Top Free Dispersed Camping near Maybell, CO

Planning a dispersed camping trip near Maybell? The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campgrounds for your Colorado camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Maybell, CO (12)

    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Wash Basin
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Wash Basin
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Wash Basin
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Wash Basin
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Wash Basin
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Wash Basin

    1. Sand Wash Basin

    5 Reviews
    10 Photos
    72 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from White River National Forest dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from White River National Forest dispersed

    2. White River National Forest dispersed

    1 Review
    2 Photos
    22 Saves

    There are many dispersed camping opportunities on the forest ranging from backpacking to car-camping along designated Forest Roads. Visitors are encouraged to minimize resource impacts by utilizing established sites rather than creating new ones. Dispersed camping sites along Forest Roads are shown on Motor Vehicle Use Maps, which are available free of charge at ranger district offices.

    Visitors are permitted to drive vehicles up to 300 feet from designated routes for purposes of dispersed camping as long as no resource damage is incurred in the process. Dispersed camping within 100 feet of lakes, streams, and forest system trails is prohibited unless otherwise designated. Campers may stay for a maximum of 14 days. Some areas may have additional special restrictions.

    Reduce Resource Damage

    Avoid making new impacts. Whenever possible, use an existing campsite rather than creating a new one. Dispose of human waste, including toilet paper, carefully. Use self-contained waste disposal systems whenever possible. When unavailable, deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 – 8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water, camp sites, and roads or trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished. Properly manage sanitation. Dispose of waste, gray water, sewage, and sewage treatment chemicals from self-contained toilets at authorized facilities provided for that purpose. Pack it in, pack it out. Do not leave behind any waste or litter. Leave no trace. Leave established sites in better condition than you found them. Leave new sites in as natural condition as you found them. Don’t move firewood. Moving firewood long distances can help spread harmful pests. Use only locally sourced or dead or downed firewood. Be bear aware. You are in bear country. Leave food, trash, and all items with fragrance (e.g., toothpaste, deodorant) in vehicle, bear-proof canisters, or suspended in bear bags. Do not eat in your tent. Visit the Colorado Division of Wildlife's web site for more information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Yellowjacket Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from Yellowjacket Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from Yellowjacket Pass

    3. Yellowjacket Pass

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    36 Saves

    There are many dispersed camping opportunities on the forest ranging from backpacking to car-camping along designated Forest Roads. Visitors are encouraged to minimize resource impacts by utilizing established sites rather than creating new ones. Dispersed camping sites along Forest Roads are shown on Motor Vehicle Use Maps, which are available free of charge at ranger district offices.

    Visitors are permitted to drive vehicles up to 300 feet from designated routes for purposes of dispersed camping as long as no resource damage is incurred in the process. Dispersed camping within 100 feet of lakes, streams, and forest system trails is prohibited unless otherwise designated. Campers may stay for a maximum of 14 days. Some areas may have additional special restrictions.

    Reduce Resource Damage

    Avoid making new impacts. Whenever possible, use an existing campsite rather than creating a new one. Dispose of human waste, including toilet paper, carefully. Use self-contained waste disposal systems whenever possible. When unavailable, deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 – 8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water, camp sites, and roads or trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished. Properly manage sanitation. Dispose of waste, gray water, sewage, and sewage treatment chemicals from self-contained toilets at authorized facilities provided for that purpose. Pack it in, pack it out. Do not leave behind any waste or litter. Leave no trace. Leave established sites in better condition than you found them. Leave new sites in as natural condition as you found them. Don’t move firewood. Moving firewood long distances can help spread harmful pests. Use only locally sourced or dead or downed firewood. Be bear aware. You are in bear country. Leave food, trash, and all items with fragrance (e.g., toothpaste, deodorant) in vehicle, bear-proof canisters, or suspended in bear bags. Do not eat in your tent. Visit the Colorado Division of Wildlife's web site for more information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from North of Dinosaur CR16 - Dispersed Site
      Camper-submitted photo from North of Dinosaur CR16 - Dispersed Site
      Camper-submitted photo from North of Dinosaur CR16 - Dispersed Site
      Camper-submitted photo from North of Dinosaur CR16 - Dispersed Site
      Camper-submitted photo from North of Dinosaur CR16 - Dispersed Site
      Camper-submitted photo from North of Dinosaur CR16 - Dispersed Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Dinosaur Dispersed Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Dinosaur Dispersed Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Dinosaur Dispersed Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Dinosaur Dispersed Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Dinosaur Dispersed Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Dinosaur Dispersed Site

      6. Dinosaur Dispersed Site

      1 Review
      6 Photos
      9 Saves

      The Northwest Colorado District manages about 3.15 million surface acres and is comprised of the Kremmling, Little Snake and White River field offices. The District includes the upper Colorado River corridor along with the White and Yampa rivers. It is home to some of the largest deer and elk herds in the area, along with pronghorn, bighorn sheep and a wide variety of other wildlife. The Northwest District contains the majority of the Colorado range of the Greater Sage Grouse. The Northwest District also manages 7.1 million acres of subsurface minerals, which includes some of the most productive oil and natural gas fields in the state, four of Colorado’s nine coal mines and vast deposits of oil shale.

