Dispersed camping near Ward, Colorado encompasses sites located primarily between 8,000-11,000 feet elevation in Roosevelt National Forest. The region contains a mix of developed and primitive campgrounds connected by forest roads that vary significantly in quality. Camp Dick Campground stands at approximately 8,500 feet elevation with overnight temperatures often dropping below 50°F even in summer months.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area around Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed offers excellent chances to see local wildlife. "Long dirt road, with many spots to pick from along it... Lots of wildlife; squirrels, rabbits, and a moose that walked right by our campsite," reports one camper. The reservoir area provides both camping and wildlife viewing.
Mountain biking trails: Numerous single-track trails wind through the forest near West Magnolia Campground for cyclists of various skill levels. "Great location with single tracks for hiking and mountain biking. Camping spots are well-marked," notes a recent visitor. These trails connect to a broader network extending toward Nederland.
Rock climbing routes: Dream Canyon features multiple climbing areas accessible from camping sites. "This is the place my friends and I go to just for a night away from everything... Lots of climbing routes nearby and easy to find some good spots away from others," states one regular visitor. Most climbing routes require intermediate to advanced skills.
What campers like
Creek access: Many dispersed sites in the Allenspark Dispersed Camping area sit adjacent to flowing water. A camper explains, "About 1 hour from Boulder. Was super simple to access... Lots of spots available. Just keep driving along Ski Road and pick one that looks good. Lots of fire pits already build and most camp spots are along the creek." These water-adjacent sites fill quickly during summer months.
Solitude at higher elevations: Further from main roads, quieter camping can be found. "I went down a good ways and found the perfect spot on a creek just below me down a hill. Very quiet and relaxing," shares a visitor to Allenspark. Sites accessible by high-clearance vehicles typically offer more privacy.
Flexible site options: Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area provides both established and more remote camping locations. "Gordon Gulch dispersed camping area has around 15 numbered sites, but if you keep driving further down you will find many more unnumbered campsites," explains a visitor. The area accommodates various camping styles from car camping to more primitive setups.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed areas require careful navigation. At Beaver Park Reservoir, a camper notes: "Road is passable by standard cars. No cell service. Layout can be crowded with little space between but was pretty empty through the week." Forest roads deteriorate after rain or snow.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal bans frequently affect the region, particularly in summer. "Camp Dick Campground has a funny name, but it really is one of our favorites. The hiking steps away from your campsite is the best part," shares a visitor, though noting fire restrictions during their visit.
Bear activity: Wildlife encounters require proper food storage. One Allenspark camper reports: "The second day staying there we ran into a bear and scared him off. Two hours later he came 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." Bear-resistant containers are essential throughout the area.
Seasonal timing: Many forest roads close with early snow. At Beaver Park Reservoir, one camper explains: "I went back in February and my 4runner made it up the road fine in the snow, they plow the main dirt road which makes the campsites difficult to get into because the snow banks block them." Most dispersed sites remain accessible from late May through early October.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility considerations: Choose sites with easier access for children. "Moraine Park Campground had a ton of spots so was very busy. It was well maintained and quiet despite how busy it was," reports one family camper. Established campgrounds provide more consistent facilities for families with young children.
Wildlife education opportunities: Many campgrounds offer excellent nature observation for children. "Deer wander in the morning," notes a visitor to Moraine Park Campground, making early morning wildlife spotting a family-friendly activity.
Water features: Creeks and small ponds provide natural play areas. At Allenspark, "Visited the national park nearby and needed a place to camp. Kind of confusing at first because you go through a neighborhood first & then hit the camping spots... Right next to a creek, nice to have a water feature," reports a family.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Many forest roads have tight turns limiting RV size. "We have a 25 foot camper and feet nicely in. Road in was good as well (May 2025). Some pots are close to each other and others have more space," shares an RVer at Beaver Park Reservoir.
Leveling challenges: The mountainous terrain requires careful site selection. A Gordon Gulch camper advises: "Not all campgrounds are really that flat but it's free and it's Boulder, CO environment so I can't complain." Bring leveling blocks for most dispersed sites.
Generator limitations: Noise restrictions apply in many areas. "There are quiet hours and limits to generator use," explains a visitor to developed campgrounds, noting the balance between power needs and maintaining the natural setting.
