Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, San Juan National Forest, CO has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near San Juan National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.
"Could do it in a non 4wd non high clearance, but wouldn’t recommend beyond the 4.5 mark."
"Madden Peak dispersed camping is a fantastic option for those seeking a peaceful and scenic camping experience near Mesa Verde National Park, Cortez, and Durango."
"Drive on million dollar HWY - read reviews below. Do not take the weird route it tried to take you to.
Made it in a 2WD camper van. You’ll be fine just take it slow."
"Dispersed camping, no amenities, but beautiful location. Little streams running nearby, wildlife viewing, the drive up the slope is beautiful as well"
"We went up the mountain and found a beautiful pond to camp next to. There was no one that far up there. Bring bug spray there are so many mosquitos in this area!"
"We camped right at the Hermosa creek trail head next to the creek. It was amazing mid June!"
"Perfect lake views, snow capped mountain tops, and wildflowers for days."
"You need 4x4 and high clearance vehicle and good tires."
"FF a year (Father's Day weekend), we stopped by to check capacity on a Saturday night at 6pm and found the opposite with only 4 of 6 tent sites taken and plenty of parking for small RV/van camping."
"Pulled into this area late one evening on a fall camping trip across Colorado. Totally expected it to be full but there were a couple areas left to setup thankfully."
"We got to town late and our preferred spots were all taken, so we came here as a backup. The spots are all right off of the road and easy to get to. The views aren’t much, but they’re good spots."
"Big spaces easy access for larger campers very peaceful"
"We were heading west and found this spot off the highway. Far enough off the highway and light traffic that would couldn’t hear cars that much.
Fish were JUMPING so get your fly rods ready!"
" one of the best spots for me dispersed camping. lots of room, and many secluded spots, only a 4-minute hike to the Delores River for fishing."
"These dispersed campsites were recommended to us and they did not disappoint! Secluded dry camping spots with great views of the monuments."
"This is a good free spot near Mesa Verde, but if it is closed check out the many BLM spots on road 316 off the highway, barely West of Target Tree Campground slightly East of Mancos."
"When you first pull in you will see several dispersed sites up and to your right. These are nice, but they fill up quickly."
"Lodging isn’t always easy to find in the Telluride area especially if you find yourself passing through as we were but this is an absolutely amazing free camp spot 11 miles out of town."
"We probably saw upwards of 15 (Probably more) dispersed camping spots until you hit hermosa camping loup where a lot of people bike."
LegendDispersed camping along the South Mineral Creek. This is dry camping with a vault toilet- no hook ups. This is popular with RV’ers and OHV’ers as it is free. The limit is the usual fourteen days. Some “sites” have fire pits, and there are a few picnic tables scattered about. There are a few sites right on the water. Further back in at some larger sites that could accommodate small rvs. The plus is the free camping right on the “river”. The minus is that the road to the forest service campground and the Ice Lake trailhead is very close, very busy, and very dusty.
LegendWhen you first pull in you will see several dispersed sites up and to your right. These are nice, but they fill up quickly. Instead, take a left onto Galloping Goose Trailhead road and pick one of the sites that back up to trees and have gray Mountain View’s. Be careful though as further down the road it becomes private property with no camping. Also, watch for winds if you want a fire. This is dispersed, so no toilet (tho there is one across the highway at the entrance) and no picnic tables. Fire rings made of stacked rocks mark sites. Also, be bear aware and keep your food inside your locked car.
LegendSmall rough road FREE dispersed area. 7 day camping limit. Lake is a pothole weedy area not really good for floating IMO..go to the public access at the much larger Trout Lake. Nine designated campsites are all walk in tent sites. One small vault toilet, no dumpsters or water. NO TTs allowed as NO turnaround. No big RVs either. Access road is rough rocky.
TravelerThis is a beautiful area and many camp sites at the bottom by the creek. However during 4th of July it was packed. We went up the mountain and found a beautiful pond to camp next to. There was no one that far up there. Bring bug spray there are so many mosquitos in this area! Must have a high clearance & 4 wheel drive vehicle to access the top of the mountain.
