Primitive camping near Rangely, Colorado provides outdoor access on undeveloped Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. Located in northwest Colorado at approximately 5,250 feet elevation, the area features semi-arid landscapes with juniper trees scattered across rocky terrain. Summer temperatures often reach 90°F during daytime hours with significant cooling at night, creating a 30-40 degree temperature differential that campers should prepare for.
What to do
Mountain biking on established trails: McCoy Flats near Vernal offers an extensive trail system about 30 miles from Rangely. "There is an extensive network of nonmotorized Mtb singletrack trails in this area, and there does not seem to be any restrictions on e-mtb bikes," reports one McCoy Flats MTB Trailhead visitor. The area features 46 miles of trails for various skill levels.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings and evenings provide the best wildlife sightings. "Clean, no trace of anyone else for miles. It was windy at times but very comfortable temperature compared to the surrounding valleys," notes a camper at BLM Dragon Trail - County Rd #23 dispersed. Many visitors report deer sightings throughout the region.
Rock art site exploration: Several archaeological sites accessible from camping areas show ancient petroglyphs. "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," shares one camper detailing the exact locations to explore.
What campers like
Solitude and isolation: The remote location provides space from other campers. At North of Dinosaur CR16, one reviewer noted, "Really nice and quiet, we were all alone. Not sure how many spots are there. We found a spot that forks left from Harper's Corner road, and there was only one spot, but it was free."
Cell service availability: Many primitive sites unexpectedly offer good connectivity. "Good att coverage," reports a camper at McCoy Flats MTB Trailhead. Another reviewer at SR 98, Rangely CO confirmed "4 bars of Verizon. Pack it in, pack it out."
Stargazing conditions: The area's dark skies provide excellent night viewing. A reviewer at McCoy Flats noted, "Had a fantastic AT&T service and the stargazing was unreal." The limited light pollution throughout the region creates optimal viewing conditions year-round.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access roads become impassable when wet. "Warning: access road is CLAY dirt and do not access if wet saturated, you will get stuck maybe," warns a visitor to Angora Hills Dispersed Site. Another camper cautioned, "The road going in and out is a bit bumpy/rocky though and some narrow edges with no guardrail."
Seasonal timing considerations: Summer daytime temperatures often exceed 90°F with limited shade. One visitor described it as "Small turnoff right on the road... It's right on a ledge and you're barely off the road." Fire restrictions typically run from June through September depending on conditions.
Know your vehicle capabilities: 4WD requirements are common for accessing better sites. "I pull a 21' trailer and was worried about accessing this spot. Put truck in 4WD and went up the dirt road slowly," shares a visitor who successfully navigated Angora Hills. Another reviewer warned, "No trailers allowed. There is a sign at the beginning of the dirt road prohibiting trailers. I assume because if it rains the mud roads become unusable."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Steep dropoffs exist at some sites requiring child supervision. One camper at North of Dinosaur CR16 - Dispersed Site noted, "No shade, rocky, need a 4WD for some of the uphills. 10 miles to the sites on a dirt road if you come from the northwest. No bugs at all when I went!"
Toilet facilities: Most dispersed sites lack facilities, but some areas have vault toilets. "Note there is a large rotting elk carcus here at the moment. This is not a destination, just a quick sleep site close to the monument," shared one visitor about conditions to prepare children for.
Temperature planning: Prepare for significant day-to-night temperature swings. "I went into the second fence area and straight back near the creek. Straight up the steep hill. Don't go there unless you have a 4x4. It was VERY dusty and not a lot of clear area if you are using a tent," advised one camper, highlighting terrain challenges for family tent setups.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Scout potential campsites before committing with larger rigs. "If this is the site, something like 3a or some such, beware, looks nothing like photo. Right on the White River, narrow road is down sloped with nearly impassible water filled pot holes approaching the river. Passable only with high clearance pickup truck," warns a reviewer at Dinosaur South Dispersed Camp.
Clearance requirements: Many sites require high-clearance vehicles. "The dirt road coming in is a bit rough but I made it with an SUV and 16' TT. Just go slow," recommends an RV camper. The dusty conditions can also affect air filters and mechanical components.
Turnaround space: Limited turnaround areas exist for larger vehicles. "At the first place the road splits, I turned left and found a perfect circle to turn around and park. It was flat but no shade and my Verizon had no service," shared an RV camper with practical advice about navigating the terrain with a 21-foot trailer.
