The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Dispersed Camping near Twin Lakes, CO

523 Reviews

Dispersed camping around Twin Lakes, Colorado includes several primitive sites on public lands managed by the United States Forest Service. Gordon Gulch, Dream Canyon, and West Magnolia offer free, undeveloped camping in the surrounding areas. Beaver Park Reservoir and Gold Lake Forest Road 372 provide additional options for campers seeking no-fee primitive sites. Most dispersed areas permit both tent and RV camping, though amenities are nonexistent and campers must practice Leave No Trace principles.

Access roads to dispersed sites vary significantly in quality and often require high-clearance vehicles. Beyond site 6 at Gross Reservoir, 4WD becomes highly recommended due to steep terrain and challenging conditions. Several campers note that sedans can reach lower-numbered sites with careful driving, but attempting to access deeper sites risks vehicle damage. Many roads feature rough, unpaved surfaces with occasional drainage crossings. "Definitely need a high clearance vehicle. I saw a low clearance vehicle at site 6 and no idea how they got there—they had to have gotten scraped up," reported one visitor to Gross Reservoir. Seasonal closures affect several areas, particularly during winter months or renovation periods.

Most dispersed camping locations near Twin Lakes provide excellent seclusion despite proximity to Denver. Sites typically allow campfires except during fire bans, though no drinking water or toilets are available. Campers must pack out all waste and bring sufficient water. The Dream Canyon area requires tent campers to pack in gear from a parking area, as direct vehicle access to campsites is limited. "Must pack in to camp sites from parking area. Good trails and lots of hiking. Great views," notes a review. Several areas feature established fire rings at commonly used sites. Cell service is unreliable throughout the region, with most areas having limited to no connectivity. Wildlife encounters are common, requiring proper food storage.

Map showing campgrounds near Twin Lakes, ColoradoExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Twin Lakes, Colorado (86)

    1. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    54 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    29 miles
    Website

    "So the Gordon Gulch dispersed camping area has around 15 numbered sites that are ok... but if you keep driving further down 233.1 you will find many more unnumbered campsites."

    "Like the title suggests, this campsite is typical for a free forest service campground. Prior campers have left some trash, bullet casings and obviously neglected to dig cat holes."

    2. Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping

    22 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    25 miles
    Website

    "Was desperate to find "something" after driving 11 hours that day, and normal paid camp grounds were full. HOWEVER I was pulling a smaller trailer, and that turned out to be a real issue."

    "Went on a Tuesday afternoon and there was foot traffic around our spot from people headed on hikes."

    3. West Magnolia Campground

    26 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    29 miles
    Website

    "Oe of my family's fav places, beautiful views, camping spots super far away from one another so awesome privacy, and completely free. Spots fill up quick on weekends, you can stay 14 days."

    "The roads around the whole campground were a little rough but i did okay in my Ford Escape. All of the sites seems to be really spread out.

    There were several people in the campground."

    4. Gross Reservoir Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "Definitely need a high clearance vehicle. I saw a low clearance vehicle at site 6 & no idea how they got there.. they had to have gotten scraped up."

    "Great camping about 31 dispersed spots most with tables and a fire ring decent trout fishing a great kayaking feels remote without being so remote."

    5. Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed

    33 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    34 miles
    Website

    "We were right up on the lake but turns out it's private property and you cannot even go up to the water."

    "You are pinned up against private property around the lake, the camp sites are in the dirt area when you get to the lake down to the left."

    6. Buffalo Creek Recreation Area

    30 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    36 miles

    "So busy that we had to go in the middle of the week to get a spot, so plan ahead here and expect crowds. That being said, each spot is unique and we loved it."

    "We stayed here a couple weekends in a row and we were able to try out some different spots and trails close to those spots. This free campground is perfect! "

    7. Allenspark Dispersed Camping

    28 Reviews
    Allenspark, CO
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "Fire ban was in effect when we went, but lots of fire circles available otherwise. Bring bug spray, the flies are bold."

