Dispersed and primitive tent campsites near Thornton, Colorado provide outdoor access from spring through fall when temperatures range between 45-85°F. Higher elevation sites above 8,000 feet require warmer sleeping gear even in summer months when overnight temperatures can drop into the 30s. Sites vary from creek-side locations requiring short hikes to drive-up options accessible with appropriate vehicles.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple creeks near dispersed campsites offer fishing access. At Allenspark Dispersed Camping, campers can find spots directly adjacent to flowing water. One visitor noted, "This was our first time dispersed camping and we loved it! The road was pretty mild but on up gets a lot more rough! The pull offs are great and most of them have fire rings."
Creek hiking: Camp near water features for added recreation. The Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping area offers streamside sites reached via short hikes. A camper explained, "This place was a quick hike to some of the campsites. Beware there are signs stating to not build fires and be within 1/4 mile of creek. Place was clean and beautiful!"
Wildlife viewing: The National Forest areas near Thornton support diverse wildlife populations. One camper at N Boulder Creek Dispersed Camping observed, "Very seclude, easy to access. I saw about 10 different pull in sites, maybe more. Never found a creek or water but there are some cute cows nearby! Wildflowers we're crazy 7/3/23."
What campers like
Escape from city noise: Despite proximity to urban areas, many campsites provide quiet settings. A visitor to Dream Canyon Campsites shared, "This spot is super cool, def a little busy but some really awesome canyon views. Went on a Tuesday afternoon and there was foot traffic around our spot from people headed on hikes."
Established fire rings: Most dispersed sites have existing fire rings from previous campers. At Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, a reviewer noted, "We went on a Sunday, the weekend after the 4th of July. It was quite easy to find a campground for dispersed camping with other sites marked. Recommend a 4-wheel drive vehicle to reach some of the spots, especially if there is poor weather."
Seasonal wildflowers: Summer months bring colorful displays at higher elevations. A camper at N Boulder Creek Dispersed Camping described their experience: "I loved this spot! it's only about 10 minutes from Nederland and 45 minutes from boulder. There are mountains and aspen forests. and wildflowers everywhere! i also saw elk nearby."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many sites require navigation of unpaved roads with varying conditions. At Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir, one camper warned, "Gnarly ass road, not for trailers/sedans. Camp sites are nice, but except for a few (~5) the rest require a serious climb (drive) up a gnarly hill with deep ruts. I wouldn't try this with a camper/RV, or anything that doesn't have high clearance and power."
Wildlife safety: Bears and other wildlife frequent camping areas. At Allenspark, a camper reported, "The second day staying there we ran into a bear and scared him off. Two hours later he can back and we scared him off again. He's afraid of humans but he did try to get into the car while we were sleeping."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between sites. One camper at N Boulder Creek noted, "i made it in a volkswagen tiguan while towing a camper. i couldn't get super far down the road but i made it to a nice spot on the top of a hill. It got a bit chilly at night but not too bad! I also had 1 bar of 5g with t-mobile."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Some sites work well for introducing children to camping. Hermits Hollow Campground features more developed facilities. A visitor reported, "Stayed here during our visit to RMNP and it was perfect! Very conveniently located, only a short drive into Estes Park. Lots of trails for hiking and biking in the park. Each campsite had a bear box, picnic table, and fire ring."
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes rapidly even in summer. For tent campsites near Thornton, Colorado, a Bear Creek Lake camper advised, "Nice big sites, open space without a lot of trees, beautiful views, clean restrooms, showers (pay for) water fill stations, dump station, several restrooms."
Animal encounters: Turn wildlife sightings into educational opportunities. One reviewer at Ceran St. Vrain Trail warned, "We stayed up making noise and being scared until our wood ran out and then passed out in our tent for a few hours until the sun came up. It was a scary experience but the next time we camp here we will stay closer to where everyone else stays at the beginning of the trail."
Tips from RVers
Site selection criteria: RV campers should research access before arrival. At Aspen Meadows Campground one visitor shared, "The proximity to Denver is nice but I was surprised that the walk-in sites (29-35) were so close together. This section is probably only worth it if you can get site 34 or 35 which are the furthest back."
Elevation considerations: Higher elevation sites require engine power and proper cooling systems. One Gordon Gulch visitor noted, "It is populated with people on ATVs, as well as other campers near you if you decide on an easy-to-access campsite. I saw complaints on here about trash around the campsites, but they were clean."
Water access planning: No hookups exist at most tent campsites in the area. A camper at Bear Creek Lake Campground shared, "Super close to Denver and offered through the City of Lakewood. The sites are for tent/RV and have electric hookups. Beautiful area. There's a few playgrounds within the campground and park area, with access to trails to the lake."
