Primitive camping near Loveland, Colorado presents challenges with road access across the region's National Forest lands. Elevations range from 7,000 to 9,000 feet in most dispersed camping areas, creating dramatic temperature drops after sunset even in summer months. Most sites lack all amenities including water sources, requiring complete self-sufficiency for overnight stays.
What to do
Hike nearby trails: Several campsites provide direct access to hiking opportunities. At Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot, the sound of a creek adds pleasant ambiance. "Keep driving down Ski road until you find a fork in the road, and from there onwards are the campsites. Good whitenoise from the creek," reports Kevin F.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk present prime wildlife spotting opportunities. "We had a fox visit our site!" shares Jacob R. from Gold Lake Area Dispersed. Another camper at Beaver Park Reservoir saw "squirrels, rabbits, and a moose that walked right by our campsite."
Night sky observation: The distance from city lights creates excellent stargazing conditions. At Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, campers report "incredible views" with "quiet other than the occasional ATV. Lots of chipmunks and hummingbirds due to the many wild flowers."
What campers like
Solitude and space: Many sites provide adequate separation between campers. At Dream Canyon Campsites, one visitor noted, "This is also a huge spot for recreation like climbing and fishing, so almost everyone we saw were there just for the afternoon and we had the dispersed camping areas almost all to ourself."
Stream access: Creekside camping remains popular for ambient sound and scenery. "There's a creek on the left and great spots," explains Vinny D. about Allenspark Dispersed Camping, though he recommends specific navigation: "The road will come to a Y go left. Once you go left down be hill you'll go back up a hill and go around the curve to the right."
Budget-friendly: The free camping throughout Roosevelt National Forest attracts budget-conscious travelers. "We went on a Sunday, the weekend after the 4th of July. It was quite easy to find a campground for dispersed camping with other sites marked," reports Quinton T. at Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Different sites have varying access difficulties. At Pole Hill Rd Dispersed, Mike C. reports: "Stock 2005 GMC 4x4 work truck, very basic. Some obstacles that were pretty much to the limit of my truck capabilities. New Bronco in front of me turned around."
Private property boundaries: Several camping areas border private land with strict enforcement. At Gold Lake Area Dispersed, Jess warns: "The owners of the lake have cameras on all sides but there was one section left open for shores access but no swimming, fishing, or use of the lake itself."
Seasonal closures: Check road status before traveling. Forest Road 119 frequently closes during winter and spring with multiple campers reporting: "Road is closed" throughout early season months.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife awareness: Keep food secure as bears have been reported. At Beaver Park Reservoir, one camper at Gold Lake Area Dispersed advises: "We brushed about Five off of us just during the visit. Unfortunately we must've missed one because my wife ended up with one attached when we got home in her scalp. Just be aware and make sure you're checking when you get back."
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require layered clothing. "Weather was so nice we slept in hammocks all week!" shares Alicia O., though evening temperatures often drop significantly even in summer months.
Site selection timing: Arrive early, especially on weekends. "It was quite easy to find a campground for dispersed camping with other sites marked... my only 4/5 star is due to the population," notes Quinton T. at Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area.
Tips from RVers
Trailer limitations: Many roads prove too difficult for towing. "Road was a little rough for a pop up camper. More for tents," explains JUSTIN H. from Hell Canyon Dispersed.
Turnaround challenges: Several forest roads lack adequate turning space for larger vehicles. At Gold Lake Area Dispersed, one camper warns: "Be forewarned, the private land area at the end of the road does not have any turn around space. Great views."
Limited campsite options: Small RVs fare better than large ones. "We have a 25 foot camper and feet nicely in. Road in was good as well (May 2025). Some pots are close to each other and others have more space," reports James S. at Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed.