      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Dispersed
      • No image available

        7. Sawmill Creek

        1 Review
        9 Saves

        Sawmill Campground is closed. Dispersed camping is allowed with the pack-it-in, pack-it-out policy. No facilities available. Located in the California Park/Black Mountain Area and is managed by the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District.

        • Dispersed
        • Drinking Water
        • Toilets
        • No image available
          • No image available

            9. Sawmill Creek Dispersed

            Be the first to review!
            2 Saves

            Sawmill Campground is closed. Dispersed camping is allowed with the pack-it-in, pack-it-out policy. No facilities available. Located in the California Park/Black Mountain Area and is managed by the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District.

            • Dispersed
            • No image available
            Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds

            Recent Dispersed Reviews In Maybell

            14 Reviews of 12 Maybell Campgrounds


            • L
              Camper-submitted photo from Dinosaur Dispersed Site
              Apr. 12, 2024

              Dinosaur Dispersed Site

              Great

              Great little spot to stop and sleep. The train ran once in the evening. There are several fire pits from the looks of it. No amenities but lots of deer!

            • Katherine C.
              Camper-submitted photo from North of Dinosaur CR16 - Dispersed Site
              Aug. 6, 2023

              North of Dinosaur CR16 - Dispersed Site

              Scenic Views

              This location as more camping spots available down CR16 past the GPS waypoint. The site at the waypoint has 2-3 more sites tucked back down the grassy double track you can see from the initial pull-off. Great views from any site, if windy.

            • Casey H.
              Camper-submitted photo from Sand Wash Basin
              May. 15, 2023

              Sand Wash Basin

              Beautiful and Wide Open

              I ended up driving to Sand Wash after my first site about an hour west was kind of flooded and crowded. I showed up right when the sun was setting and was able to catch some horses about 20 mins after driving past the entrance to the area. The roads were very sketchy at some points, but by 2014 RAV4 was able to make it (though I did bottom out one time and came very close several others - at least AWD and high clearance are a must). Make sure you go to Sand Wash Basin's website. People that live there published an unofficial map of the different parts of the park with way more detail than Google Maps ever could, plus other facts and info about the place. The only downfall was it was super duper windy at night to the point where it was tough to sleep even with my heavy canvas tent walls. I ended up leaving the next morning because the wind had gotten worse and the forecast said it would be twice as bad as the next night. Definitely keeping this spot on my favorites list.

            • JThe Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from White River National Forest dispersed
              Oct. 18, 2022

              White River National Forest dispersed

              Beautiful solitude, rough road

              This dispersed campsite has an incredible view, but it’s located on a “primitive road,” so google maps won’t show you the route all the way. I was using the OnX off-road app when I found it. If you approach from the south side (County Rd 48?), you will need a high clearance 4wd. If you approach from the north side (County Rd 51) it is accessible by any mid-clearance AWD vehicle, unless it’s wet. Then you’ll probably need a legit 4wd. I was there in mid-October, and there were hunters camped out all over the forest. But I found this place and had complete privacy, great view, and occasional Verizon service.

            • Maddict
              Camper-submitted photo from Sand Wash Basin
              Jul. 26, 2022

              Sand Wash Basin

              Sandwash Basin BLM - Dispersed

              There's a few spots it's a dirt/mud road through the entire Basin but there's some beautiful spots overlanders or vans can make it too. Lookout mountain in particular has amazing views and a few small spots, however 4wd is recommended. I made it when it was dry I. A 2wd van but it was sketchy the whole way up. Definitely gonna have to leave immediately if it rains

            • C
              Camper-submitted photo from Yellowjacket Pass
              Jul. 13, 2022

              Yellowjacket Pass

              Hunting Dispersed National Forest

              Road is about 7 miles in. But once you get back in here it’s really nice. I saw about 10+ sites. Some sites have no bars AT&T, some 1 bar. Luckily I found a site with 2. If you follow my coordinates, and nobody is there you lucked out 2 bars, and secluded. Rock fire pit, pretty large area enough for group. Road isn’t god awful, but it goes back pretty far. Lots of motor homes, Rv’s in spots. Nice cool temps, no creeks that I’ve found yet. Firewood scattered. Only disadvantage is it’s high up road, and goes back aways, so plan on 7 miles of semi rough road.

