Accessing the high-elevation forests near Silver Plume, Colorado provides campers multiple options for pet-friendly overnight stays. This mountainous region sits at elevations between 9,000-10,000 feet, where temperatures can drop into the upper 30s even during summer months. Dispersed camping sites near Silver Plume typically open later in the season due to snowpack that can persist into June at higher elevations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Fall River Reservoir offers accessible fishing where campers report quick success. "It's a very beautiful campsite altogether. 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 the only day we were there," shares Larry S. from Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail.
Off-road adventures: Access to Chinns Lake requires more advanced vehicles but rewards with unique camping locations. "The climb up is no joke, listen to everyone when they say you need 4x4 with a least 3' clearance. Be patient and it will reward you. Got there on a Sunday afternoon and there were 4 other campers - had a huge selection of spots. Lake is beautiful, views unmatched," notes arin P. from Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping.
Mountain hiking: Many pet-friendly camping areas connect directly to trail systems. "Great views of lake dillon and each spot is tucked into trees so you don't see neighbors even if you can hear them. Short Hiking trail connected to the campground plus so many trail options close by," explains Reagan M. who stayed at Prospector Campground.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The high elevation provides relief from summer heat. "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 and another person in our party had a small heater. But even in July, plan for cooler night time temps and rain!" advises Charlie K. at Kirby Gulch.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to observe native species. "This KOA is perched up in between the most beautiful outlooks. The staff is so kind and welcoming, and the amenities are well kept!" notes Saige M. who stayed at Denver West-Central City KOA.
Stream access: Many dispersed sites feature proximity to running water. "The sites are all designated and there is nothing for the first mile. Drive past Geneva campground and the sites are about 3/4 mile in... 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," describes Chris P. about Kirby Gulch.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many pet-friendly camping areas requires appropriate vehicles. "The road is a bit rocky and 4x4 would be suggested. Low clearance vehicles won't make it up with bumpers intact. One of the campers in my group has a 2wd Toyota Tacoma with a small lift that made it up without major issues," explains Chad C. about Chinns Lake.
Weather patterns: Mountain weather changes rapidly even in summer. "We stayed at site 14 (39°35'59.6"N 105°50'38.9"W) with fantastic access to Peru Creek; our doggos loved it, and the Lewanee trail was right down the road," shares Pain T. from Peru Creek Designated Dispersed Camping.
Cell service limitations: Most dispersed sites have minimal connectivity. "I have AT&T and had zero cell reception, some of the others had Verizon which had limited cell service," notes Chad C. about camping at Chinns Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Early arrival timing: Popular pet-friendly sites fill quickly, especially 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 which was a little sketchy to get to - and I think took us like 30 minutes to drive to lol but it was a gorgeous place to camp, tons of spots, just fills up fast," advises Taylor C. at Kirby Gulch.
Pack extra warm gear: High-elevation temperatures drop significantly after sunset. "8/6/2025. Got here late and left early (so no photos) but this was a solid FCFS spot for tenting. Stakes went in easy, vegetation was like a cushion. Very pleasant weather - didn't need to sleep with the rainfly, and got some great views of the stars," shares Evan C. from Prospector Campground.
Consider developed options: Families with pets might prefer campgrounds with basic facilities. "This had to be the cleanest campground that I had ever been to. The host was amazing, very nice and had the cleanest outhouse toilet I've encountered! Great 9 mile hike down Hells Hole Trail, with picnic spots and a creek to filter water from," states Danica L. from West Chicago Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVs require specific considerations at pet-friendly campgrounds. "Our space was a big rig space on concrete pad with ample seating, a table, a fire pit, and a propane grill stove… use you own propane! Full hook ups. It was still reaching freezing at night and so we didn't hook up our water," explains shari from Denver West-Central City KOA.
Advance planning: RV camping options are more limited at dispersed sites. "Arrived in a Thursday afternoon and found a large wide open spot just before the Chihuahua Gulch trailhead. We have an off-road teardrop trailer with rooftop tent and travelled with another family with rooftop tent and we were able to spread out with plenty of level ground for our vehicles/sleeping quarters," shares Lori O. about Peru Creek camping.
Water availability: Most dispersed camping near Silver Plume requires bringing your own water supply. "Decent overall campground with quick access from Denver area. Water pump is not functioning as of 6/24, so bring your own water. Busy area with tourists and traffic to Mt Evans. Road noise settles down after dark," notes Mark from Echo Lake Campground.
