Best Dispersed Camping near Manitou Springs, CO

Pike National Forest surrounds Manitou Springs, Colorado, providing numerous free dispersed camping options within a 30-40 minute drive. The Rampart Range area offers several highly-rated dispersed sites with mountain views, including Rampart Range Road Dispersed Camping and Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park. Most sites are primitive with no facilities, though some feature established fire rings created by previous campers. Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping provides panoramic views of the Rockies with multiple pull-offs accessible via dirt roads. Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 offers creekside camping options for those seeking water proximity. These areas primarily accommodate tent camping, though some locations can handle small to medium RVs on main forest roads.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many sites requiring high-clearance vehicles and 4WD, particularly after rain or snow. As one camper noted, "Rampart Range Road is accessible by 2WD vehicles while some of the smaller trails that branch off do better with 4WD with high clearance." Fire restrictions are common during dry periods, and campers should check current regulations before planning trips. Cell service is spotty but available in some areas, with Verizon and T-Mobile coverage reported at certain sites. Most dispersed camping follows the standard 14-day stay limit on public lands. Weather conditions can change rapidly at these elevations (7,000+ feet), with cool nights even during summer months.

Mountain views consistently rank as the top highlight among campers visiting the area. According to one visitor, "Only 18 minutes from Woodland Park, but you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere." Weekends during summer months see significantly higher usage, with many campers recommending mid-week visits to secure preferred spots. Several areas experience OHV and ATV traffic, creating dust and noise concerns at roadside sites. The deeper campers venture on forest roads, the more secluded and quiet the experience becomes. Wildlife sightings are occasionally reported, though most reviews focus on scenery rather than animal encounters. Fishing opportunities exist at nearby Rampart Reservoir and various creeks, with trout being the primary catch. Campers consistently recommend bringing all necessary supplies, as most sites have no water sources.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Manitou Springs, Colorado (50)

    1. Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park

    21 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    10 miles

    "Easy to access for any mobility-level or age. Peaceful and quiet except for the occasional passing car which is to be expected. Spots are relatively well spaced apart. Fire-pits galore!"

    "A Long rocky and dirt road lays ahead of these dispersed camping areas. This park has set up campgrounds, but we chose to drive off road a bit and set up camp on the edge of a rocky overlook."

    2. Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping

    35 Reviews
    Monument, CO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    "If you enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies, drive in dispersed camping and putting your off-roading skills to the test, this dispersed campsite is a must visit!"

    "It took us about 15 minutes driving past the coordinates (trailhead) to start seeing campsites. There was nobody around, and we picked a very spacious one with a great view."

    3. Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping

    19 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    "Rampart Range Road is the main dirt road that has plenty of smaller trails branching off of it to keep you busy exploring all summer."

    "Tucked back in National Forest land."

    4. Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed

    14 Reviews
    Victor, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "Amazing location right next to Boehmer Creek. There are 5 or 6 sites mainly for tents. You might be able ti get an rv in there but low hanging trees and narrow rutted trails would be a problem."

    "Make sure to bring your bug spray. Nice fire pit and gorgeous views. Saw fish in stream a couple of deer and tons of chipmunks. Saw a little trash here and there."

    5. Rampart Range Area Dispersed Campsite

    11 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "We were going from direction Divide town using provided coordinates. All went fine until we ended up in a dead end road with private residence."

    "Rough road getting there though"

    6. Rampart Reservoir Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    9 miles
    Website

    "There are three dispersed camping areas on this road. It is close to the rampart reservoir, which is very nice."

    "Great dispersed camping here and relatively unknown, I was here for 3 days and didn’t see a single person."

    7. Rampart Range Dispersed Site

    6 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "Dispersed is further up the mountain but what a beautiful drive! We found a wooded spot that was super private and cozy! Climbed nearby rocks for some amazing views 🏔️"

    "Awesome views and close to fishing"

    8. Rampart Reservoir Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Woodland Park, CO
    10 miles

    "This free campsite is about 40 minutes from Colorado Springs, which sounds kinda far, but the gorgeous views on the way up are stunning, so it makes it feel like a shorter drive!"

    "We reserved the site ahead of time, right above the reservoir with an easy path down to the water . Garbage and bathrooms available . Spacious sites with a good amount of privacy from neighbors ."

    9. clyde dispersed camping

    4 Reviews
    Victor, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 269-8500

    ".  It sits in the meadow right next to the creek. There are two sites one of which is definitely big enough for a decent size rig."

    "The coordinates provided get you onto Gold Camp Road but you have to drive way further. There is a super cool tunnel which means you are close. There is a lack of fire wood around some spots."

    10. Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide

    8 Reviews
    Woodland Park, CO
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    "This dispersed camp site has numerous spots with rock fire pits. There are a lot of dirt bikes and atvs driving during the day however I didn’t find it overly disruptive."

    "If you like dispersed camping with 360 views this is the place for you. This was our second time dispersed camping and off-roading here."

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Showing results 1-10 of 50 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Manitou Springs, CO

272 Reviews of 50 Manitou Springs Campgrounds



Guide to Manitou Springs

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Manitou Springs, Colorado, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning mountain views and a variety of landscapes, these areas offer the perfect escape for campers looking to connect with the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping

  • This area features numerous sites along a scenic road, making it easy to find a spot that suits your needs. Check it out at Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping.
  • Campers have noted the beautiful surroundings and relatively clean areas, ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat close to Denver.
  • Be prepared for some rough terrain; a four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended to navigate the bumpy roads leading to the best sites.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Manitou Springs, Colorado

  • Always pack out what you pack in, as many sites, like Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping, have reported issues with litter left by previous campers.
  • Bring your own firewood, as some areas do not provide it, and the local branches may not suffice for a long-lasting fire.
  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a good spot, as popular areas can fill up quickly, particularly at Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park.

Scenic views for dispersed campers at Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed

  • This location offers stunning views along the creek, making it a picturesque spot for camping enthusiasts. Explore it at Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed.
  • Many campers appreciate the secluded sites available, providing a peaceful atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle.
  • Be mindful of the road conditions; while some areas are accessible with a standard vehicle, others may require a higher clearance vehicle for the best access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Manitou Springs, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Manitou Springs, CO is Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park with a 4.3-star rating from 21 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 50 dispersed camping locations near Manitou Springs, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.