    "Was super simple to access. the coordinates take   you to the beginning of the rural part of Ski road."

    8. Forest Road 332 Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "If you go further down the road a high clearance vehicle is necessary the road gets worse as you go further. Lots of trash at the campsite. Overall, woke up to a nice view of mountains."

    "Found a nice big spot with sun and shade and a great overlook. Was a touch concerned that it would get ATV trafficy over the weekend as it was at a junction where 3 roads jet off."

    9. Gold Lake Area Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    30 miles

    "My GPS from the coordinates just took me to the nearest town of Ward, CO.

    This is how I got there coming from the North:

    Take RT72 South to County Road 100."

    "Many spots along the CR once you find it, came in around 4pm on a Friday and there were still plenty of spots but started filling up fast. By 7pm, people were turning around as no spots were left."

    10. Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping

    24 Reviews
    Empire, CO
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 567-4382

    "It is about 7 miles of dirt road, and 4 miles of very challenging (for me) driving.

    Be sure to follow the sign LEFT to Chinns Lake. "

    "Just outside of Idaho Springs, take the exit for Co Rd 275 off of I-70. It's a scenic drive up a curvy paved road for about 15 minutes."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 86 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Twin Lakes Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Twin Lakes, CO

350 Photos of 86 Twin Lakes Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Twin Lakes, CO

523 Reviews of 86 Twin Lakes Campgrounds

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 20, 2024

    Kirby Gulch

    Worth the Rough Drive

    Kirby Gulch is a fantastic spot for anyone seeking a peaceful, off-the-grid camping experience near Grant, Colorado. Situated off Route 1038, this dispersed camping area offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching.

    The campsites are well-spaced, providing plenty of privacy, and the area is generally clean, thanks to considerate campers. Since it’s a dispersed site, there are no amenities like water or toilets, so make sure to come prepared. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for accessing some of the sites, especially after rain or snow.

    What makes Kirby Gulch truly special is its tranquility. You can enjoy the sound of the wind through the trees, the crisp mountain air, and dazzling stargazing at night. It’s also a great starting point for exploring nearby trails or simply soaking in the serene environment.

    If you’re comfortable with primitive camping and leave-no-trace principles, Kirby Gulch is a hidden gem worth checking out.

  • Sun H.
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Pole Hill Rd Dispersed

    Access not worth the trouble

    Don’t believe the navigation apps and go through lyons, it’s private property ; furthermore if you like I did make the drive though Estes park, have 4WD high clearance and a small vehicle… maybe you’ll make it to this brutally elusive last free camping spot off the main mountain roads

  • Meg G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2020

    Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping

    Spectacular - 4x4 is required to access.

    We drove our BRAND NEW 4x4 Revel and were nervous the entire trip up and back.  We are a high profile vehicle, luckily we had plenty of clearance but it was very nerve wracking both up and back.  It is about 7 miles of dirt road, and 4 miles of very challenging (for me) driving.

    Be sure to follow the sign LEFT to Chinns Lake.  When you arrive, there are several dispersed campsites around the lake.  All the spots have beautiful views and tons of space between other campers.  There are firepits (even though CO is on a fire ban) that  will be nice for future visits.  We visited on Sept 17-19, 2020, so the evenings are cold and the days short.  Additionally, the water level was very low.  

    The area is nice for hiking and exploring, and especially to get away from it all.  No cell phone service.

    As the weekend approached, there were several ATV's heading up for the day.  While we were there, only 3 other groups camping on the weekend.

    You will be at 11,000 feet looking at the Continental Divide!  THIS is Colorado camping!  Enjoy and please remember to leave no trace!

