Best Dispersed Camping near Westcliffe, CO
Looking for the best dispersed camping near Westcliffe? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Westcliffe, Colorado (54)
1. Sacred White Shell Mountain
53 Reviews•137 Photos•954 SavesBlanca, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
2. Lake Deweese state wildlife area
5 Reviews•10 Photos•193 SavesWestcliffe, Colorado- Pets
- Dispersed
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Toilets
3. The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park
8 Reviews•50 Photos•343 SavesGreat Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, ColoradoExplore any part of the 30 square mile dunefield you wish; there are no designated trails in the sand. A dunes-accessible wheelchair is available for free loan at the Visitor Center. Summer air temperatures are pleasant at this high elevation, but during afternoon hours the sand surface can reach 150F degrees, and dangerous thunderstorms can develop. Plan to hike the dunes in early morning or evening to avoid heat exhaustion, burned feet, or fatal lightning strikes.
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Market
- Firewood Available
4. Medano Pass Primitive Road — Great Sand Dunes National Preserve
8 Reviews•23 Photos•380 SavesCrestone, ColoradoRoadside camping is permitted at 21 campsites in Great Sand Dunes National Preserve beginning 5.2 miles from where the road begins near Pi__on Flats Campground. These designated sites are free of charge and first-come, first-served. All 21 sites fill on summer weekends. Passable only in the warmer months and only with high-clearance 4-wheel drive vehicles. This road crosses areas of deep sand, traverses Medano Creek nine times, and passes through excellent habitat for bighorn sheep.
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Firewood Available
- Toilets
- Alcohol
5. Dispersed Sand Area 1
3 Reviews•5 Photos•86 SavesCrestone, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
6. Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area
2 Reviews•21 Photos•49 SavesHillside, ColoradoDon't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".
Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.
Please observe the following requirements when dispersed camping:
In some areas, dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers where posted. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites. BEARS and other wildlife When you go to the mountains and forest, you are in bear county. Do not leave ANY food, trash or other animal attractant unattended. Store all food and trash securely and pack out what you pack in. Failing to do so can result in a fine. Also be aware that; where not otherwise restricted, camping or leaving camping equipment at any location more than 14 days within a continuous 30 day period, and/or occupying any campsite within three miles of any prior camping or equipment location for a combined total of more than 28 days within any continuous 60 day period, is prohibited. Also, leaving camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours is not allowed. In addition; discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge. Plan your trip; phone ahead for restrictions and special regulations. Contact your local Ranger District office for more information.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
7. South Colony Basin
2 Reviews•8 Photos•102 SavesCrestone, ColoradoSouth Colony Basin and the surrounding 14,000-foot peaks offer a broad range of recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, backpacking, mountaineering, fishing and hunting. This diversity of activities, combined with the natural beauty of the basin and the rough but passable access provided by the road, has made South Colony Basin the most popular destination in the Sangre de Cristo Range. Trailhead register data indicate 3,500 to 4,500 persons (7,000 to 9,000 visitor days) visit the small (1500 acre) upper basin at the head of the South Colony drainage during the summer season. Since 1996, the Forest Service has worked in partnership with Rocky Mountain Field Institute, Colorado Fourteeners Initiative, Colorado Outward Bound, and other educational and environmental service organizations to reconstruct trails and climbing routes within the basin, stabilize eroding alpine slopes (caused by user-created trails), inventory and restore undesirable campsites and social trails. To date, nearly $1,000,000 (of mostly non-federal funds) and 40,000 volunteer hours have been spent restoring long-term recreational impacts, rebuilding the lower road, constructing trailhead facilities and creating sustainable summit trails in South Colony Basin.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
8. Cotton Creek Trailhead
2 Reviews•9 Photos•78 SavesCrestone, ColoradoThe Cotton Creek Trail is 13.1 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 962 and ends at Forest Trail #745. Trail is well marked and maintained. It follow the creek through a rugged, steep canyon and diverse scenery, with views of high peaks and many beautiful wildflowers in season. Some stream crossings can be tricky if water level is high. Attractions are fishing in creeks and lakes, and many good campsites. Teacup Lake presents an opportunity for primitive route finding.
