Best Dispersed Camping near Poncha Springs, CO

Recent Dispersed Reviews near Poncha Springs, Colorado

285 Reviews of 96 Poncha Springs Campgrounds

• 

  Katie H.

  Legend

  

  Aug. 17, 2020

  Browns Canyon Dispersed

  Lots of space, very little shade

  A nice BLM area, free dispersed camping. Some loud generators in use when we came here but so much room we could get far enough away to not mind. No activities once you're here and no facilities but hey, its beautiful desert terrain and free. Some short trees but very little shade for cars or campers. Great for hammocks though!

• 

  Steph A.

  Guide

  

  Jul. 11, 2018

  Winfield Camping Area

  Tough to get to, but perfect for hiking Huron Peak

  There is free dispersed camping all along County Road 390, near Winfield. You will need a 4x4 or AWD to get further along the road. There’s a stream that runs along 390, adding great background noise. Our site was big enough for multiple cars, with great access to the Huron Peak trailhead.

• 

  Anthony P.

  Legend

  

  Aug. 26, 2020

  Chaffee County Road 390 Dispersed

  Dispersed camping near great hike

  Located near the town of Granite, this forest service road is host to trailheads and lots of dispersed camping. Off of highway 24 you will find Clear Creek Reservoir, this is a great spot to do some fishing form the shore or in a boat. There is also an established campground beyond the lake that is forest service run and does cost money. However if you keep driving for a few miles the road will open up to free dispersed camping. 

  We showed up on friday at around 4 pm and it was packed! Spots range in size from one care to huge areas big enough for 20 cars and we saw just that. Lots of big camp trips happening. That being said, the camping was still pretty good despite all the people. We managed to find a spot next to another couple in a little turn off. Some groups were parked on the road and walked into the trees to set up a spot. It was kind of a free for all back there. 

  With all those people and trailheads to several 14ers on the road, there ware many cars driving by. It did stay pretty active until later in the night. 

  Campsites: Dispersed with no amenities. No metal fire rings, picnic tables, restrooms or trash bins. Restrooms were located at a trail head but on one set. 

  We enjoyed the spot, it was a little dusty but not terrible. Perfect spot if you are trying to hike Belford, Oxford, Missouri or Huron. Road was in good condition, any car will make it.

• 

  Isabelle K.

  Legend

  

  Sep. 20, 2021

  Road 240 - Dispersed

  A hidden paradise

  This spot is one of the best kept secrets for dispersed camping in Colorado. The road has plenty of camping spots all the way up to the lake. Most spots are wooded and offer plenty of shade. We were lucky enough to end up right along the river. If you keep driving down the road, you will end up at a stunning alpine lake basin that offers plenty of hiking. High clearance vehicle is necessary to get down this road.

• B

  Butch K.

  Ranger

  

  Aug. 23, 2021

  Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 1 West

  Many options

  There are several campgrounds in the area, some free and some with a fee. For free at the top of the hill high above the twin lakes and even above the Mt. Elbert Forebay is national forest dispersed camping. It's very popular on the weekends with many tent campers who sometime party well into the night. The views are epic. On the south-east end of the Twin Lakes is the Reservoir camping area, dispersed camping on bureau of reclamation land. The roads get rough as you reach the more desirable sites. Paid camping is available at Dexter Point, a parking lot with pit toilets and dumpsters within walking distance to the shore. Lake View campground is large with 6 or more loops, toilets, maintained roads, some big rig friendly sites, awesome views, but packed in pretty tight, but so is the dispersed camping. White star campground is a fee area right on the lake front for boaters, etc. In August it's a busy area, off season may be closed. Highway 82 goes to independence pass, a detour route if I-70 is closed due to landslides. 7/21.

• 

  Brian C.

  Traveler

  

  Aug. 13, 2024

  Buena Vista Overlook

  1st timer

  This was my first go at dispersed camping in my new travel trailer.  Google Maps took me to the right location off of 285 and the dirt roads were manageable. I would recommend 4x4 or AWD vehicles but they're nothing too crazy.  Lots of good and large camping spots and I'd recommend a location on the left side of the road.  

  Sites didn't seem to be makred, and I stopped a bit short of what the coordinates that are listed.

• 

  Steve & Ashley G.

