Tent camping near Northglenn, Colorado offers campers access to Roosevelt National Forest dispersed sites situated between 7,000-9,000 feet elevation. These camping areas experience significant temperature drops after sunset even in summer months, with nighttime temperatures frequently dropping 30-40°F below daytime highs. Most dispersed camping locations west of Northglenn sit along drainage areas or creek systems that create natural divisions between campsites.
What to do
Kayaking at Gross Reservoir: Located approximately 45 minutes from Northglenn at Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir, visitors can paddle on the reservoir but must follow specific regulations. "Gross Reservoir is not gross! It is an awesome SUPing, kayaking, or canoeing option close to Denver and Boulder... There are a lot of inlets to paddle into and trails to explore. However, there are some cons to the reservoir; there are a lot of rules that are strictly enforced. There is no swimming in the reservoir, which is very tempting. You can only launch your boat at the boat launch on the southeast side of the reservoir."
Hiking to mountaintop views: Kruger Rock Trail at Hermits Hollow Campground offers panoramic views accessible to most fitness levels. "The Kruger Rock Trailhead is inside the campground, and it is a nice hike with an amazing view of the Rockies and Estes at the top. Bring your crayons - there are two trailmarkers on the trail that you can do rubbings of."
Wildlife watching at dawn and dusk: Many campsites offer opportunities to spot wildlife near Northglenn. "Moose visitors at dawn and evening, and hungry bears scavenging for food at night is a common occurrence," notes one camper at Hermits Hollow. Some sites like Allenspark Dispersed Camping require careful food storage, as one camper warned: "a huge bear got into my tent while I was gone for 2 hours and absolutely destroyed it."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area features numbered sites with sufficient separation. "We went on a Sunday, the weekend after the 4th of July. It was quite easy to find a campground for dispersed camping with other sites marked. Recommend a 4-wheel drive vehicle to reach some of the spots, especially if there is poor weather. It is populated with people on ATVs, as well as other campers near you if you decide on an easy-to-access campsite."
Creek-side locations: Many campers value water features at N Boulder Creek Dispersed Camping, where sites exist along natural water courses. "I loved this spot! it's only about 10 minutes from Nederland and 45 minutes from boulder. There are mountains and aspen forests and wildflowers everywhere! i also saw elk nearby. the road isn't terrible but there are some rocks and bumps. i made it in a volkswagen tiguan while towing a camper."
Peaceful weekday experiences: The dispersed areas near Northglenn become considerably less crowded midweek. At Allenspark Dispersed Camping, one camper noted: "Lots of spots available. Just keep driving along Ski Road and pick one that looks good. Lots of fire pits already build and most camp spots are along the creek. A 2wd car can access quite a bit but if you want to go further up Ski road, definitely bring a 4x4 with high clearance."
What you should know
Vehicle clearance considerations: Roads into many campgrounds deteriorate seasonally and require appropriate vehicles. "Gnarly ass road, not for trailers/sedans. Camp sites are nice, but except for a few (~5) the rest require a serious climb (drive) up a gnarly hill with deep ruts. I wouldn't try this with a camper/RV, or anything that doesn't have high clearance and power," noted one visitor about Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir.
Permanent resident concerns: Some dispersed camping areas have semi-permanent occupants. One camper at Gordon Gulch observed: "Overall a nice place to camp but as soon as you drive through you are met with run down sites filled with trash bags that look like people permanently live there. It gives meth lab vibes through out the camp until you get further out."
Regional wildlife precautions: Bears and other wildlife present consistent challenges in camping areas near Northglenn. At Dream Canyon Campsites, campers should be particularly vigilant: "Basic primitive dispersed camping. Just watch your food or the Huskies might get it if you're not paying attention."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner backpacking experience: Sawmill Hiker Campground offers families an introductory backpacking opportunity with minimal commitment. "This semi-primitive campsite requires a permit from the Open Space Office of Jefferson County, CO. The permit is free, however you must pick up the permit in person at their offices. Be prepared with a valid ID. This is a popular campsite for Scout Troops, so calling ahead for availability is a great idea."
Playground access: Bear Creek Lake Campground features multiple play areas for children. "Super close to Denver and offered through the City of Lakewood. The sites are for tent/RV and have electric hookups. Beautiful area. There's a few playgrounds within the campground and park area, with access to trails to the lake, a boat launch and boat rental, equestrian stables, and archery."
Larger group sites: Some areas accommodate multiple tents and vehicles for family gatherings. One camper at Winiger Ridge noted: "The best part? Our campsite was huge—plenty of space for our whole group, multiple tents, and a couple of cars. With a picnic table and fire pit included, it made for the perfect outdoorsy hangout spot."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most dispersed camping areas near Northglenn lack RV amenities, but established campgrounds offer alternatives. "Nice big sites, open space without a lot of trees, beautiful views, clean restrooms, showers (pay for) water fill stations, dump station, several restrooms," reports a visitor to Bear Creek Lake Campground.
Road condition challenges: Many access roads deteriorate seasonally. "The road was pretty mild but on up gets a lot more rough! The pull offs are great and most of them have fire rings," noted one camper at Allenspark Dispersed Camping.
Weather preparations: RVers should plan for rapid temperature changes and sudden weather systems. "It snowed on me overnight and the road was still very passable. The last few sites felt just a little too sketchy for my driving skills. It was pretty empty in January, one big pile of trash that was unfortunate and a few people seemed to be there long term," shared a winter visitor to Gordon Gulch.