The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Dispersed Camping, and Wildflower Viewing
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
9. Penrose Common Rec Site
9 Reviews•29 Photos•86 SavesPenrose, ColoradoPenrose Commons Recreation Area offers a warm, arid climate among pinon and juniper woodlands. The best time to visit is September through May when temperatures are comfortable and the snowy peaks of the Sangre De Cristo mountain range are visible in the distance. With 30 miles of motorized trail, the area is popular for ATVs, motorcycles and four wheeling. Independence Trail system is known for its extreme 4x4 rock crawling opportunities with easy access for spectators to enjoy the trail activity. Penrose Commons is also popular for horseback riding, hunting and dispersed camping. The area has a restroom, trail map information and ample parking space for trailers. A wet weather gate closes the area to motorized use during wet conditions. For more information, please contact the Royal Gorge Field Office.
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Dispersed
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
10. Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead
3 Reviews•3 Photos•12 SavesCrestone, ColoradoThe Wild Cherry Creek Trail is 5.7 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 961 and ends at Wild Cherry Lake. This trail offers the opportunity for a long day trip or a pleasant overnight. It is easy to follow and easy access to fishing in the lake and big game. Several good campsites exist along the route.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Recent Dispersed Reviews near Westcliffe, CO
184 Reviews of 54 Westcliffe Campgrounds
- Katie H.
Legend
Browns Canyon Dispersed
Lots of space, very little shade
A nice BLM area, free dispersed camping. Some loud generators in use when we came here but so much room we could get far enough away to not mind. No activities once you're here and no facilities but hey, its beautiful desert terrain and free. Some short trees but very little shade for cars or campers. Great for hammocks though!
- DDavid
Scout
Penrose Common Rec Site
Total boondocking.
Dispersed camping on BLM land. Looks like some "permanent" residents out here. Dirty firepit and one trash pile encountered- cleaned these w/o much work, overall not much litter. Hot, dusty, cacti, cedar trees- kind of a cool Great American Desert experience. Pit toilets are present at the entrance.
Elias M.
Traveler
Penrose BLM sites
Beautiful views of the mountains and the town
These are blm campsites. There are pit toilets right when you cross into blm land and a sign that explains that you have to camp in designated areas. Like most blm locations there is a 14 day max.
We got our 19 foot travel trailer into a spot with icy conditions, but the road does get quite a bit rougher if you keep going in. Great T-Mobile and Verizon service (2+ bars of 5g)
Mike W.
Guide
Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
Unsuccessful in obtaining a campsite in Great Sand Dunes NP and discovered BLM land south of the park on Hwy 150, turn east between mile marker 3 & 4 at large sign indicating its ok to camp. Road goes a couple of miles for two wheel drive and further for 4WD. Numerous opportunities.
- JJasonLegend
Sacred White Shell Mountain
BLM
Quick decision to stay on the BLM lands near High Sand Dunes. Very quiet, even with many other campers in the area.
Jason L.GuideSacred White Shell Mountain
Boondocking in the sun
This is BLM land that's free to camp on for up to 14 days every 45 days. The camp sites are just off a dirt road that leads to the trailhead for hiking to Blanca Peak. The road gets pretty rough the further up you get, but there are plenty of large camp sites on the way up the mountain, some you'd have to home to if you decide to go to Blanca Peak. It's a fairly busy place as off-road vehicles and horse back riding are popular here. Beautiful views of the San Luis Valley, Great Sand Dunes National Park, and Mt. Blanca. Definitely worth checking out of you're in the area. No shade or amenities, so bring everything you need with you and as always, leave no trace.
Jennifer S.GuideSacred White Shell Mountain
Can't believe this is free
Located about 15 miles south of Great Sand Dunes NP on well maintained BLM land. There are plenty of sites for every kind of camper. Loads of trails for horses, atv's, snowmobiling, and cross country skiing.
Vanessa C.TravelerGreat Sand Dunes Dispersed
Gorgeous views & noise canceling winds
There are three dispersed sites listed along this road with the first being flat and open, the second being slightly uphill and fairly open, and the third being higher uphill and far more private. We kept driving until we found a spot that was both uphill and private, which definitely requires a vehicle with some height to it like an SUV rather than a sedan. The road to the third and farthest site became too rocky for some cars and horses to continue on, but my AWD SUV did great.