  Legend

  

  Aug. 17, 2019

  Elephant Rock Campground

  Dispersed Free Camping Near Buena Vista CO

  Elephant Rock Campground is a free BLM dispersed camping just a few miles north of Buena Vista Colorado. The site is located on a dirt road along the Arkansas River. The site has about a dozen spots and can be crowded in the summer. The river is home to some of the best white water rafting in the Colorado with class III and IV rapids. The site also has some great rock climbing sites and hiking trails. The road is former railroad track from the Midland Railway Company. You drive through the rock cutouts from old railway. It’s a very cool area with lots to see and do. The camp is like many free BLM sites with few if any amenities. Buena Vista is very close and a great place for bars, cafes, and one good grocery store on the highway. The camp had a wide range of users including tents, vans, and trailers. The campsite can get very muddy after rain and is about 8100 feet in elevation. Leadville is about 20 minutes north along the main highway and well worth the visit.

• 

  phil G.

  Scout

  

  Jun. 30, 2024

  Dispersed Sand Area 1

  Beautiful views, remote feeling, near town

  There are about 10-15 dispersed camping spots along the dirt road that leads up to trailheads at the end. The spots are spread out enough to where I did not see or hear a soul while camping 2 nights. A large gathering of mountain goats hanging out along the road was a fun surprise! Gorgeous views of Crestone peak and other neighboring mountains. The only negative was the mosquitos. They are horrendous. If you can’t handle it or find a way to keep them away it could ruin someone’s ability to enjoy the beauty.

• K

  Kelly

  Traveler

  

  Jun. 13, 2024

  Hayden Creek Roadside Camp

  Dispersed camping along Hayden Creek Rd

  There are a handful of dispersed camping sites along Hayden Creek Rd, South of Cuttys and before you get the the USFS campground. These sites seems to be primarily tent camping, though we were able to get our pop-up in 1 spot. We saw 2 other larger RVs near the upper Rainbow Trail camping area. The creek is nice and the sounds was much louder then we anticipated, which was good. In June 2024 it is really flowing. It looks as though USFS has been adding boulders to restrict vehicles from driving too far off road. Lots of places to park and set up a tent though.

• 

  Allison D.

  Guide

  

  Nov. 19, 2018

  228A Dispersed Campsite

  Ranger Review: Lost Creek Campground

  Campground Review

  As a local of the nearby town of Salida, I've seen a lot of campgrounds in Chaffee County and the San Isabel National Forest, but this one stands out for its beautiful scenery and prime location to nearby towns and the Colorado Trail.

  We chose the site because it's free of charge, a good mid point between the next day's destinations, and close to where our friend would be heading out from for her week long Colorado Trail mountain sufferfest.

  After a long day of driving shuttle to pickup a good friend in Durango, we drove back from Southern Colorado to spend the night at this lovely mountain spot halfway up Monarch Pass just down the road from the CT. When we arrived at night---close to midnight---we were easily able to make our way into the solo spot, find flat areas to set up three tents, and settle in for the night. While you could probably fit two groups at this site, it's definitely best as a single site. Despite the rain clouds, we could still see a smattering of stars and enjoy a night in the trees protected from the breezes.

  In the morning, my roommate and I took our dogs for a short walk up the nearby county road and enjoyed sweeping views of the Collegiate Peaks, as well as some tracks from a curious bear that had wandered nearby during the night. Up the road there were a number of pull offs for other dispersed camping areas.

  Once back at camp, we started to dry out our camp from the night's rain and helped our friend unload her gear for her Colorado Trail mountain biking trip for the next week. As it was drizzling most of the morning, my roommate and I opted to see our friend off for her CT ride and head to the town of Salida for breakfast, which was only about 20 minutes away down Highway 50.

  Pros:

  • Private, no other people
  • In a gorgeous mountain alpine setting
  • Easy to navigate to, even at night
  • Within 30 minutes of nearby town of Salida
  • Within 30 minutes of Monarch Ski Area
  • Less than a mile from the Colorado Trail
  • Easily fit three tents and our Subaru Outback

  Cons:

  • Bear activity
• 

  samuel C.

  Ranger

  

  Jul. 16, 2024

  Forest Road 130

  Awesome

  Good dispersed camping, quiet the night I stayed and free of bugs! I find this to be much more satisfying than nearby dispersed sights, and location to Elbert and massive and surrounding slopes are perfect.

• J

  Jess C.

  Guide

  

  Jun. 23, 2020

  Lake Deweese state wildlife area

  Great fishing and mountain views

  This is dispersed camping. There are pit toilets but no other services or amenities. Colorado State wild life areas (SWA) require a permit that’s ~$40 a year, or if you have a year fishing or hunting lisence you camp for free. The road around the lake is a little rough but we got out 25’ travel trailer back here no problem.

• 

  Anthony P.

