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Best Dispersed Camping near Moffat, CO

263 Reviews

Several dispersed camping areas surround Moffat, Colorado on public lands, with many sites located along forest roads near Crestone. Dispersed Sand Area 1 and Cotton Creek Trailhead offer multiple free camping spots with established fire rings. Both areas accommodate tents and RVs with drive-in access, though roads become increasingly rough and require slower travel with decent clearance.

The area features striking mountain views and exceptional stargazing opportunities. A camper noted "endless views and endless stars" at Cotton Creek Trailhead, while others mentioned the proximity to hiking trails and Crestone Peak. Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly in mid-summer months. Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead provides additional camping options, though visitors report mixed experiences with access due to potential private road blockages. Most sites lack amenities - no water, toilets, or trash facilities are available. For those seeking primitive camping near Great Sand Dunes National Park, additional dispersed sites can be found along Medano Pass Primitive Road and in the Dunefield area, though some locations require permits or have specific regulations.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Moffat, Colorado (65)

    1. Dispersed Sand Area 1

    5 Reviews
    Crestone, CO
    13 miles
    Website

    "There are about 10-15 dispersed camping spots along the dirt road that leads up to trailheads at the end. The spots are spread out enough to where I did not see or hear a soul while camping 2 nights."

    "Plenty of dispersed spots available. Stayed here in a truck with a rtt. With others in a group. Close enough to town where we hit up the local brewery for drinks and food."

    2. Cotton Creek Trailhead

    3 Reviews
    Crestone, CO
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 657-3321

    "Do not route via Apple Maps, it will try to take you through a private road. Don’t follow the “major trail” signs, just find the side road this spot is on and drive up and you’ll find it."

    "The road is very rocky & very rough, so you'll want to have decent clearance and be prepared to take it slow. I've never seen so many stars!"

    3. Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead

    3 Reviews
    Crestone, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 657-3321

    "Several good spots with fire pits right near the trailhead. A few bugs in late August but nothing terrible. Very quiet except for the sound of the rushing creek."

    4. Crestone Needle Trail

    2 Reviews
    Crestone, CO
    12 miles

    "Crestone is a tiny town with just about anything you might want within a walk from where I parked. Plenty of camping spots all the way up to the end of the road where there is a fairly busy trailhead."

    "This place was a nice spot for dispersed camping! Lots of spots, and super easy to find just off the road. A bit sandy, but the soil underneath worked for stakes."

    5. Russell Lake Wildlife Refuge

    3 Reviews
    Saguache, CO
    14 miles

    "Flat parking lot with trash bins and bathrooms. Beautiful view! 55 minutes to the Great Sand Dunes."

    6. Willow Creek Trail

    1 Review
    Crestone, CO
    13 miles
    Website

    "Approx 15 or so dispersed camp sites along the forest road up to the parking lot for Willow Lake trail. Easy access to sites, easy access to trail head. Restrooms also available at trailhead."

    7. The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    9 Reviews
    Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, CO
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 378-6395

    "Backcountry dispersed camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park offers an unforgettable and truly unique wilderness experience."

    "It's tent camping only, and no pets are allowed in the back country dunes. You also need to pack everything you need in with you and leave no trace."

    8. Sacred White Shell Mountain

    54 Reviews
    Blanca, CO
    37 miles
    Website

    "This is BLM land that's free to camp on for up to 14 days every 45 days. The camp sites are just off a dirt road that leads to the trailhead for hiking to Blanca Peak."

    "We spent two nights here, in our camper van, while visiting the national park. It’s proximity is so great."

    9. Medano Pass Primitive Road — Great Sand Dunes National Preserve

    9 Reviews
    Crestone, CO
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 378-6395

    "Medano Pass is the route it's believed that Pike took into the San Luis Valley, and is one of the only primitive roads accessing the valley."

    "Definitely need 4 wheel drive and decently high clearance. I only saw Jeeps, 4 runners, and trucks. Rocky and steep at parts, it was pretty damn rough."

    10. Hayden Creek Roadside Camp

    4 Reviews
    Coaldale, CO
    23 miles

    "Quite a few flat tent spots right by the creek although there are boulders from preventing you from driving too far into the woods."

    "level, shaded, right by nice size creek. perfect for exploring and quiet. we were in tent but saw several largeRV. some traffic but never heard another person. were a few spots right next to us but we"

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Moffat, CO

258 Photos of 65 Moffat Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Moffat, CO

263 Reviews of 65 Moffat Campgrounds

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 15, 2024

    The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    Wild and Untamed

    Backcountry dispersed camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park offers an unforgettable and truly unique wilderness experience. If you’re seeking solitude and raw, untamed landscapes, this is the perfect spot to pitch your tent. With no designated sites, you have the freedom to find your ideal spot beyond the busy dunes and under an expansive star-filled sky.

