Top Free Dispersed Camping near Olathe, CO

Planning a dispersed camping trip near Olathe? Dispersed camping means that no facilities or amenities are provided, so that you can truly disconnect and get back to nature. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Olathe, CO (50)

    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)
    Camper-submitted photo from Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)
    Camper-submitted photo from Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)
    Camper-submitted photo from Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)
    Camper-submitted photo from Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)
    Camper-submitted photo from Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed River Site - Gunnison Gorge National Conservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed River Site - Gunnison Gorge National Conservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed River Site - Gunnison Gorge National Conservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed River Site - Gunnison Gorge National Conservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed River Site - Gunnison Gorge National Conservation
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed River Site - Gunnison Gorge National Conservation

    3. Dispersed River Site - Gunnison Gorge National Conservation

    5 Reviews
    20 Photos
    109 Saves

    Dispersed Vehicle Camping is allowed in the remainder of the NCA for up to six consecutive nights, unless otherwise posted. Check BLM maps, signs and website for camping information.

    Camping is allowed only at the Cottonwood Grove campground and designated river campsites identified on BLM maps and signs. Use of portable toilet system is required in all river sites without restrooms. Maximum stay length is six nights/seven days for sites downstream of Gunnison Forks.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Last Dollar Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Last Dollar Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Last Dollar Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Last Dollar Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Last Dollar Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Last Dollar Road

    4. Last Dollar Road

    21 Reviews
    35 Photos
    1167 Saves
    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Nine Mile Hill
    Camper-submitted photo from Nine Mile Hill
    Camper-submitted photo from Nine Mile Hill
    Camper-submitted photo from Nine Mile Hill
    Camper-submitted photo from Nine Mile Hill
    Camper-submitted photo from Nine Mile Hill

    5. Nine Mile Hill

    12 Reviews
    35 Photos
    277 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Slate River Road Designated Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Slate River Road Designated Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Slate River Road Designated Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Slate River Road Designated Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Slate River Road Designated Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Slate River Road Designated Dispersed

    7. Slate River Road Designated Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    40 Photos
    583 Saves

    All roadside vehicle and tent campers are required to camp ONLY in designated sites. Accessibility is not guaranteed. Please use caution when venturing down forest roads. Sites are designated by the presence of a 6in X 6in wooden post with a site number and camping symbol along with a permanent metal fire ring. All sites are first come first serve, if a site is occupied please look for another site. Fires are only permitted in the established metal fire rings. Extinguish all fires so they are cold to the touch. Sites are limited to two vehicles only per site. Finding a site to camp and enjoy dispersed recreation activities in remote areas or in relative solitude has become a popular form of camping throughout the Forest. At some more popular areas,toilet facilities may be provided. Contact the local Forest Service office for current information and refer to the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for each forest (Grand Mesa, Gunnison, and Uncompahgre National Forests). Dispersed camping is permitted in most areas of the Forest. Some caution should be used in selecting a site because of intermingled private lands within the National Forest. Recreation maps are available at all local Forest Service offices. Personnel at each office can answer questions on specific sites. Unlike developed campgrounds which are designed and maintained to protect the vegetation, soils, and natural setting, camping in undeveloped areas require more from the camper to help keep the site in the condition in which it was found. Dispersed camping must not occur within 100 feet of water sources (rivers, streams, ponds, or wetlands) or within 100 feet of any road or system trail. In some areas, dispersed camping is restricted to specific sites, contact the local Forest Service office for current information. Campsites can be occupied for no more than 14 days, then the site must be moved at least 3 miles away. Camping is also limited to a total of 28 days in a 60 day period. In areas closed to the use of vehicles off forest roads, where developed parking sites are not provided, and where not otherwise prohibited, direct access to a suitable parking site within 300 feet of the road is permitted. Such travel must not damage the land or streams. Please select your route carefully, and do not cut live timber. Off road travel should be limited to when the ground is dry. The public is encouraged to camp in locations where others have previously camped and utilized existing routes to those camp areas. Campers are required to leave a clean camp, not to damage vegetation or pollute streams and lakes on the National Forest and implement “Leave No Trace” practices.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lake Dispersed Area - Grand Valley Rd
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lake Dispersed Area - Grand Valley Rd
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lake Dispersed Area - Grand Valley Rd
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lake Dispersed Area - Grand Valley Rd
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lake Dispersed Area - Grand Valley Rd
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lake Dispersed Area - Grand Valley Rd

    8. Twin Lake Dispersed Area - Grand Valley Rd

    8 Reviews
    24 Photos
    334 Saves

    10,300-foot elevation.

