Dispersed camping options near Redstone provide alternatives to established campgrounds in the White River National Forest. The area sits at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet with summer temperatures averaging 75°F during days and dropping to 40-45°F at night. Campers should note that cell service remains extremely limited across most camping areas, with consistent coverage only available in Carbondale.
What to do
Hiking near Crystal River: Multiple trails extend from Bogan Flats Campground, providing access to White River National Forest. "The location was convenient to 4x4 and hiking trails. The stars were beautiful," notes Bendee Z., who camped riverside.
Mountain biking on paved trails: From Carbondale-Crystal River KOA, riders can access extensive trail systems. "If you love to ride a bike this place is the best... The bike trail is right outside the camp ground and you can ride to Aspen or Glenwood," says Al, who spent two weeks at the KOA.
Off-roading to Crystal Mill: The rugged roads north of Redstone lead to historic sites. "Bogan Flats has it all... Near by Marble has trails for Hiking, Biking, ATV and 4X4. Dont miss Slow Grovin' for some great BBQ!" reports Mitch K. The Crystal Mill requires high-clearance 4WD vehicles or ATV rental.
What campers like
River access and wildlife: Many campsites near Redstone feature riverside locations. "We stayed at site #26, was right next to the roaring Crystal River. The views are spectacular and the entire area is gorgeous," shares Cindy S. about Bogan Flats Campground.
Distance between sites: Most campgrounds provide good separation between campers. "The sites are large and spaced out, which is great. The campground is beautiful to walk around and we loved exploring the area," explains Carrie R. about Redstone White River National Forest.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise. "The vault toilets were very clean and there is one flush toilet, located between Osgood and Allgeier," reports Lee D., who found the bear boxes at Redstone particularly useful during their September visit.
What you should know
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require traversing rough roads. At Avalanche Campground, "The drive to get into the actual grounds requires a bit of off roading including crossing a creek," warns Hayley O., recommending caution for those without AWD/4WD.
Weather patterns: Summer afternoons often bring thunderstorms. "Leaking tent seams, combined with 4 hours of thunder, lightning, wind, and rain had us re-considering our decision to camp," shares Campground Recon C., who experienced a storm at Lake Irwin Campground.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "We showed up late on a Saturday evening, so no surprise that a majority of the sites were full," notes Matt C. about Four Mile Road Dispersed camping area, highlighting the need for early arrival at first-come sites.
Tips for camping with families
River play spots: Crystal River offers cooling recreation for kids. "River access, no bugs, water, bathroom facilities, isolated spots surrounded by trees and close proximity to hayes waterfall and penny hot springs," recommends Carrie C. about Redstone Campground, though she cautions the river is "ice cold and very fast moving."
Kid-friendly hiking: Several trails accommodate young hikers. "Great basecamp to explore the area... There are also great challenging hikes. Next time may rent an ATV," suggests Rebeca H., who found Redstone Campground ideal for family activities.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many dog-friendly campgrounds near Redstone offer wildlife encounters. "I had a doe deer and her boyfriend show up before I even got my tent set up and squirrels and chipmunks were everywhere as were the hummingbirds," reports Tim K., whose experience at McClure Campground included hummingbirds investigating his red cap.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for hookups: Redstone Campground offers varying amenities across loops. "There are three sections to this campground: Osgood, Allgeier, and Mechau. Osgood and Allgeier have electric hookups; Mechau does not," explains Lee D., who appreciated their pull-through site with bear box.
Shared hookup challenges: Some sites have practical limitations. "The hookups were all in the back corner of the site, which only reached to one trailer in our site. We had no idea we would need double length power and water to reach the 2nd trailer," notes Carrie R., who encountered electrical issues at their double site.
Limited RV access: Not all dispersed camping areas accommodate larger vehicles. At Four Mile Road Dispersed camping, Matthew V. advises, "This is all primitive camping and heavily used by 4x4 ATVs. There are no facilities ie: Toilets, power, water or fire pits. The road was easy no need for high clearance or 4wheel drive."
