Best Dispersed Camping near Saguache, CO

Several free dispersed camping sites surround Saguache, Colorado in the Rio Grande National Forest and nearby BLM lands. Natural Arch Dispersed Site provides multiple established campsites with fire rings approximately 3 miles off the main highway. The dirt access road is described as "normal" in some reviews but "in really rough shape" in others, suggesting high-clearance vehicles may be necessary during certain seasons. The site offers mountain views, interesting rock formations, and exceptional stargazing opportunities.

Cotton Creek Trailhead and Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead provide additional dispersed options, though both require navigating rocky, rough roads that demand slow travel. Reviews note that Cotton Creek has "at least ten dispersed spots off the road" with fire rings, some located alongside a creek. Marshall Pass Dispersed camping areas can be accessed via Marshall Pass Road, with sites interspersed regularly after passing through initial private property. These areas accommodate both tents and small RVs, with reviewers noting "you'll have service if you have Verizon but not any other network." All sites lack facilities, requiring visitors to pack in water and pack out waste.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Saguache, Colorado (73)

    1. Russell Lake Wildlife Refuge

    3 Reviews
    Saguache, CO
    10 miles

    "Flat parking lot with trash bins and bathrooms. Beautiful view! 55 minutes to the Great Sand Dunes."

    2. Natural Arch Dispersed Site

    8 Reviews
    Del Norte, CO
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 657-3321

    "The road wasn’t rough just a normal dirt road But this was so pretty and quiet."

    "We didn't make it all the way to the arch because that "road" was mostly giant rocks and we were renting our campervan. We drove past that turn and found a spot at 10:30pm."

    3. Cotton Creek Trailhead

    3 Reviews
    Crestone, CO
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 657-3321

    "Do not route via Apple Maps, it will try to take you through a private road. Don’t follow the “major trail” signs, just find the side road this spot is on and drive up and you’ll find it."

    "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!"

    4. Marshall Pass

    7 Reviews
    Poncha Springs, CO
    23 miles
    Website

    "There were sites you could pull into off of the road, but we car camped along the side since we were leaving early. Finding a spot can be difficult, but the views and location are nice."

    "Awesome group sites and very easy access to lake!"

    5. Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead

    3 Reviews
    Crestone, CO
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 657-3321

    "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."

    6. Ventana Arch Dispersed Camp

    3 Reviews
    Del Norte, CO
    23 miles

    "Was going to stop at the dispersed camping which is before this one. Decided to continue on and take my chances. So glad I did. Beautiful scenery, so quiet. It’s a mental escape."

    7. Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area

    16 Reviews
    Poncha Springs, CO
    32 miles
    Website

    "If you ever been to any of the BLM camping locations around Salida, Mt. Shavano is not anything different."

    "Totally Boondocking, no hookups, but close to town to refill water and such."

    8. Sacred White Shell Mountain

    54 Reviews
    Blanca, CO
    49 miles
    Website

    "This is BLM land that's free to camp on for up to 14 days every 45 days. The camp sites are just off a dirt road that leads to the trailhead for hiking to Blanca Peak."

    "We spent two nights here, in our camper van, while visiting the national park. It’s proximity is so great."

    9. Hayden Creek Roadside Camp

    4 Reviews
    Coaldale, CO
    24 miles

    "Quite a few flat tent spots right by the creek although there are boulders from preventing you from driving too far into the woods."

    "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"

    10. Marshall Pass Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Poncha Springs, CO
    23 miles

    "Turn off Hwy 285 at “Mears Junction” and head up Marshall Pass Rd."

    "Road is a tad washboarded/rocky but nothing hard to traverse, even if you're only driving a small suv. You go through private property at first but then it opens up to public access."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Saguache, CO

278 Reviews of 73 Saguache Campgrounds


  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 15, 2024

    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!

  • Jason L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2019

    Sacred White Shell Mountain

    Boondocking in the sun

    This is BLM land that's free to camp on for up to 14 days every 45 days. The camp sites are just off a dirt road that leads to the trailhead for hiking to Blanca Peak. The road gets pretty rough the further up you get, but there are plenty of large camp sites on the way up the mountain, some you'd have to home to if you decide to go to Blanca Peak. It's a fairly busy place as off-road vehicles and horse back riding are popular here. Beautiful views of the San Luis Valley, Great Sand Dunes National Park, and Mt. Blanca. Definitely worth checking out of you're in the area. No shade or amenities, so bring everything you need with you and as always, leave no trace.

  • Lise F.
    Apr. 8, 2021

    Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping

    Space and Views!!

    We camped here for 4 nights in August 2020. It was so peaceful. Big wide dispersed camping spaces. Plenty of nice hiking - especially Brown's Creek area. Great location with easy drive to Buena Vista & Salida & Mt. Princeton. The only drawback was, well, August dryness & no water nearby. This was our first dispersed camping experience and we realize no facilities. There is one bathroom near the Brown's Creek trailhead about 2 miles away from where we camped, but we had a camper. Also, no picnic tables at all. AND cows roam freely throughout the area - drive slowly & respect them - listen for moos & coyote howls. Great bird-watching too. We enjoyed it so much!!

