The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Dispersed Camping near Mesa Verde National Park

213 Reviews

BLM land adjacent to Mesa Verde National Park provides free dispersed camping with approximately 15 designated sites along County Road 34. This area, locally known as "Chutes and Ladders," sits just 1.5 miles from the park entrance, offering convenient access for visitors. The dirt access road becomes progressively rougher with some rutted sections that may challenge low-clearance vehicles, particularly after rainfall when the clay soil becomes muddy.

Each site features a basic rock fire ring and some level space for tents or small RVs. Sites tend to fill by early evening during peak season, with most campers arriving by 5pm. A review noted that "the road gets a little rougher the further you go in," with some spots having "deep drain ditches between service road and sites." For alternative options when this area is full or closed (which occurs seasonally for elk management), campers can find additional dispersed camping on BLM land along Road 316 near Mancos. No amenities are provided - pack out all trash and prepare for primitive conditions with no toilets or water sources.

Map showing campgrounds near Mesa Verde National Park, ColoradoExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Mesa Verde National Park (53)

    1. Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land)

    32 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

    18 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

    16 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

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

    "For iPhone users use google maps. Or it will take you to a dead end private road. This site is also two other names on here also! The chutes and ladder one and also the mesa verde dispersed!"

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

    6. Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp

    11 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

    5 Reviews
    Hesperus, CO
    17 miles

    "Steep."

    "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. Boggy Draw 1

    2 Reviews
    Dolores, CO
    14 miles

    "Lots of dispersed camping off of Boggy Draw road. We found one further off the road and close to where the Boggy Draw loop and Maverick loop intersect."

    9. 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. Bay City Campground

    4 Reviews
    Hesperus, CO
    19 miles

    "We are back in October. The river is more shallow and the air more crisp, yet still gives the feel of such a natural feel and sound. Private, cozy, and secluded. Only 25 minutes from Durango."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 53 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Mesa Verde National Park Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Mesa Verde National Park

126 Photos of 53 Mesa Verde National Park Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Mesa Verde National Park

213 Reviews of 53 Mesa Verde National Park Campgrounds

  • Annie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2021

    Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed up on the pass

    When you first pull in you will see several dispersed sites up and to your right. These are nice, but they fill up quickly. Instead, take a left onto Galloping Goose Trailhead road and pick one of the sites that back up to trees and have gray Mountain View’s. Be careful though as further down the road it becomes private property with no camping. Also, watch for winds if you want a fire. This is dispersed, so no toilet (tho there is one across the highway at the entrance) and no picnic tables. Fire rings made of stacked rocks mark sites. Also, be bear aware and keep your food inside your locked car.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 7, 2024

    Madden Peak Road - Dispersed

    Scenic and Secluded

    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. This area is big rig accessible, with relatively flat camping spots, though the access roads can be bumpy at times . Campfires are allowed, making it a cozy spot for evenings under the stars.

    The location offers stunning views of the La Plata Mountains and the surrounding wilderness, providing a serene backdrop for your stay. For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby hiking options include the Madden Peak Trail, which spans 4.5 miles and can be extended to summit Parrot Peak and Gibbs Peak. It's an ideal choice for campers who enjoy combining relaxation with outdoor adventure​.

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2022

    Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area

    Small tight - NO TTs or Big RVs

    Small rough road FREE dispersed area. 7 day camping limit. Lake is a pothole weedy area not really good for floating IMO..go to the public access at the much larger Trout Lake. Nine designated campsites are all walk in tent sites. One small vault toilet, no dumpsters or water. NO TTs allowed as NO turnaround. No big RVs either. Access road is rough rocky.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 7, 2021

    Hermosa Creek Trailhead - Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful & Packed

    This is a beautiful area and many camp sites at the bottom by the creek. However during 4th of July it was packed. We went up the mountain and found a beautiful pond to camp next to. There was no one that far up there. Bring bug spray there are so many mosquitos in this area! Must have a high clearance & 4 wheel drive vehicle to access the top of the mountain.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 5, 2025

    Cherry Creek Gravel Lot

    Easy & Free

    Only free place near Durango in the winter. We called and asked the BLM & Forest Service. Easy access, lots of space. Bumpy access road and highway noise.

  • Bobby J.
    Jul. 4, 2024

    Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land)

    Nice Stay close to Mesa Verde

    This was such a nice spot super close to Mesa Verde national park. It was about a 5 minute drive from the park entrance. The road was a little bumpy at places and some of the spots were rutted up but any vehicle could navigate it if they are careful.

  • Mauriel O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2018

    Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land)

    Free, Picturesque, and a bit muddy

    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. The one downside (for us) was that it had just rained and the sites and road are clay which we ended up sinking into and getting stuck in. Luckily a few other campers nearby got up to watch the show and see us dig to get out (eventually they all helped push us out). There's a little road noise from the highway but it didn't bother us.

    Each site has a little rock ringed fire pit and a flat area for a tent that we saw.

    So if you want a free spot for up to 14 nights and want to check out Mesa Verde (highly recommend it), this is a pretty nice little spot.

  • T
    Aug. 6, 2020

    Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping

    Amazing views with a no frills campsite

    Lodging isn’t always easy to find in the Telluride area especially if you find yourself passing through as we were but this is an absolutely amazing free camp spot 11 miles out of town. If you want a no frills but off the grid easy in and easy out spot fine for a tent or a trailer this place is an amazing option. Beautiful views at 10k+ feet. Fires are allowed in the fire rings as long as you stay at a previously disturbed spot you are good. There are toilets across the road at the trailhead. The road in is a bit rough but if you’ve got a high clearance vehicle you should be fine. If your pulling a trailer this is perfect. The night views are stellar. Like I said, this is a no frills spot but we loved it. I’ll probably stop here again if I’m in this area and thankful it is available and free. Had a great night here. Check it out

  • Katie J.
    Oct. 27, 2019

    Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land)

    Great spot!

    Great camping spot! Super close to Mesa Verde National Park! And it's freeeee! The road to get the the sites is rutted out so you do need some clearance! We have a subaru impreza and it was fine! No amentinites.. Spots are numbered. We stayed in 4!

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

Is BLM land available for camping near Mesa Verde National Park?

Yes, BLM land is readily available for camping near Mesa Verde National Park. The most convenient option is BLM across from Mesa Verde, located directly across from the national park. This area features multiple sites with easy access, though the clay soil can become problematic after rain. Another option is Cherry Creek Gravel Lot, which provides free camping with plenty of space, though it does have a bumpy access road and some highway noise. BLM lands typically allow 14-day stays and follow Leave No Trace principles, with no facilities provided.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mesa Verde National Park?

Free dispersed camping is available just minutes from Mesa Verde National Park entrance at Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land), about 5 minutes from the park entrance. The access road is somewhat rutted but passable with careful driving in most vehicles. Sites are numbered and offer no amenities. For those willing to venture a bit farther, Madden Peak Road - Dispersed provides scenic camping opportunities with relatively flat spots suitable for various camping setups, including larger vehicles. These free sites follow the standard 14-day stay limit typical of dispersed camping areas.

Can you camp inside Mesa Verde National Park or only outside the boundaries?

You can camp inside Mesa Verde National Park at Morefield Campground, the only established campground within park boundaries. This developed campground offers amenities including restrooms, showers, a store, and even a café during peak season. However, dispersed camping is not permitted anywhere within the national park. For those seeking free alternatives, Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping provides beautiful sites about 11 miles from Telluride with both roadside and more secluded options in the trees. Another option is Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area, which offers designated walk-in tent sites with a 7-day camping limit and basic facilities (vault toilet).

Keep Exploring