The camping spots in this site all have fire pits, edible prickly pear cactuses, and some shrubbery and trees for privacy. Verizon and T-Mobile service worked well. When the wind was forecasted to be 7mph with 15mph gusts, it was enough to cancel the noise from a group of campers a few spots down. It’s a generally quiet area, so with the except of that group, you could only notice other campers if they walked, biked, or drove past the spot.
The views were phenomenal, and it was a 30 minute drive to the sand dunes. You could also check out Zapata Falls for the day with a short drive from this campsite.
There are no amenities other than fire pits in designated spots here. There is open BLM land on either side where many RVers chose to park down the hill. You can also split away from the designated spots in the upper rocky area for extra seclusion and privacy, but considering the amount of cactus and tall grass, that may only be good for car camping.
The temperature almost went down to freezing at night in early June, so be prepared with layers for both hot and cold desert conditions.
In our camp spot we saw mountain blue birds, tiger beetles, circus beetles, hover flies, common flies, plateau fence lizards, snake holes, pocket mice, deer droppings, prickly pear cactus (we prepared grilled nopales), and pinyon pine trees.
Cole T.GuideSacred White Shell Mountain
Beautiful and FREE
We stopped in here for the night after driving across the country and easily found a spot. For reference, It was around midnight on a Thursday night when we arrived. There are no facilities as this is BLM land, however don’t let that deter you from staying here if you’re on the way to great sand dunes.
Kyle T.Scout
Huerfano State Wildlife Area
Removed, but not much else to do
This is a wonderfully isolated, dispersed camping area. There are group sites and individual ones, scattered bathrooms, and a few picnic tables. Not much to do nearby, but the campsite is beautiful.
Paulina B.
Ranger
The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park
Wild and Untamed
Backcountry dispersed camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park offers an unforgettable and truly unique wilderness experience. If you’re seeking solitude and raw, untamed landscapes, this is the perfect spot to pitch your tent. With no designated sites, you have the freedom to find your ideal spot beyond the busy dunes and under an expansive star-filled sky.
The journey begins with a hike deep into the park’s rugged terrain, where you’re surrounded by towering sand dunes, alpine forests, and sweeping views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The lack of light pollution makes stargazing an absolute highlight—this is one of the best places to witness the Milky Way.
Keep in mind, this is true backcountry camping: no facilities, no water sources, and you must pack out all waste. Permits are required, so be sure to plan ahead. The environment can be challenging, with extreme temperature swings and strong winds that shift the sand beneath your feet. Good preparation and Leave No Trace practices are a must.
The rewards are well worth the effort. From sunrise hikes to the serene sound of nothing but wind across the dunes, this camping experience immerses you in nature’s raw beauty like few others can. It’s an adventure you’ll carry with you long after you’ve left the dunes behind.
Highly recommend skipping the tent and sleeping under the stars!
Ben R.RangerSacred White Shell Mountain
Great spot & excellent location
The best part about this area, aside from the views & the sunsets, is the access to the sand dunes natl park. We completely stumbled upon this area and it turned out to be one of the coolest day trips we’ve ever had. Highly highly recommend checking out the sand dunes. If you go early enough they tend to waive the entrance fee. I recommend driving up into the bushes at the camping site for more privacy, but the road is very rocky. Try and do any bathroom stuff prior to staying because digging cat holes out here is tough. It even hailed on us briefly so watch out for crazy weather! Very cool BLM land!!
phil G.Scout
Dispersed Sand Area 1
Beautiful views, remote feeling, near town
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. A large gathering of mountain goats hanging out along the road was a fun surprise! Gorgeous views of Crestone peak and other neighboring mountains. The only negative was the mosquitos. They are horrendous. If you can’t handle it or find a way to keep them away it could ruin someone’s ability to enjoy the beauty.
