Best Dispersed Camping near Mesa Verde National Park

Southwest Colorado is home to some of the best camping in the state. Near Mesa Verde National Park, CO, visitors can take in some spectacular views, visit historic places, and enjoy sleeping under the stars or in a cozy cabin. Yurts are also available at some campsites, and in some close proximity to Mancos State Park. Visitors can boat in, walk in, or drive up to their spot in an RV. See the rock carvings on Petroglyph Point Trail and visit the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum. The ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings are a must-see for every camper, along with the imposing cliff palace.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Mesa Verde National Park (52)

    1. Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land)

    26 Reviews
    Mesa Verde National Park, CO
    4 miles

    "This was such a nice spot super close to Mesa Verde national park. It was about a 5 minute drive from the park entrance."

    "This is BLM Land outside of Mesa Verde National Park. Has quite a few different sites that are all free and have fairly easy access to."

    2. BLM across from Mesa Verde

    17 Reviews
    Mesa Verde National Park, CO
    4 miles
    Website

    "This is a good free spot near Mesa Verde, but if it is closed check out the many BLM spots on road 316 off the highway, barely West of Target Tree Campground slightly East of Mancos."

    "This campsite is right outside of Mesa Verde and is easy to locate. Campsites are located along a dirt road and they are clearly marked."

    3. Chutes and Ladders Dipsersed

    15 Reviews
    Mesa Verde National Park, CO
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 882-7296

    "Close to Hwy 160, so easy to access. Campsite access road ok, rutted abit in some places from prior mud which has since dried."

    "Some are to steep for a camper, but perfect for truck or van camping. We got to our spot around 4pm and by the time we were set up and heading into town for stuff all the spots were taken."

    4. Madden Peak Road - Dispersed

    24 Reviews
    Mancos, CO
    15 miles
    Website

    "Madden Peak dispersed camping is a fantastic option for those seeking a peaceful and scenic camping experience near Mesa Verde National Park, Cortez, and Durango."

    "Could do it in a non 4wd non high clearance, but wouldn’t recommend beyond the 4.5 mark."

    5. CR 34 Dispersed Campground

    8 Reviews
    Mesa Verde National Park, CO
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 882-7296

    "Great view of the mesa, easy access, plenty of firewood on the ground, not crowded, and clean campsites"

    "The perfect spot if you plan to visit Mesa Verde nearby. The road is a bit difficult for a RV, with a lot of holes but the sites are worth it."

    6. Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp

    8 Reviews
    Mancos, CO
    12 miles

    "We got to town late and our preferred spots were all taken, so we came here as a backup. The spots are all right off of the road and easy to get to. The views aren’t much, but they’re good spots."

    "Big spaces easy access for larger campers very peaceful"

    7. Cherry Creek Gravel Lot

    4 Reviews
    Hesperus, CO
    17 miles

    "You can hear the highway, but it's not much. Just ambient background noise. I got a spot with shade all day, so that was awesome."

    8. San Juan Madden Road Pulloff Dispersed Campsite

    3 Reviews
    Hesperus, CO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 247-4874

    "But to access this location you will need at the least HIGH CLEARANCE. I did it in my lifted f-350. This is just the end of the road. There are many options on the way up. Like probably around 50?"

    10. Spruce Mill Road - Dispersed Campsite

    1 Review
    Mancos, CO
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 247-4874

    "The beginning of the road is gravel but close to the campground is rocky and sandy. 4x4 is a must. It may be impassable when wet.. no facility at all.

    Overall, great area!"

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Mesa Verde National Park

180 Reviews of 52 Mesa Verde National Park Campgrounds



Guide to Mesa Verde National Park

Dispersed camping near Mesa Verde National Park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the stunning landscapes of Colorado. With various options available, campers can find secluded spots that provide both tranquility and adventure.

Dispersed campers should check out Mesa Verde National Park Boundary

  • This area features beautiful sunset views and is accessible for high-clearance vehicles, making it a great choice for those looking to explore the nearby national park. Visit Mesa Verde National Park Boundary for more details.
  • Campers have noted that the sites are well-spaced, allowing for a more private experience amidst the natural beauty of the surroundings.
  • The road leading to the sites can be navigated with care, even by larger vehicles, as long as you’re prepared for some bumps along the way.

Top activities while free camping near Mesa Verde National Park

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby trails, with options for both casual walks and more challenging hikes, providing a chance to see local wildlife and stunning vistas.
  • Many campers enjoy the convenience of being just a short drive from the park entrance, allowing for easy access to explore the rich history and archaeological sites of Mesa Verde.
  • The area is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for stargazing at night, with minimal light pollution to disrupt the view.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

  • Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during weekends or holidays, as the limited sites can fill up quickly.
  • Be prepared for uneven terrain and ensure your vehicle has adequate clearance to navigate the roads leading to sites like Madden Peak Road - Dispersed.
  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to maintain the natural beauty of the area and ensure a pleasant experience for future campers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Mesa Verde National Park?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Mesa Verde National Park is Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land) with a 4.6-star rating from 26 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Mesa Verde National Park?

TheDyrt.com has all 52 dispersed camping locations near Mesa Verde National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.