Best Dispersed Camping near Saguache, CO
Looking for dispersed camping near Saguache? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Saguache's most popular destinations.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Saguache, CO (66)
1. Sacred White Shell Mountain
Blanca, Colorado53 Reviews•137 Photos•940 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
2. Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
Poncha Springs, Colorado14 Reviews•21 Photos•391 Saves- Electric Hookups
- Dispersed
- Market
- Firewood Available
- Drinking Water
3. Natural Arch Dispersed Site
Del Norte, Colorado6 Reviews•22 Photos•130 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
4. Marshall Pass
Poncha Springs, Colorado6 Reviews•25 Photos•199 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
5. Road 240 - Dispersed
Monarch, Colorado9 Reviews•51 Photos•576 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
6. Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping
Poncha Springs, Colorado9 Reviews•44 Photos•556 SavesDispersed camping at the base of Mount Shavano outside Salida, CO.
WARNING! Hikers descending from Tabequache should not descend into McCoy Gulch! This is a dangerous route and a number of climbers have been injured or killed.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
7. Cotton Creek Trailhead
Crestone, Colorado2 Reviews•9 Photos•78 SavesThe Cotton Creek Trail is 13.1 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 962 and ends at Forest Trail #745. Trail is well marked and maintained. It follow the creek through a rugged, steep canyon and diverse scenery, with views of high peaks and many beautiful wildflowers in season. Some stream crossings can be tricky if water level is high. Attractions are fishing in creeks and lakes, and many good campsites. Teacup Lake presents an opportunity for primitive route finding.
The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Dispersed Camping, and Wildflower Viewing
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
8. The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park
Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, Colorado8 Reviews•50 Photos•338 SavesExplore any part of the 30 square mile dunefield you wish; there are no designated trails in the sand. A dunes-accessible wheelchair is available for free loan at the Visitor Center. Summer air temperatures are pleasant at this high elevation, but during afternoon hours the sand surface can reach 150F degrees, and dangerous thunderstorms can develop. Plan to hike the dunes in early morning or evening to avoid heat exhaustion, burned feet, or fatal lightning strikes.
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Market
- Firewood Available
9. Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
Nathrop, Colorado13 Reviews•46 Photos•559 SavesDon't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".
Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.
Please observe the following requirements when dispersed camping:
In some areas, dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers where posted. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites. BEARS and other wildlife When you go to the mountains and forest, you are in bear county. Do not leave ANY food, trash or other animal attractant unattended. Store all food and trash securely and pack out what you pack in. Failing to do so can result in a fine. Also be aware that; where not otherwise restricted, camping or leaving camping equipment at any location more than 14 days within a continuous 30 day period, and/or occupying any campsite within three miles of any prior camping or equipment location for a combined total of more than 28 days within any continuous 60 day period, is prohibited. Also, leaving camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours is not allowed. In addition; discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge. Plan your trip; phone ahead for restrictions and special regulations. Contact your local Ranger District office for more information.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
10. Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
Coaldale, Colorado3 Reviews•12 Photos•63 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Dispersed
Recent Dispersed Reviews in Saguache
216 Reviews of 66 Saguache Campgrounds
Paulina B.
Ranger
The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park
Wild and Untamed
Backcountry dispersed camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park offers an unforgettable and truly unique wilderness experience. If you’re seeking solitude and raw, untamed landscapes, this is the perfect spot to pitch your tent. With no designated sites, you have the freedom to find your ideal spot beyond the busy dunes and under an expansive star-filled sky.
The journey begins with a hike deep into the park’s rugged terrain, where you’re surrounded by towering sand dunes, alpine forests, and sweeping views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The lack of light pollution makes stargazing an absolute highlight—this is one of the best places to witness the Milky Way.
Keep in mind, this is true backcountry camping: no facilities, no water sources, and you must pack out all waste. Permits are required, so be sure to plan ahead. The environment can be challenging, with extreme temperature swings and strong winds that shift the sand beneath your feet. Good preparation and Leave No Trace practices are a must.
The rewards are well worth the effort. From sunrise hikes to the serene sound of nothing but wind across the dunes, this camping experience immerses you in nature’s raw beauty like few others can. It’s an adventure you’ll carry with you long after you’ve left the dunes behind.