ScoutThere is not a ton of campsites once you get up here. But there are a handful that have absolutely amazing views . Some of the best in Colorado. I had good cell service too (working remotely). There are some larger dispersed campgrounds near the top trailhead that are more in the woods. Road from Ridgeway was well maintained but definitely a little rocky getting closer to the top of the road. Road gets washed out in the rain so heads up. But just go slow if you’re in a lower clearance vehicle and you’ll be fine if it’s dry.
https://www.colorado.com/articles/colorado-hidden-gem-last-dollar-road
GuideOnly free place near Durango in the winter. We called and asked the BLM & Forest Service. Easy access, lots of space. Bumpy access road and highway noise.
RangerBlue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed Camping, located near Mount Sneffels in Colorado, offers an incredibly remote and breathtaking camping experience. If you're looking to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in pristine wilderness, this spot is ideal. The campsites are dispersed along the trailhead, offering peace and solitude with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and alpine lakes.
The beauty of this dispersed camping area is its complete immersion in nature. With no designated campsites or amenities, you get to choose your own perfect spot in the forest, whether it’s near the rushing creek or with views of the towering mountains. This is truly a wilderness experience, so you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient—bring your own water, food, and a solid plan for waste disposal.
The Blue Lakes Trailhead offers some of Colorado’s most scenic hiking, including access to the famous Blue Lakes and a challenging ascent of Mount Sneffels. The hike itself rewards adventurers with awe-inspiring views of alpine lakes, wildflowers, and rugged mountain terrain. It’s perfect for those seeking an immersive backcountry experience.
One downside of this dispersed camping is that the road leading to the trailhead is rough, so it’s best suited for high-clearance vehicles, and be prepared for the possibility of unpredictable weather, as storms can roll in quickly in the mountains.
Overall, Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed Camping is an incredible option for experienced campers looking to enjoy the wild beauty of Colorado’s high country. It’s remote, peaceful, and surrounded by some of the most stunning scenery in the state.
ScoutA site with amazing views that were all blocked by large RVs and campers, no privacy for tent camping or between sites, it was also very crowded by early morning. 4WD and high clearance is needed to continue on Last Dollar Rd if you’re hoping to find more dispersed camping up the mountain.
ScoutBeautiful and secluded but a rough drive. Most definitely need a high clearance vehicle. We weren't able to make it to the top because there is a wash out in one area we could not clear with our 4Runner. But we did find an amazing spot anyway.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near San Juan National Forest in Colorado, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Enjoy the freedom of choosing your own spot while surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best dispersed camping locations in San Juan National Forest?
San Juan National Forest offers exceptional dispersed camping options with stunning mountain views. Last Dollar Road features some of Colorado's most breathtaking vistas with several sites near the top trailhead in wooded areas. For a waterside experience, Hermosa Creek Trailhead - Dispersed Camping provides beautiful sites along the creek, though it can get crowded during holidays. Other noteworthy options include Box Factory Park near Mt. Sneffels wilderness (requires high clearance vehicle), Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed with remote campsites, and Lizard Head Pass about 11 miles from Telluride. When exploring these areas, arrive early during peak season as the most desirable sites fill quickly, and always come prepared with everything you need as facilities are minimal.
Do you need a permit for dispersed camping in San Juan National Forest?
No permit is required for dispersed camping in San Juan National Forest, but you must follow specific regulations. Most dispersed areas like Anvil Dispersed Campground along South Mineral Creek have a 14-day stay limit. Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area enforces a shorter 7-day limit. While camping is free, you must practice Leave No Trace principles, use existing fire rings where available, and camp at least 100 feet from water sources. Some areas have seasonal closures or access restrictions, especially during winter or fire season. Vehicles must stay on designated roads and established sites. Always check the San Juan National Forest website or contact a ranger station for current regulations before your trip, as rules may change seasonally.
What is the best time of year for dispersed camping in the San Juan Mountains?
The prime season for dispersed camping in the San Juan Mountains is mid-June through early September when higher elevations become accessible and weather conditions are most favorable. Blue Lakes Trailhead Dispersed offers an ideal summer experience when wildflowers bloom and hiking trails are fully accessible. For winter camping options, Cherry Creek Gravel Lot near Durango remains accessible year-round. Early summer can bring heavy mosquito activity, particularly at creek-side locations, so pack plenty of bug spray. Fall offers spectacular foliage and fewer crowds but brings colder nights. Weather changes rapidly in the mountains regardless of season, so always check road conditions and weather forecasts before heading out, and prepare for dramatic temperature swings between day and night.
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