Dispersed camping areas near Manitou Springs include Mount Herman Road and Rampart Range Road, offering quieter alternatives to established campgrounds. These sites allow direct access to hiking trails with fewer restrictions, though campers should prepare for variable weather conditions as summer temperatures range from 50°F at night to mid-90s during day. Fire restrictions are common during dry periods, particularly between June and September when the region experiences its lowest precipitation.
What to do
Hike the Cheeseman Ranch Bike Loop: At Mueller State Park Campground, trail systems provide excellent day hiking with wildlife viewing opportunities. "So quiet and relaxing... The trails were beautiful, well maintained, and not crowded at all," notes Steve C., who appreciated having "1 or 2 bars (Verizon) throughout most of the park, even 3 bars on parts of the Cheeseman Ranch Bike Loop."
Fish at nearby reservoirs: Rampart Reservoir is accessible from multiple camping areas with a short hike. "Nearby is the Rampart Reservoir via Rainbow Gulch trail I recommend walking from the site due to limited parking at the trailhead. We took this hike and it was absolutely fantastic, a majestic walk through the woods brings you to flowing creek that you follow all the way down to the reservoir," reports Heather C. about Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping.
Visit historic Woodland Park: Located just 18 minutes from many campgrounds, this town provides supplies and amenities. "The Pilot in Monument has showers and was an added bonus for being 15 minutes from our spot," mentions Kristina W. about staying at Mount Herman Road, highlighting convenient access to facilities while enjoying remote camping.
What campers like
Creek-side camping spots: Water access is a major draw for campers seeking relief from summer heat. "We have stayed here twice once in campsite 46 very nice 47 even nicer two best lots here for us cuz we like being the by the water. The rush go by all night let's just sleep so good," shares chester R. about Lone Duck Campground and Cabins.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings and evenings offer chances to see local fauna. "We stayed at Pikes Peak RV Park along the creek that runs through Manitou Springs. We specifically asked for a creekside spot. I slept great listening to the creek. Good shade trees, friendly staff and clean shower house/restrooms," reports Mike P., who enjoyed the natural setting.
City light views from elevated sites: Dispersed camping areas provide unique nighttime perspectives. "Great views of the city lights and then sunrise. Seems like a lot of options," notes BigRed Overlander O. about Mount Herman Road. Similarly, at Rampart Range Road, Bailey H. comments, "Beautiful views of Pikes Peak... Lots of firewood around."
What you should know
Elevation affects weather conditions: Pack for significant temperature swings. "Very nice quiet stay in the woods. All camp sites are very easy to get to and nicely groomed. Very pleasant stay. Got below freezing so be ready for the cold," warns Bruce K. about Mueller State Park Campground.
Fire restrictions change seasonally: Always check current regulations before your trip. "I had great phone service. I talked to some locals who said grabbing deadfall was fine for fire wood," reports Bryce B. about Rampart Range Road, but adds, "All the fire pits are hand build and being on the finger you're pretty exposed to the wind keeping the fires small and not very hot."
Weekend crowding at dispersed sites: Arrive early for better site selection, especially at free areas. "Ended up a parking lot by the end of the night. Too busy with inconsiderate neighbors. Beautiful views though. I think it's luck of the draw depending what night you go," shares Chloe S. about dispersed camping on Rampart Range Road.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with recreational facilities: Kids enjoy having activity options beyond hiking. "Great location within Colorado's Mueller State Park. Easy access to trails, visitor center, and scenic drives. Nice large site with level gravel tent pad, large table, and nice fire pit," mentions Amber J., highlighting the family-friendly setup at the park.
Choose sites with playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "This is a beautiful state campground. 30 amp electrical hook ups. Along with fireplaces and picnic tables at each site. Awesome hiking trails with views of the mountains. Easy access to local eateries and shopping," reports Kenneth F. about Mueller State Park.
Consider cabin options for unpredictable weather: Garden of the Gods RV Resort offers alternative accommodations when camping conditions aren't ideal. "I recently stayed at this campsite and was very impressed by how clean and well-kept it was. The bathrooms and showers were spotless... One of the best features was the heated pool. It was clean, comfortably warm, and a perfect way to relax after a day of hiking or exploring," shares Dustin M.
Tips from RVers
Request specific sites for easier access: Some campgrounds have challenging layouts. "This is an excellent location in close proximity to several attractions. Very friendly and helpful staff. Sites were narrow and all utilities worked great just not a lot of space between rvs," notes Ted N. about Pikes Peak RV Park.
Be cautious on mountain roads with larger rigs: Dispersed camping areas often have limited turnaround space. "I recently purchased a 26ft sustainable travel trailer and decided to take it out for the first time. Well the road up is very tight. Very skinny switchbacks. About half way up looking for a way to turn around," warns Jaymin B. about Mount Herman Road, adding, "Don't go up if you are pulling anything larger than a tear drop trailer."
Check site dimensions before booking: Close quarters are common at established campgrounds. "All RV spots are ridiculously close. Not only did I feel I was about to hit my new neighbor, I found out that I share a water spout with my back neighbor," cautions C.W. about Garden of the Gods RV Resort.