  Legend

  

  Jul. 8, 2020

  South Colony Basin

  Backcountry Bliss

  What an amazing spot! To get to the campground you must first brave the road to the trailhead. If you have a 4x4 truck/SUV the road is achievable but very rough. From the upper trail head, it was about a 4 mile hike to the campground near the lower lake. If you cant make the drive, add 2.5 miles each way to that total. 

  Once to the campgrounds, you will find spots scattered all around the lakes and in the trees. Some areas before the lake have metal fire rings set up but for the most part you will find rock rings. We found a nice little spot in the trees a couple minute walk from the lake and a stream. This was perfect for getting water and doing some afternoon fishing. 

  Keep in mind these are backcountry camp spots. There are no facilities like water and bathroom and everything must be packed in and out. Each spot is fc/fs and this area can get very busy on weekends. We saw many groups up there.

  Activities are plentiful in the basin. The lakes are stocked so the fishing is great. There are also 3 14ers and plenty of rock climbing to be had. This is one of my new favorite spots.

• 

  Tommie J.

  Ranger

  

  Sep. 4, 2018

  Horn Fork Basin Dispersed Camping

  Ranger Review: Matador FreeRain24 at Horn Fork Basin Dispersed Camping

  Paradise in the Collegiate Peak Wilderness Area of San Juan National Forest.

  Campground Review:

  We stumbled upon this dispersed camping site on a summer backpacking trip where we needed a basecamp to operate out of on a quest to summit Mt. Harvard and Mt Columbia. We wanted a place that was located near where we would begin our summit attempts but would also be comfortable to spend several nights in. This is not a camping site that you can drive up to. This is a site that you need to backpack to on an established but physically demanding trail. To get to it, you must first access the Horn Fork Basin trail at the North Cottonwood Trailhead just West of Buena Vista, CO. To get to the trailhead, it is advisable to have, at a minimum, a high clearance, front wheel drive vehicle as the county road to the trailhead is not paved and is a little rough in areas. Parking at the trailhead can get crowded since many trails originate there. 

  This is primitive, dispersed camping. No fees, first come first serve. You will not find any treated water or toilets in area. We hiked right at 6 miles to get to the site and passed multiple areas that were “established campsites”. Like most dispersed camping in Colorado, you are encouraged to find a spot that has been used and unofficially designated as a campsite. Most often you will find obvious areas that tents have been set up in the past. This site had multiple areas we could have set up tents and we were able to find 3 very level and cleared pads. There was also a stone fire ring that we could use.

  The site was within 50 yards of a fast running stream which provided a perfect place to filter our water from. Even though the water appears to be very clear and cold, you must filter or treat to avoid being exposed to contaminants that can ruin your trip. 

  As I stated, there was a fire ring and fires were permissible in the area according to the managing ranger office. We were able to find ample firewood and enjoyed beautiful campfires every morning and evening. Plenty of remote wilderness to explore and wildlife (mule deer, birds, marmots, pika…) was abundant. 

  From the site, Bear and Kroenke Lakes are within day hike distance as well as 3 14K foot peaks and several smaller peaks. The site was at around 10,500 feet above sea level but below tree line. We were protected from high winds by beautiful pines and aspens. At the time of our trip, daytime temps were in the low 70’s and in the low 40’s at night. Perfect weather! We did experience light rain, ice pellets and a bit of snow on the way up the mountains but not at camp. 

  The site was about 50 yards off the established trail and was remote enough that we did not see another camper in the 2 nights we were there. 

  The site ended up being one of the most enjoyable camping areas I have ever visited. Can’t wait for someone else to venture there based on my review!!!

  Gear Review: Matador FreeRain24

  See a quick video summary of the product HERE.

  As a Dyrt Ranger gear tester, I often get opportunities to evaluate camping related products during my outdoor adventures in exchange for honest reviews. I took the Matador FreeRain24 with me to this campground and during my day hikes from the basecamp and especially on this physically demanding attempt to summit two 14K ft peaks.

  About the company: 

  Matador was started in California but moved to Colorado in 2015. Funded by sales and personal investment only, this is a true “cottage company”. Products are designed in house by people that go on adventures like I do and know what we look for.

  **Testing conditions: **

  This was a summer trip but at elevation, all kinds of weather can be expected. The bag was used in conditions where temps ranged from 38-75 degrees. I did carry it in light rain, heavy mist and icing conditions. I used it as my daypack to carry essential gear while summiting mountain peaks. 

  Things that stood out:

  -       Packs extremely small so did not take up much space in my larger backpacking pack.

  -       At just 5 oz, the weight cost to benefit ratio was perfect for this trip

  -       Waterproof!! 