    The journey begins with a hike deep into the park’s rugged terrain, where you’re surrounded by towering sand dunes, alpine forests, and sweeping views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The lack of light pollution makes stargazing an absolute highlight—this is one of the best places to witness the Milky Way.

    Keep in mind, this is true backcountry camping: no facilities, no water sources, and you must pack out all waste. Permits are required, so be sure to plan ahead. The environment can be challenging, with extreme temperature swings and strong winds that shift the sand beneath your feet. Good preparation and Leave No Trace practices are a must.

    The rewards are well worth the effort. From sunrise hikes to the serene sound of nothing but wind across the dunes, this camping experience immerses you in nature’s raw beauty like few others can. It’s an adventure you’ll carry with you long after you’ve left the dunes behind.

    Highly recommend skipping the tent and sleeping under the stars!

  • Jason L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2019

    Sacred White Shell Mountain

    Boondocking in the sun

    This is BLM land that's free to camp on for up to 14 days every 45 days. The camp sites are just off a dirt road that leads to the trailhead for hiking to Blanca Peak. The road gets pretty rough the further up you get, but there are plenty of large camp sites on the way up the mountain, some you'd have to home to if you decide to go to Blanca Peak. It's a fairly busy place as off-road vehicles and horse back riding are popular here. Beautiful views of the San Luis Valley, Great Sand Dunes National Park, and Mt. Blanca. Definitely worth checking out of you're in the area. No shade or amenities, so bring everything you need with you and as always, leave no trace.

  • Lise F.
    Apr. 8, 2021

    Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping

    Space and Views!!

    We camped here for 4 nights in August 2020. It was so peaceful. Big wide dispersed camping spaces. Plenty of nice hiking - especially Brown's Creek area. Great location with easy drive to Buena Vista & Salida & Mt. Princeton. The only drawback was, well, August dryness & no water nearby. This was our first dispersed camping experience and we realize no facilities. There is one bathroom near the Brown's Creek trailhead about 2 miles away from where we camped, but we had a camper. Also, no picnic tables at all. AND cows roam freely throughout the area - drive slowly & respect them - listen for moos & coyote howls. Great bird-watching too. We enjoyed it so much!!

  • Aliza N.
    May. 19, 2022

    Sacred White Shell Mountain

    Super close to Great Sand Dunes

    We spent two nights here, in our camper van, while visiting the national park. It’s proximity is so great. The area is easy to find, big and open and nearly all up the very upper parts are navigable by a regular car. There are some upper parts that could require 4WD and high clearance. Our only complaints were how dusty is was and that there really were no trees so potentially not much privacy depending whom is camping around you. If you don’t have a bathroom….this could also be an issue. Not much in the way of tree cover if you are going in the wilderness.
    We chose sites on the north side of the area, closer to the park and it seemed more private.

  • Silouan A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 27, 2025

    Marshall Pass Dispersed

    Dispersed camping spots with amazing views

    Turn off Hwy 285 at “Mears Junction” and head up Marshall Pass Rd. The first few miles are through private property, but then it opens up into the National Forest, with dispersed campsites interspersed regularly along the roads. There are easy camper friendly spots, and tent spots, as well as some areas where a group could be easily accommodated. The views are fantastic, there are numerous trailheads, and Poncha Creek and other seasonal creeks are running beautifully.

  • Steve & Ashley G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2019

    Marshall Pass

    ATV Dispersed Camping

    This site is on Marshall Pass Road off of highway 285. The dispersed sites are near the intersection of Marshall Pass Road and Forest Service Rod 200. This intersection at the base off the access road up to Ohaver Lake Campground. The primitive sites are spread along the creek just off the Forest Service Road. Like many dispersed camps, the sites only have flat cleared areas with fire pits and no other amenities. The area is a great spot for ATV Riders to trailer into area as well as horse trailers to park and access the mountain roads and trails. The location is not the best for scenery and can get busy in the summer especially on weekends since it’s so close to the highway and Salida, Colorado.

  • S
    May. 8, 2021

    Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area

    Lots of sites and beautiful mountain views.

    If you ever been to any of the BLM camping locations around Salida, Mt. Shavano is not anything different. Some long dirt roads will lead you to multiple sites, though some of them are closer to people than I would want to be..

