Primitive camping near Somerset, Colorado offers a wealth of options in the Gunnison National Forest and surrounding BLM lands. The region sits at elevations between 6,000-9,000 feet, creating distinct ecological zones with aspen groves, pine forests, and sage-covered hillsides. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F with significant cooling at night, even during July and August when daytime temperatures peak.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at dawn/dusk: At Twin Lake Dispersed Area, campers report excellent wildlife encounters. "We were up there on a Tuesday-Wednesday so it was very quiet and there was no one else at the site. It's right on the water although there is a drop off you have to climb down, but it's not bad. There were some cattle that walked through as I was setting up but otherwise very chill," notes one visitor.
Fishing for rainbow and brook trout: The high-country lakes and streams offer good fishing opportunities. A camper at Overland Reservoir mentioned, "Other than the plethora of mosquitos, this is one of my favorite camp spots so far. My husband and I arrived around 3:30pm on a Tuesday. Camp sites directly on the banks are few, but we managed to score what I thought was the prettiest spot."
Explore high-elevation terrain: The Coal Creek area provides access to alpine zones for hiking. "This BLM land is well trafficked, the sizes are big and there are 5-6 in the first few miles of the road. They sit right along the river slow flowing. There is ZERO cell service or gas for 15+ miles. So pack accordingly. Great to unplug and explore," reports a visitor to Throughline/Coal Creek.
What campers like
Proximity to water sources: Many campsites offer riverside or lakeside locations. At Dispersed River Site - Gunnison Gorge, a camper shared, "I found a turn off just before the coordinates and stayed there. Large space with lots of room for cars at this site. Right along the river, absolutely beautiful. I thought the dirt road getting there could be a little scary. It's one car width and has some drop offs next to it."
Solitude and remoteness: The backcountry sites provide true primitive camping experiences. One visitor to Black Canyon noted, "Easy to find BLM land with decent roads and lots of spots. I stayed here 3 days and never saw or heard another person. It's only 5 miles from the North Rim of Black Canyon National Park."
Night sky viewing: The lack of light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "Stayed here for a night after visiting the North Rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison!!! Great area > 1 hour down Stevens Gulch rd… got to see some enchanting aspen forests, trout jumping, and the milky way," a camper at Overland Reservoir reported.
What you should know
Weather variability: Mountain storms can develop rapidly, particularly in afternoons. A visitor to Washington Gulch mentioned, "The wind was pretty intense when the skies got grey but we managed to set up camp. Again, and this is an all of Colorado thing but be prepared with all your tricks for mosquitos because they were everywhere."
Site availability patterns: Unlike established campgrounds, dispersed sites don't take reservations. According to one Four Mile Road visitor, "Showed up late on a Saturday evening, so no surprise that a majority of the sites were full. Ended up camping at the very first turn off after the parking lot. The sites were beautiful and well separated."
Navigation challenges: Many access roads lack clear signage. One camper noted, "The road forked several times with no indication which way to go. Maybe all ways lead to sites, no clue. I took a left and found a space within sight of a variety of campers. I tucked in and no one seemed to mind."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites for young children: Some primitive sites near Somerset are more suitable for families. A visitor to Black Canyon Dispersed Camping shared, "Loved it. Stayed for 2 nights. The site we were on was great for us but they can be tight to move around in. As you approach the turnoff for the location take the second ramp in it is much smoother."
Prepare for insect populations: Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially near water. "This is a really pretty campground near Montrose and Black Canyon NP entrance. We are in a Honda accord and didn't have trouble accessing the first front sites, but the dirt road is very rutted if you continue straight," reported a Black Canyon camper.
Pack adequate food supplies: The nearest grocery stores are 15-30 miles away. "Crawford is about 8 miles away and has some restaurants with good home cooking," mentioned a visitor to Black Canyon, but most primitive camping areas require full self-sufficiency.
Tips from RVers
Select sites based on access roads: Not all primitive sites accommodate larger vehicles. At Twin Lake Dispersed Area, a camper noted, "High clearance is necessary. The sites seemed kinda close to each other however there are trees and stumps that define each site."
Advance scouting recommended: The uncertain nature of primitive sites makes advance planning crucial. "Visited here back in early season May 2025. There are probably less than 10 spots when you go all the way up the long drive, all with great views, most are on the small side. Would recommend 4wd for the last part of the drive to the sites," advised a Four Mile Road camper.
Level site considerations: Many primitive camping areas near Somerset have uneven terrain. A visitor to Gunnison Gorge explained, "Pretty spot right along the river, bit of a bumpy road to get here but nothing requiring 4WD (when dry at least) or high clearance, I bet even a sedan could make it here. Only downside is it's a small spot, probably only room for 4-5 cars max and only 2-3 of them will be able to be on level ground."
