Dispersed camping near Maybell provides access to northwestern Colorado's high desert terrain at elevations between 5,500-7,000 feet. The area experiences hot, dry summers with daytime temperatures reaching the 90s and cool evenings dropping into the 40s. Camping options range from established sites with facilities to remote BLM land where water isn't available and cell service is unreliable.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: Observe wild horses in Sand Wash Basin, where approximately 700 wild horses roam freely across the landscape. "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!" writes camper Canada0718! F. Most visitors spot horses within 20-30 minutes after entering the area.
River activities: Wade the Yampa River during summer when water levels are lower. The Juniper Canyon site offers excellent river access. "The river is shallow and wide and warm enough to swim in," notes Derek S., who visited in late August. "The bank is probably too steep for putting in boats on trailers," but there's a boat launch for rafts.
Stargazing: View dark skies away from light pollution. The remoteness creates exceptional night sky viewing conditions, particularly during new moon phases. "The night view of the sky is amazing," according to Derek S. at Juniper Canyon, while Casey H. at Sand Wash Basin enjoyed seeing "consistent meteors" during clear nights with a new moon.
What campers like
Solitude: Camp away from crowds at Deerlodge Park Campground in Dinosaur National Monument. "This campground is one of the best spots that I ever spent a night at. The scenery is breathtaking, it is very remote and absolutely silent. There is literally no noise whatsoever," writes Marcus K., who camped there in October.
Spacious sites: Enjoy ample room between camping spots at most area campgrounds. "Sites have plenty of room between them," notes Angela M. about Yampa River Headquarters Campground. Similarly, at Maybell Park, gothinavan A. noted, "Sites are close together but level. Felt safe and it was quiet at night save for occasional passing cars."
Convenience: Easy stopover location when traveling through northwest Colorado. Maybell Park serves as "a great small town overnight stop. It is on the side of the road in the last town before you hit no mans land heading west," according to Hayley K.
What you should know
Access challenges: High-clearance vehicles required for many dispersed sites. At Angora Hills, Lynn warns, "I put truck in 4WD and went up the dirt road slowly." Another camper cautions, "Warning: access road is CLAY dirt and do not access if wet saturated, you will get stuck maybe."
Weather preparedness: Wind can be severe at higher elevations, particularly in Sand Wash Basin. Casey H. reports, "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."
Limited amenities: Bring all supplies when heading to remote areas. Canada0718! F. advises, "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 ATVs or dirt bikes, etc.)"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for sites with play areas for children. Yampa River Headquarters Campground features a playground according to several reviewers, making it suitable for families with young children.
River safety: Monitor children near water as river conditions change seasonally. Talia J. notes the Yampa River Headquarters Campground has "a barbed wire fence between you and the Yampa River," which can help keep small children away from water hazards.
Timing considerations: Avoid hunting season for quieter family experiences. As Kim R. observed at Maybell Park, "During the hunting season, our normal population of 75 nearly triples, when Maybell becomes home away from home to hunters."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose elevated spots in areas prone to flooding. "Less expensive spots are not level so I chose the more expensive option," notes Evan S. about Trail and Hitch Tiny Home Hotel and RV Park.
Power options: Electric hookups limited to certain campgrounds. Doug W. points out that Maybell Bridge is "dry camping and cost was $15 when we stayed," while Maybell Park offers electric sites for higher fees. Buz S. clarifies that at Maybell Park, "Water is available as is a dump station but power only at the site."
Morning routines: Plan for busy bathroom times at public facilities. "Morning became very busy with travelers stopping to use the public restrooms," warns gothinavan A. about Maybell Park, which "may help you decide where to park" if you're sensitive to noise or traffic.
