Primitive camping near Mack, Colorado offers diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 4,500 to 5,000 feet across the high desert landscape. Summer temperatures frequently reach triple digits during July and August, with nighttime lows dropping by 30-40 degrees. Most dispersed sites sit on hardpacked clay and sandstone surfaces that become extremely slick when wet.
What to do
Mountain biking access: BLM #174 Road Dispersed Camping connects directly to popular cycling trails in the North Fruita Desert. "Lots of places to dispersed camp. Saw a lot of mountain bikers. 2-3 bars verizon 4g," notes one camper at BLM #174 Road Dispersed Camping.
Off-roading trails: Grand Junction Desert Road Recreation Area offers extensive terrain for dirt bikes and OHVs. "I wish I had some kind of bike or OHV vehicle because this looks like such a sweet spot for free riding; there are hills and jumps everywhere," reports a visitor at Grand Junction Desert Road Recreation Area BLM.
Stargazing opportunities: Nine Mile Hill provides excellent dark sky viewing due to its distance from major light sources. "Nights are really pretty," comments a camper. The area attracts amateur astronomers during new moon phases when visibility is optimal.
Hiking access: Dispersed sites near Rattlesnake Arches serve as basecamps for day hikes. "My wife and I did the Rattlesnake Arches hike and camped nearby. There were three campsites we found on the way to Rattlesnake Arches," explains a camper at Rattlesnake and Mee Canyons.
What campers like
Accessibility: Many sites accommodate standard vehicles despite their remote feel. "Easy access with multiple sites. Feels secluded even if others are camping nearby," notes a visitor at Nine Mile Hill.
Spacious sites: BLM lands around Mack offer room to spread out. "Aug 25: directions to BLM 174 were right on target and areas to disperse camp is spacious with many level areas," reports a camper.
Cell service coverage: Despite the remote setting, connectivity remains surprisingly good. "With a cell service extender and a hotspot both my partner and I were able to work remotely from here," shares a camper at BLM #174 Road. Another notes, "Solid Verizon service. Lots of pit toilets in the area."
Proximity to interstate: Sites provide convenient overnight stops for travelers. "Free dispersed campground. Nothing super special about it besides that it's free and right off the highway," reports a visitor at Bitter Creek Overlook Camping Area.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access routes vary significantly in quality. "The road is dirt and gets real bumpy real fast so we found a spot right at the front," advises a camper at Nine Mile Hill. Another warns, "Nearby roads can become extremely difficult to travel after a light rain due to slick peanut butter mud."
Target shooting: Some areas permit firearms use. "What surprised us was the amount of empty gun ammunition laying around on the campsite. As a European this might be more confronting than for a USA citizen," notes a camper at BLM Camping off 139.
Wind exposure: The open landscape provides little protection from strong gusts. "We saw lots of dirt bikers heading back to there trailers. After sunset the wind picked up and kicked up a horrible dust storm. It was loud and windy all night and sand filled everything in the morning," warns a visitor.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping requires complete self-sufficiency. "Bring a 'luggable loo' or equivalent, burying human waste is difficult because of SUPER rocky soil," advises a camper at BLM Camping off 139.
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: Wildlife awareness is essential in this desert environment. "Lastly keep fur babies on leash and close. There are coyotes. Heard them around 7pm and at sunrise," warns a visitor at BLM #174 Road Dispersed Camping.
Shade structures: The lack of natural cover makes portable shelters crucial. "Bring an awning or something for shade," recommends a camper at Rattlesnake and Mee Canyons. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 95°F during midday.
Site selection: Choose locations based on vehicle capabilities. "Some spots are best reached with a AWD or 4WD vehicle, and the road is right there," advises a visitor. For families with standard vehicles, sites closer to main access roads provide easier entry and exit.
Water planning: No potable water exists at any dispersed sites. One camper notes, "Bring plenty of water," which is especially important with children, as summer temperatures demand at least 1 gallon per person per day.
Tips from RVers
Level camping challenges: Many sites require significant effort to position RVs properly. "Ground is lumpy, I wouldn't want to tent camp. Large designated area for dispersed camping," reports an RVer at BLM #174 Road.
Trailer accessibility: Some areas accommodate larger units despite unpaved access. "I've been coming to 18 road for years, but this is the first year with a camper (19 feet). Very spaced out, easy to get away from others if you want peace," shares a visitor at BLM #174 Road Dispersed Camping.
Site selection strategy: Arrive early to secure optimal spots for larger vehicles. "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. My 2WD truck and 22 ft camper did just fine," reports a camper at BLM #174 Road Dispersed Camping.
Entrance conditions: Front sections of dispersed areas typically offer better access. "This was a nice spot to stop on our way to Utah in our Airstream Basecamp. The road is dirt and gets real bumpy real fast so we found a spot right at the front," notes a visitor at BLM Dispersed Camping Near BLM 217.
