Best Dispersed Camping near Longmont, CO

Dispersed camping around Longmont gives you access to free sites in national forests about 30-45 minutes west of town. The Roosevelt and Arapaho National Forests have multiple dirt roads where you can find spots, but most require decent clearance on your vehicle. Many roads become impassable after heavy rain, so check weather forecasts before heading out. You'll need to bring everything with you – there's no water, no trash service, and no toilets at these sites. Most dispersed areas sit between 8,000-9,500 feet in elevation, making for cool nights even in summer. The closest grocery stores and gas remain in Longmont or Lyons, so stock up before driving into the mountains. Fire bans frequently affect the area during summer and fall, with rangers actively patrolling to enforce regulations. Most sites require camping at least 100 feet from any water source and using existing fire rings when fires are permitted. Cell service ranges from spotty to non-existent depending which canyon you're in. The 14-day stay limit is strictly enforced, especially during busy summer months. Winter access becomes extremely limited with snow blocking most forest roads from November through April. Always carry extra water and a portable toilet system to properly manage waste according to Leave No Trace principles.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Longmont, Colorado (83)

    1. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    50 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    24 miles
    Website

    "So the Gordon Gulch dispersed camping area has around 15 numbered sites that are ok... but if you keep driving further down 233.1 you will find many more unnumbered campsites."

    "Like the title suggests, this campsite is typical for a free forest service campground. Prior campers have left some trash, bullet casings and obviously neglected to dig cat holes."

    2. Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed

    29 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    23 miles
    Website

    "We were right up on the lake but turns out it's private property and you cannot even go up to the water."

    "Pretty average dispersed campsites. Far enough apart that you can’t see or hear your neighbors which was nice. Fire pits existed on the sites but no grates or bathrooms."

    3. Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping

    20 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    20 miles
    Website

    "Was desperate to find "something" after driving 11 hours that day, and normal paid camp grounds were full. HOWEVER I was pulling a smaller trailer, and that turned out to be a real issue."

    "Safe for car camping. Make sure you follow the stay on road signs."

    4. Allenspark Dispersed Camping

    23 Reviews
    Allenspark, CO
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "Fire ban was in effect when we went, but lots of fire circles available otherwise. Bring bug spray, the flies are bold."

    "Was super simple to access. the coordinates take   you to the beginning of the rural part of Ski road."

    5. Hell Canyon Dispersed

    20 Reviews
    Pinewood Springs, CO
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "4x4 drive is a requirement. Good Verizon signal. Narrow road, however not busy at all. Stayed here for 4 days, no issue. The Google Maps directions is slightly wrong."

    "Turn just before or after Yogi Bear Campground and go up the decently maintained dirt road. (You will pass RVs at the beginning of the road as you head up)."

    6. Gold Lake Area Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    20 miles

    "My GPS from the coordinates just took me to the nearest town of Ward, CO.

    This is how I got there coming from the North:

    Take RT72 South to County Road 100."

    "First off, not Oregon, this is in Colorado.

    Drove around searching for somewhere to park the teardrop after our first destination was full, and ended up here at Gold Lake."

    7. Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot

    7 Reviews
    Pinewood Springs, CO
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "Awesome scenic drive, great spacious spot. But only for one party. If someone else is there, you're outta luck. Fire road is gated off so no other options."

    "Quick drive to Estes Park. No Verizon cell service."

    8. Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Jamestown, CO
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 541-2500

    $1 / night

    "My son and I joined a friend from Longmont and headed to this trail to camp for a couple days."

    "We went here with our 2 dogs for a quick overnighter-only about 45 minutes outside of Boulder. It was a Sunday morning and the lot was almost full when we got there around 9am."

    9. West Magnolia Campground

    26 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    27 miles
    Website

    "Oe of my family's fav places, beautiful views, camping spots super far away from one another so awesome privacy, and completely free. Spots fill up quick on weekends, you can stay 14 days."

    "The roads around the whole campground were a little rough but i did okay in my Ford Escape. All of the sites seems to be really spread out.

    There were several people in the campground."

    10. Gross Reservoir Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "Definitely need a high clearance vehicle. I saw a low clearance vehicle at site 6 & no idea how they got there.. they had to have gotten scraped up."

    "Great camping about 31 dispersed spots most with tables and a fire ring decent trout fishing a great kayaking feels remote without being so remote."

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Showing results 1-10 of 83 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Longmont, CO

411 Reviews of 83 Longmont Campgrounds



Guide to Longmont

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Longmont, Colorado, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area offers stunning mountain vistas, making it a picturesque spot for camping and photography enthusiasts.
  • At Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed, campers can enjoy breathtaking views of the reservoir while soaking in the tranquility of the surrounding nature.
  • For those seeking a more secluded experience, Allenspark Dispersed Camping provides beautiful creekside spots that are perfect for relaxation and reflection.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Longmont

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Allenspark

  • The Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot is known for its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to hiking trails, making it a great choice for outdoor lovers.
  • Campers can enjoy the sound of a nearby creek while staying at North Boulder Creek Dispersed Camping, which provides a serene backdrop for a relaxing getaway.
  • For those looking for a more adventurous experience, Ruby Gulch, Forest Road 328 features old mining trails and stunning views, perfect for exploration and discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Longmont, CO is Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area with a 3.6-star rating from 50 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 83 dispersed camping locations near Longmont, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.