  • Aliza  N.
    May. 19, 2022

    Sacred White Shell Mountain

    Super close to Great Sand Dunes

    We spent two nights here, in our camper van, while visiting the national park. It’s proximity is so great. The area is easy to find, big and open and nearly all up the very upper parts are navigable by a regular car. There are some upper parts that could require 4WD and high clearance. Our only complaints were how dusty is was and that there really were no trees so potentially not much privacy depending whom is camping around you. If you don’t have a bathroom….this could also be an issue. Not much in the way of tree cover if you are going in the wilderness.
    We chose sites on the north side of the area, closer to the park and it seemed more private.

  • Silouan A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 27, 2025

    Marshall Pass Dispersed

    Dispersed camping spots with amazing views

    Turn off Hwy 285 at “Mears Junction” and head up Marshall Pass Rd. The first few miles are through private property, but then it opens up into the National Forest, with dispersed campsites interspersed regularly along the roads. There are easy camper friendly spots, and tent spots, as well as some areas where a group could be easily accommodated. The views are fantastic, there are numerous trailheads, and Poncha Creek and other seasonal creeks are running beautifully.

  • Steve & Ashley  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2019

    Marshall Pass

    ATV Dispersed Camping

    This site is on Marshall Pass Road off of highway 285. The dispersed sites are near the intersection of Marshall Pass Road and Forest Service Rod 200. This intersection at the base off the access road up to Ohaver Lake Campground. The primitive sites are spread along the creek just off the Forest Service Road. Like many dispersed camps, the sites only have flat cleared areas with fire pits and no other amenities. The area is a great spot for ATV Riders to trailer into area as well as horse trailers to park and access the mountain roads and trails. The location is not the best for scenery and can get busy in the summer especially on weekends since it’s so close to the highway and Salida, Colorado.

  • S
    May. 8, 2021

    Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area

    Lots of sites and beautiful mountain views.

    If you ever been to any of the BLM camping locations around Salida, Mt. Shavano is not anything different. Some long dirt roads will lead you to multiple sites, though some of them are closer to people than I would want to be..

    There is no water source, no trash, bathrooms, and it would be difficult to get a spot with an RV or trailer at this location. I did have decent cell service (AT&T).

    One unfortunate thing I've noticed there was that it could be used as a dumpsite for illegal poachers. I saw numerous locations which had deer bones left but no head, as well as the area where presence of the animals sex was missing. I am debating reporting this to Colorado Parks and Wildlife as well as BLM to investigate.

    Overall my stay was pleasant. There was still snow in the forecast at the end of the month of April when I was there. There was quite a few people there for a Tuesday, which was quite odd but I guess it's a popular area. Some of the residents looked more permanent, but I couldn't tell since I was just there for one night.

  • Isabelle K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2021

    Road 240 - Dispersed

    A hidden paradise

    This spot is one of the best kept secrets for dispersed camping in Colorado. The road has plenty of camping spots all the way up to the lake. Most spots are wooded and offer plenty of shade. We were lucky enough to end up right along the river. If you keep driving down the road, you will end up at a stunning alpine lake basin that offers plenty of hiking. High clearance vehicle is necessary to get down this road.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Fooses Creek Dispersed Camping

    Great overnight for leaf peeping

    Very serene and beautiful stop. The road has alot of uneven terrain with some boulders. I would recommend 4WD & higher clearance - not for your standard sedan. Sites are spread apart and along the creek & somewhat level. The road in is a single lane so be kind & patient. Really beautiful place to boondock. No problems getting there in my 4x4 sprinter van.


Guide to Saguache

Dispersed camping near Saguache, Colorado offers high-altitude camping opportunities with elevations ranging from 7,500 to 9,000 feet throughout the surrounding national forest and public lands. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during daytime hours while dropping to 40-50°F at night. The area experiences frequent afternoon thunderstorms during July and August, making morning activities preferable during peak summer months.

What to do

Stargazing after sunset: At Sacred White Shell Mountain, the dark skies provide exceptional viewing conditions. "The quietest place I've been. No insects, no wind, no birds.. just you and the milky way!" noted Tilda P. The lack of light pollution makes this area ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.

Creek exploration: Hayden Creek Roadside Camp offers access to flowing water perfect for wading and splashing. "The creek is nice and the sounds was much louder then we anticipated, which was good. In June 2024 it is really flowing," reported Kelly. The sites are positioned close enough to hear the water throughout the night.

ATV trail riding: The roads surrounding Marshall Pass Dispersed connect to extensive trail networks. "We love camping here with our four wheelers. Tons of beautiful trails with lots to see! Also close to O'Haver lake for some fishing," shared Alicia S. Many sites allow direct trail access without needing to transport vehicles.

