Planning a dispersed camping trip near Moffat? Dispersed camping gets you off the grid so you can disconnect from the hecticness of everyday life. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.
Welcome to Sacred White Shell Mountain, a fantastic dispersed camping area near Mosca, Colorado. This spot is a hidden treasure for those looking to get close to nature without the frills of an established campground. It's just a short drive from the entrance of Great Sand Dunes National Park, making it a perfect base camp for exploring the dunes.
Sacred White Shell Mountain offers a rugged, natural setting with plenty of space to spread out. The area is known for its stunning sunsets and incredible stargazing opportunities. On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way stretching across the sky. The views of the surrounding mountains and plains are breathtaking, and the sunsets are something you won't want to miss.
Visitors have noted that there are plenty of spots available, even on busy holiday weekends. The terrain is a mix of rocky roads and more accessible areas, so whether you're in a big rig or a smaller vehicle, you'll find a suitable spot. Some areas are more exposed to the elements, so be prepared for occasional strong winds.
One of the standout features of this area is its proximity to Zapata Falls, a quick and easy hike that offers a refreshing break from the summer heat. Pets are welcome here, and you'll often see fellow campers with their furry friends. Fires are allowed, so you can enjoy a cozy campfire under the stars, but remember to bring your own firewood as none is provided.
While there are no amenities like toilets, showers, or drinking water, the natural beauty and tranquility more than make up for it. Just be sure to pack out all your trash and leave the area as pristine as you found it. If you're looking for a peaceful, scenic spot to camp near Great Sand Dunes National Park, Sacred White Shell Mountain is a fantastic choice.
Explore any part of the 30 square mile dunefield you wish; there are no designated trails in the sand. A dunes-accessible wheelchair is available for free loan at the Visitor Center. Summer air temperatures are pleasant at this high elevation, but during afternoon hours the sand surface can reach 150F degrees, and dangerous thunderstorms can develop. Plan to hike the dunes in early morning or evening to avoid heat exhaustion, burned feet, or fatal lightning strikes.
The Cotton Creek Trail is 13.1 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 962 and ends at Forest Trail #745. Trail is well marked and maintained. It follow the creek through a rugged, steep canyon and diverse scenery, with views of high peaks and many beautiful wildflowers in season. Some stream crossings can be tricky if water level is high. Attractions are fishing in creeks and lakes, and many good campsites. Teacup Lake presents an opportunity for primitive route finding.
The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Dispersed Camping, and Wildflower Viewing
Don't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".
Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.
Please observe the following requirements when dispersed camping:
In some areas, dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers where posted. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites. BEARS and other wildlife When you go to the mountains and forest, you are in bear county. Do not leave ANY food, trash or other animal attractant unattended. Store all food and trash securely and pack out what you pack in. Failing to do so can result in a fine. Also be aware that; where not otherwise restricted, camping or leaving camping equipment at any location more than 14 days within a continuous 30 day period, and/or occupying any campsite within three miles of any prior camping or equipment location for a combined total of more than 28 days within any continuous 60 day period, is prohibited. Also, leaving camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours is not allowed. In addition; discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge. Plan your trip; phone ahead for restrictions and special regulations. Contact your local Ranger District office for more information.
The Wild Cherry Creek Trail is 5.7 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 961 and ends at Wild Cherry Lake. This trail offers the opportunity for a long day trip or a pleasant overnight. It is easy to follow and easy access to fishing in the lake and big game. Several good campsites exist along the route.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Moffat, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Moffat, CO is Sacred White Shell Mountain with a 4.6-star rating from 48 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Moffat, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 51 dispersed camping locations near Moffat, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
