Few towns in Colorado put you this close to dispersed camping on national forest land at the base of a 14er range. Westcliffe sits at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, with San Isabel National Forest roads running up the range to the west and putting dispersed campsites within a few miles of town. No water, no restrooms, no fee at these sites. The 14-day limit applies.
The Dyrt campers in this corridor note that the forest roads here see less traffic than the more popular Front Range dispersed corridors, which means sites stay available later into summer weekends. Elevations above 9,000 feet mean cold nights even in July, so warm sleeping gear matters regardless of the daytime forecast.
Check fire restriction status before arrival. Cripple Creek's national forest dispersed sites are an alternate option to the north if Westcliffe roads are closed or conditions make access difficult.
"This is dispersed camping. There are pit toilets but no other services or amenities."
"Clean, beautiful site by the lake. Summer nights during the new moon is a great time to visit. You can see the Milky Way. Nice spots for fly fishing and hiking."
"There are about 10-15 dispersed camping spots along the dirt road that leads up to trailheads at the end. The spots are spread out enough to where I did not see or hear a soul while camping 2 nights."
"Plenty of dispersed spots available. Stayed here in a truck with a rtt. With others in a group. Close enough to town where we hit up the local brewery for drinks and food."
"To get to the campground you must first brave the road to the trailhead. If you have a 4x4 truck/SUV the road is achievable but very rough."
"Definitely want a vehicle with some clearance."
"Do not route via Apple Maps, it will try to take you through a private road. Don’t follow the “major trail” signs, just find the side road this spot is on and drive up and you’ll find it."
"It's an almost off road situation. Depending on what side of the trail you come in from. Awd and a higher clearance vehicle are recommended. But the views and seclusion are totally worth it."
"Entry road has multiple water runoff ditches that make the road best for vehicles with decent clearance. If dry 4x4 not necessary."
"Be careful of cactus, bring firewood, download the off-line maps. The trails can get confusing so remember your way in!"
"Approx 15 or so dispersed camp sites along the forest road up to the parking lot for Willow Lake trail. Easy access to sites, easy access to trail head. Restrooms also available at trailhead."
"Easy access with a Honda. Chilly nights"
"Crestone is a tiny town with just about anything you might want within a walk from where I parked. Plenty of camping spots all the way up to the end of the road where there is a fairly busy trailhead."
"This place was a nice spot for dispersed camping! Lots of spots, and super easy to find just off the road. A bit sandy, but the soil underneath worked for stakes."
"The drive in you definitely need awd or 4wd, lots of rocks but once you make it to the bottom of the trail there are camping spots where you park or you can walk the trail and find little fire pits along"
"Several good spots with fire pits right near the trailhead. A few bugs in late August but nothing terrible. Very quiet except for the sound of the rushing creek."
"Medano Pass is the route it's believed that Pike took into the San Luis Valley, and is one of the only primitive roads accessing the valley."
"Definitely need 4 wheel drive and decently high clearance. I only saw Jeeps, 4 runners, and trucks. Rocky and steep at parts, it was pretty damn rough."
ScoutDesignated camp sites with picnic table and fire pit. One bar Verizon at first site as you enter. I had no cell service beyond that. Very difficult to find a level spot. Nice views. Convenient for an overnight stay.
TravelerThe road getting in is a bit rough, but there were lots of available campsites, all clearly marked. Beautiful views.
RangerCool spot. I like there were different sized spots and a clearly marked line where a 4WD/AWD vehicle is needed and no large rigs. I found a spot that was visible by the road, but there was water access and cool surroundings. The main road was well paved, but turning into my site was a bit rough and I needed the 4WD. There were large animal (I assume black bear) prints to give that extra bit of camping excitement, but no actual sitings (one day, Juliana. One day). Some mosquitos but not overwhelming. The scenery was gorgeous. Definitely a bit desert-esque but it was legitimately perfect weather in mid September. Cool creek rocks and a stunner of a sunset. Would absolutely return again. No numbered sites. Toilets about 1/4 mile beyond the drive through boulder.
