Best Dispersed Camping near San Juan National Forest

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.

Best Dispersed Sites Near San Juan National Forest (88)

    1. Madden Peak Road - Dispersed

    24 Reviews
    Mancos, CO
    15 miles
    Website

    "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."

    2. Hermosa Park Road Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Rico, CO
    9 miles

    "Dispersed camping, no amenities, but beautiful location. Little streams running nearby, wildlife viewing, the drive up the slope is beautiful as well"

    "Lots of big pull offs for dispersed camping. There is also a decommissioned forest service campsite on the north side about halfway in with tables and fire rings still."

    3. Hermosa Creek Trailhead - Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Rico, CO
    8 miles
    Website

    "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!"

    4. Alta Lakes Campground (Dispersed)

    38 Reviews
    Ophir, CO
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 327-4261

    "Perfect lake views, snow capped mountain tops, and wildflowers for days."

    "You need 4x4 and high clearance vehicle and good tires."

    5. Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area

    21 Reviews
    Ophir, CO
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 874-6600

    "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."

    6. Roche Gulch near Delores River

    2 Reviews
    Rico, CO
    8 miles

    "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."

    7. Forest Road 316 Roadside Camp

    8 Reviews
    Mancos, CO
    17 miles

    "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"

    8. Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    Ophir, CO
    19 miles

    "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."

    9. Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land)

    26 Reviews
    Mesa Verde National Park, CO
    27 miles

    "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."

    10. Hermosa Park Road 578 - Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Cascade, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 884-2512

    "We probably saw upwards of 15 (Probably more) dispersed camping spots until you hit hermosa camping loup where a lot of people bike."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near San Juan National Forest

319 Reviews of 88 San Juan National Forest Campgrounds



Guide to San Juan National Forest

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.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near San Juan National Forest

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby trails, with options like those found at Madden Peak Road - Dispersed, where you can explore the serene wilderness and spot wildlife such as deer and various bird species.
  • Fishing opportunities abound at locations like Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area, where anglers can catch brook trout in the nearby lake, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing day by the water.
  • For those seeking adventure, Hermosa Park Road Dispersed offers access to mountain biking and hiking trails, providing a thrilling way to experience the rugged terrain.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • Campers at Golden Horn Dispersed can enjoy breathtaking views just minutes from Silverton, with several sites located next to a peaceful stream that enhances the tranquil atmosphere.
  • The picturesque setting of Lizard Head Pass Dispersed Camping provides stunning mountain vistas, perfect for those who want to soak in the beauty of the Colorado landscape while enjoying a campfire under the stars.
  • For a more secluded experience, Sultan Dispersed offers great tree cover and views of Grand Turk Mountain, allowing campers to escape the hustle and bustle while still being conveniently close to the highway.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near San Juan National Forest, Colorado

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends, as places like Hermosa Creek Trailhead - Dispersed Camping can fill up quickly due to their popularity among campers and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; many dispersed camping areas, such as Cherry Creek Gravel Lot, do not have water or trash disposal facilities, so plan to pack out what you bring in.
  • Keep an eye on the weather and road conditions, particularly for sites like Missionary Ridge Road, where access may require a high-clearance vehicle, especially after rain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near San Juan National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near San Juan National Forest is Madden Peak Road - Dispersed with a 4.5-star rating from 24 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near San Juan National Forest?

TheDyrt.com has all 88 dispersed camping locations near San Juan National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.