            • Hayley K.The Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Sand Wash Basin
              May. 18, 2021

              Sand Wash Basin

              Be on the Lookout for Wild Horses

              This area is located directly in the middle of the Wild Horse area of Northwest Colorado. This seems to be the place to ride dirt bikes or do some mountain biking. 

              This is easy to find location since there is a large sign right off the road and there is TONS of space for camping. 

              We stayed here one night on the way to Idaho and it was a great stopover spot for the night but due to ATV's and lots of people coming through, it's not a quiet long term camp spot. 

              Co Rd 67, Maybell, CO 81640

            • CThe Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Sand Wash Basin
              Jun. 4, 2019

              Sand Wash Basin

              Sand Wash Basin BLM

              -BLM management camping

              -Free

              -Awesome place to camp! 

              -Bring your dirt bikes and ATV’s! Perfect spot for riding. Tons of trails!

              -Bring your camera because you just may be able to see some of the 700 wild horses roaming the area! Beautiful moment and capture if you do! 

              -This campground spot fills up quick on weekends due to the riders but still is pretty remote and the riders don’t bother you. 

              -Lots of hiking around.

              -Beautiful scenery!

              -Maybell,CO is the closest town to get anything so be sure to bring all your survival necessities( plenty of water, food, gas if you’ll be riding atv’s or dirt bikes, etc..)

              -4wd recommended, especially if you go further down through the valley, gets pretty rough and big broken sharp rocks on the road. 

              -There are no bathrooms



            Guide to Maybell

            Camping near Maybell, Colorado, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're in a tent, RV, or looking for a cozy cabin, there are plenty of options to explore.

            What to do:

            • Explore the Wild Horses: The Sand Wash Basin is famous for its wild horses. One visitor shared, "This area is located directly in the middle of the Wild Horse area of Northwest Colorado." It's a great spot for photography and enjoying nature.
            • Hiking and Biking: There are numerous trails around the area. A camper noted, "There are lots of hiking around," making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
            • Fishing and Water Activities: Freeman Reservoir is a fantastic spot for fishing. One happy camper said, "With hiking, biking, and fishing, you could spend some time here!"

            What campers like:

            • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A review from Wilderness Rendezvous RV Park mentioned, "Bathrooms and showers were cleaned daily."
            • Peaceful Atmosphere: Many enjoy the quiet and relaxing environment. One visitor at Sand Wash Basin said, "Great quiet spot with a bathroom and some great views for just off the highway."
            • Friendly Hosts: Campers often rave about the welcoming hosts. A review from Freeman Reservoir Campground stated, "The lady running the campground was super friendly and helpful."

            What you should know:

            • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Irish Canyon Campground, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A camper noted, "No amenities other than a vaulted toilet."
            • Road Conditions: Be prepared for rough roads, especially if you're heading to more remote sites. One camper at Sand Wash Basin warned, "The roads were very sketchy at some points."
            • Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife, including wild horses and deer. A visitor at Gates of Lodore Campground mentioned, "A herd of young deer wandered through our site."

            Tips for camping with families:

            • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and clean facilities. One camper at Wilderness Rendezvous RV Park said, "Playground is nice. Very friendly."
            • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. A visitor at Freeman Reservoir Campground noted, "It was just a great family place!!"
            • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Make sure to have plenty of food and drinks, especially since some campgrounds are remote. A camper at Maybell Park mentioned, "There is gas and a convenient store on the next block."

            Tips from RVers:

            • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. One RVer at Rangely Camper Park said, "A lot of the spots were too small for our rig."
            • Be Prepared for Wind: Some areas can be windy, so secure your belongings. A camper at Sand Wash Basin noted, "It was super duper windy at night."
            • Use Dump Stations Wisely: Know where the nearest dump stations are located. A visitor at Maybell Park mentioned, "We used the dump station, $5."

            Camping near Maybell, Colorado, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're looking for adventure or a peaceful getaway.

            Frequently Asked Questions

            • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Maybell, CO?

              According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Maybell, CO is Sand Wash Basin with a 4.8-star rating from 5 reviews.

            • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Maybell, CO?

              TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Maybell, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.