Dispersed camping options near Placerville, Colorado sit at elevations above 10,000 feet within the Uncompahgre National Forest. Most free camping sites require navigation of rough Forest Service roads with steep grades and variable conditions. Winter weather typically closes many sites from November through May, with summer temperatures rarely exceeding 80°F at these elevations.
What to do
Hike the Alder Creek Trail: From Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping, access the Alder Creek trailhead about 0.7 miles down the road. "There's a larger spot for campers and then the road turns up with a warning that you're headed into remote wilderness with less access to emergency services," notes David, a recent visitor.
Explore ghost towns: Historical mining structures remain accessible from several dispersed sites. "The ghost town comes before the campground and we did attempt to go to the campground but in one spot we couldn't see what was on the other side of our hood of our truck and chose to turn around," reports one visitor to Alta Lakes Campground.
Mountain biking: Forest roads provide numerous riding options for experienced mountain bikers. The terrain is challenging but rewarding. "It really is only mountain biking suitable. We had our kids with a seat on one of the bikes and it was too much for us, we are used to street biking," one camper at Alta Lakes warns.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: For those seeking privacy, certain areas offer isolation from crowds. "We found a very secluded spot way in the back of a small road off the main trail. Would recommend 4wd and high clearance for most of the trail," reports Lilliana about Last Dollar Road.
Alpine lake access: Several free camping areas provide direct access to alpine lakes. "The lake is amazing, people were fishing, although I didn't see anyone pulling out fish. There are a lot of opportunities to hike and experience the history of the location," notes Melissa about Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area.
Wildlife viewing: The high country around Placerville hosts abundant wildlife. "We enjoyed being able to fish with little supervision since the lake is really quite shallow and it's very close to the sites. Exploring was fun and watching the ducks and geese and the occasional deer, it was pretty cool," another camper at Priest Lake observed.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Road quality can change rapidly with weather. "There is not a ton of campsites once you get up here. Road from Ridgeway was well maintained but definitely a little rocky getting closer to the top of the road. Road gets washed out in the rain so heads up," one reviewer warns.
Bathroom facilities are limited: Most dispersed camping areas have minimal or no facilities. "The bathrooms were still closed although the sign said they hoped to have it ready by Memorial Day this weekend," reports one camper at Priest Lake.
Weather changes rapidly: At high elevations, conditions can shift quickly. "We were there during monsoon season so it was raining when we got there and it started raining again at 11 the next day," notes a camper at Box Factory Park, adding "Absolutely stunning remote area at the base of the Mt. Sneffels wilderness."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Some areas are more family-friendly than others. "Priest lake is by trout lake. Not far from telluride. We pulled in shortly after lunch on a Friday and it was already somewhat crowded but by bed time it was packed. But, from our site, we couldn't tell," reports Kyle.
Consider fishing opportunities: Several lakes near camping areas offer fishing that's suitable for children. "The kids enjoyed being able to fish with little supervision since the lake is really quite shallow and it's very close to the sites," one camper at Priest Lake mentions.
Pack for variable weather: Even summer nights get cold at elevation. "It got pretty chilly at night and rained most of the days. If you want to bike, it really is only mountain biking suitable," warns a visitor to Ironton Park Dispersed.
Tips from RVers
Choose entry points carefully: Some access roads have challenging entry points. "If you arrive from the south on highway 550 you will need to enter the parking lot for the Corkscrew jeep trail and turn around as all the entrances into Ironton are a very sharp Right hand switch-back and difficult unless you have less than a 20 foot RV," advises one RVer.
Bring leveling equipment: Most dispersed sites have uneven terrain. "We found the area suited our 18 foot travel trailer. Was a little tricky getting it level but was manageable," notes Mike about his stay at Fall Creek Camping.
Plan for self-sufficiency: No hookups exist at any free camping near Placerville. "Nothing here just great dry camping so be prepared. There is lots of room to spread out," advises Don, who stayed at Ironton Park in a large class A motor home.
