The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Powderhorn. Powderhorn is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
"Fire metal rings, pit toilets in few areas. No water, no garbage (might be garbage at entrance?). Roads spread throughout, pretty rough in some areas. Plenty of places here, views are pretty cool."
"This area is large and has tons of dispersed campsites, but they’re connected by a network of bumpy and rocky roads."
"I got out here around 7:30 and got the first one I could find, there’s a bunch of roads so it’s kind of a pick your own adventure deal. ended up about 200 yards from the next site but that didn’t bother"
"Dispersed camping with designated sites off dirt roads. Perfect place to rock climb, hike or dirt bike or ATV."
"This was my first time using Dyrt and accessing BLM/public land. The campgrounds at Black Canyon OTG were packed and hotels in the area were outrageously priced (2-star hotel for $200)."
"Nestled right on the access road to Black Canyon of The Gunnison NP, camps did not require a ton of dirt driving to access."
"Existing campsites lots of space"
"The dispersed site is pretty level, has a fire ring, will see some traffic going further up the road (could be nicer sites?)."
"Stopped at the first spot available just to the west of Lake City. The site was large and had plenty of space to accommodate several vehicles and tents."
"We spent 7 days here in what we refer to as spot#5(the best spot) but be advised any of the spots in this area are difficult to get into unless you have a high clearance vehicle and rig."
"Perfect lake views, snow capped mountain tops, and wildflowers for days."
"You need 4x4 and high clearance vehicle and good tires."
"This is on a old two track FS dirt road just off hwy #149. Incredible views of the Cebolla Creek valley. Several nice flat camps in the Aspen coves."
LegendDispersed camping along the South Mineral Creek. This is dry camping with a vault toilet- no hook ups. This is popular with RV’ers and OHV’ers as it is free. The limit is the usual fourteen days. Some “sites” have fire pits, and there are a few picnic tables scattered about. There are a few sites right on the water. Further back in at some larger sites that could accommodate small rvs. The plus is the free camping right on the “river”. The minus is that the road to the forest service campground and the Ice Lake trailhead is very close, very busy, and very dusty.
RangerTravel a few miles down Brush Creek Trail. After passing Strand Hill MTB trail you will get to a split in the road. The left turn will take you up a deeply rutted 4WD road towards Teocalli Ridge MTB trail. Lots of beautiful camping on this road. But it can be tough sledding when it is wet. If you stay to the right you will get to a flat where many people will camp. You can get a smaller RV/Trailer/Sprinter here very easily. If you are intrepid - and have a good 4WD with some clearance - you can continue through the creek and up the hill where superb, quiet dispersed camping exists.
Leave no trace.
RangerBlue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed Camping, located near Mount Sneffels in Colorado, offers an incredibly remote and breathtaking camping experience. If you're looking to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in pristine wilderness, this spot is ideal. The campsites are dispersed along the trailhead, offering peace and solitude with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and alpine lakes.
The beauty of this dispersed camping area is its complete immersion in nature. With no designated campsites or amenities, you get to choose your own perfect spot in the forest, whether it’s near the rushing creek or with views of the towering mountains. This is truly a wilderness experience, so you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient—bring your own water, food, and a solid plan for waste disposal.
The Blue Lakes Trailhead offers some of Colorado’s most scenic hiking, including access to the famous Blue Lakes and a challenging ascent of Mount Sneffels. The hike itself rewards adventurers with awe-inspiring views of alpine lakes, wildflowers, and rugged mountain terrain. It’s perfect for those seeking an immersive backcountry experience.
One downside of this dispersed camping is that the road leading to the trailhead is rough, so it’s best suited for high-clearance vehicles, and be prepared for the possibility of unpredictable weather, as storms can roll in quickly in the mountains.
Overall, Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed Camping is an incredible option for experienced campers looking to enjoy the wild beauty of Colorado’s high country. It’s remote, peaceful, and surrounded by some of the most stunning scenery in the state.
TravelerReach this BLM dispersed about 9 miles on route 90 from the center of Montrose, good paved until the last mile good graveled. IMMEDIATELY after hairpin switchback, turn left and you'll find a 2 acre mesa with junipers and views, probably can fit 5 camps in there with elbow room. I had 2 neighbors. Shade is limited so it'll be hot in the summer. Only good legal free camping near town!
ScoutBeautiful and secluded but a rough drive. Most definitely need a high clearance vehicle. We weren't able to make it to the top because there is a wash out in one area we could not clear with our 4Runner. But we did find an amazing spot anyway.
GuideAT&T 5G off and on 2 bars. Fire metal rings, pit toilets in few areas. No water, no garbage (might be garbage at entrance?). Roads spread throughout, pretty rough in some areas. Plenty of places here, views are pretty cool. Lots of hiking, biking trails. Rock formations are the star of the show. Dog friendly. 14 day limit. Town not too far maybe 5 miles for supplies. Creek near town. Not too bad for 5-14 days.
TravelerThis area is large and has tons of dispersed campsites, but they’re connected by a network of bumpy and rocky roads. You’ll need a high-clearance vehicle with 4WD (like a Jeep Wrangler) - otherwise, don’t even attempt. Take a picture of the map at the entrance too. Once you find a spot though, it’s a beautiful area with lots of rock features and a full starry sky (if lucky enough to have a clear night). We had a great time here
GuideCamping at designated sites is free for up to 14 days. We stayed at WG 19. Shady and near the river. No water or electric. There is a pit toilet about 1/2 mile up the road. Very quiet area. Our site was level and had extra parking for a second vehicle if needed. Trash must be disposed off in town about 4 miles away.
TravelerThe Good:
Gorgeous landscape and views. The wildflowers were beautiful. The sites are big and spacious. Each site has a metal fire ring. Free camping! Only 15+ minutes to town.
The Good To Know:
No water. No trash. Very limited cell reception -- one bar, but no data. 4WD and higher clearance are necessary for any sites beyond the first handful. The bathrooms are only at the entry and are more than a mile from most campsites up the road. Some sites are in meadows with limited shade, and some are nestled in trees.
The Bad:
BUGS. It might just be the season's moisture and the two very close ponds, but the bugs were terrible. I can't remember the last time I had this many bug bites from a CO camping trip.
There were some funky things happening with sites up there. The site across from us had a tent, chair, and hammock set up. We were there for 3 nights and only saw the person there once. It felt strange the site was being held like that, but not sure of the story behind it.
When we got there, I walked up the road after we found an open site to see what else might be open. I came across a person who was also "holding" the space across from them and would be willing to let us stay if we wanted. We didn't end up needing it.
For better or worse, this campground has no enforcement or oversight. However, enjoyed having the dog off leash!
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Powderhorn, Colorado, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Powderhorn, CO is Hartman Rocks Recreation Area with a 4.2-star rating from 19 reviews.
TheDyrt.com has all 62 dispersed camping locations near Powderhorn, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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