Boreas Pass Road and Kirby Gulch offer dispersed camping options near Grant, Colorado at elevations between 9,000-10,000 feet. Most sites become accessible by late May, though some higher elevation areas may have snow through early June. Washboard roads and rock-strewn paths are common access challenges that require preparation.
What to do
Hiking the Colorado Trail sections: The Kenosha Pass area provides direct access to one of the most scenic portions of the Colorado Trail. "The trailhead for section 6 of the Colorado Trail is right next to the campgrounds so we checked out a portion while we were here and loved it," notes a camper at Kenosha Pass Campground.
Four-wheel drive adventures: Kirby Gulch offers progressive difficulty for off-road enthusiasts. "Past 35 or so it's a true 4x4 trail, only saw broncos/jeeps past this. Trail continues pretty far down, but opens up to 48 spots or so near the tree line," according to a visitor at Kirby Gulch.
Mine exploration: The Peru Creek area contains historical mining structures. "There is a super cool mine in the area that you can explore!" shares a reviewer at Peru Creek Designated Dispersed Camping.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The natural spacing between many sites allows for a sense of seclusion. At Bruno Gulch Dispersed, campers note that "plenty of spread out spots with trees. Spots near the stream are awesome, and plenty of great hiking trails from here/nearby."
Cooler temperatures: The high elevation provides relief from summer heat. One camper at Kirby Gulch noted, "Around 55 degrees at night, 10,000ft elevation."
Alpine wildflowers: Seasonal displays brighten the landscape from June through August. A visitor to Peru Creek mentioned "tons of tree cover, streams, trails, wild flowers etc."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most areas have no connectivity. "There is no Verizon service anywhere on the campgrounds," reports a Kenosha Pass camper.
High clearance vehicles recommended: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. At Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping, a visitor advises: "Road is fine for high clearance. But all of us with 4wD ask that you move over for us."
Water management: Natural sources require treatment. At Burning Bear Campground, "the well water is non-potable, but there is a waterfall down the road where you can get water to filter."
Early arrival essential: Competition for sites intensifies on weekends. "Got here Fourth of July last year and it was paaaaaacked by Thursday. Somehow got the LAST spot at the end of the road," reports a Kirby Gulch camper.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water access: Several campsites offer creek access for splashing. At Bruno Gulch, "the creek is a great place for kids to splash and play. When you first pull off Guanella Pass there is a great place to stop by the creek."
Traveler