  -       Comfortable. 

  -       Sleek – hey, it just looks really good!

  -       Top loading main compartment is easy to access

  -       Two pockets that can hold water bottles easily and can be accessed while hike without taking pack off.

  -       External zippered storage that is water resistant. 

  -       In addition to shoulder strap adjustments, pack adjustments available to help with comfort.

  -       Company sent me video instructions on the pack prior to me receiving it. Great idea!!!

  My preferences for improvement:

  -       The zipper on the external storage is very light duty. 

  Summary of experience with Matador FreeRain24:

  At 5 oz and about the size of a baseball when packed down, it was perfect to attach to the outside of my larger pack but could have gone on the inside. Come day hike time, took it out of its storage bag, stuffed it with everything I need for 8 hours on the mountainside and headed out.  24 liters was more than enough storage for all my extra clothing layers, food, water and emergency gear.  Met with some mist and ice during one stretch and contents stayed bone dry. I don't like water bladders so the 2 side pockets were perfect for the bottles of water I normally take on my trips - easy to access and bottles stayed put. Once adjusted, pack held tight to my back and that was important on sketchy parts of the climb. Didn't want my pack shifting at a critical time. Pack was comfortable the whole way and held up well. The pack material held up to several scrapes on sharp mountain rocks. The zipper did hang up and eventually became distorted to the point that I’m worried it may fail eventually. 

  Fully recommend the Matador FreeRain24for similar type adventures!!!

  See a quick video summary of the product HERE.

• 

  Steve & Ashley G.

  Legend

  

  May. 29, 2019

  Twin Lakes View Dispersed

  No View Twin Lakes

  We stayed here last August on the way to the Aspen area. We had hoped to find dispersed camping near the entrance. However, these spaces were all taken up by long stay buses and vans. We opted for the Lakeview campsite instead. It‘a large campsite with multiple sections and loops located below the access road. The lakes are actually two large dam reservoirs. Our site was somewhat below par compared to other Colorado campsites. We had rainy weather and the lake was not visible during our stay. The camp host was a fellow Texan and assisted with the self checkin process. Most of the campers were either visiting Leadville or traveling over the Union Pass which is incredible and a somewhat scary drive even in the summer. This would not make my list of recommendations based on the overall condition and layout of the campsite and lack of activities.

• N

  N I.

  Legend

  

  Oct. 31, 2021

  Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping

  Totally Free

  BLM 

  FREE

   Limit: 14 days 

  The Wildlife Management Area is named after Mt Shavano. A mountain that is considered a must do for mountain climbers. The WMA lies at the base of the mountain. If you travel very slow and steady you can camp in the WMA by following the road in. The road is very rocky, bumpy, and just a little steep in a couple of places if you are pulling a trailer. If you take the plunge there are so many sites to be had to include a fire ring. The backdrop of the mountains is just amazing. There are several sites right at the entrance but the best a a little further back. There is room for 30- 40 or more. Just depends on how close you want to be to others. Salida is a nice town to head to if you need supplies. The road is so rocky and bumpy we tried to get out as little as possible. We have good service with Verizon but not much with ATT. Nearest dump station is about 2 miles way at the Crossroads Visitor Center in Poncha Springs. 

  LNT 

  BTWYFI

• L

  Leonard S.

  Traveler

  

  May. 14, 2024

  Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead

  Another trailhead for camping near Crestone and Great SandDunes

  This is a small trailhead that has a few spots for camping. Like nearby Cotton Creek Trailhead. A small parking area for backpackers and equestrians. Probably okay to camp for free. It is within the Rio Grand National Forest. We are in an RV. There is also a tent camper here.

• 

  Megan E.

  Ranger

  

  Oct. 25, 2021

  Hartman’s Rocks Dispersed Site

  Unique and basic

  Dispersed camping with designated sites off dirt roads. Perfect place to rock climb, hike or dirt bike or ATV.

• 

  Tierney L.

  Traveler

  

  Jun. 10, 2023

  Hartman Rocks Recreation Area

  Hartman ROCKS!

  Great dispersed camping. Sites with plenty of space. Close to town. Great trails and dirt roads for all types of activities. Excellent cell coverage.

• D

  Don M.

  Traveler

  

  Jul. 22, 2024

  Twin Lakes View Dispersed

  Little busy

  So we stayed directly above the Mt Elbert trail head. Plenty of space for our large tent. We loved walking to the reservoir less that 10 minutes from us or the quick drive to twin lakes.

  We caught several small trout in twin lakes and they have vaulted toilets, went into the small town and had some of the best pizza around and stopped in the little convenience store and the employees were great.