  • Kelly G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2021

    Grays Peak Summer Trailhead Dispersed Camping

    Great base camp for summiting Gray’s/Torrey’s

    Stevens Gulch Road (321) is a dirt road off of I-70 west of Denver in the Arapaho & Rosevelt National Forests and the Pawnee National Grasslands. It has amazing scenery and access to gorgeous hiking trails to summit Gray’s, Torrey’s and Kelso Peaks. It is a fairly mellow SUV road with plenty of space to pass other vehicles and you will occasionally see passenger cars as well. The road leads to a large parking lot that fills up fast with car overflow parking spilling down both sides of the road. There are pit toilets and bear proof trash cans at the parking lot. The road continues past the parking lot a very short ways to some dispersed campsites by a river that have stone campfire rings. Definitely filter this water as there are uphill toilet paper gardens along the climb to summit.

  • Karl G.
    May. 6, 2019

    Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    Dispersed Campsite with Views - Gordon Gulch (4x4 recommended)

    So the Gordon Gulch dispersed camping area has around 15 numbered sites that are ok... but if you keep driving further down 233.1 you will find many more unnumbered campsites. I am reviewing one of these unnumbered campsites in particular, because this one had the best view. Before you read too far, I can't guarantee you will be able to reach this campsite without a 4X4 high clearance vehicle. We got to the site with a Jeep Wrangler and Toyota Tacoma TRD so we had no problems... I can't definitely say a Subaru would make it though. In the pictures I have included a map of the Gordon Gulch trail system. Entering through the Gordon Gulch entrance and taking 226.1 to 233.1 is the hardest route - there is one very steep and washed out spot. Entering via 120J/Switzerland Trail from the Peak to Peak Hwy and then turning right onto 233.1 is the easier option. On that map I have marked the general area of the campsite with a pink dot and here are the coordinates.

    DMS: 40°01'18.5"N 105°28'37.6"W

    DD: 40.021814, -105.477103 - if you type this into Google Maps it will locate it

    As for the actual campsite, it is a great option for spring/fall camping in Colorado. The elevation is about 8,800 ft and it is on the south side of a hill so it gets a lot of sunlight and is protected from northern winds. In terms of privacy, there are no other campsites that can be seen from this one. However, Gordon Gulch is a popular off-roading area so dirt bikes and Jeeps pass by frequently. This campsite is set up high above and away from the road though, so it is really not that bad. Another thing to point out is that this is a popular area for shooting as well, so if you absolutely hate guns it may not be the place for you. Also, as stated before, this is a dispersed campsite the only thing it has is a fire ring. Pack it in, pack it out!

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 16, 2025

    Rollins Pass Dispersed Camping

    Great spot close to Winter Park

    Went up Rollins pass road (you can access it from the Lakota Trail neighborhood or down the road a bit on 80). The first gate was open but not the second or third to get to the top where there are def more spots and fire rings. You can only camp places where there are dots on the side of the road on the official county map. Check the Rollins pass website it’s very informative and a sacred land so leave no trace. We got one of the like 3-4 spots we saw with a fire ring that wasn’t taken yet. (No fire ban 6/14/25 I check don’t worry :).. Some back trails are very hairy, pretty busy with motor vehicles but a lot of the new electric dirt bikes which don’t make much noise, probably 10-15 ppl the entire night riding by only once. Got great weather and the main trail is pretty easy up to the second gate which is supposed to be open June 15-Sept 15 I think.

  • A L.
    Aug. 21, 2017

    Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping

    Gorgeous getaway within minutes from Longmont

    My son and I joined a friend from Longmont and headed to this trail to camp for a couple days. Very accessible road, lots of spots to choose from (we showed up on Thursday, it did get a little busier on Friday and Saturday). Our spot was set back from the trail, right next to the stream. Just an amazing view, ample room for lots of tents, nice fire rings and huge logs around them for sitting. Fire wood abounds but it was all a little wet still from the rains they've been getting. Some folks didn't seem to be aware of the "leave no trace" rule when it comes to going to the bathroom, which was a little gross. Overall, great experience, pretty trail views, caught lots of trout (none big enough to keep). A great getaway.

  • Eileen S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 1, 2021

    Peru Creek Designated Dispersed Camping

    Crowded Camping Near Keystone

    This is beautiful camping close to keystone and likewise gets crowded in the summer months. If you want a spot on a weekend, get there early. There are a few pull offs along the road suitable for most cars, but if you have a high clearance 4WD you can go on a few offshoot roads and find more spacious spots. No cell phone signal or water, and frequent fire bans in the summer.

