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Best Dispersed Camping near Palisade, CO

132 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping areas surround Palisade, Colorado, with Nine Mile Hill standing out as a highly rated option. Located just off Highway 141, this area features multiple pull-off sites with established fire rings and scenic canyon views. The sites are typically quiet despite proximity to the highway, with road noise diminishing after dark. A recent review noted, "The view over the canyon was beautiful and the sound of the water flowing along the bottom echoed up to the campsite."

Grand Mesa National Forest provides additional primitive camping options, particularly along Forest Service Road 105. These sites offer varying levels of accessibility, with some requiring high-clearance vehicles. Many spots are located near reservoirs with beautiful views, though cattle frequently roam the area. Lands End Camp, situated at approximately 10,500 feet elevation, provides spectacular vistas from the mesa edge. A camper wrote, "Only 2 spots out here at lands end that are actually on the edge of the mesa... During the daytime in clear weather, you have 100+ mile views." For those seeking easier access, the Grand Junction Desert Road Recreation Area offers abundant sites on BLM land, though reviews indicate issues with broken glass and heavy OHV use.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Palisade, Colorado (37)

    1. Nine Mile Hill

    18 Reviews
    Whitewater, CO
    14 miles
    Website

    "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."

    "came late at night, 10pm, was able to find a spot

    • drove a high clearance 4x4 and the spot I was in needed AWD at minimum, sedans will get banged up
    • spot was decent but awful leveling
    • plenty of"

    2. Grand Junction Desert Road Recreation Area BLM

    12 Reviews
    Grand Junction, CO
    10 miles
    Website

    "After searching for a campsite for a while, we finally stumbled across this place around 10pm on a Saturday night at the end of April 2021."

    "Easy access for low clearance vehicles like my Subaru. Busy but I found a spot no problem tossed some firewood down and had a great night."

    3. Pyramid Rock Camp

    16 Reviews
    De Beque, CO
    15 miles

    "It is a designated OHV area so no worries about people stopping you from ripping around and exploring."

    "Easy to find with Google maps. Plenty of open space. 15min off 70.
    Dirt road, a bit bumpy, but we easily pulled our 21ft Micro Minnie and it was doable for almost any vehicle."

    4. Lands End Camp

    2 Reviews
    Mesa Lakes, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 874-6600

    "Went here in May when a lot of other places weren’t accessible yet. Easy drive up for any vehicle."

    "Only 2 spots out here at lands end that are actually on the edge of the mesa. No tree cover out on the edge of the mesa. Alt is around 10.5k so won't get super hot."

    5. Near De Buque Dispersed

    5 Reviews
    De Beque, CO
    15 miles
    Website

    "Plenty of dispersed sites along this road."

    "Nice area with many dispersed camping sites. Pin is not in exact spot but many spots along this road. The road was decent and i made it easily in my toyota prius."

    6. Grand Mesa FS 105 Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    Mesa Lakes, CO
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 874-6600

    "Our site was hidden by trees off a short dirt drive which wasn’t too bad."

    "Im in a class B van with low clearance and had no issues getting in & out. I'll be back there again!"

    7. Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)

    13 Reviews
    Delta, CO
    24 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."

    8. Grand Junction BLM/OHV

    5 Reviews
    Glade Park, CO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 244-3000

    "This was sort of near an airport, which could be annoying. It was a huge area for ohv riding and it looked like a lot of dirtbikers were having tons of fun."

    9. BLM #174 Road Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Loma, CO
    23 miles
    Website

    "Large designated area for dispersed camping.  Ground is lumpy, I wouldn't want to tent camp.  Several existing fire rings.  Solid Verizon service.  Lots of pit toilets in the area. "

    "Aug 25 '25: directions to BLM 174 were right on target and areas to disperse camp is spacious with many level areas. At camping entrance there are two porta potties."

