Tent camping near Masonville, Colorado provides access to several Roosevelt National Forest dispersed sites at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during the day, with afternoon thunderstorms common from July through August. Fire bans frequently take effect by mid-June due to the region's dry climate, so campers should verify current restrictions before arrival.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Longs Peak Campground, visitors can observe elk, mule deer, and smaller mammals like marmots. One visitor noted, "Plenty of wildlife. The spaces are small but accommodate an RV or a single tent. Bear boxes and toilets close to everything."
Early morning hikes: The Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot provides quick access to several trails that are best explored at dawn. A camper mentioned, "This place was slightly hard to find, but obtaining a MVUM for the region made it a lot easier. The sites are very spread out and there weren't many people there, despite it being a weekend in June when I visited."
Stream fishing: Several campsites along ski roads in Allenspark offer creek-side camping with small trout fishing. "Most spots sit on a creek that gives a good ambiance. Few spots need 4x4 or really good tires, but there's a spot for everyone. Clear skies at night, but tree cover if you prefer. Quick drive to Estes Park."
What campers like
Secluded camping with minimal preparation: The Backcountry Campground at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space provides an accessible first backpacking experience. "This would be a perfect first backpacking trip for beginners! Once you park, you sign in to the backpacking log to the right of the main entrance by the kiosk. The sites are first come first serve. From the parking lot, it's only about a mile and a half."
Panoramic night skies: Campsites at Lory State Park Backcountry offer exceptional stargazing when the park closes to day visitors. A reviewer shared, "At night, you've basically got the park to yourself because it closes at dark to all other users. We hiked to the top of Arthur's rock to watch the supermoon rise and it was pretty special!"
Natural swimming areas: The Boat In Sites at Horsetooth Reservoir provide unique water access camping. "Kids have a blast swimming, kayaking and just goofing off. Adults chill and drink and fish. Most spots do not have bathrooms (bring a shovel, bag/remove your solid waste and keep it clean) or any other facilities except a fire ring."
What you should know
Food storage requirements: Most backcountry sites require proper food containment due to wildlife activity. A camper at Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area warned, "Moose visitors at dawn and evening, and hungry bears scavenging for food at night is a common occurrence. Luckily my car alarm scared them off pretty easily."
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles. A reviewer noted about Allenspark, "You really want a 4x4 in this area to get to good spots. It's crowded and can be sketchy in my experience as a fire fighter up there."
Seasonal access: Forest roads typically close during winter months and reopen by late May. An attempted visitor to Forest Road 119 reported, "The road is still closed" in early May, while another noted in late June, "Road is open for summer and it's kinda rough getting up, but once you're there, it's a pretty nice view."
Water availability: No running water exists at most sites. A visitor to Horsetooth Mountain Open Space advised, "There isn't a water source close by so you'll have to pack all your water. Also leave no trace and pack all your trash when you leave!"
Tips for camping with families
Short hike options: For the best tent camping near Masonville, Colorado with children, choose sites with moderate hiking distances. One family reported about Canyon Lakes Ranger District Dispersed Camping, "It's right next to a hiking trail which is great on cold afternoons. Stars were beautiful too, very little light pollution."
Multiple route options: Lory State Park offers family-friendly trail combinations. A reviewer shared, "A relatively short hike in with multiple routes so good for a quick trip or with kids."
Noise considerations: Some areas experience higher recreational traffic. A camper observed at Allenspark Dispersed Camping, "It is populated with people on ATVs, as well as other campers near you if you decide on an easy-to-access campsite."
Seasonal timing: Plan family camping trips during wildflower season for added interest. "It's a beautiful meadow with wildflowers in the summer," noted one Lory State Park visitor about the backcountry sites.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most dispersed camping areas near Masonville accommodate small RVs only. A Gordon Gulch visitor warned, "Recommend a 4-wheel drive vehicle to reach some of the spots, especially if there is poor weather."
Turn-around space: Forest roads often lack adequate turn-around areas for larger vehicles. One RVer reported about Forest Road 119, "We just hauled our trailer down this road to find out it's closed and had no where to turn around. Ended up having to back way down the hill before finding a spot and it still was a mess."
Alternative accommodations: Some established campgrounds offer better RV access than dispersed sites. A visitor to Longs Peak Campground confirmed, "The spaces are small but accommodate an RV or a single tent."