  • Alyse P.
    May. 21, 2021

    Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    Good but tricky

    I went here the week before campgrounds opened in this area, around May 7th. I had a pop up trailer and got there around 5pm on a Friday. Most spots were already taken and the road was a bit washed out. We got stopped by a camper letting us know not to go further because of the road condition and we shared a spot for the night. I would recommend this spot if you have a 4 wheel drive car with high clearance. Later in the season when the water levels are lower it might be easier to navigate but we saw a car or two get towed out

Guide to Twin Lakes

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Twin Lakes, Colorado, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The Gold Lake Area Dispersed offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.
  • Campers can enjoy the stunning rock formations and the nearby private lake, which adds to the area's charm, although swimming is not permitted.
  • This location is known for its spacious sites, allowing for a comfortable camping experience while being close to Boulder.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Twin Lakes

  • Hiking and mountain biking are popular activities at the West Magnolia Campground, where trails are well-marked and accessible.
  • The area is also great for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to spot various animals while exploring the surrounding nature.
  • Campers can enjoy a campfire under the stars, as fires are allowed in designated areas, enhancing the outdoor experience.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Gordon Gulch

  • The Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area is known for its secluded spots, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
  • Although the area has faced challenges with litter, it still offers beautiful scenery and a chance to connect with nature.
  • Visitors can find various trails nearby, making it a great base for hiking and exploring the stunning Colorado landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Twin Lakes dispersed camping areas?

Dispersed camping areas near Twin Lakes typically offer very minimal amenities. At Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, you'll find numbered sites with established fire rings but no water, toilets, or trash services. Similarly, Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping provides streamside camping with no facilities. Most dispersed sites in the region follow this pattern - you'll need to pack in all water, pack out all trash, and be prepared for primitive camping with no restrooms, picnic tables, or other amenities. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including proper human waste disposal, and check current fire restrictions before your trip.

Where can I find dispersed camping areas near Twin Lakes, Colorado?

Several excellent dispersed camping areas exist near Twin Lakes, Colorado. Grays Peak Summer Trailhead Dispersed Camping offers incredible mountain views and access to popular hiking trails for summiting Grays, Torreys, and Kelso Peaks. This area features a fairly manageable dirt road suitable for SUVs. Alternatively, Peru Creek Designated Dispersed Camping provides beautiful camping opportunities near Keystone with sites along the road accessible for most vehicles. For more secluded options, explore Forest Service roads in the surrounding Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, where dispersed camping is generally allowed on public lands away from developed recreation areas.

Is free camping available at Twin Lakes, Colorado?

Yes, free camping is available near Twin Lakes, Colorado. Pole Hill Rd Dispersed offers free camping, though access requires navigating through Estes Park and having a high-clearance 4WD vehicle. Kirby Gulch is another free option offering peaceful, off-the-grid camping with mountain views. Most dispersed camping in national forests around Twin Lakes is free, typically with a 14-day stay limit. Remember that free camping means no amenities - you'll need to be self-sufficient with water, waste disposal, and following fire regulations. Always check with the local ranger district for current regulations and seasonal restrictions before your trip.

Do I need a map to find Twin Lakes dispersed camping sites?

Yes, a map is highly recommended for finding Twin Lakes dispersed camping sites. Areas like Rollins Pass Dispersed Camping can be confusing to navigate, with multiple gates and markers indicating designated camping spots along roads. Hidden Wilderness Roadside Camp locations can be particularly misleading without proper navigation, as campsites are scattered along roads rather than grouped in specific areas. Forest Service maps or apps like The Dyrt Pro with offline maps are invaluable for identifying public lands, navigating forest roads, and finding established dispersed sites. National forest motor vehicle use maps (MVUMs) are also essential as they show roads where dispersed camping is permitted.

Keep Exploring