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Summer weekends fill the most accessible dispersed sites south of Sedalia faster than most campers expect, given the proximity to the Denver metro. Pike National Forest land in this stretch runs along State Highway 67 toward Deckers, with gravel forest roads branching off to primitive sites at no cost and no reservation requirement. Most sites are reachable in a standard passenger car when roads are dry. Deckers dispersed camping covers the heart of this zone further down the corridor where the options are more concentrated and the road conditions better documented by The Dyrt reviewers. No water, no restrooms, 14-day stay limit throughout. Fire restrictions are common in this stretch during dry spells from July onward. Check current restriction levels before arrival.
"So busy that we had to go in the middle of the week to get a spot, so plan ahead here and expect crowds. That being said, each spot is unique and we loved it."
"We stayed here a couple weekends in a row and we were able to try out some different spots and trails close to those spots. This free campground is perfect! "
"We only drove into the 30s and turned around to claim site 23. Only a few spots are across from one another or beside each other. Majority of the sites are spaced out which was really nice."
"A large number of established roadside dispersed camping spots to choose from. All spots have metal fire rings, so campfires are allowed even with Stage 1 fire restrictions in place."
"If you enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies, drive in dispersed camping and putting your off-roading skills to the test, this dispersed campsite is a must visit!"
"Not far from the monument exit on I-25. The road is rocky bumpy & rutty in many areas. In others its smooth. Yet suitable for 2wd vehicles. Some campsites have mobile data & many do not. "
"Most of the campsites are right next to a dirt road with little privacy. I went on a hike on the 4x4 road and there were so many more dope campsites.."
"Lots of shade in the morning at our spot. We were by a dirt road and did have a few vehicles drive by but not bad. There is bear scat, not old and not new, in the area but no wildlife was seen."
"Felt safe car camping as there was a thunderstorm. Beware of cows in the road as you enter the area, they’re kind if you are! Verizon cell coverage at the site I parked at was 1-3 bars."
"The first 3 are out in the open and then the remaining 5 are past the trailhead. Nice area for Starlink and solar and dog walks. It’s a burn site."
"We were going from direction Divide town using provided coordinates. All went fine until we ended up in a dead end road with private residence."
"Rough road getting there though"
"Rampart Range Road is the main dirt road that has plenty of smaller trails branching off of it to keep you busy exploring all summer."
"Tucked back in National Forest land."
"Only two designated spots with fire pits but a large area for a group or a big rig with turnaround room. Beautiful views with shade And not much road noise and decent Cell phone reception"
"A Long rocky and dirt road lays ahead of these dispersed camping areas. This park has set up campgrounds, but we chose to drive off road a bit and set up camp on the edge of a rocky overlook."
"Had to walk a bit but thats ok. Great veiws no one around. Sadly no campfires, so early to bed. Very close to great trialheads"
"You have to travel for several miles to find the disperse sites after you hit dirt road, but it's worth a trip. The first few miles are very rough and bumpy, but our 24 foot Sprinter made it fine."
"Beautiful location, dead quiet during the week, tons of spots, most better suited for off-road vehicles only."
TravelerSo beautiful, dispersed camping at 11,200 feet surrounded by mountains. Area is busy with day hikers, go past the parking lot and set up at one of the handful of spots. Definitely for small rigs or tents, don’t come up here with a non 4x4 vehicle, and trailers would be close to impossible.
GuideI was pulling a camper and couldn't make it to the higher up spots. the spots near the entrance are littered with gross trash. I cleaned my area but there's too much . Hiking around has beautiful views.
ScoutSolid lil campground. Surprisingly busy mid week but everyone seems to be nice and polite. Few sections would be a bit rough for low clearance but sites 1-10 should be easily accessible. The views are gorgeous with the aspens turning this time of year.
ScoutRough road but doable in a minivan. About 12 minutes from Nederland, which had a lot of good restaurants, bars, and a fair size grocery store. Saw a moose and mountain lion.
LegendThis middle section of the road has mixed spots some are wooded some are wide open it really just depends on whats available. People pour in around dusk so get there early and get a good spot with a mountain view and maybe you will see a moose like i did. Road is good cell is 1-2 bars in this secrion
LegendThis middle section of the road gas some of the best views of pikes peak. Just cruise along the road there are a couple prime.spots you could get a trailer in and then several car sized spots for vans and smaller rigs. Road is 2wd safe but cell is a little spotty
TravelerI really enjoyed this spot. I visited towards the end of September 2026 during the start of the changing of the leaves and there were a lot of motorcyclists trying to get in a final ride before the season ends. Most of the spots off the main road were taken but I found a nice secluded spot right off one of the turn-offs. I arrived on a Saturday morning, and most everyone was gone by Sunday afternoon. I plan on staying for 14 days so that should take me to October 2026. Leveling was a little tricky using LevelMateMax, so I always recommend having back-up methods. Wal-Mart is a quick 30-minute trip away if you need groceries or supplies. Colorado Springs is about 45 minutes away. Cell service and internet can be spotty at times, but Starlink worked perfectly.
ScoutLots of great spots and a great location! Woke up to some moose right outside of our tent!
ScoutCones on road way, fraudulent no trespassing signs galore, most lifted vehicles would hit multiple branches no worth traversing anyways, seems like locals are trying to claim it though.