RangerQuite the drive but worth it. They were repaving some of the road and I personally had no issues getting to a site. It’s gravel, but doable for most vehicles. There was a propane tank and some trash left behind when I got there (always disheartening to find), but it didn’t feel “lived in” like some other spots have so I ultimately felt pretty safe. It was truly beautiful. I got a spot right at the creek that was tucked away from the main road. Maybe a handful of cars passed throughout my stay, so very peaceful and quiet. Zero amenities, so come prepared. No Verizon cell service. Lots of milky quartz laying about, beautiful birds and minimal bugs. Would make the trek here again in a heartbeat.
ScoutEasy access with a Honda. Chilly nights
GuideBeautiful drive out here past window rock!
TravelerI came in on a Friday morning for a one night stay in my AWD camper van. There are several flat spots at the bottom that are perfect for bigger rigs or tow behinds. The dirt road turns into a rocky ascent as you go up the hill but my sprinter handled it fine. The spots up here are less flat but manageable. There were a lot less people up the hill and the views are great. If you have the vehicle to drive up the rocky road a ways, I would recommend it.
TravelerVery open, at the base of the mountain, sunset+sunrise were amazing! Slightly windy, so if you’re in a tent make sure you tie it down tight.
TravelerNot like this place needs another good review but I enjoyed my night there. The road starts off with some minor washboards where there’s access to some campsites. It turns into a pretty rocky incline that I would recommend 4WD for but I did see a sedan race up ahead of me, so just depends on how much you care about your vehicle I guess 🤷♂️ a decent amount of people camping but it’s dispersed enough and there is some foot traffic from people hiking the 14er there. Stars were great, which is why I was out there in the first place!
Primitive camping near Westcliffe, Colorado ranges from 8,000 to 11,000 feet in elevation, with temperatures dropping significantly at night even in summer months. The area sits on the eastern edge of the Sangre de Cristo range with numerous forest service roads offering access to undeveloped camping. Most dispersed sites don't have cell service, and summer afternoon thunderstorms are common between 2-5pm.
Alpine hiking trails: Several campgrounds provide direct access to mountain trails, including the Willow Creek Trail which features "[approximately] 15 or so dispersed camp sites along the forest road up to the parking lot for Willow Lake trail. Easy access to sites, easy access to trail head. Restrooms also available at trailhead" according to camper Silouan A.
Mountain biking routes: The rough roads around Hermit Pass OHV provide challenging terrain for experienced riders. One camper notes, "Your vehicle will prob need new brakes after this trip. Super beautiful but the road never eases up."
Stargazing opportunities: The area has minimal light pollution. At Cotton Creek Trailhead, camper Stacey F. observed "Once the wind settled, there were more stars than I've ever seen in my life. Endless views and endless stars - can't beat it!"
Solitude and space: The dispersed camping areas around Westcliffe offer privacy compared to established campgrounds. At Dispersed Sand Area 1, camper Phil G. reported "The spots are spread out enough to where I did not see or hear a soul while camping 2 nights. A large gathering of mountain goats hanging out along the road was a fun surprise!"
Wildlife encounters: The mountains around Westcliffe harbor diverse wildlife. At Dispersed Sand Area 1, one visitor mentioned "hearing the creek roaring in the background and feeling the sun on my skin surrounded by cactus" while another camper spotted mountain goats along the access road.
Easy town access: Despite feeling remote, many campsites are relatively close to amenities. Jake M. noted that while camping at Dispersed Sand Area 1, they were "Close enough to town where we hit up the local brewery for drinks and food. Short drive from here to willow creek trailhead."
Vehicle requirements: Many primitive campsites require high-clearance vehicles. At Cloverdale Mines, camper Shivors notes "Entry road has multiple water runoff ditches that make the road best for vehicles with decent clearance. If dry 4x4 not necessary."
Seasonal challenges: Summer brings significant insect activity. Cooper P. from Dispersed Sand Area 1 warns "mosquitoes were absolutely awful so be prepared (mid July)." Similarly, Phil G. described the mosquitoes as "horrendous" and noted they "could ruin someone's ability to enjoy the beauty."
Permit requirements: Some areas require permits beyond standard recreational passes. For backcountry camping at The Dunefield in Great Sand Dunes National Park, "camping requires a free permit from the visitor center. These are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis."
