Camping sites near Rangely, Colorado span elevations from 5,250 to 7,000 feet across Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands and established facilities. Surrounded by high desert terrain with sparse pinyon-juniper forests, the region experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations with summer days often exceeding 90°F and nights dropping into the 50s. Clay roads that access remote camping areas become particularly hazardous during and after rainfall events.
What to do
Night sky viewing: The remote BLM areas north of Dinosaur National Monument offer exceptional stargazing opportunities. "Just randomly driving thru Colorado and run into Dinasaur and a peaceful off grid place to camp. No one around. No one else on the planet. Great place to stop," reports a visitor to North of Dinosaur CR16 - Dispersed Site.
Rock art exploration: Several ancient petroglyphs can be found along County Road #23. "The BLM Dragon Trail rock art sites are along County Road #23 south out of Rangely Colo. Camping is possible at Shield site mp 5.6, Fremont Ridge site mp 9.7, Crooks Brand site mp 10.1 and Carrot Men site mp 11.6," notes a visitor to BLM Dragon Trail - County Rd #23 dispersed.
Fishing: The White River and nearby Kenney Reservoir provide fishing opportunities within minutes of town. "You can walk down to the river to swim or fish. There are even pons that are for kids only that are stocked," explains a camper at Rangely Camper Park.
What campers like
Hilltop vistas: Many dispersed sites sit on elevated terrain with panoramic views. "Found a site with a stunning 360 degree view. Clean, no trace of anyone else for miles. It was windy at times but very comfortable temperature compared to the surrounding valleys," writes a visitor to Dinosaur South Dispersed Camp.
Quiet seclusion: Remote sites offer privacy rarely found at developed campgrounds. "Off CR16 easy to find. I just saw a couple of spots at the gps point. The view is beautiful and it's quiet but windy. We're the only ones here," notes a camper at North of Dinosaur CR16.
Mature shade trees: Rangely Camper Park gets high marks for its shade coverage in the desert heat. "About 2 dozen good sized variable depth sites, well shaded with picnic table and fire pit. Some with electric. Dump station, water fill, and bathroom showers. Well kept," writes a camper at Rangely Camper Park.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require careful navigation. "BLM open range dispersed. Warning: access road is CLAY dirt and do not access if wet saturated, you will get stuck maybe," cautions a visitor to Angora Hills Dispersed Site.
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites have no facilities whatsoever. "Smooth dirt road leading to short turn off loop with a fire ring. Peaceful low-mid T-Mobile," reports a camper at North of Dinosaur CR16, highlighting the basic nature of these sites.
Guide