The Pike National Forest around Sedalia, Colorado offers primitive camping experiences at elevations between 6,500-8,500 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing while summer days typically range from 70-85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common between July and September. Most rustic camping sites in this region have variable cell service, with coverage stronger at higher elevation points.
Hiking at Buffalo Creek: Outdoor enthusiasts can access numerous trails directly from camping areas. "Great place to spend a day to a few weeks depending on lifestyle... Fire pits and hiking near," notes atea J. about Buffalo Creek Recreation Area.
Mountain biking: The Buffalo Creek area has become a destination for riders of various skill levels. "Great camping spot, esp. if you like mountain biking... Much of the area still shows scars from the 1996 fire here, but the sprouts and smaller trees show you a preview of how nature heals," says andrew B.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer the best chance to see deer, birds, and occasionally larger mammals. At Matukat Road Dispersed Camping, "Cattle roam freely throughout the property and you can hear coyotes at dusk and dawn. Plenty of exploring and climbing around," reports Chelsie B.
Rock formations: Several camping areas feature interesting geological formations perfect for exploration. At Matukat Road, one camper noted, "The area is surrounded by young aspens, mountain flowers, and rock outcroppings. The sites are open and spaced out from one another."
Accessibility from Denver: The relatively short drive makes these areas popular for weekend getaways. A camper at Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite remarked, "This is now my favorite campsite in Colorado. Just an hour from Denver... nice road... large campsites with fire pits, hiking trails. Minutes from fishing. Perfect!!"
Stargazing opportunities: Limited light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "Beautiful views of the city lights and then sunrise," reports a camper at Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping.
Site availability timing: Most campsites fill extremely quickly, especially during summer months. "Campsites went back far from main road you turn on to... Many fire pits laid throughout the grounds," reports one Matukat Road camper.
Campfire restrictions: Fire bans are commonly implemented during dry periods, usually from June through September. Always check current restrictions before your trip. "We stayed at sites 15, 18, 22(twice), 26(twice)... Only a fire ring is provided, everything else you'll need to bring AND PACK OUT when you leave," advises David H. at Redskin Creek.
Road conditions: Many access roads have washboard sections requiring slower travel. "Road in is gravel and pretty choppy, but the weather was good and my car made it fine but I was going like 5 mph. If the weather wasn't good you would probably need 4x4," notes Bailey H. at Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping.
Site selection for kids: Look for more level sites with natural features for exploration. "We found a nice spot that had clearly been camped in before as there was already a fire ring," notes Marissa K. of Buffalo Creek.
Wildlife awareness: Teaching children about potential wildlife encounters is important. At Rainbow Falls - Dispersed Camping, one camper reported, "There is bear scat, not old and not new, in the area but no wildlife was seen."
Noise considerations: Some areas experience higher traffic and activity levels. "The area is busy with atv, dirt bike and jeeps. 15 min drive from woodland park," reports a Rainbow Falls camper, making midweek visits potentially better for families seeking quieter experiences.
Size limitations: Many dispersed sites cannot accommodate larger RVs. "About 32 or more spots along redskin creek road that goes back a few miles... Some great spots with room for cars and groups, most are secluded from others," notes Frank B.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at most sites. A Mount Herman Road camper advised, "Don't go up if you are pulling anything larger than a tear drop trailer. I didn't go all the way up, so I don't know if there is any kind of turn around up there."
Site planning: Arriving mid-week significantly improves chances of finding suitable RV spots. "All of the sites are 100% free. Calling is 2 bars. At least half of the sites are big rig friendly," shared Rebecca L. at Redskin Creek Road about her experience in site #6.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are permits required for dispersed camping near Sedalia, CO?
Generally, permits are not required for dispersed camping in national forest lands around Sedalia, but there are important regulations to follow. Areas like Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area have numbered sites that operate on a first-come, first-served basis without permits. Similarly, Tarryall Creek- Dispersed Camping follows standard Forest Service rules without permit requirements. However, you must camp in designated dispersed areas only, stay no more than 14 consecutive days, and maintain at least 100 feet distance from water sources. Fire restrictions may apply seasonally, so check with the local ranger district before your trip for current regulations and potential seasonal fire bans.
Where can I find dispersed camping spots in Sedalia, Colorado?
The Sedalia area offers several dispersed camping opportunities in the surrounding Pike National Forest. Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping is a popular option with numerous smaller trails branching off the main dirt road, accessible by 2WD vehicles. Another excellent choice is Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping, which provides panoramic views and multiple pull-offs. When searching for dispersed sites, look for established fire rings and cleared areas. Most sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early on weekends is recommended, especially during summer months. Always check current forest service regulations before your trip, as available areas can change seasonally.
What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites around Sedalia?
Dispersed camping sites around Sedalia are truly primitive with minimal to no amenities. At Kirby Gulch, you'll find a peaceful off-grid experience but must be entirely self-sufficient. Similarly, Fraile's Campground - Dispersed offers designated sites with established fire rings but no other facilities. Most dispersed areas have no potable water, no electricity, no trash service, and no toilets. You'll need to pack in all necessary supplies including water and pack out all waste. Some sites have pre-existing fire rings, but you should always check current fire restrictions before your trip. Cell service is typically spotty or non-existent, so plan accordingly for emergency communication needs.
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