    There is no water source, no trash, bathrooms, and it would be difficult to get a spot with an RV or trailer at this location. I did have decent cell service (AT&T).

    One unfortunate thing I've noticed there was that it could be used as a dumpsite for illegal poachers. I saw numerous locations which had deer bones left but no head, as well as the area where presence of the animals sex was missing. I am debating reporting this to Colorado Parks and Wildlife as well as BLM to investigate.

    Overall my stay was pleasant. There was still snow in the forecast at the end of the month of April when I was there. There was quite a few people there for a Tuesday, which was quite odd but I guess it's a popular area. Some of the residents looked more permanent, but I couldn't tell since I was just there for one night.

  • Isabelle K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2021

    Road 240 - Dispersed

    A hidden paradise

    This spot is one of the best kept secrets for dispersed camping in Colorado. The road has plenty of camping spots all the way up to the lake. Most spots are wooded and offer plenty of shade. We were lucky enough to end up right along the river. If you keep driving down the road, you will end up at a stunning alpine lake basin that offers plenty of hiking. High clearance vehicle is necessary to get down this road.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Fooses Creek Dispersed Camping

    Great overnight for leaf peeping

    Very serene and beautiful stop. The road has alot of uneven terrain with some boulders. I would recommend 4WD & higher clearance - not for your standard sedan. Sites are spread apart and along the creek & somewhat level. The road in is a single lane so be kind & patient. Really beautiful place to boondock. No problems getting there in my 4x4 sprinter van.

Guide to Moffat

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Moffat, Colorado, where stunning landscapes and serene environments await outdoor enthusiasts. With a variety of options, campers can enjoy the freedom of nature while exploring the unique features of each area.

Dispersed campers should check out The Dunefield

  • The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park offers a breathtaking view of the Great Sand Dunes, making it a unique spot for those looking to experience a striking landscape.
  • This area requires a permit and is accessible only by hiking in, ensuring a peaceful escape from the crowds.
  • Campers can enjoy starry nights and stunning sunsets, with reviews highlighting the incredible stargazing opportunities available.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Moffat, Colorado

  • When visiting Dispersed Sand Area 1, be prepared for a remote experience with no drinking water or facilities, making it essential to bring your own supplies.
  • This area allows campfires, so consider bringing firewood to enjoy cozy evenings under the stars while surrounded by beautiful mountain views.
  • Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, so pack insect repellent to ensure a comfortable stay while enjoying the natural beauty.

Top activities while free camping near Moffat

  • Hiking is a popular activity at Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead, where you can explore nearby trails and enjoy the sound of the rushing creek.
  • For those looking to tackle some 14ers, Cotton Creek Trailhead provides access to challenging hikes with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will find opportunities at Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area, where nearby lakes are stocked and perfect for a relaxing day by the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping in Moffat, Colorado?

The Moffat area offers several excellent dispersed camping opportunities. Marshall Pass Dispersed is accessible by turning off Hwy 285 at Mears Junction and heading up Marshall Pass Road. After passing through private property, you'll find numerous dispersed sites along the road in National Forest land. Another option is Sacred White Shell Mountain, which features BLM land with dispersed sites along a dirt road leading to the Blanca Peak trailhead. This area allows camping close to Great Sand Dunes National Park, with sites that accommodate both regular cars and high-clearance vehicles depending on how far up you venture.

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites in Moffat?

Dispersed camping sites around Moffat are primitive with minimal or no amenities. At Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping, you'll find wide open spaces but no facilities - the main appeal is peaceful surroundings and proximity to hiking trails. Similarly, Road 240 - Dispersed offers wooded sites with shade and some riverside locations, but no developed facilities. Most dispersed sites in the area have no water sources, trash collection, or bathrooms. You'll need to bring all supplies including drinking water, toilet paper, and waste disposal bags. Cell service is typically limited or non-existent. The trade-off for these basic conditions is privacy, natural settings, and the freedom to select your ideal camping spot.

Is free camping available in Moffat and what are the regulations?

Yes, free camping is available in the Moffat area with specific regulations. Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area offers free BLM dispersed camping similar to other sites around Salida, with multiple sites accessible via dirt roads. The standard BLM regulation allows camping for up to 14 days within any 45-day period. At Old Spanish Trail, there's spacious free camping, though be aware of parking lot restrictions where signs may prohibit overnight stays. Generally, dispersed camping in the region requires pack-in/pack-out practices for all trash and waste, maintaining at least 100 feet from water sources, and practicing Leave No Trace principles.

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