    10. Grand Mesa Colorado FSR 100

    1 Review
    Mesa Lakes, CO
    17 miles

    "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."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Palisade, CO

142 Photos of 37 Palisade Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Palisade, CO

132 Reviews of 37 Palisade Campgrounds

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Bitter Creek Overlook Camping Area

    Two ways to approach - both are good

    The GPS coordinates, when mapped in Google (not Apple) Maps, take you down the FIRST dirt road past the exit, not the SECOND as detailed in the directions.

    If you take the first dirt road, you’ll quickly hit rougher roads and a BLM sign. Most cars can handle this if you take it slow, and find a campsite near the front. If you decide to follow all the way to the coordinates, you’ll end up on some pretty rough roads that can be tricky without a higher clearance vehicle. You’ll end at an overlook which is nice, but can be windy.

    If you follow the directions and not the coordinates (taking the SECOND dirt road) you’ll go down a much wider, smoother road. Watch closely for the turn, it’s easy to miss. You’ll find spots to camp pretty quickly, and they’re not out in the open so you’ll find them to be a bit more sheltered from wind.

    The photos attached to this review are at a site the written directions take you to, as opposed to the GPS coordinates.

  • Alexia L.
    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 🫶🏼🏕️🌎

  • K
    Aug. 1, 2025

    Twin Lake Dispersed Area - Grand Valley Rd

    Beautiful and Quiet

    I was up there on a Tuesday-Wednesday so it was very quiet and there was no one else at the site. It’s right on the water although there is a drop off you have to climb down, but it’s not bad. There were some cattle that walked through as I was setting up but otherwise very chill. All sites had areas for parking and fire rings. Driving off the forest road and onto the small road getting up to the campsite, 4WD isn’t required but highly recommended, it is a very rough road. High clearance is necessary. The sites seemed kinda close to each other however there are trees and stumps that define each site. Amazing views, light rain, and still my favorite forest.

  • Shanda H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 17, 2025

    Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd)

    Great one night pull off

    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. We have camper van and our site and most of them were flat and had established fire rings. Dry and dessert landscapes.

  • GoWhereYouAreDraw N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2021

    Overland Reservoir (Dispersed)-Paonia RD

    Peaceful location

    Stocked reservoir with rainbow and brook trout. Smaller fish but fun fishing. 

    The dispersed camping is located on the east side of the reservoir. Vault toilets located here and no water(except the reservoir). All camping is first-come, first-serve. Bring bug spray as the mosquitoes are pretty bad here.

  • Morgan Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 6, 2020

    Gateway Recreation Area Dispersed, BLM

    This is what I'm talking about.

    Quiet and secluded. The previous reviewer did a great job talking about details and she and I were in slightly different locations. I'll let her words stand. For me a sense of tranquility washed over me as I sat by the river for hours sipping on a few well-earned beers. I wish I had spent more than one night here but I was on a bike headed to Monticello, Utah.

    Leave no trace.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 4, 2024

    Cow Creek Dispersed

    Nice. Easy. Great water access

    Here on a Friday in early May and it’s absolutely gorgeous. The public land area is ginormous and there’s only one other group camping here that I know of. Upon arrival, I drove about 3 miles down the creek just to check it all out. It was beautiful but very remote and the roads definitely require 4wd. Found a spot about 2 miles down the stream that I liked a lot but found animal bones, a ripped down barbwire fence, and bear tracks. Took that as a sign to go back towards the entrance a bit before setting up. Campgrounds are well maintained and close to creek. Very spacious. Nice and flat. Great one night spot if you’re headed to Moab from Denver.

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 7, 2022

    BLM #174 Road Dispersed Camping

    Free Dispersed camping #174 road

    This area is likely the last free dispersed camping area adjacent to the new Lower North Fruita Desert developed campground. However, as the developed CG expands down to main road, this area could be signed "no camping" anytime in future. As of May 2022 this area was very popular since the Upper and Lower BLM CGs had gone all reservation. Nice views, but no water, or any amenities. No trash dumpsters, even in the developed CGs. Cell signal is good for Verizon and TMobile. Only three stars as not very scenic here, absolutely NO shade, no trees and motorized use crowd base here also with the noise of motorcycles ect.

