Best Dispersed Camping near Nucla, CO

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Nucla, look no further. Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the trees or wide open spaces, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect dispersed campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Nucla, CO (53)

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Showing results 1-10 of 53 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Nucla

255 Reviews of 53 Nucla Campgrounds


  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed
    Dec. 15, 2024

    Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed

    Remote Wilderness

    Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed Camping, located near Mount Sneffels in Colorado, offers an incredibly remote and breathtaking camping experience. If you're looking to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in pristine wilderness, this spot is ideal. The campsites are dispersed along the trailhead, offering peace and solitude with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and alpine lakes.

    The beauty of this dispersed camping area is its complete immersion in nature. With no designated campsites or amenities, you get to choose your own perfect spot in the forest, whether it’s near the rushing creek or with views of the towering mountains. This is truly a wilderness experience, so you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient—bring your own water, food, and a solid plan for waste disposal.

    The Blue Lakes Trailhead offers some of Colorado’s most scenic hiking, including access to the famous Blue Lakes and a challenging ascent of Mount Sneffels. The hike itself rewards adventurers with awe-inspiring views of alpine lakes, wildflowers, and rugged mountain terrain. It’s perfect for those seeking an immersive backcountry experience.

    One downside of this dispersed camping is that the road leading to the trailhead is rough, so it’s best suited for high-clearance vehicles, and be prepared for the possibility of unpredictable weather, as storms can roll in quickly in the mountains.

    Overall, Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed Camping is an incredible option for experienced campers looking to enjoy the wild beauty of Colorado’s high country. It’s remote, peaceful, and surrounded by some of the most stunning scenery in the state.

  • Andria R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Yellow Circle Crossing
    Oct. 22, 2024

    Yellow Circle Crossing

    Crowded, shady & grimy

    Flat space, but crowded (already a bunch of RVs, vans and even a semi). Unfortunately, when we found a spot the fire pit was filled with glass beer bottles and trash and the whole area smelled gross. Also, pretty shady and not ideal for solar. We didn’t stay

  • Xavier G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Black Canyon Dispersed Camping

    Gorgeous, close to National Park, plenty of sites

    It is a little bit of a maze of roads, some are gonna need vehicles with higher clearance, careful not to commit too much on a road if you're unsure about your vehicle's offroading capability.  If you get to a site, most have room for 1/2 vehicles and tents.  Beautiful trees, each spot feels pretty secluded from others.  Plenty of downed trees for firewood if fire danger is low.  Will definitely come back.

  • Alexia L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Nine Mile Hill
    Oct. 13, 2024

    Nine Mile Hill

    Great Views, Secluded

    Found this spot and was very happy with the setup. Like other reviews, the highway noise was a bit loud but nothing too crazy, especially really late. There were other campers spread out nicely, you wouldn’t even know they were there. The road is a bit iffy so snagging a spot at the front would be best if you don’t have 4WD (my Nissan car struggled, we had to back up & turn around). Overall great spot for tent camping! Remember to leave no trace 🫶🏼🏕️🌎

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed
    Oct. 10, 2024

    Black Canyon Dispersed

    Great spot, rough roads

    Some of the roads were really rutted out, but we were lucky and everything was dry so we were able to get thru in my forester. There are some spots at the beginning of the property but there are more if you follow the dirt road back another two miles or so. Beautiful views, quiet and secluded. We did find a few deer legs left behind, so keep an eye out for Mountain Lion

  • Erika R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)
    Oct. 10, 2024

    Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)

    LONG dirt road, but worth it

    The off road trail it get to Alta lakes took us about 40-50 minutes in my boyfriends F-150. The views were amazing so neither of us really minded. We enjoyed our 1 night stay and did not struggle to find a spot

  • Tamara T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area
    Oct. 6, 2024

    Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area

    For free and nice view

    We arrived at a Saturday around 3 pm and still had many opportunities to find a place. Lovley place to stay. As a toilet. I can recomment to stay there in fall.

  • Kiet D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 2, 2024

    Black Canyon Dispersed Camping

    Great for visiting Black Canyon.

    Visited the first week of October 2024. Had beautiful weather, no bugs and few campers. Sites are dirt so I can see it be being messy when wet. Only few sites at entrance for larger campers. We got into with a Bean teardrop np.

