Dispersed camping opportunities abound throughout Rio Grande National Forest, particularly at elevations between 7,000-9,500 feet across southwest Colorado. Free camping locations are distributed along forest service roads, many following river corridors that provide natural white noise and fishing access. Winter conditions typically close most dispersed sites from November through May, with gates opening once roads dry sufficiently from snowmelt.
What to do
Hiking to Rainbow Hot Springs: Access this natural hot spring via a 5-mile backpacking trail from West Fork Dispersed campground. "We drove past the reservable campground and found the second spot on the left empty (it has a sign that says 'god bless'). Site was perfect by all accounts except for being mosquito-y. Great access to the trailhead for rainbow hot springs, which we hiked the next day," reports April G.
Stargazing without light pollution: The open terrain at Forest Road 614 provides unobstructed night sky viewing. "Beautiful stars and very close to town. I wanted a spot while driving north from New Mexico and this was perfect. Sat right above town, it was an awesome little spot," notes Nora S. Sites along this road offer 360-degree mountain views with minimal tree cover.
Fishing accessible waters: Several camping areas provide direct river access for fishing. "Great spot! Lots of dispersed camping along the river. Fishing, hiking and swimming all right there. Great views of the Mountains. The star gazing at night was amazing," writes Michael W. about Del Norte Dispersed Camping.
What campers like
Riverside camping locations: The sound of flowing water ranks as a top feature for campers. "We arrived early and found a great site right on the river with lots of privacy. The area is nice and quiet overall. We came in on a Wednesday and left Friday so not too much traffic. We will definitely be back to this spot!" reports Jennifer L. about East Fork San Juan River.
Solitude and quiet: Many dispersed sites offer privacy despite their accessibility. "The quietest place I've been. No insects, no wind, no birds.. just you and the milky way!" notes Tilda P. about camping at Natural Arch Dispersed Site, located about 3 miles off the main highway.
Cost-free camping: Free camping near Rio Grande National Forest attracts budget-conscious travelers. "Just past West Fork Campground are some dispersed sites on 648. Look for the stone fire rings. Some sites are a bit bigger than others, no amenities other than the fire rings. Close to the SanJuan River," explains Annie C.
What you should know
Road quality varies significantly: Many free camping areas require navigating dirt roads of varying quality. "The road wasn't rough just a normal dirt road. But this was so pretty and quiet," reports Salem C. about Natural Arch. However, other reviewers note challenges: "We were trying to find a place to sleep for the night and this worked, but the road was in really rough shape. We had to take it very slowly."
Bug activity varies by location and season: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly near water sources in early summer. "Do you like mosquitos come here and enjoy the feast that come when the sun starts to set! We stayed here before and forgot how bad it was we turned around and left to go to a different spot down the road," warns Cheyanne G. about West Fork Dispersed.
Weather patterns change quickly: Mountain weather requires preparation. "We got a little weather while there, mixture of rain and light snow," reports Justin Edward V. about Beaver Creek Site 4. At most dispersed sites, there's no shelter from sudden storms.
Tips for camping with families
Select riverside sites for natural entertainment: Children enjoy water access at several locations. "Our kids tubed down the creek. Lots of ATV traffic, some bikes, but overall quiet," shares Kelly about East Fork San Juan River.
Look for sites with flat tent pads: Uneven ground makes for uncomfortable sleeping. "The ground is flat for a tent, but hard!" notes April G. about West Fork Dispersed. Bringing extra padding is recommended for rocky sites.
Consider wildlife education opportunities: Wildlife sightings enhance family camping experiences. "Waterfalls, atv trails for miles some novice some very experienced trails, hiking, creeks, fishing. Hands down my favorite CO spot. With kids or wanting some beauty this is hands down the best!" writes gretchen about East Fork San Juan River.
Tips from RVers
Scout appropriate sites for larger vehicles: Some dispersed camping areas accommodate RVs better than others. "We have a 35' 5th wheel and had no problems menivering the area. Nice lake with a parking lot at the end the turn around at if you wish to take the road all the way to the end," explains Mark B. about Pass Creek.
Solar power considerations: Open sites provide better solar charging opportunities. "We stayed for a few hours to solar charge. This is a great area that's near a few private ranches. The app mentioned a steep incline but we managed no issues with a 04 Toyota sienna FWD," shares Fernando C. about Forest Road 614.
Watch for uneven terrain: Many primitive sites lack leveling options. "I have AT&T and had no cell coverage at all," notes David about East Fork San Juan River, highlighting the importance of offline navigation and emergency preparations.