Highly recommend skipping the tent and sleeping under the stars!
- Paulina B.Ranger
Forest Road 272 Dispersed Camping
Spacious Mountain Views with a Few Cow Visitors
Coordinates: 38.702830,-106.160280
This dispersed camping area offers stunning mountain views, spacious sites perfect for large groups, and easy access to excellent hiking trails. The September weather was ideal—cool and crisp without being too cold. While the site feels fairly secluded, beware of grazing cows from local ranches that wander through; be sure to secure food and belongings you don’t want damaged. Dog owners should be mindful of cleanup, as cow and dog waste can be an issue. There are two porta-potties onsite that are cleaned weekly, but campers must pack out all their trash to maintain the area’s natural beauty. Overall, it’s a fantastic spot for those looking for a peaceful escape with plenty of room to spread out.
Jordana P.
Traveler
Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping
Beautiful views and great privacy
I stayed here for 1 night of car camping and will definitely go back. I only went about 4 miles in on the rocky/rutted road (vs the 5 miles that the directions say) and thought the sites were great. I stayed at a big site on the right with beautiful views and a fire ring. Aside from hearing some (maybe - not sure) coyotes at night, I wasn't aware of any other wildlife. I was in a 4Runner and my friend that I was with was driving a Highlander. As another poster commented, I saw a small sedan in one of the sites but wouldn't drive way out in anything but an SUV or truck. I have AT&T and had 2 bars of service.
Rick T.Traveler
Beaver Creek Site 4
Nice
This spot is pretty open with room for a small rv or tent camping. Area Code It's a short drive up to Poage Lake at the top of the mountain and also a short drive to Beaver Creek Reservoir down the mountain.
Wendy S.
Scout
Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
Great views
Lots of open spots in mid October. Slow going on rocky and bumpy dirt road but Chevy express 2wd did fine. Low clearance vehicles take extreme caution. Stayed in loop A, also a B&C.
- CCaitlin C.Traveler
BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed
Great Spot
Was able to find a really nice open spot with amazing views of the mountains. Was big and spacious enough for me and my friend to camp in our vans. No one around for miles!
Grace R.Scout
BLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150
Not accessible
Gated off. Not accessible
Angela E.Traveler
Cotton Creek Trailhead
Beautiful and peaceful 💚
The sky is GORGEOUS. The road is very rocky & very rough, so you'll want to have decent clearance and be prepared to take it slow. I've never seen so many stars!
Marilyn S.Scout
Shallow Creek
Locked gate
Unfortunately the gates go this campground were locked!
- PPeterScout
Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead
Blocked off by private gate
Couldn’t get to trail head due to private gate blocking the road.
Levi S.Traveler
Sacred White Shell Mountain
Easy free camping
Got here on a Saturday night in September and found a spot right away. It had been raining for awhile too. No issue on the road with a kia sorento.
Will H.
Guide
Hanson's Mill Dispersed
busy
snow on ground 9/22/2024 no cell wet roads
- LLorene N.Guide
Cottonwood Lake Dispersed Camping
More than 5 stars!
We got a spot with amazing views just past Cottonwood Lake campground. It’s awesome here. There is a creek full of Brook Trout right across the street.
Kevin M.ScoutBLM Near Great Sand Dunes Hwy 150
Area Gated; No Access
Locked gate at indicated entry point.
- DDeitz B.Guide
Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
Lots of Options
A lot of stuff if the road. I was pulling a popup trailer so we didn’t go too far up the road just in case it got choppy. Seemed like there is quite a few spaces. Talked to a few people who had been staying there for around a week.
- DDeitz B.Guide
Sacred White Shell Mountain
Wide Open Spaces
Not much tree cover at a lot of these spots. Great location to be close enough to the dunes.
Was pretty windy and sandy while we were there
- SSofia T.Scout
Hendricks Flat
Beautiful little spot
My friend and I are roadtripping around a couple states and found this cute little camp site!! There is no running water or toilets but we didn’t mind :)) absolutely gorgeous place!
- JJeff C.Scout
Shavano Mountain
Amazing vistas
Amazing vistas! Big private sites. Tough road that gets progressively technical as you go farther up towards trail head.
- SStephenTraveler
Sacred White Shell Mountain
Good dispersed sites
Dispersed sites start about 1 mile east of Hwy 150. Very quiet! T-Mobile 5G at 4 bars.
