Best Dispersed Camping near Montrose, CO

Dispersed camping around Montrose puts you right in Colorado's backcountry with no facilities or amenities. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park has basic sites where you'll need to bring everything and handle your own waste. The North Rim section has some remote spots too, but remember you're completely on your own out there. All campers need to stay at least 200 feet from any water sources on public lands to protect streams and wildlife. You can only camp in one spot for 14 days before you need to move on. Many of the dirt roads leading to good camping spots require trucks or SUVs with decent clearance, especially after rain. Fire bans happen regularly in this area, so check with the local ranger station before planning to have a campfire. Since there are no facilities, bring plenty of water and be ready to pack out all trash. The mountains make a nice backdrop, but they also create weird weather patterns - it might be hot during the day and freezing at night, even in summer. Winter snow blocks access to many spots from November through April. If you can handle the rough conditions, you'll find some really quiet places to camp without seeing another person for days.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Montrose, Colorado (78)

    1. Black Canyon Dispersed Camping

    56 Reviews
    Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, CO
    8 miles
    Website

    "This was my first time using Dyrt and accessing BLM/public land. The campgrounds at Black Canyon OTG were packed and hotels in the area were outrageously priced (2-star hotel for $200)."

    "Nestled right on the access road to Black Canyon of The Gunnison NP, camps did not require a ton of dirt driving to access."

    2. Dry Creek Ditch Camp off Forest Road 90

    2 Reviews
    Montrose, CO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 240-5300

    "Wide open flat area right at the start of the Trailhead for the RimRocker trail to Moab."

    3. Springhill Mesa Dispersed Campsite

    1 Review
    Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 240-5300

    4. Dry Creek Ditch

    1 Review
    Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests, CO
    11 miles

    5. Dispersed River Site - Gunnison Gorge National Conservation

    5 Reviews
    Lazear, CO
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 240-5300

    "Pretty spot right along the river, bit of a bumpy road to get here but nothing requiring 4WD (when dry at least) or high clearance, I bet even a sedan could make it here."

    "I found a turn off just before the coordinates and stayed there. Large space with lots of room for cars at this site. Right along the river, absolutely beautiful."

    6. Black Canyon

    1 Review
    Crawford, CO
    16 miles

    "Easy to find BLM land with decent roads and lots of spots. I stayed here 3 days and never saw or heard another person. It’s only 5 miles from the North Rim of Black Canyon National Park."

    7. Last Dollar Road

    26 Reviews
    Placerville, CO
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 874-6600

    "Some of the best in Colorado. I had good cell service too (working remotely). There are some larger dispersed campgrounds near the top trailhead that are more in the woods."

    "It took us over an hour for I believe 10 miles on very rough road in a Subaru Outback. It was beautiful but there was miles of ranches and private properties before you got to campsites."

    9. Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)

    13 Reviews
    Delta, CO
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 244-3000

    "Location was right off the road but once you drive about 5 minutes down the road you cannot hear any traffic. No other campers. Road was packed gravel almost like highway."

    "Primitive camping but close to the main road, so access is easy. No shade, water, or amenities."

    10. Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)

    39 Reviews
    Ophir, CO
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 327-4261

    "Perfect lake views, snow capped mountain tops, and wildflowers for days."

    "You need 4x4 and high clearance vehicle and good tires."

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Showing results 1-10 of 78 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Montrose, CO

342 Reviews of 78 Montrose Campgrounds



Guide to Montrose

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Montrose, Colorado, where nature lovers can find secluded spots to unwind and explore the great outdoors. With stunning landscapes and a variety of activities, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure without the crowds.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Montrose

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Black Canyon

  • The Black Canyon Dispersed Camping area features a maze of roads that lead to secluded sites, perfect for those with vehicles that can handle rough terrain.
  • Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to spot deer and hear coyotes howling at night while camping at Black Canyon Dispersed.
  • With no permits required and fires allowed, Black Canyon Dispersed is an ideal spot for a spontaneous camping trip.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Montrose, Colorado

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Montrose, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Montrose, CO is Black Canyon Dispersed Camping with a 4.3-star rating from 56 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Montrose, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 78 dispersed camping locations near Montrose, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.