Tent camping near Silt, Colorado offers accessible wilderness experiences at elevations between 5,000-8,000 feet in the White River National Forest and surrounding BLM lands. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. The region's camping options include both primitive sites without facilities and basic established campgrounds with pit toilets.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Lower Prince Creek Campground serves as an ideal basecamp for cyclists. "Easy access to mountain bike trails and the greater Carbondale area... Solid choice for those looking to explore the Roaring Fork Valley without breaking the bank," notes Kate A.
Fishing spots: Harvey Gap BLM Dispersed offers direct access to Grass Valley Reservoir for anglers. Chris C. describes it as "an elevated, dispersed site with a great view of Grass Valley Reservoir, located in the Harvey Gap State Park." Most visitors come to the area primarily to fish, with multiple reservoir access points.
Hiking opportunities: The trails around Meadow Ridge Campground provide scenic lake views. "The hiking trail is gorgeous and takes you to the beautiful lake. The water and rocks are gorgeous!" writes Jill C. The well-marked trails typically range from easy 1-2 mile loops to more challenging 5+ mile routes.
What campers like
Affordable options: Free dispersed camping areas help visitors explore the area on a budget. "This is a great spot for free, dispersed camping! As others have stated, it is a bit rough getting into but I saw regular street cars pulling into the parking lot," notes Roger at Harvey Gap BLM.
Wildlife viewing: Blue Lake Camp provides opportunities to spot local wildlife in a quiet setting. Isabelle K. shares, "The water is crystal clear and lovely for a dip (if you can handle the cold!). A few kind souls have even left their row boats in the woods next to the lake." The dispersed sites remain relatively uncrowded even during peak season.
Privacy between sites: Lower Prince Creek Campground offers good separation between campsites. Eric B. notes, "There is fairly decent privacy due to the thick scrub oak between each of the sites. Sites 3, 4 & 5 are close to the gravel road." The natural vegetation creates boundaries that maintain a sense of isolation at each site.
What you should know
Road conditions: Bellyache Road camping areas require appropriate vehicles. "Definitely would advise 4x4, and not for travel trailers at all. Bringing one up could lead to a serious situation, since there are no places to turn around whatsoever," warns Adam D. Many access roads become impassable after rainfall.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas lack basic amenities. "This is a very nice rest overnight-point but would not be a 'destination' location given its adjacency to private property," notes RGR D. about Harvey Gap BLM. Bring all supplies including drinking water, as no potable sources exist at most sites.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans often limit campfires during dry periods. "Camp sites here are not well defined (look for fire rings)," says AJ F. about Bellyache Road. Check current fire restrictions with the White River National Forest office before your trip, as violations carry substantial fines.
Tips for camping with families
Bring leveling equipment: Prepare for uneven terrain at most sites. Steve M. advises about Bellyache Road, "Beautiful views and some shade but no break at all from the wind which can be intense up here." Pack extra blankets as evening temperatures can drop significantly even in summer.
Select sites near water features: SE Flat Tops Area provides stargazing opportunities for children. "You can camp anywhere you'd like, though there are no electrical or plumbing hook-ups. You're off service too until you head about a mile down the mountain, beautiful view of the stars!!!" shares Hailey M.
Pack extra clothing layers: Weather conditions change rapidly at higher elevations. Jill C. notes about Meadow Ridge, "As this is in higher elevation and well shaded, it was nice and cool during our mid summer visit." Temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night are common.
Tips from RVers
Bring ample leveling blocks: Harvey Gap BLM requires significant leveling for larger vehicles. Roger recommends, "Bring lots of leveling blocks. I used all of mine to get my camper fairly level." Most dispersed sites sit on natural, ungraded terrain requiring stabilization.
Avoid low-clearance vehicles: Ashley P. warns about Harvey Gap BLM, "Really pretty spot if you have 4x4 or something that can handle hills and off roading. I tore the back of my rv on a tiny hill entering the area. Oops. And its very u level by the front so bring levelers." Access roads typically have 6+ inches of clearance requirements.
Consider smaller RVs only: Most tent camping sites near Silt accommodate small camper vans but not larger rigs. Eric B. notes about Lower Prince Creek, "I would say except for the large picnic area and site one, the campground is best set up for tents and camper vans." Sites rarely offer turning radius for larger vehicles.
