Best Dispersed Camping near Vail, CO

Dispersed camping around Vail, Colorado offers several free primitive options on public lands. Red Sandstone provides basic dispersed sites where camping is permitted without facilities. Rock Creek Designated Dispersed Camping, located northeast of Vail, features established sites with vault toilets but no drinking water. Boreas Pass Road offers additional free camping opportunities with stunning mountain views. These areas typically allow both tent and RV camping, though site conditions vary significantly.

Vehicle access requires careful planning. According to reviews, many dispersed sites near Vail demand high-clearance 4WD vehicles. As one camper noted about similar Colorado sites, "The road is a mixture of rocks, small water crossings, and potholes. If you can tackle it, it is absolutely worth it." Forest service roads often become narrow and rough the further you travel from main highways. During spring runoff or after heavy rains, even 4WD vehicles may face challenging conditions.

No amenities exist at most dispersed sites. Pack in all necessary water and supplies, and prepare to pack out all waste. Fire restrictions are common throughout summer months; always check current regulations with the White River National Forest office before your trip. Bear activity is prevalent in the area, so proper food storage is essential. Several campers report that sites fill quickly on summer weekends, particularly those closest to trailheads. For the best chance at securing a spot, arrive mid-week or early in the day. The camping season typically runs from late May through October, depending on snowfall and elevation.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Vail, Colorado (163)

    1. Rock Creek Designated Dispersed Camping

    22 Reviews
    Silverthorne, CO
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 468-5400

    "WARNING: The road to the camping locations is very bumpy, narrow, and has some large rocks. AWD with high clearance or 4x4 is recommended.

    This location was great!"

    "This spot was easily accessible with high clearance. I arrived at 11am on Wednesday July 3 and only two sites were occupied."

    2. Red Sandstone - Primitive Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Vail, CO
    5 miles
    Website

    "It is a hidden gem. You can drive or walk down a mile which leads to a trail to Lost Lake, which you can swim in."

    "Plenty of dispersed camping up Red Sandstone Road. Go 2.5 miles up a smooth dirt road once you leave the paved road to reach the start of camping (head right at a junction after those 2.5 miles)."

    3. Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping

    40 Reviews
    Blue River, CO
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 468-5400

    "I can see this area being busy all year around, definitely on 4th of july weekend. Wish I could’ve found an open site to spend a night!"

    "I drove a Nissan camper van the whole way with a trailer. I saw every kind of car on the road so easy (a little rough in some places) drive the whole way"

    4. Columbine Landing Recreation Site

    9 Reviews
    Silverthorne, CO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 468-5400

    "Great spot for car camping on a road trip like I was. Not far off the main interstate and little to no noise from the smaller highway that passes nearby."

    "Great location. Kinda busy some nights. A lot of in and out vans/campers. Stay 1 night or two and on their way.

    15 mins from town and everything you need."

    5. Homestake Reservoir Rd Milemarker 3 - Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Red Cliff, CO
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 945-2521

    "Level and had a turn around for a larger rig. Many tent sites around. Road is in good shape."

    "Firewood is not for sale nearby and the forest doesn't have much, so you should bring your own."

    6. Tigiwon Road

    3 Reviews
    Red Cliff, CO
    8 miles
    Website

    "Bumpy and narrow road in but beautiful views once you get to the top."

    "Nice dispersed camping spot. There are a few along the road, we went just passed the Tigawon community house and found a great spot with a view, and fire pit!"

    7. Blodgett Campground

    2 Reviews
    Red Cliff, CO
    11 miles

    "We found a nice flat spot across the bridge to the right up a small hill with great views. No cell service"

    9. Yeoman Park

    8 Reviews
    White River National Forest, CO
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 328-6388

    $8 / night

    "No electric hook ups. We brought in our 27foot camper and had a spectacular visit. Quiet area. Creek at entrance."

    "There was a park ranger on site at the time we were there so that provided a sense of security while being more in the back country."

    10. Ute Pass Dispersed Camping

    12 Reviews
    Heeney, CO
    22 miles

    "Just got back from a solo camping trip at the Ute pass dispersed camping site. My usual spot was under a fire ban, but I acted quick and found this place."

    "We came here after failing to find a dispersed location closer to Silverthorne. It turned out to be a hidden gem with lots of secluded sites."

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Showing results 1-10 of 163 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Vail, CO

632 Reviews of 163 Vail Campgrounds



Guide to Vail

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Vail, Colorado, where nature's tranquility meets stunning mountain views. This area offers a variety of options for campers looking to escape the hustle and bustle while enjoying the great outdoors.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Vail, Colorado

Scenic Views and Hiking Opportunities for Dispersed Campers

  • For breathtaking views and easy access to hiking trails, consider McCullough Gulch Designated Dispersed Camping, which is conveniently located near the McCullough Gulch Waterfall trail.
  • If you're looking for a peaceful retreat, Yeoman Park offers serene landscapes and opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and moose.
  • The Whitney Lake area is perfect for those who enjoy fishing and hiking, with a moderate trail leading to the picturesque lake.

Activities While Free Camping Near Vail

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Vail, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Vail, CO is Rock Creek Designated Dispersed Camping with a 4.8-star rating from 22 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Vail, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 163 dispersed camping locations near Vail, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.