Thunder Road Dispersed camping area offers practical camping options for outdoor enthusiasts in the San Juan Mountain region near Norwood, Colorado. Located at an elevation between 7,000 and 8,000 feet, the area experiences typical mountain weather with warm summer days and cool nights. The dispersed sites sit on hard-packed gravel roads that remain accessible for most vehicles during dry conditions.
What to do
Trail exploration beyond horses: While Thunder Road is known for equestrian access, the trail systems also attract mountain bikers and dirt bikers. As one visitor notes, "There aren't many places where you can camp in a cool pine tree forest, hop on your mtb or dirt bike, and ride right from camp. Thunder Trails are it!" The interconnected trail network provides cross-country style loops suitable for day-long adventures.
Fishing access: Several dispersed camping areas near Norwood provide creek and river access. At Anvil Dispersed Campground, campers can set up near flowing water. One reviewer reports, "We stayed two nights next to the creek. It was crowded but still peaceful with beautiful views."
Mountain views: For those willing to drive further from Norwood, the higher elevation camping areas offer spectacular mountain scenery. At Little Molas Lake Campground, one camper describes the appeal: "Quiet site 12000 feet or so in the San Juan national forest. Stayed for 2 nights without a reservation."
What campers like
Private, quiet settings: Unlike developed campgrounds, dispersed camping near Norwood provides solitude. At Thunder Road, the sites are spaced for privacy with natural screening from pine trees. The setting supports campers seeking minimal disturbance from neighbors.
Natural water features: Many dispersed sites in the region feature proximity to creeks or rivers. A visitor to Big Dominguez Campground shared: "Pretty spot with stream water right behind the sites. You have to drive over a stream when you come in but it was easily crossed when we visited."
Accessibility for trailers: The roads leading to Thunder Road and similar areas accommodate vehicles pulling trailers. A camper at Anvil notes, "Good road quality, hard packed gravel, river right next to the sites, 14 day camp limit," highlighting the practical access that appeals to horseback riders and other recreational users with equipment.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Dispersed camping near Norwood means self-sufficiency. No potable water, toilets, or trash services exist at Thunder Road or similar areas. Bring adequate water for yourself and any animals.
Road conditions matter: Access to some horse-friendly dispersed sites requires navigating unpaved roads. A visitor to Gunnison River Overlook advises, "Definitely recommend high clearance 4x4 for the further spots."
Seasonal considerations: Most dispersed camping areas near Norwood open after snow melt and close with the first significant snowfall. Higher elevation sites like Little Molas Lake have shorter seasons than lower elevation options closer to Norwood.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with natural features: Kids enjoy exploring near camp. Sites with creek access provide built-in entertainment. At Transfer Campground, one camper mentions, "Access point for good hikes. One harder hike down to the river and an easier wheelchair accessible hike to an overlook."
Pack plenty of water: With no services at dispersed sites, water is essential. For equestrian camping near Norwood, calculate needs for both humans and horses.
Consider noise levels: Some dispersed areas permit motorized recreation while others don't. For quieter family camping with horses, check if the area allows ATVs or dirt bikes before arriving.
Tips from RVers
Length limits: Most horse-friendly dispersed sites near Norwood can accommodate medium-sized rigs. At Silver Jack Campground, a reviewer noted their experience with a larger setup: "Nearly in July (Sunday-Tuesday). Aspens everywhere, and trails right off our site."
Solar considerations: Without hookups, power management becomes important. Check site orientation for solar panel placement if staying multiple days.
Leveling requirements: Bring leveling blocks as many dispersed sites aren't perfectly flat. This is especially important when camping with horses to ensure trailer stability when loading and unloading animals.
