Dispersed camping sites surround Ward, Colorado at elevations above 9,000 feet within Roosevelt National Forest. The area's alpine environment creates significant temperature variations even during summer months, with nighttime lows often dropping below 40°F. Most accessible camping areas sit within pine and aspen forests, providing natural windbreaks but requiring proper equipment for mountain conditions.
What to do
Mountain biking routes: Several trails near Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area accommodate both beginning and advanced riders. "There are fifteen 'marked' campsites. Throughout the summer they are all frequently occupied so it may be hard to find a spot at times," notes one camper, making this area popular with weekend adventurers seeking quick trail access.
Trout fishing access: North Boulder Creek provides fishing opportunities within walking distance of multiple tent campsites near Ward, Colorado. A camper at Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping reported, "Caught lots of trout (none big enough to keep)," indicating the creek supports smaller fish ideal for catch-and-release.
Wildlife observation: Multiple campsites offer opportunities to view elk, moose and smaller mammals. "Moose visitors at dawn and evening, and hungry bears scavenging for food at night is a common occurrence," warns one Gordon Gulch reviewer, suggesting early morning and evening provide the best wildlife viewing times.
What campers like
Creek proximity: Many tent campers appreciate sites located near moving water. At Allenspark Dispersed Camping, campers enjoy the natural sound barrier created by nearby streams. "Right next to a creek, nice to have a water feature," notes one reviewer, while another mentioned that "Creek is loud and drowns out noise."
Established fire rings: Most dispersed sites feature previously used fire rings despite minimal improvements. "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," reports one Allenspark camper, noting the convenience for evening campfires when permitted.
Accessibility from Front Range cities: The relatively short drive makes these sites popular for weekend trips. At N Boulder Creek Dispersed Camping, a camper noted it's "Only about 10 minutes from Nederland and 45 minutes from boulder," making these sites convenient for Front Range residents seeking quick mountain escapes.
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Road conditions deteriorate quickly on forest service roads. "Road gets tougher the further back you go, but my low clearance vehicle made it by driving slow," explains one camper at Gordon Gulch, though many sites require more substantial vehicles.
Increased popularity impacts: The proximity to Boulder and Denver creates significant weekend traffic. At Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir, one camper reported, "Given that this is so close to boulder, a ton of people come here. Our campsite definitely had litter laying around which was really sad to see."
Seasonal road access: Many roads remain impassable until late May or early June due to snow and mud. "It snowed on me overnight and the road was still very passable," noted a January Gordon Gulch camper, though this experience varies dramatically based on elevation and current weather patterns.
Wildlife food storage: Bears actively investigate campsites throughout the region. One Allenspark camper warned, "A huge bear got into my tent while I was gone for 2 hours and absolutely destroyed it," highlighting the importance of proper food storage even during brief absences from camp.
Tips for camping with families
Lower elevation options: For families with young children, selecting sites at lower elevations can reduce overnight temperature fluctuations. "Morning temperatures drop significantly even in summer months," with frost possible well into June at many sites above 9,000 feet.
Stream safety considerations: Many popular tent campsites near Ward provide creek access, requiring supervision for children. At Dream Canyon Campsites, one camper mentioned, "We camped a very short walk from the parking lot. Amazing camp site with not many people around," offering easier monitoring of young campers near water.
Multi-day reservations: Established campgrounds like Brainard Lake Recreation Area require advance planning but provide more amenities for families. "We love Brainard. The campground is clean, spacious, and there are beautiful trails to ride your bikes, fly kites, read, hike, fish," notes one camper about the developed options.
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: Forest service roads typically accommodate smaller RVs but present challenges for larger rigs. At Hermits Hollow Campground, a camper advised, "The road is okay to drive on, we took our car and tent camped. We didn't take our camper as the switchbacks are very tight and the road is very steep."
Leveling requirements: Many dispersed sites feature uneven terrain requiring substantial leveling equipment. "Not all campgrounds are really that flat but it's free and it's Boulder, CO environment so I can't complain," noted one Gordon Gulch visitor.
Limited turnaround space: Forest roads rarely provide adequate space for larger vehicles to turn around. "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," warned a visitor to Winiger Ridge.
