Dispersed camping near Pueblo, Colorado offers camping sites ranging from desert terrain to mountain areas, with elevations between 4,600 and 9,000 feet. Bureau of Land Management and National Forest lands provide primitive camping options within 30-50 miles of Pueblo. Most areas require visitors to bring all supplies including water, as natural sources are limited in the lower elevation sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed, campers can access creek fishing spots. "Nice, secluded, fairly secluded. Dark skies, direct access to creek. Multiple dispersed loops off this road," notes Fabein D.
OHV and dirt biking: The terrain around Penrose BLM sites provides excellent off-road vehicle trails. "Loved camping here! Awesome spot to ride dirt bikes, side by sides, etc. I was the only one around camping when I was there. Super peaceful!" reports AE K.
Rock climbing: Some sites feature natural climbing walls adjacent to camp areas. "Sweet spots along the creek side. Dispersed area that is very spread out so you are not near others. Also has access to climbing walls right by sites," explains Josh M. from Phantom Canyon.
What campers like
Creek access: Many campers value waterside camping at Phantom Canyon. "We camped here a few times. The spot closest to the mining town has been my favorite so far! There is a canyon so you won't have any cell phone signal, though I had my Starlink set up and it worked flawlessly," shares Colby R.
Night sky viewing: The area's dark skies make stargazing a popular activity. "The stars are beautiful at night," mentions Thomas P., who camped at Penrose Common Rec Site. Multiple sites across the region offer minimal light pollution.
Wildlife encounters: Rampart Range Area Dispersed Campsite provides opportunities to see local wildlife. "Saw a couple of moose on my way in and around 9pm one ran through my campsite!" reports Megan H., who camped in the area. Chipmunks, deer, and birds are commonly spotted throughout the region.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many primitive camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. "Very rough, bumpy, windy and very narrow in some areas but nothing too crazy," explains Emma H. about Forest Service Road 376. Several campers recommend 4WD vehicles, especially after rain.
Limited facilities: Penrose Common Rec Site has basic amenities at the entrance. "There is a clean vault toilet at the entrance, no trash services. Plenty of spots as you keep driving up the hill," notes Abby M. Most other dispersed sites have no facilities whatsoever.
Cell service variability: Connectivity depends on terrain and elevation. "T-mobile service was good enough to get some work and school done. Close enough to groceries and other stores," reports Izzy T. Canyon areas like Phantom Canyon typically have no service.
Weather fluctuations: Mountain locations experience rapid weather changes. "We got in at about 10:00 pm with no problems at all, 2wd Truck. Found a beautiful spot to park up for the night before doing the Royal Gorge. Previous camper even left a nice pile of pinewood by the fire ring!" shares Matthew W.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible options: Some areas provide easier access for family camping. "Easy to find. Went early July 2024. Tons of open spots and only saw one other camper a couple hundred yards away. Make sure to bring your bug spray," advises Charles L. from Seven Lakes Road.
Timing considerations: Weekdays offer more solitude than weekends. "Arrived about 5pm on a Saturday and there were a handful of spots left. I was right next to the river. Had 2 groups close to me that I could see, but it wasn't an issue," shares Deitz B.
Educational opportunities: The area has historical sites worth exploring. "The history is awesome, the drive is beautiful, and there is a creek that runs along close by at every site," explains Colby R. about Phantom Canyon, which features old mining structures.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers should scout for level areas. "These are blm campsites. We got our 19 foot travel trailer into a spot with icy conditions, but the road does get quite a bit rougher if you keep going in," explains Elias M. from Penrose BLM sites.
Supply planning: No services exist near most primitive camping areas. "Dispersed camping on BLM land. Looks like some 'permanent' residents out here. Hot, dusty, cacti, cedar trees- kind of a cool Great American Desert experience. Pit toilets are present at the entrance," shares David about Penrose Common Rec Site.
Maneuverability challenges: Large rigs face limitations in many areas. "This site is right at the intersection of Gold Camp Road and FR376. 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," notes Chris P. about clyde dispersed camping.
