Dispersed camping near Monarch, Colorado occurs at elevations ranging from 7,500 to 9,800 feet, with summer high temperatures averaging 75-85°F and nighttime lows often dropping to 40-45°F even in July. The terrain consists primarily of high-altitude pine forests interspersed with aspen groves and open meadows, with most camping areas situated on rocky, uneven ground that requires careful tent placement. Cell service varies dramatically by location and carrier, with Verizon typically providing the strongest coverage throughout the region.
What to do
Hike the Browns Creek Falls trail: From the Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping area, you can access this popular 7-mile round-trip trail leading to a waterfall. "We took a hike up to Browns Creek falls and it was well worth the 7 mile round trip hike," reported one camper who enjoyed the moderate difficulty trail.
Mountain biking on forest roads: The extensive network of forest service roads provides excellent mountain biking options. A camper at Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site noted, "We rode our mountain bikes on 272, 274A and the 273. It was very quiet and the sky was amazing at night."
Explore alpine lakes: Continue past the dispersed camping areas to discover high-altitude lakes. "If you keep driving down the road, you will end up at a stunning alpine lake basin that offers plenty of hiking," writes one visitor about the areas beyond the initial campsites.
Colorado Trail access: Many camping areas provide direct access to sections of the Colorado Trail. "The Colorado trail run through the camp site at the end so hiking or trail running from there," mentions a camper who appreciated the convenience of trail access directly from camp.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. At Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area, one camper reported, "Rock fire pits and it was quiet and the stars was wild. And bugs wasn't as bad as other places."
Wildlife encounters: The area supports diverse wildlife populations. "We saw Bats, Nighthawks, Turkey Vultures, Coyotes, and Deer. Check before assuming fires are okay as it depends on the fire danger," notes a visitor who documented various animal sightings during a three-night stay.
Temperature variation: The elevation provides cooler temperatures during summer heat. A camper at Marshall Pass noted, "Higher level, cooler, breeze, shade," highlighting how the elevation helps moderate summer temperatures compared to lower-lying areas.
Proximity to services: Despite the remote feel, towns remain accessible. "Salida is 10 miles away with everything you may need including fast food and Walmart. Temp in the 80's in July. Falls into the high 50's at night," mentioned a camper appreciating the convenience.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access roads deteriorate quickly after rain or snow. At Road 240 - Dispersed, a camper advised, "Road is rough but we saw stock vehicles and full size trucks using this road. We have a sequoia with a lift and good tires. We never used 4x4 going up and we went all the way up to the mines in 2wd."
Early arrival recommended: Prime spots fill quickly, especially near water. "Make sure you get here early in the weekends. There are many sites if you keep driving, but some better than others," advised a visitor to Browns Creek.
Seasonal accessibility: Winter and spring snow affects road access. "Tried to reach the site but got only to the road bifurcation where is a ramp. Local informed us it is closed due to snow, yet to be melted. This was on April 10," reported a camper attempting early season access.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans frequently limit campfires. "In Colorado please don't start a wildfire," cautioned a visitor, emphasizing the importance of staying current on fire restrictions which change frequently throughout summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Waterfall campsites: Look for sites near small streams or waterfalls for natural entertainment. "The waterfall was awesome to camp by. Flowing well in early June. A lot of traffic during the day on the weekend," noted a camper at Fooses Creek Dispersed Camping.
Space for multiple tents: Many sites can accommodate larger family setups. "This place was an absolute GEM. The camping spots are massive. We had room for our 10 person tent, mini van, and PLENTY of room to spare. You could put 2-3 of the massive tents where we were."
Weather preparation: Pack for significant temperature swings, even in summer. "It does get windy here so make sure to tight all down to not get it blown away," advised a camper who experienced the area's unpredictable weather patterns.
Mosquito protection: Bring insect repellent, particularly for creek-side camping. "The creek was directly behind us and made beautiful sounds all night. There were a ton of mosquitos, but I never saw any animals or signs of animals," shared a family who camped near water.
Tips from RVers
Scouting recommendation: Check sites before committing with larger vehicles. At Shavano Mountain, a camper advised, "Road can get difficult for cars at one spot. Easier to travel during day," highlighting the importance of daylight reconnaissance.
Clearance requirements: Higher clearance is often necessary beyond initial camping areas. "I brought a small 20 foot RV. Pulled by a 2 wheel drive tundra. The road in is a little bit rough but I had no trouble. Slow and steady. Once you get up the entrance it is easy driving."
Trailer turning limitations: Limited turnaround points create challenges for trailers. "DO NOT bring your trailer past the 3rd spot up the road after the bridge. And do not drive up that section to the 3rd if it is already taken (scout ahead here, trust me). You won't be able to turn around and the road gets worse with no where to turn around."
Cell service for remote work: Many sites offer surprisingly good connectivity. "My husband and I both had full service on t-mobile and Verizon," reported an RVer, while another mentioned, "WiFi is pretty good with ATT. Salida is 10 miles away with everything you may need."