- Emma H.Guide
Road 240 - Dispersed
mount shavano camping
believe the reviews when they say the road to get to these campsites are ROCKY. i was able to get there in my hyundai santa fe but got nervous a couple of times. despite this, we found a campsite that had a little waterfall and fast flowing creek next to it. it was the perfect little spot. got cold at night but it was to be expected. access to a lot of hiking and if you continue driving up the rocky road, you’ll get to billings lake which was gorgeous.
- JJason
Legend
Sacred White Shell Dispersed Camping
Peaceful BLM camping
Very easy access to several spots in the area. Can hike up the mountain.
W D.TravelerWild Cherry Creek Trailhead
Quiet camping and stars
Several good spots with fire pits right near the trailhead. A few bugs in late August but nothing terrible. Very quiet except for the sound of the rushing creek. Verizon cell service was between 1 and 3 bars LTE depending on your line of sight to the tower. Road in is rougher towards the end but definitely doable in any SUV
- mmichelle H.Traveler
Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
great spot!
This is a terrific find! level, shaded, right by nice size creek. perfect for exploring and quiet. we were in tent but saw several largeRV. some traffic but never heard another person. were a few spots right next to us but we were the only ones there . several a long road though nicely spaced out. small gas station close for gas and ice if needed otherwise about 45 min for supplies. ark river couple miles great spot to enjoy also rafting close etc.stayed couple extra days we just enjoyed the quiet. was also very clean and maintained. will definitely be back!
AllenScoutBeaver Creek Site 4
Cliff high exposure
No water sources within walking distance. The lake is aways away. It's a pull off on the dirt road that's big enough to fit a small camper on the side of a cliff with high exposure. No cover for thunderstorms.
- Will H.Guide
Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping
Great Dog camping trip
Gorgeous place lots of trails no bugs .nice Creek
- Amy L.Guide
Lake Deweese state wildlife area
Fine for a night
The directions from this app didn’t exactly take me to the campsites. The campsites are along Lake Deweese Rd at the NE end of the reservoir. There are several sites all in very close proximity. There is virtually no privacy from neighbors but it worked from me for a night. It looked like some campers may be permanently occupying the sites.
- AAshley W.Traveler
Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
Good spot if you get there early
There’s plenty of spots off the main road, but seems like you need to get there early. We showed up around 6 pm. The road does get pretty rough eventually, and we didn’t trust our minivan going through the “unmaintained” section, we turned around and were able to find a connecting side road that had plenty of open space out there. When entering the road initially, the side road would be about half way up to your left. Pretty close to Great Sand Dunes National Park, so we were happy with this location! Nice mountain view.
Guide to Saguache
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Saguache, Colorado, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Enjoy the freedom of choosing your own spot while exploring the stunning landscapes and outdoor activities the area has to offer.
ATV Adventures while free camping near Saguache
- Experience thrilling ATV trails right from your site at Marshall Pass, which offers easy access to numerous off-road paths.
- The area around Poncha Pass Dispersed is known for its extensive network of trails, perfect for both ATV enthusiasts and those looking to explore the rugged terrain.
- Campers at Natural Arch Dispersed Site can enjoy the tranquility of the mountains while having access to nearby trails for ATV riding.
Tips for free and dispersed camping near Saguache, Colorado
- Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during weekends, as popular areas like Marshall Pass can fill up quickly.
- Be prepared for primitive conditions; sites like Hayden Creek Roadside Camp offer no amenities, so bring your own supplies and pack out what you pack in.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife and enjoy the peaceful surroundings at Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead, where you can camp near a rushing creek.
Scenic Views for dispersed campers
- The breathtaking scenery at Natural Arch Dispersed Site provides a perfect backdrop for stargazing and enjoying the quiet of nature.
- Campers at Cotton Creek Trailhead can take in stunning mountain views and enjoy the serenity of the area, especially at night when the stars are most visible.
- The picturesque landscapes surrounding Silver Creek on Country Road 47 make it an ideal spot for those looking to capture the beauty of Colorado's wilderness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Saguache, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Saguache, CO is Sacred White Shell Mountain with a 4.5-star rating from 53 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Saguache, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 66 dispersed camping locations near Saguache, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.