Dispersed camping options near Montezuma, Colorado include several numbered sites along back roads that accommodate tent camping and smaller vehicles. Set at elevations typically between 9,500-11,500 feet, these areas often receive snow through early June and experience regular afternoon thunderstorms throughout summer months. The Peru Creek area contains 30 designated dispersed sites across challenging terrain requiring careful navigation.
What to do
Hike the Continental Divide: From Guanella Pass, access excellent trails along the Continental Divide. "There are a lot of dispersed sites to choose from while driving Guanella Pass that I was able to be picky. I found an excellent spot right along the creek with a mountain view," reports Paige S. The area provides access to Square Top Lakes, which one camper noted is "absolutely beautiful. Highly suggest going around wild flower season."
Mountain biking: Trails near Peak One Campground offer connections to Frisco's extensive trail network. "It's ideal for mountain biking and water leisures. We saw a lot of sailboats and paddle boards," shares Jiwon K. Camping here gives you close access to paved recreation paths around Dillon Reservoir.
Wildlife watching: The mountain terrain creates habitats for diverse wildlife. Bruno Gulch campers report significant animal sightings: "Seen a moose and goats close to our campsite," writes Kylie B. Another camper in the area confirmed: "We saw a moose wander around their site. It added a sense of adventure to the trip."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Bruno Gulch Dispersed provides well-separated camping spots. "Great spot! Plenty of spread out spots with trees. Spots near the stream are awesome," writes Allison B. Another camper notes, "Camp sites are really nicely spread apart and flat. Had lots of fun hiking around and playing in the river."
Easy town access: Locations like Lowry Campground offer proximity to services while maintaining a natural setting. "The proximity to Dillon is great. I was able to get some camp grocery shopping done with ease," notes Lauren M. Another visitor explains it's "close to town with spectacular views."
Water features: Many sites provide stream access for cooling off. A Bruno Gulch camper mentioned, "Had lots of fun hiking around and playing in the river." At Heaton Bay, a visitor shares, "We camped at E70 and there was a trail right to the lake. It was beautiful!"
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access to Kirby Gulch and similar areas often requires capable vehicles. "Road is bumpy getting in but saw a few Crosstreks and Rav4s making it through at slow speeds but high clearance 4wd definitely recommend," reports Greg. Another Kirby Gulch visitor adds: "First 30 or few spots are a little close, accessible for most vehicles but fills up quickly. Past 30, they get more dispersed but more difficult to get to."
Seasonal temperatures: Even summer nights remain cold at these elevations. A Kirby Gulch camper advises: "It did get pretty cool at night, and our kids definitely let us know about it. Luckily we have extra blankets to insulate their bags and another person in our party had a small heater. But even in July, plan for cooler night time temps and rain!"
Weekend popularity: Most dispersed sites fill quickly on weekends. A Peru Creek camper notes: "Arrived in a Thursday afternoon and found a large wide open spot just before the Chihuahua Gulch trailhead. There was a decent amount of traffic as the weekend came and went, but arriving Thursday we had the pick of large spots."
Tips for camping with families
Suitable sites for children: Peru Creek Designated Dispersed Camping offers sites with creek access that children enjoy. "Peru Creek was just across the road and we took our chairs over to sit by it one sunny afternoon which was wonderful," shares Lori O. Some designated sites include more space for families to spread out.
Weather preparation: Temperatures drop significantly after sunset regardless of season. One Geneva Park visitor emphasized: "The nights can also get chilly, so it's essential to pack warm layers, even in the summer." Bring additional sleeping bags or blankets for children who may not tolerate cold well.
Insect management: Multiple locations report mosquito activity during peak season. "The only downside is that there were a million mosquitoes, but that's probably the case everywhere right now," noted a Guanella Pass camper. Pack appropriate insect repellent and consider head nets for sensitive family members.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: White River National Forest Heaton Bay Campground accommodates RVs but with limitations. "There are flush toilets and potable water, but no hookups for RVs, so keep that in mind when planning your stay," advises Paulina B. Not all sites can accommodate larger rigs.
Leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in this mountainous area have uneven sites. One Geneva Park visitor observed: "Some may be very difficult to use if you have a trailer or even a roof tent due to the driveways being washed out or very uneven." Bring extra leveling blocks and stabilizers.
Narrow access roads: Getting to most dispersed sites requires careful driving. A Peru Creek camper with a trailer noted: "The road up was a bit sketchy and narrow in places. I worried if we had to pass anyone coming the opposite direction but the one narrow spot that happened, we all survived unscathed."
