Dispersed camping opportunities near Red Cliff, Colorado extend beyond the options mentioned for equestrians. The area sits at elevations ranging from 8,600 to 11,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions with afternoon thunderstorms common from July through early September. Snow typically remains at higher elevations until late June, with early October snowfall common above 9,000 feet.
What to do
Hiking access from camp: Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping connects directly to multiple trail systems including the Continental Divide Trail. "The Colorado trail/CDT passes close by and was a great evening hike from our camp," notes Lyds F., who found plenty of options despite arriving on a Friday evening when the more scenic spots were taken.
Fishing opportunities: Clear Creek Reservoir provides direct fishing access with minimal hiking required. "Options for paddle boarding or fishing here, desert-lile but surrounded by mountains. Also a good amount of shade and cute geese," reports Katie H., who appreciated the free camping and proximity to water activities.
Fall foliage viewing: Kenosha Pass Campground offers exceptional fall color viewing from established sites. "Easy drive from Denver and right at Kenosha Pass which has beautiful fall colors. We bought a new pop up tent and had to try it out arrived in the dark and awoke to beautiful fall colors," mentions Marty L., who found the location convenient despite some highway noise.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Lakeview Campground, campers appreciate the thoughtful layout. "The campground's location on the hillside allows for an excellent view of Twin Lakes and the surrounding mountains. Also close to the South Mt Elbert and Colorado Trail for easy hiking," writes Alex H., highlighting both the views and trail connectivity.
Cell service availability: Unlike many remote locations, some sites maintain connectivity. "Verizon service worked surprisingly well at our site in Loop B, which was a nice bonus for staying connected," reports Arthur Z., who stayed at Lakeview Campground during a busy holiday weekend.
Accessible wildlife viewing: Sugarloaf Campground provides opportunities to observe wildlife from camp. "I was elated to see the wildlife in the area throughout the day which included some very cute prairie dogs, a very curious humming bird who was very impressed with my pink shirt and some beautiful songbirds," shares Crystal C., who selected a riverside campsite.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. At Kirby Gulch, "Super bumpy roads - must have an SUV or truck. As you drive in, you're met with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains," advises Katelyn W., who still found sites available on Memorial Day weekend.
Weekend crowds: Expect significantly different experiences on weekdays versus weekends. "This campground was completely full the weekend of Memorial Day but most of the sites were empty during the week days," reports Hayley K. about Kirby Gulch.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans often affect the area from mid-summer through fall. "The sites are very basic, you will have to literally bring everything you want with you, no tables or lantern hooks, no electricity, not even trashcans," states Crystal C. about Clear Creek Reservoir.
Tips for camping with families
Trail access for kids: Guanella Pass offers family-friendly hiking. "There are some excellent trails starting very close to the campground, many going along the continental divide," notes Amber A., who found the creek added to the campsite's appeal for families.
Bug preparation: Summer months require insect protection. "Our site was near a creek that was fun to explore and the woods all around also held adventure. But make sure you bring bug spray. The mosquitoes are out in full force and they're huge," cautions Cynthia W. about Guanella Pass.
Multi-day activities: Plan varied activities when camping with children. "This is a small campground that will fill up nearly every day since it's so beautiful here all year. You can reserve in advance; do so if possible," recommends Amber A., who appreciated the basic amenities and privacy between sites.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: At Lodgepole - Jefferson, RVers need to choose carefully. "The spots are spaced well on the outside portion of the loop. On the inside of the loop they are closer together and mostly tent only spaces. Trailer sites are small for sure- I wouldn't trust anything over 29ish feet in here," advises Sarah F.
Road challenges: Access roads often present difficulties for trailers. "The dirt road on the way in 2.5-3.5miles is BUMPY. Really not a big deal unless you have a travel trailer, which we did- it was some slowwww going for a while," shares Sarah F., who still found the location worth the challenging drive.
Generator etiquette: Noise considerations matter in mixed-use campgrounds. "We expected plenty of people given that it was 4th of July. There were a couple very loud large groups and some RV's that ran their generators all day long," notes Cynthia W., who preferred the quieter atmosphere at nearby alternatives.