  • Maddy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Yellow Circle Crossing
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Yellow Circle Crossing

    Cute and Cozy

    The area for camping is surrounded by hills & mountains so its actually pretty quiet even though its not terribly far off the road. You also cant see the road because of the hills. There were a few other people there but not too busy, close to Moab which was great as it allowed us to get to arches in the morning before the 7AM cutoff for timed entry.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Nine Mile Hill
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Nine Mile Hill

    Perfect off the highway spot!

    Stayed one night on the way to Colorado. Super easy to find right off the highway and plenty of spots. I was the only one there when I stayed. Highway noise isn’t too much of an issue but I did have some loud and strong winds all night.

  • aThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)
    Sep. 14, 2024

    Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)

    Cab be windy in the canyon

    Made camp here for 1 night traveling west. Many sites available both by the highway and down in the canyon. Canyon road was in good shape and even the largest RV could go down it. Sites were pretty level. No toilets, etc.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)

    Quiet, reasonably convenient

    I was going to head 11 miles down the road but decided I’d rather have WiFi. It was a good call. Just past Labor Day, there were three of us last night about 1/2 mile off the main drag. Enough places to pull off though you can still hear some main road traffic.

    The area was clean except one site with broken glass. Clear skies with great stargazing.

    No amenities here whatsoever but that’s just fine. Comes with the free price.

  • Jason B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tracking Station Road
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Tracking Station Road

    Panoramic views of the La Sal’s and the Desert

    Easy access. The views are spectacular in every direction. Fire ring available. Be prepared for lots of sun and a bit of wind coming off the peaks behind you. Staying here in early September, no one here at all. Amazing.

  • Jacob D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)
    Sep. 1, 2024

    Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)

    Gorgeous Lakes

    Amazing views and a heck of a ride in describe this place well. We came on Labor Day weekend and somehow managed a spot at the campsites; only 20 available sites at the lakes so get there early.

  • Evan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 29, 2024

    Black Canyon Dispersed Camping

    Nice spot

    Very close to Black Canyon park, nice private spots, road was a little gutted out but the corolla made it through no problem 🤟. some coyotes howling at night and my site was pretty close to the road

  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Last Dollar Road
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Last Dollar Road

    Minimal campground

    I took the upper road from 62 and yes, it was a bit rocky, but I read that the other way from Telluride was rutted out as well.  It's only 3mi of true 4x4 road to get up to the bluff. I was in a Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4 and pulling a 13' off road trailer. Nothing too crazy but caution if it has been raining.

    If you stay at the coordinates it has an amazing view. A thunderstorm did roll in over night with 50mph winds so that wasn't much fun. I left the next morning incase the dirt roads got too muddy.

    I saw multiple people coming from both ways with 4x4 vehicles so it can't be too bad.  AT&T service was good

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)
    Aug. 18, 2024

    Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)

    Gorgeous spot; rough road; flooded when rained

    The road to get to the site is rough. You need 4x4 and high clearance vehicle and good tires. I saw a sedan with a flat tire trying to make its way up.. while the campground had stunning views and a nice fire pit, most sites didn’t have a flat spot for a tent or multiple tents.

    With that being said, if rain is in the forecast, your site will flood. We were site 6 and our tent was underwater. Same with the site next to us and across from us and the fire pit was a cauldron of water.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gateway Recreation Area Dispersed, BLM
    Aug. 6, 2024

    Gateway Recreation Area Dispersed, BLM

    Beautiful , Remote

    This place is beautiful, quiet & secluded. Had the place to myself absolutely beautiful. I have a sedan & made it up fine but drove very slow. It’s a very Long bumpy dirt road. No cell service.

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dry Creek Ditch
    Aug. 1, 2024

    Dry Creek Ditch

    Dry Creek

    The site I chose fit my needs. It was a place to spend the night close to Montrose. Hot during the day. Not a lot of shade. Very dusty. Could potentially be a problem when wet. Deep ruts showed that vehicles do travel the trails when muddy. A lot of broken glass at site. Morning and evening the site worked well to shade from the sun but quickly heated up as the sun rose. There were several site options and they were well spread out but the area seems to be an OHV trail system more than anything.

