Tent campsites near Sargents, Colorado sit at elevations between 8,500 and 10,000 feet, creating cool summer nights even when daytime temperatures reach the 70s. Located within the Gunnison National Forest, these camping areas feature primarily lodgepole pine and aspen groves. Most access roads become impassable until late May due to snowmelt runoff, with camping season typically running from June through early October depending on elevation.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: The trail from Road 240 - Dispersed leads to multiple high-elevation lakes for day hiking. "If you keep driving down the road, you will end up at a stunning alpine lake basin that offers plenty of hiking," notes Isabelle K., who recommends high-clearance vehicles for accessing these trailheads.
Visit nearby mining areas: Several abandoned mining sites can be accessed via forest roads from camping areas. "We went all the way up to the mines in 2wd," reports Holly C., who visited the historic mining district near Road 240, though recommends using 4x4 on the return trip "just to save the brakes."
Waterfall exploration: Multiple camping areas feature nearby waterfalls for swimming and photography. Katie M. describes a specific site: "As soon as the road gets super rocky, you'll go up a short hill that curves right and the campsite is on the right before you take a left up another hill... The waterfall was awesome to camp by."
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Tent sites along creeks provide natural white noise and water access. At Fooses Creek Dispersed Camping, Lindsay R. reports, "The creek was directly behind us and made beautiful sounds all night. The camping spots are massive. We had room for our 10 person tent, mini van, and PLENTY of room to spare."
Secluded forest spots: Campers appreciate private sites nestled among trees. Sydney C. notes that along Road 240, "it's next to the water, the trees are good and healthy, near lots of hiking trails... I spent 4 nights here and will 100000% be back."
Accessibility to towns: Multiple camping areas provide easy access to nearby towns. At Pitkin Campground, Hunter L. appreciates that "its proximity to Pitkin was ideal," while noting the site was "manicured and level," making it "a great place to stop for the night or for longer stays."
What you should know
Roads deteriorate during rain: Access roads can become challenging after precipitation. At Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping, Abby M. warns, "The roads get extremely muddy whenever there is rain or snow so be prepared to have four-wheel-drive or chains on your tires if you'll be there during storms or snow."
Cell service varies by location: Mobile reception depends heavily on specific camping areas and carriers. At Browns Creek, Lise F. notes the area has "no facilities" but visitors can find "one bathroom near the Brown's Creek trailhead about 2 miles away."
Wildlife encounters: Bears and other wildlife are active in the area. Heather from North Cottonwood reports, "It is bear country and had a visit from a momma and baby bear the first night of our stay so be prepared for visits."
Seasonal closures: Many camping areas remain snow-covered into late spring. Wild Berries B. attempted to access Road 240 in April but found "it is closed due to snow, yet to be melted. This was on April 10."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites for facilities: Families with younger children may prefer campgrounds with basic amenities. North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping offers a balance of convenience and wilderness. Tommie J. describes it as "beautiful, primitive, remote, and convenient" with sites featuring "pines and aspens" and "near a stream that provided us beautiful sounds to fall asleep to."
Select sites away from busy trailheads: On popular hiking weekends, avoid camping directly at trailheads. Angelique C. warns, "Arrived later the day on a holiday weekend... Last spot on the road in near the trailhead was still pretty wide open... By morning woke up to our campsite in a parking lot! This trailhead is the start to mt. Harvard 14er!"
Look for natural features: Kids appreciate water features and exploration opportunities. Luke R. found North Cottonwood ideal for a family trip: "Drove down the road and took a hike with the dogs. Great trail. Rained a little but it was not a big deal."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Many dispersed camping areas have limited space for larger RVs. At Browns Canyon Dispersed, Laura H. notes it's "Great for group RV Camping" and "Big Rig friendly, there are some tighter turns but they weren't the worst we've made it through. There are lots of wide open areas and single camping spots."
Arrive early for level spots: Finding sufficiently flat areas for RVs requires planning. Kevin H. tried camping at Road 240 but found, "Awesome spot if you have a small vehicle and small tent. We have a silverado and a large tent for our family of four. There are a few larger spots but those were already taken."
Consider accessibility during wet conditions: RVers should check weather forecasts before committing to forest roads. Louise S. found Browns Creek South accommodating: "We have a 24' RV and out spot, buried in the tall pines, was an easy in and out. Very quite with only one other camper you could see in the far distance thru the trees."