  • Davis B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2022

    Bitter Creek Overlook Camping Area

    Remote and Restful Night

    I came out here for a night's rest while on a trip, it was very remote, and slept well. I came in late in the night, but woke up to beautiful views of the surrounding area. Even though this is off the highway, you won't feel like it. You'll see some lights from the highway, as well as some light pollution from Grand Junction, but it worked perfectly to camp here. I didn't see any one else while I was out here for the night and morning I was here.

    BLM road warning: The road in definitely isn't meant for a stock Prius, but it's definitely doable if you're very careful. :) Didn't quite bottom out, but got close a few times, lots of rocks as BLM roads usually have.

    Directions help: I followed my Google Maps to the coordinates, and it lead me a weird way. I'd recommend reading the directions on this page to get to the intended camp site. I took a wrong turn, however, I ended up at a nice little dispersed camp site. My mistake was I took a left at the fork, instead of a right. Either way has camping spots, incase the original site is full. :)

Guide to Palisade

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Palisade, Colorado, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area offers a perfect escape for those looking to connect with nature.

Dispersed campers should check out Nine Mile Hill

  • Located just off the highway, Nine Mile Hill provides easy access and plenty of space for tent and RV camping, making it a convenient choice for travelers.
  • Campers have reported stunning views and a sense of seclusion, despite some highway noise, which is manageable, especially at night.
  • The area allows campfires, but be sure to bring your own firewood, as it is not provided on-site.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Palisade, Colorado

  • When visiting Grand Junction Desert Road Recreation Area BLM, keep in mind that it can get crowded during peak seasons, so arriving early can help secure a good spot.
  • This area is known for its dirt biking opportunities, making it a great choice for those looking to combine camping with off-road adventures.
  • Be prepared for some litter in the area; bringing a trash bag to pack out what you bring in is always a good practice.

Enjoy stunning views while free camping near Palisade

  • For breathtaking scenery, Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed offers numerous sites with beautiful canyon views and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Many campers appreciate the level sites available, which are suitable for both tents and RVs, making it a versatile option for different camping styles.
  • The area is also pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites around Palisade?

Dispersed camping around Palisade typically offers minimal amenities, emphasizing self-sufficiency. BLM #174 Road Dispersed Camping features several existing fire rings and access to pit toilets in the area, plus solid Verizon cell service. Overland Reservoir (Dispersed)-Paonia RD provides vault toilets on the east side of the reservoir but no potable water. Most dispersed sites include established fire rings but lack facilities like trash collection, water sources, or hookups. Pack everything you need, including water, and be prepared to pack out all waste. Some locations offer fishing opportunities, river access, or scenic overlooks as natural amenities.

Where can I find dispersed camping near Palisade, Colorado?

Several excellent dispersed camping options surround Palisade. Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed (650 Rd) offers flat sites with established fire rings about 5 minutes from the main road, providing quiet camping on packed gravel roads accessible by camper vans. Nine Mile Hill is another popular option with nicely spread-out camping spots, though you may hear some highway noise. Additional dispersed camping can be found at BLM land near Fruita, along Grand Mesa, and throughout the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. Most sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving mid-week or early in the day improves your chances of securing a preferred spot.

When is the best season for dispersed camping in Palisade, CO?

Late spring through early fall (May to October) offers the best conditions for dispersed camping around Palisade. Cow Creek Dispersed is particularly beautiful in early May when the landscape is lush and visitation is lower. Twin Lake Dispersed Area - Grand Valley Rd provides excellent access to water during summer months. Be aware that summer (June-August) can bring intense heat in lower elevations, while higher elevation sites remain more comfortable. Spring and fall generally offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter camping is possible in some lower elevation areas but requires preparation for cold temperatures. Road conditions can deteriorate quickly after rain or snow, with many access roads becoming extremely difficult to navigate when wet.

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