  It was a little busy and some louder groups but overall super respectful.

  It was our first dispersed camping experience we will definitely go back to this area but head up the path a bit for a more secluded spot

• 

  Lise F.

  Ranger

  

  Apr. 8, 2021

  Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping

  Space and Views!!

  We camped here for 4 nights in August 2020. It was so peaceful. Big wide dispersed camping spaces. Plenty of nice hiking - especially Brown's Creek area. Great location with easy drive to Buena Vista & Salida & Mt. Princeton. The only drawback was, well, August dryness & no water nearby. This was our first dispersed camping experience and we realize no facilities. There is one bathroom near the Brown's Creek trailhead about 2 miles away from where we camped, but we had a camper. Also, no picnic tables at all. AND cows roam freely throughout the area - drive slowly & respect them - listen for moos & coyote howls. Great bird-watching too. We enjoyed it so much!!

• 

  Julie K.

  Guide

  

  Jul. 7, 2024

  Taylor Reservoir Dispersed

  Beautiful Flowers

  Dispersed camping just off Cottonwood Pass Road. We could hear the road until sundown but it was never a problem. Fire ring was left by other people.

• D

  Drew B.

  Traveler

  

  Jun. 16, 2020

  Twin Lakes View Dispersed

  Great Views, Lots of Camping options

  I travelled to Twin Lakes the weekend after Memorial Day weekend to explore more of Colorado. The drive from Denver was beautiful and the Twin Lakes topped it all. Sitting at the base of several 14'ers this campground featured dispersed camping with options for walk-in, drive-in, and drive-in 4x4 camping. We found ourselves on the North side of the upper side of the neighboring lake since we arrived late Friday afternoon. We found 4-5 sites without anyone around, a quiet spot nestled in the trees for shade. 

  Bears were reported to be active in the area but we didn't see any. Some camp sites, as we walked around, were littered with people's waste and trash. Sad to see but not everyone follows the leave no trace attitude.

• 

  The Wandering Shores ..

  Guide

  

  Aug. 28, 2022

  Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site

  Amazing Location, Great for all sized rigs (Video Review)

  We did a video review of the Raspberry Gulch and Browns Creek Dispersed Camping Areas. The Link is below and also uploaded to the Video Reviews here.

  https://youtu.be/1I3WzEGaJXE

• 

  Paulina B.

  Ranger

  

  Dec. 7, 2024

  Forest Road 272 Dispersed Camping

  Spacious Mountain Views with a Few Cow Visitors

  Coordinates: 38.702830,-106.160280

  This dispersed camping area offers stunning mountain views, spacious sites perfect for large groups, and easy access to excellent hiking trails. The September weather was ideal—cool and crisp without being too cold. While the site feels fairly secluded, beware of grazing cows from local ranches that wander through; be sure to secure food and belongings you don’t want damaged. Dog owners should be mindful of cleanup, as cow and dog waste can be an issue. There are two porta-potties onsite that are cleaned weekly, but campers must pack out all their trash to maintain the area’s natural beauty. Overall, it’s a fantastic spot for those looking for a peaceful escape with plenty of room to spread out.

• 

  Steve & Ashley G.

  Legend

  

  Oct. 1, 2019

  Hancock Ghost Town Dispersed

  Ghost town camping

  This site includes about 4 small dispersed camping areas near the town of Hancock Colorado. They old town is just some foundations and ruins in a grass clearing. This have some good signage telling about the history of the town and railroad. This sites are across the road from the grass meadow closer to the creek. Unlike the Alpine Tunnel dispersed area about 1/2 mile up the road, this site can be access by a small RV or camper if you can make it the steep gravel road to this area. The site was not occupied on the weekend we visited the area in July. The site is at 11,027 feet. So you will need to prepare for bad weather even in the summer. This area would only be accessed by tracked snow mobiles in the winter. It’s about 5 miles up hill from St Elmo which is well worth the visit despite the summer crowds. The dispersed campsite is very primitive and only provides a flat gravel area with fire rings. The area could accommodate 4 or 5 vans or small trailers. You will need pack in and out your food, waste, and trash. The mountain vistas are worth the drive and the Alpine Tunnel Trail is hard to beat.

• 

  Brielle E.

  Guide

  

  Jun. 8, 2022

  Twin Lakes View Dispersed

  Water tower with a view

  Tons of dispersed camping, though many sites are on top of each other. If you have a capable vehicle and can make your way back toward the water tower, there is a large private camp area with beautiful views. Very windy! Definitely a rough road.