Dispersed camping near Pitkin, Colorado provides access to elevations between 9,000-10,500 feet in the Gunnison National Forest. Seasonal weather patterns typically bring afternoon thunderstorms from July through early September, with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 30s even during summer months. Many of the forest roads require high-clearance vehicles, especially after recent precipitation when mud and washouts can create challenging driving conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Taylor River area offers excellent trout fishing access. At Portal Campground, campers can fish directly from their sites. One visitor noted, "There are plenty of things to do in the area - hiking, mountain biking, fishing, etc."
Mountain biking trails: Numerous forest roads provide access to mountain biking routes. Near Browns Creek Dispersed, a camper reported, "Comfortable distance between campsites, yet still many to choose from! Convenient hiking just down the road as well."
Alpine hiking: The Collegiate Peaks Wilderness provides multiple day-hiking options. A visitor to North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed area described, "We ended up finding a pull off point that had a gravel road that accessed several campsites... The sites are adorned with pines and aspens."
Waterfall access: Several camping areas provide direct access to small waterfalls and creeks. At Fooses Creek, a camper mentioned, "Stayed right by the creek which was serene and relaxing to sleep to. We easily found a site that fit two tents. There's a nice little trailhead and hike nearby from the site."
What campers like
Creek-side sites: Many campers specifically seek sites with water proximity. A Fooses Creek Dispersed visitor stated, "This place was an absolute GEM. The camping spots are massive. We had room for our 10 person tent, mini van, and PLENTY of room to spare... The creek was directly behind us and made beautiful sounds all night."
Elevation escape: The higher elevation provides relief from summer heat. A camper at Gunnison National Forest Pitkin Campground shared, "Nice place to camp. Lots of OHVS use campground. Walking distance to town of Pitkin. Definitely will be back. No phone service unless you have satellite service."
Isolation options: Campers appreciate the ability to find secluded sites. One visitor at Browns Creek noted, "Very quiet with only one other camper you could see in the far distance thru the trees. Ample space between sites for privacy."
Wildlife viewing: Early morning wildlife sightings are common. A visitor to North Cottonwood reported, "Seen a Moose and her baby. Nice large camping spots next to the creek the further to the trailhead you go."
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest roads deteriorate significantly after spring runoff or rain. A visitor to Road 240 Dispersed advised, "The road is definitely chunky! There were a few pretty spots before you get to all the dead trees. The one we stayed at was probably the best one in our opinion."
Water sources: Most dispersed sites require water filtration or carrying in your water supply. A camper at Fooses Creek noted, "Secluded, shaded sites and the road in was very manageable in a standard SUV. Rocky at parts but not the entire way in."
Weather patterns: Afternoon storms are common from July through September. A Road 240 camper explained, "Weather has been rainy each afternoon and cool mornings. We're in a Revel and we navigated the very rough road well but we didn't want to push too high."
Altitude considerations: Camping at 9,000+ feet requires acclimation time. One visitor warned, "Keep in mind that the campground at Portal is 10,500 feet so if you aren't used to the altitude or familiar with altitude sickness you'll want to do a little research before camping here as it's a long bumpy drive out."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose sites with natural barriers between camping area and water features. A visitor to North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping advised, "Found a spot right next to the creek with room for several cars and framed in by trees. Sounds of water is awesome. Couldn't hear any other campers."
Morning wildlife viewing: Organize morning hikes for best wildlife observation opportunities. One camper shared, "Quiet nice spot! Very few people. Might suggest only 4WD."
Temperature management: Prepare for significant day-to-night temperature swings of 30-40 degrees. A Road 240 visitor noted, "Got cold at night but it was to be expected. Access to a lot of hiking and if you continue driving up the rocky road, you'll get to billings lake which was gorgeous."
Campground alternatives: When dispersed sites fill up, established campgrounds provide reliable alternatives. A visitor to Pitkin Campground described, "The site was manicured and level. A great place to stop for the night or for longer stays. $24 cash or check only was a surprise."
Tips from RVers
Road reconnaissance: Scout forest roads before bringing in trailers. A camper at CR 306 Dispersed advised, "Multiple sites along the creek, some of the road through a wooded area looks dicey for a large vehicle. There are multiple access points to various sites right off of CR306, some look more accessible to regular vehicles."
Trailer limitations: Most dispersed camping areas have significant restrictions for trailers. One Road 240 visitor warned, "DO NOT bring your trailer past the 3rd spot up the road after the bridge. And do not drive up that section to the 3rd if it is already taken (scout ahead here, trust me). You won't be able to turn around and the road gets worse with no where to turn around and no spots."
Parking strategy: Position vehicles to allow for easy exit in case of weather changes. A camper recommended, "We were trying to stay at Collegiate Peaks Campground but it filled up on a Friday afternoon so we back tracked to Avalanche TH and found some dispersed spots across the street."
