Primitive camping near Masonville, Colorado offers diverse terrain between 5,800 and 8,800 feet elevation. The area experiences dramatic weather shifts with afternoon thunderstorms common in summer months and early snow possible from September through May. Most dispersed sites require visitors to pack in water and pack out waste, with seasonal fire restrictions strictly enforced throughout Roosevelt and Arapaho National Forest lands.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Several campsites at Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot connect to local trails. "Decent drive and not hard to find. This is not meant for travel trailers, pop ups, or anything except texts. Even then, while the 1 area was tiny, the second was large and open," reports kelly L.
Creek activities: Many spots feature water access for cooling off. "We had a great night here! Spacious site with a fire ring. Easy time finding, just follow all the arrows when there is a fork in the road," shares Alli L. from Allenspark Dispersed.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, one camper notes: "I spent multiple days at this site due to its remote beauty. Campsites far apart, and it was quiet other than the occasional atv. Lots of chipmunks and hummingbirds due to the many wild flowers."
What campers like
Mountain views: Several sites offer panoramic vistas. At Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed, Mark W. reports: "This was a wonderful campsite, incredible views, fairly easy to access(we did it in a Honda civic), and was an overall great environment."
Waterside campsites: Creeks and streams provide natural sound barriers. "Initially, the campgrounds were hard to find. 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," explains Kevin F. at Allenspark.
Solitude during weekdays: For those seeking quiet, timing matters. "It was pretty empty through the week. We'll worth the visit. Lots of Aspen!" shares Dian G. about Gordon Gulch. Similarly, at Canyon Lakes Ranger District, campers find better solitude Monday through Thursday.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements vary: Road conditions can change dramatically with weather. At Hell Canyon Dispersed, Cooper P. warns: "Super nice spot but limited parking and a trek to get up." Another camper notes: "Road up is a bit rough but I saw many SUVs make it, the gate sign recommends 4x4."
Weather preparedness: The area experiences sudden weather changes. At Beaver Park, one visitor warns: "Lovely place, just be sure to check the weather before you get there as there is no service, and a storm with high wind caused us to have to tear down camp in the middle of the night."
Limited sites at popular spots: Availability varies significantly between locations. Hell Canyon campers report: "A great campsite but not to many options. I love how close it is to the park and how secluded it can get depending on where you set up your tent. Not too many spots though to pull into if you drive up."
Tips for camping with families
Creek-side spots for kids: Water features provide natural entertainment. At Pingree Road Dispersed Camping, campers report well-maintained sites with existing fire rings and creek access at certain locations.
Accessible sites for beginners: Some areas offer easier access for families. "These camp sites are nicely dispersed. The Pingree Road is also super well maintained so I was able to comfortably get to the campsite with a FWD low clearance sedan!" reports Nidhi S.
Wildlife safety: Proper food storage is essential. At Beaver Park Reservoir, campers have encountered wildlife including rabbits, squirrels, and occasional moose. One camper at Hell Canyon notes: "No bears/wildlife to be scared of! The weather was so nice we slept in hammocks all week!"
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive camping near Masonville restricts larger vehicles. At Hell Canyon, Justin H. explains: "The road was a little rough for a pop up camper. More for tents." Another camper notes: "Haven't been out camping in a while, Should have 4x4 but we made it without. One vehicle had a 20' cargo trailer. (Required 4x4)."
Level site selection: Finding flat spots can be challenging. At Poudre Canyon Road Camp, campers mention: "Plenty of spaces from which to chose last weekend...which was mid-February -- 'may' fluctuate seasonally." Another adds: "These sites are too open for tent campers as there is no shade."
Approach strategies: Navigation to sites often requires specific routes. At Hell Canyon Dispersed, one RVer suggests: "10 minutes from Estes Park, lots of local places to go. The camp ground down below will even let you shower for 8$."