Easy access options: For families with young children, choose sites with shorter approaches. Cloverdale Mines offers relatively accessible dispersed camping where Stephani noted "We have neighbors 100 yards away and others further, so you won't have the whole wilderness to yourself, but that might be comforting!"
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes rapidly. When camping at Cotton Creek Trailhead, bring layers as Angela E. observed "The sky is GORGEOUS... I've never seen so many stars!" but temperatures drop significantly after sunset.
Water safety considerations: Some water sources may not be safe for recreation. At Lake Deweese, Kyli H. warns "DO NOT let kids or dogs in water, as there is a level red warning for toxic algae!!"
Site accessibility: For RVs, carefully research road conditions before attempting access. At Crestone Needle Trail, Mark P. found success: "I stayed on a pad that was build along with the road. Loved the views. The area is very interesting. Crestone is a tiny town with just about anything you might want within a walk from where I parked."
Turnaround planning: Some forest roads narrow significantly, making turnarounds difficult. When traveling steep forest roads, identify potential turnaround points before proceeding too far, as some routes like South Colony Basin offer limited options for larger vehicles.
Water conservation: No water sources exist at most dispersed sites, so bring sufficient supplies. For desert camping at The Dunefield, one camper recommended "bring way more water than you think you'll need" noting they each brought "about a gallon of water each, and by the time we hiked out the next morning we were down to the last couple of ounces."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the regulations for dispersed camping around Westcliffe, Colorado?
Dispersed camping around Westcliffe follows standard public land regulations. On BLM land like Sacred White Shell Mountain, camping is permitted for up to 14 days within a 45-day period. At Penrose BLM sites, you must camp in designated areas only, as indicated by signage at the entrance. Most dispersed sites require campers to practice Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, bury human waste at least 6 inches deep and 200 feet from water sources, and minimize impact on vegetation. Campfires may be restricted seasonally due to fire danger, so always check current fire restrictions before your trip. Most areas prohibit camping within 100-200 feet of water sources. Motorized vehicles must stay on established roads. No permits are typically required for dispersed camping, but specific wildlife areas may have additional regulations.
Is Lake DeWeese open for camping near Westcliffe?
Yes, Lake DeWeese state wildlife area is open for camping near Westcliffe. This reservoir offers both drive-in and boat-in camping opportunities with basic toilet facilities. Unlike the dispersed camping options in national forests, Lake DeWeese has more structure but still provides a scenic setting for overnight stays. As a state wildlife area, you'll need a valid Colorado fishing or hunting license to camp here. The area is particularly popular with anglers looking to catch rainbow and brown trout. The camping season typically runs from late spring through fall, weather permitting. During peak summer months, arriving early for weekends is recommended as the more accessible spots can fill quickly. Penrose Common Rec Site provides an alternative nearby option with a pit toilet but requires a high-clearance vehicle to access.
What is the best time of year for dispersed camping in Westcliffe, CO?
The prime season for dispersed camping around Westcliffe is late spring through early fall (May-September). Summer offers warm days with cool nights at the higher elevations. Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area provides excellent summer camping with dirt roads leading to multiple sites, though water sources are limited. Early fall brings spectacular foliage, especially along Phantom Canyon, which offers isolated camping spots with stunning views. Winter camping is possible but challenging due to snow and cold temperatures, with many forest roads becoming impassable. Spring can be muddy during snowmelt, often making access difficult until May. The Westcliffe area sits at high elevation (around 8,000 feet), so prepare for temperature swings year-round. Even summer nights can drop below freezing, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August.
Where are the best spots for dispersed camping near Westcliffe, CO?
The Westcliffe area offers excellent dispersed camping opportunities. Marshall Pass Dispersed provides numerous sites along Marshall Pass Road after turning at Mears Junction off Highway 285. These spots vary from camper-friendly to tent-specific areas throughout the National Forest. Another great option is Hermit Pass OHV, which offers free dispersed camping with stunning mountain views. For those willing to drive a bit further, consider the dispersed sites along Ophir Creek Road or South Colony Basin area near the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Most dispersed sites in the region provide beautiful scenery with varying degrees of accessibility - some require high-clearance vehicles while others are accessible with standard cars. Remember that most Forest Service and BLM lands around Westcliffe allow dispersed camping, typically with a 14-day stay limit.
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