Tent campsites near Red Cliff, Colorado sit at elevations ranging from 9,000 to over 10,600 feet in the White River National Forest. Nighttime temperatures at these sites frequently drop into the 30s even during July and August. Winter access is extremely limited from November through May due to snow accumulation at these high elevations.
What to do
Jeep trails and 4x4 driving: Lower Crystal Lake provides both camping and off-road opportunities, with multiple reviewers noting the challenging access road. "Pretty decent trail going up, a few rough points but we made it up. There is a cool Boulder field once you get to the lake for extra 4x4 fun," shares one visitor to Lower Crystal Lake.
Aspen viewing: Fall color viewing draws many campers during September and early October. Sites along Boreas Pass Road offer prime viewing locations. "I came in October when the aspens and birch still had some leaves. Beautiful colors on bareus pass," reports a camper at Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping.
Alpine lake access: Many campsites serve as starting points for hikes to alpine lakes, with trails accessible directly from camping areas. "We were at Lower Crystal Lake on July 27-28, 2022. This was our first overnight backpacking trip with our 9 and 12 year old... We went up to the lake via Spruce Creek Road from the Trail Head then up via Wheeler Trail."
What campers like
Seclusion and privacy: Despite popularity, many sites offer isolation from other campers. At Red Sandstone, a camper noted: "One of the best parts was the privacy. Our site was far enough from the neighboring spots that we couldn't see or hear other campers, making it feel peaceful and secluded."
Multiple site options: Dispersed sites along roads provide various camping experiences depending on vehicle capability. "The campsites are pretty close to the road and it was very busy. If you can't find one here at this pin, keep driving. There are a lot at the base of the dam," shares a visitor to Homestake Reservoir Rd Milemarker 3.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain air and minimal light pollution create exceptional night sky viewing. "The best part about the site were the stars at night. I saw multiple shooting stars," mentions a camper who stayed in the area.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. "The road was REALLY rough. One portion looked like someone had just run around digging random holes in the road," reports a camper at Red Sandstone, while adding "once you got past the road, it was everything you'd want in a primitive site."
Fire restrictions: Fire bans frequently occur during dry periods. A reviewer at McCullough Gulch Designated Dispersed Camping advises: "Check Summit County website before lighting a fire. When dry, fires are restricted and carry a hefty fine."
Weekend crowds: Sites fill quickly on summer weekends, especially those closest to trailheads. "We arrived here on a Friday afternoon in late August and were pleasantly surprised to find several spots still available, even later in the day," notes one fortunate camper at Boreas Pass.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near water features: Streams provide both water sources and entertainment for children. "Nice little creek and a couple fire pits already there made for the perfect night," shares a visitor to Red Sandstone primitive dispersed camping.
Prepare for insects: Bug protection is essential, particularly in early summer. "SO MANY MOSQUITOS," warns a camper at Red Sandstone, while another at Shrine Pass Road Dispersed Camping mentions mosquitoes were problematic in June and July but less so in August and September.
Consider accessibility needs: Some areas offer accessible options. A visitor to Eagle-Holy Cross Ranger District noted: "A highlight of our camping trip at Shrine Pass was walking along the short nature trail to the Mount of the Holy Cross overlook at 'Julia's Deck'. This desk not only offers wonderful views, but is totally wheelchair accessible."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations for larger vehicles: Many dispersed sites accommodate small trailers but have tight access. At McCullough Gulch, a camper explains: "Pulling 15' teardrop trailer with AWD SUV. Campsite road is a rough rock road about 100m long. A large RV or trailer might be able to just pull in to an area straight down road, but it would be facing the wrong direction and backing out would be challenging."
Turn-around space: Many forest roads lack adequate turning space for trailers. "Not Van-Friendly. If you are in a tent, these may provide some great options... Even with our lifted AWD van, there were sites we didn't want to drive up to," reports a visitor to McCullough Gulch.
Site availability timing: Arriving mid-week significantly improves chances of finding suitable RV sites. "Nice quick stay outside of Breckenridge. Pullouts are pretty tight so best for vans type camping. Maybe larger sites further up the mountain," notes a van camper who visited Boreas Pass.