What campers like

Reliable cell service: Coverage varies significantly by carrier throughout the region. At Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area, "We had full service on t-mobile and Verizon," according to Taylor B. This makes the area suitable for remote workers needing connectivity.

Quick access from highways: Many dispersed sites can be reached within minutes from main roads. "Smooth dirt road with large spots and smaller spots right off the road. Perfect for when all the other nearby campgrounds are full," explained Inka K. about Sacred White Shell Mountain. This accessibility makes the area convenient for last-minute camping trips.

Diverse campsite options: The region offers everything from roadside pull-offs to more remote experiences. "There are at least ten dispersed spots off the road, CC64. They are large spots with fire rings. Three of them are on the creek," wrote Stacey F. about Cotton Creek Trailhead. Sites range from open meadows to partially wooded areas.

What you should know

Road conditions vary seasonally: Access roads deteriorate quickly after rain or snow. "The road is washboard sand and dirt but overall is not bad to drive down, especially if you go slow," noted Meandering Life at Sacred White Shell Mountain. After storms, some roads require more clearance even for normally accessible sites.

Private property boundaries: Some routes pass through private lands before reaching public camping areas. "You go through private property at first but then it opens up to public access," Ryan S. explained about Marshall Pass Dispersed. Watch for signage and respect property boundaries when accessing sites.

Limited shade coverage: Most sites lack natural protection from sun and elements. "No trees or any obstructions on any of the pullouts. Perfect for solar, but also no protection from wind and blowing sand," warned Meandering Life. Bring canopies or shelters, particularly during summer months.

Tips for camping with families

Quieter weekday visits: Weekend traffic significantly increases, especially during summer months. "The area gets busy on the weekend, but during the week it slows down. Everyone was respectful and enjoyed the quiet," reported a visitor to Sacred White Shell Mountain. Tuesday through Thursday typically offers the most solitude.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites provide chances to observe local fauna. "We saw Bats, Nighthawks, Turkey Vultures, Coyotes, and Deer," shared Sheridan B. from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area. Morning and evening hours offer the best viewing times.

Creek-adjacent sites for children: Sites near water provide natural entertainment for kids. "Camp right off the river and have privacy. Absolutely beautiful area," reported Kyli H. about Hayden Creek Roadside Camp. The flowing water creates both recreational opportunities and pleasant background noise.

Tips from RVers

Designated pull-outs: Many areas have specific spots that accommodate larger vehicles. "There are easy camper friendly spots, and tent spots, as well as some areas where a group could be easily accommodated," noted Silouan A. at Marshall Pass Dispersed. These designated areas typically have more level ground and easier access.

Leveling challenges: Bring sufficient blocking materials as most sites require adjustment. "Most everyone else needed blocks, but they didn't seem to have much problem leveling," observed Meandering Life at Sacred White Shell Mountain. The terrain throughout the region tends to be uneven, particularly at higher elevations.

Wind protection considerations: Position RVs strategically to block prevailing winds. "All was well until the wind came up suddenly and we were in a brief windstorm with sand all in our trailer," cautioned David W. Parking with the narrower end of your vehicle facing the typical wind direction can reduce rocking and noise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any fees or permits required for dispersed camping in Saguache?

Most dispersed camping in Saguache County is free, but regulations vary by land management agency. On BLM land like Sacred White Shell Mountain, camping is free for up to 14 days in a 45-day period. Similarly, Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area follows typical BLM dispersed camping rules with no fees. For camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park backcountry, permits are required and can be obtained at the visitor center. While most dispersed sites don't require specific permits or reservations, always check current regulations with the managing agency (Forest Service, BLM, or National Park Service) before setting up camp, as rules may change seasonally.

Where can I find dispersed camping in Saguache County, Colorado?

Saguache County offers numerous dispersed camping opportunities. Marshall Pass Dispersed is accessible by turning off Highway 285 at Mears Junction and heading up Marshall Pass Road, with numerous sites spread along the roads after passing through private property. Road 240 - Dispersed is another excellent option with plenty of camping spots along the route leading up to a lake, many offering wooded areas for shade and some sites along the river. Other popular areas include the Medano Pass Primitive Road in Great Sand Dunes National Preserve, Sacred White Shell Mountain on BLM land, and Browns Creek South area which offers wide camping spaces with access to hiking trails.

What amenities or facilities are available at dispersed camping sites near Saguache?

Dispersed camping sites near Saguache are typically primitive with minimal to no amenities. Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping offers peaceful, wide spaces but lacks water sources, especially during dry months. Similarly, The Dunefield in Great Sand Dunes National Park provides a unique wilderness experience but has no designated sites or facilities. Most dispersed areas in the region don't provide trash service, restrooms, potable water, or hookups. You'll need to pack in all necessary supplies, including water, and pack out all waste. Some areas like Old Spanish Trail offer spacious areas for multiple vehicles with scenic views, but you should plan to be completely self-sufficient with all camping necessities.