Best Dispersed Camping near Penrose, CO
Several dispersed camping areas exist near Penrose, Colorado on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. Primary options include Penrose Common Recreation Site, Penrose BLM sites, Phantom Canyon, and BLM Recreation Trail Dispersed. These primitive camping areas are situated on public lands where visitors can camp without developed facilities. The terrain consists primarily of rocky hills with cedar trees and desert-like conditions. Phantom Canyon offers creek-side camping approximately 14 miles down a dirt road with multiple pull-off areas for camping.
Access roads to most dispersed sites near Penrose require careful navigation, especially for larger vehicles. Many campers report rough, rocky terrain that demands high-clearance vehicles in certain areas. The Penrose Common Recreation Site has vault toilets at the entrance, while most other sites lack facilities entirely. No drinking water is available at most locations. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, though most sites permit campfires when conditions allow. BLM lands typically enforce a 14-day maximum stay. Cell service varies by location, with Phantom Canyon having no reception due to canyon walls, while other areas maintain usable signals.
These primitive camping areas attract diverse users, including off-highway vehicle enthusiasts who frequently use the trails at Penrose Common Recreation Site. The areas provide varying levels of solitude, with some sites more secluded than others. Campers describe beautiful mountain views and creek access at certain locations. "Every spot was spread out which is nice," noted one visitor about Penrose Common Recreation Site. Others mentioned the practicality of these areas: "Fairly steep and rough road up into the campground. Once you're in, the roads are decent." Wildlife sightings include deer, rabbits, and mountain goats, particularly near creek-side camping areas.