  • AJ F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Black Canyon Dispersed Camping

    Great late night spot

    Nestled right on the access road to Black Canyon of The Gunnison NP, camps did not require a ton of dirt driving to access. Camp sites are neatly nestled into the trees to provide a decent level of privacy, the trees also provide protection from the wind. Given that this land is adjacent to a National Park, be aware that less than friendly wildlife can be in the area. Overall the campground was easy to access, there was not trash any where in eyesight. I was also able to locate a camp site at 9:30p on a Saturday without much issue.

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Last Dollar Road - Heavily Wooded Dispersed Site
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Last Dollar Road - Heavily Wooded Dispersed Site

    Heavily Wooded Site

    Heavily wooded site about 30-40 yards off Last Dollar Road. Unable to see the road and traffic from back site. This road has two camping locations. Very private. Quiet and not a lot of traffic. The reasons for not five stars are the ground is sloped and the fire pits are not very established. The area can accommodate several off road or 4x4 vehicles.

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Black Canyon Dispersed

    Great stop For Black Canyon

    Drove to the end of Jones Draw. Large fire pit already established. The site I chose was large enough to handle two jeeps and two large tents. I felt there was adequate separation between sites. The trail had few spots with deep ruts, but very manageable when dry. The location of this dispersed camping area was about a mile from the entrance to Black Canyon, which made it ideal for getting into the park first thing in the morning. Only stayed for one night, but was not displeased. Met my expectations.

  • Bobby J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 3, 2024

    Black Canyon Dispersed Camping

    Nice Stay close to the national park

    This was a really nice stay that was very close to Black Canyon National Park. The first few spots were easy to get to but the ones farther back you have to take a fairly rutted up road, other than that it was very nice

  • Zack L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)

    Private, scenic dispersed camping

    This place is easily accessible off 650 Road. Has a smooth dirt road and a short scenic drive along a shelf road. Highly recommend for a night or two of camping. When we were here for one night in late June, winds were strong.

  • Scott W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Looking Glass Road (Dispersed)
    Jun. 28, 2024

    Looking Glass Road (Dispersed)

    Looking Glass Rock? Yes please

    Well maintained but also well traveled dirt road.  No camping signs are indeed posted, including not within 1 mile of the Rock.  Barely can hear 191, dark dark skies, next to an arch, within an agate collecting area, yes please!  But limited places to set up, free range cattle have fences up and gates closed.  If you don’t feel like roughing it, a $500 per night glamping site is on the other side of the Rock.


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Guide to Nucla

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Nucla, Colorado, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of spots that cater to different preferences, from scenic views to secluded retreats.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Nucla, Colorado

  • When visiting Dry Creek Ditch, be prepared for limited shade and dusty conditions, especially during hot days. It's advisable to bring plenty of water and sun protection.
  • The Last Dollar Road is known for its stunning vistas, but access can be tricky for low-clearance vehicles. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for rough terrain before heading out.
  • If you’re looking for a quiet and secluded experience, consider the Gateway Recreation Area Dispersed, BLM, which offers a peaceful environment with beautiful canyon views and no cell service.

Scenic views for dispersed campers

  • The Last Dollar Road #2 provides breathtaking views and is easily accessible from the main road, making it a great spot for those who want to enjoy the scenery without venturing too far off the beaten path.
  • For a more rugged experience, Big Dominguez Campground offers stunning landscapes and a water source, perfect for those seeking solitude in nature.
  • The Springhill Mesa Dispersed Campsite features a mix of trees and open spaces, providing a picturesque backdrop for camping while still being close to Montrose.

Top activities while free camping near Nucla

  • Explore the nearby trails and enjoy off-roading adventures at Dry Creek Ditch Camp off Forest Road 90, which is located near the RimRocker trailhead, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Fishing and hiking opportunities abound at the Fall Creek Camping area, where you can enjoy a peaceful weekend getaway while being close to Telluride.
  • For those interested in wildlife viewing, the Gateway Recreation Area Dispersed, BLM is a great spot to observe local fauna in a serene environment, away from the hustle and bustle.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Nucla, CO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Nucla, CO is Last Dollar Road with a 4.5-star rating from 21 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 53 dispersed camping locations near Nucla, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.