar area.
