Dispersed camping options around Silver Plume, Colorado spread across elevations from 9,000 to over 11,000 feet, with many sites experiencing significant temperature fluctuations even in summer months. The surrounding Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest lands provide numerous access points for free primitive camping, often nestled among alpine forests with seasonal wildflower blooms. Winter access is extremely limited, with most high-elevation areas completely snowed in from October through May.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail, campers enjoy productive fishing. "We had a successful time fishing. The res holds browns and cutthroat as well as some other species," shares one visitor. Another camper notes their fishing success: "With perfect views of the mountains and streams in all directions. Our tent was literally right next to a stream of water which was good fishing as me and my friend caught our daily limit of fish very quickly."
Hiking to alpine lakes: From Loch Lomond Dispersed campsites, multiple alpine lakes are accessible. "The trail up to Ice Lake is moderate level I'd say. Rocky trail, stream hop, I had to carry my dog over a rough boulder part," explains one hiker. Another visitor adds: "There is a nice little trail around the lake. Plenty of spots for tent camping too."
Off-road trail exploration: Several dispersed camping areas connect to 4x4 trails. At Kirby Gulch, one camper reported: "Went up the 4x4 trail up to the salt mine at the top. If you have a vehicle with 4wd You should be fine." Sites vary in accessibility, with one reviewer noting: "Past 35 or so it's a true 4x4 trail, only saw broncos/jeeps past this. Trail continues pretty far down."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report wildlife sightings near their sites. At Bruno Gulch Dispersed, campers appreciate the wildlife: "Beautiful area, seen a moose and goats close to our campsite." Campers at Kirby Gulch have similar experiences: "We saw a moose and their visitors right by camp each day which was cool but be sure to respect the wildlife and give them space."
Stream-side camping: Access to running water enhances many camping experiences. "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," explains one Bruno Gulch visitor. Another camper at Fall River notes: "There is a beautiful creek right across the road that is great for filtering water and cooling off."
Winter accessibility: While most high-elevation sites close during winter, some areas offer year-round options. At Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, a winter visitor reported: "It snowed on me overnight and the road was still very passable. It was pretty empty in January, one big pile of trash that was unfortunate and a few people seemed to be there long term."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access requirements differ significantly between sites. A Peru Creek Designated Dispersed Camping visitor advises: "We parked at night so we didn't see the sign that said it wasn't a legal camping spot, then the next day we got a ticket from a park ranger." For some sites, "We have a 4wd Sprinter with slightly larger tires, and pulling an off road trailer. We made it with ease. There were potholes to contend with and some mid-sized rocks."
Seasonal timing: Camping seasons vary by elevation. "There's still at least 3 feet or more of snow and ice on this trail. It's just past the river. Spent 3 hours getting unstuck," reports a May visitor to Chinns Lake. At Boreas Pass, timing affects the experience: "We were up Sept 21 & 22 and the fall colors were GORGEOUS."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely. "I have Verizon and didn't have service, not sure about other carriers," notes one camper at a roadside pull-off site. At Fall River Reservoir, "I had intermittent 5G service with Verizon at the Loch itself, and on the trail up to Ice Lake."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access sites: Families should target more accessible locations. "It's right next to 72, so traffic sounds, and there's 4 wheelers and dirts bikes, so not exactly quiet," notes a Gordon Gulch camper. While not ideal for peace, the easier access suits families with younger children.
Water play areas: Sites with safe water features provide natural entertainment. A camper at Bruno Gulch shared, "Plenty of spread out spots with trees. Spots near the stream are awesome, and plenty of great hiking trails from here/nearby." Another noted, "There is a super cool teepee stand waiting to be used to camp under at the top!"
Temperature planning: Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping visitors warn about temperature variations: "Being at a higher elevation, one person in our group did experience some mild altitude discomfort, even though we're from the Denver area." Another family noted: "It did get pretty cool at night, and our kids definitely let us know about it. Luckily we have extra blankets to insulate their bags."
Tips from RVers
Space considerations: Most dispersed sites have limitations for larger vehicles. "Sites 1-8 are massive and can accommodate anything. There is also a horse corral," reports a Bruno Gulch camper. Another visitor notes: "Rating this 3 stars, because the majority of sites catered to tent camping; your parking spot is close to the road, you walk your stuff in a bit."
Road condition scouting: RVers recommend scouting roads before committing. "The road gets very bumpy so low clearance vehicles are not advised. Saw a Subaru Outback make it okay but nothing less than that," reports a camper at Kirby Gulch. At Loch Lomond, "We took our Subaru Crosstrek and the drive up was rough. We made it unscathed because my husband is a great driver but I wouldn't try this unexperienced!!"
Turnaround availability: Identify turnaround spots before venturing too far. One camper notes: "It was good to find plenty of places to turn the trailer around once we got up further in case we couldn't find anything. That's always the concern on these roads!"