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Firewood Available
    Camper-submitted photo from Dry Creek Ditch Camp off Forest Road 90
    Camper-submitted photo from Dry Creek Ditch Camp off Forest Road 90
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon
Showing results 1-10 of 50 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Olathe

173 Reviews of 50 Olathe Campgrounds


  • 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 🫶🏼🏕️🌎

  • G
    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

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • a
    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.

  • Gayle T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Mountain Creek
    Sep. 1, 2024

    Red Mountain Creek

    Handy spot, but very noisy and dusty

    This site is very accessible and has tons of spots. It also seems to be the closest place to legally disperse camp south of Ouray. However, there's a ton of road noise from both the highway and the unpaved roads used to access campsites. Conditions were also very dusty from traffic on the unpaved roads. Lastly, it's tough to find private areas to pee that are also a safe distance away from the creek. Nice views, though!

  • Evan B.
    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

  • Voyager D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dark Canyon Trailhead (Dispersed)
    Aug. 21, 2024

    Dark Canyon Trailhead (Dispersed)

    Not Dispersed

    Not an actual site. Pin took me to a feild with horse/cows (pics attached for cuteness). The actual site is in the campground on Google Maps, but IT ISNT ALLOWED!!!

    VERY CLEARLY SIGNED CAMPING IN CAMPGROUND SITES ONLY!!!

    There is a small fire ring by the trailhead, as description says, but the signs on the road are VERY clear. Also lots of rangers patrolling, so don't risk it!!

    So, unless you wanna pay a RIDICULOUS fee for a night, not worth it at all. Would've given it one mark, but figured someone later might find a touch of value.

  • Caitlin W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Portland Road Dispersed
    Aug. 18, 2024

    Portland Road Dispersed

    Close to town on 4x4 road

    Great dispersed camping close to town with a decent number of spots that feel secluded, but people were NOT exaggerating about the road. I took my 4Runner up and spun in a few spots, though I also saw someone manage to get a teardrop up with some careful maneuvering. Overall great spot if you’re in Ouray with a vehicle that can handle some ruts

  • Brian E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Grand Mesa Colorado FSR 100
    Aug. 14, 2024

    Grand Mesa Colorado FSR 100

    Secluded Dispersed Camp spot next to a 5 acre lake

    Well groomed dirt/gravel road just West of Rte 65. Go in 1/4 mile and turn Right down dirt path to large camping site. There is nobody for 1/2 mile or more around you. If this site is not good, up FSR 100 maybe 1/2 mile on the Right is a site up in the trees. Very secluded. This site is at 10,700 feet elevation. The lake is stream fed and looks like good trout fishing. There are free range cows in the area.

  • 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.

  • Aaliyah B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotton Wood Lakes #1-4
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Cotton Wood Lakes #1-4

    Cotton Wood Lake #3

    This was a great spot, it was hidden but there were a ton of people, they recently redid the back roads to get here and it was extremely busy (we had a rig pull up right next us at 1 am because there werent any spots). It is really pretty and close to Grand Junction. The misquote r pretty bad also, tons of spots, if there aren't a ton of people. Lots of lakes though and great fishing!

  • Luke R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed River Site - Gunnison Gorge National Conservation
    Jul. 5, 2024

    Dispersed River Site - Gunnison Gorge National Conservation

    Solid Campground, Slow road, right on River

    The mosquitos are plentiful but it is right on the Gunnison River and a nice looking area. Hiking trails nearby. Multiple campgrounds along the road but the road is bumpy and one way so occasionally someone has to pull over to let others pass. Great campground at the end of the road with toilets, fire pits with grills and picnic tables with roof to keep rain out. The wind was pretty intense when the skies got grey but we managed to set up camp. Again, and this is an all of Colorado thing but be prepared with all your tricks for mosquitos because they were everywhere.

  • 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.

