Best Dispersed Camping near Pueblo, CO

The landscape surrounding Pueblo, Colorado features numerous dispersed camping options on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Forest Service lands. Penrose BLM sites and Penrose Common Recreation Site lie approximately 30 miles west of Pueblo, offering primitive camping with minimal facilities. Further north, the Rampart Range Road area and Gold Camp Road provide additional dispersed sites with varying levels of accessibility. Most locations accommodate both tent and RV camping, though amenities are limited. The region's camping areas range from desert-like terrain with cacti and cedar trees near Penrose to more forested settings with creek access in areas like Phantom Canyon.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many sites requiring high-clearance vehicles for safe access. As one camper noted, "Road in is rough, but manageable with a high clearance vehicle. Plenty of space to spread out." Most dispersed areas enforce a 14-day maximum stay limit, typical of BLM locations. Cell service is surprisingly reliable at many sites, with visitors reporting good T-Mobile and Verizon coverage. Weather conditions change dramatically with elevation and season, with higher elevation sites experiencing snow even when lower areas remain clear. Fire restrictions are common during dry periods, and campers should verify current regulations before planning trips.

Mountain views dominate the camping experience, with many sites offering panoramic vistas of Pikes Peak and surrounding ranges. Creekside camping is available in several locations, particularly along Gold Camp Road where visitors report good fishing opportunities. Wildlife sightings include deer, chipmunks, and occasionally bears at higher elevations. Campers frequently mention the solitude as a primary attraction, though some areas experience ATV and dirt bike traffic. Vault toilets exist at select locations like Penrose Common Recreation Site, but most areas have no facilities whatsoever. Several reviewers mention concerns about trash accumulation, with one visitor noting they "collected a Walmart bag full of trash in the morning." Despite these challenges, the spectacular night skies and mountain scenery continue to draw campers seeking primitive experiences near Pueblo.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Pueblo, Colorado (23)

    1. Penrose Common Rec Site

    11 Reviews
    Penrose, CO
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 269-8500

    "Road in is rough, but manageable with a high clearance vehicle. Plenty of space to spread out. Popular with those ATV things. Pit toilet, no trash."

    "There’s lots of trails in the area (OHV) but other than that, not much else to do. There is a clean vault toilet at the entrance, no trash services. Plenty of spots as you keep driving up the hill."

    2. Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed

    14 Reviews
    Victor, CO
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "Amazing location right next to Boehmer Creek. There are 5 or 6 sites mainly for tents. You might be able ti get an rv in there but low hanging trees and narrow rutted trails would be a problem."

    "Make sure to bring your bug spray. Nice fire pit and gorgeous views. Saw fish in stream a couple of deer and tons of chipmunks. Saw a little trash here and there."

    3. Penrose BLM sites

    2 Reviews
    Penrose, CO
    26 miles

    "These are blm campsites. There are pit toilets right when you cross into blm land and a sign that explains that you have to camp in designated areas. Like most blm locations there is a 14 day max."

    "I was the only one around camping when I was there. Super peaceful! The reservoir is 10 minutes away too which is great for fishing and paddle boarding."

    4. Phantom Canyon

    5 Reviews
    Penrose, CO
    31 miles

    "I’m a rooftop tent camper and the views are amazing but was hoping to be close to the water and isolated from other campers."

    "Dispersed area that is very spread out so you are not near others. Also has access to climbing walls right by sites."

    5. BLM Rec. Trail Dispersed

    1 Review
    Penrose, CO
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 269-8500

    6. Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park

    21 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    50 miles

    "A Long rocky and dirt road lays ahead of these dispersed camping areas. This park has set up campgrounds, but we chose to drive off road a bit and set up camp on the edge of a rocky overlook."

    "Easy to access for any mobility-level or age. Peaceful and quiet except for the occasional passing car which is to be expected. Spots are relatively well spaced apart. Fire-pits galore!"

    7. Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping

    19 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    "Rampart Range Road is the main dirt road that has plenty of smaller trails branching off of it to keep you busy exploring all summer."

    "Tucked back in National Forest land."

    8. Phantom Canyon Road Pull-Off

    1 Review
    Cañon City, CO
    31 miles

    "Every summer I go on a road trip , camping ,backpacking and visiting national parks , while driving through Colorado we drove through phantom canyon road and we stopped about 20 times through our drive"

    9. clyde dispersed camping

    4 Reviews
    Victor, CO
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 269-8500

    ".  It sits in the meadow right next to the creek. There are two sites one of which is definitely big enough for a decent size rig."

    "The coordinates provided get you onto Gold Camp Road but you have to drive way further. There is a super cool tunnel which means you are close. There is a lack of fire wood around some spots."

    10. Rampart Range Area Dispersed Campsite

    10 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    50 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "We were going from direction Divide town using provided coordinates. All went fine until we ended up in a dead end road with private residence."

    "Rough road getting there though"

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Showing results 1-10 of 23 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Pueblo, CO

114 Reviews of 23 Pueblo Campgrounds



Guide to Pueblo

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Pueblo, Colorado, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, these spots offer a perfect escape for adventurers.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Pueblo, Colorado

  • Many areas, like Penrose Common Rec Site, allow for campfires, making it easy to enjoy evenings under the stars with friends and family.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; for instance, Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed has no trash services, so packing out what you bring in is essential.
  • Check road conditions before heading out, as some sites, such as Oil Well Flats, have steep and rough access roads that may not be suitable for larger vehicles.

ATV Adventures While Free Camping Near Pueblo

  • If you're into off-roading, Penrose Common Rec Site is popular among ATV enthusiasts, providing easy access to trails and plenty of space to park your vehicle.
  • The BLM Rec. Trail Dispersed area is a great spot for those looking to explore the terrain on their ATVs, with ample room for riding and enjoying the outdoors.
  • Expect a lively atmosphere at places like Phantom Canyon, where you'll find fellow adventurers and plenty of trails to explore.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • For breathtaking views, consider Clyde Dispersed Camping, which offers picturesque landscapes right next to a creek, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
  • The Cripple Creek BLM Area features stunning scenery along a creek, providing a serene backdrop for your camping experience.
  • If you're looking for seclusion, Phantom Canyon Road Pull-Off offers hidden spots away from the crowds, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty without distractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Pueblo, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Pueblo, CO is Penrose Common Rec Site with a 3.7-star rating from 11 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Pueblo, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 23 dispersed camping locations near Pueblo, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.