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Divide Rd Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 25, 2024

    Divide Rd Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful Seclusion

    Found this spot after trying to find a cool spot to be able to Boulder and wow! This spot was perfect, extremely secluded and offered amazing views. On top of it, there was so much climbing nearby that was so accessible and offered a variety of different difficulties. Not the easiest rd to drive up but we made it with our RAV4, just need to be careful.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall Creek Camping
    Jun. 22, 2024

    Fall Creek Camping

    Good weekend camping

    We stayed here for a long weekend to go see Telluride and the surrounding area. The directions led us to the campground, would be easy to miss otherwise. We found the area suited our 18 foot travel trailer. Was a little tricky getting it level but was manageable. There are no marked sites, we just parked where there was room and made the most since for our rig. It was pretty quiet a little road noise when a vehicle passed. Would stay here again.

  • Heather M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Overland Reservoir (Dispersed)-Paonia RD
    Jun. 19, 2024

    Overland Reservoir (Dispersed)-Paonia RD

    Absolutely beautiful

    Other than the plethora of mosquitos, this is one of my favorite camp spots so far. My husband and I arrived around 3:30pm on a Tuesday. Camp sites directly on the banks are few, but we managed to score what I thought was the prettiest spot. There were plenty of spots around if you don't want to be right next to the lake. As mentioned, there were a ton of mosquitos. When the breeze was blowing, it helped, but definitely bring bug spray! In the evening time, we were treated to a lovely sunset and fish jumping. Will be coming back again. Very peaceful place.

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Dry Creek Ditch Camp off Forest Road 90
    Jun. 18, 2024

    Dry Creek Ditch Camp off Forest Road 90

    A free camp for a night

    Reach this BLM dispersed about 9 miles on route 90 from the center of Montrose, good paved until the last mile good graveled.  IMMEDIATELY after hairpin switchback, turn left and you'll find a 2 acre mesa with junipers and views, probably can fit 5 camps in there with elbow room.  I had 2 neighbors.  Shade is limited so it'll be hot in the summer.  Only good legal free camping near town!



Guide to Olathe

Camping near Olathe, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're pitching a tent or rolling in with an RV, there are plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. One reviewer mentioned, "The proximity of trailheads to campgrounds and the nightly ranger talks and dark sky observing made the experience incredible."
  • Stargazing: The South Rim Campground is a dark sky park, perfect for star photography. A camper shared, "Took photos of the stars. Our site was right on the road, so we couldn’t use our slide out, but the views were worth it."
  • Fishing and Water Activities: At Ridgway State Park, you can enjoy fishing and kayaking. One visitor noted, "The reservoir is nice, just super windy so we couldn't paddle board during our visit."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Iron Creek Campground stated, "Bathrooms were super clean, showers were awesome."
  • Scenic Views: Many campgrounds offer breathtaking views. One camper at Dakota Terraces Campground said, "Our site had a view of Courthouse Peak. The area feels natural and sites are spaced out."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Campers enjoy spotting wildlife. A review from Black Canyon Dispersed Camping mentioned, "Some coyotes howling at night added to the experience."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Nine Mile Hill, have no amenities. A camper warned, "No toilets, no trash, and no water hookups, so be prepared."
  • Crowded Sites: Popular spots can get busy, especially in peak season. One camper at North Rim Campground noted, "Most sites were occupied, but it was rather quiet and peaceful."
  • Road Conditions: Some access roads can be rough. A visitor at Black Canyon Dispersed Camping mentioned, "The road was a little gutted out but the Corolla made it through no problem."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Bring Shade: Many campgrounds have limited shade. A camper at South Rim Campground advised, "Bring a shade tent or shelter!"
  • Plan for Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby activities. One family at Ridgway State Park enjoyed, "Great loops for biking with kids, very clean campsites and nice bathrooms."
  • Wildlife Safety: Teach kids about wildlife safety. A camper at North Rim Campground shared, "Saw black bear cub hanging around one afternoon."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review from Elk Ridge Campground mentioned, "Sites are small and close together."
  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups if needed. One RV camper at Dakota Terraces Campground said, "We had water and electric."
  • Dump Stations: Ensure there’s a dump station nearby. A visitor at Iron Creek Campground noted, "We used the dump station, and the host took such care of this campground."

Camping around Olathe, CO, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking comfort. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful Colorado outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Olathe, CO is Black Canyon Dispersed Camping with a 4.3-star rating from 44 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 50 dispersed camping locations near Olathe, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.