- KKellyTraveler
Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
Dispersed camping along Hayden Creek Rd
There are a handful of dispersed camping sites along Hayden Creek Rd, South of Cuttys and before you get the the USFS campground. These sites seems to be primarily tent camping, though we were able to get our pop-up in 1 spot. We saw 2 other larger RVs near the upper Rainbow Trail camping area. The creek is nice and the sounds was much louder then we anticipated, which was good. In June 2024 it is really flowing. It looks as though USFS has been adding boulders to restrict vehicles from driving too far off road. Lots of places to park and set up a tent though.
Joshua W.GuideSacred White Shell Mountain
Great campsite, very flat
We and my buddies came here after being turned down from the Mosca campsite. The sites here are huge and are equipped with a fire pit. Our one main problem was that because the site was so flat, the wind could get pretty rough. Still able to build a solid fire with the help of a stone barrier. Definitely recommend for free camping
- JJess C.Guide
Lake Deweese state wildlife area
Great fishing and mountain views
This is dispersed camping. There are pit toilets but no other services or amenities. Colorado State wild life areas (SWA) require a permit that’s ~$40 a year, or if you have a year fishing or hunting lisence you camp for free. The road around the lake is a little rough but we got out 25’ travel trailer back here no problem.
Anthony P.Legend
South Colony Basin
Backcountry Bliss
What an amazing spot! 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. From the upper trail head, it was about a 4 mile hike to the campground near the lower lake. If you cant make the drive, add 2.5 miles each way to that total.
Once to the campgrounds, you will find spots scattered all around the lakes and in the trees. Some areas before the lake have metal fire rings set up but for the most part you will find rock rings. We found a nice little spot in the trees a couple minute walk from the lake and a stream. This was perfect for getting water and doing some afternoon fishing.
Keep in mind these are backcountry camp spots. There are no facilities like water and bathroom and everything must be packed in and out. Each spot is fc/fs and this area can get very busy on weekends. We saw many groups up there.
Activities are plentiful in the basin. The lakes are stocked so the fishing is great. There are also 3 14ers and plenty of rock climbing to be had. This is one of my new favorite spots.
- Dave B.Guide
Sacred White Shell Mountain
Wide open country
Dirt road with wide views. If you like dispersed camping this is for you.
- LLeonard S.Traveler
Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead
Another trailhead for camping near Crestone and Great SandDunes
This is a small trailhead that has a few spots for camping. Like nearby Cotton Creek Trailhead. A small parking area for backpackers and equestrians. Probably okay to camp for free. It is within the Rio Grand National Forest. We are in an RV. There is also a tent camper here.
Carla B.Traveler
clyde dispersed camping
Amazing place
First time dispersed camping and it was amazing. Beautiful. The warms days and cold nights were incredible.
- AAnthonyScout
Sacred White Shell Mountain
Lots of space and long views outside Great Sand Dunes NP
A lot of area for dispersed camping on the side of the mountain. Roads get progressively more technical as you ascend. Some roads marked on the map have washed out making them impassible. The sites at the bottom are pretty flat, but the ones farther up the mountain become pretty steep, 8% grades if the inclinometer in my truck is right. There is fresh water fill and a dump station at the NP - free with entry fee (or real free if you have a pass), a small store with gas priced competitively and restaurant. The nearest cell tower is in Blanca a few miles away. Verizon signal is pretty good.
Griffen J.GuideSacred White Shell Mountain
Great Dispresed camping near the Great Sand Dune
This dispersed camping is top notch. Nice sites with amazing views. A little windy but that’s to be expected near the dunes.
- BBella K.Scout
Sacred White Shell Mountain
Easy, lots of spot and close to Sand Dunes
This is our first time dispersed camping and we like this! We were pretty nervous that we won’t find any spot, we got here at 5:30pm on 8/18 and there’s still plenty of spots left! Highly recommend.
Carolyn Z.Scout
Medano Pass Primitive Road — Great Sand Dunes National Preserve
Beautiful views
I started off 69. I have a stock JK and made it through with no issues. Plenty of dispersed camping sites. I had plenty of room to park, set up my hammock, and have a fire. I would definitely recommend if you're looking for seclusion!
- Jeff K.Guide
Penrose Common Rec Site
Not Fancy but...
Easy access and not too far out of Pueblo or Cañon City. We didn't venture much further than the gate at the latrine, but we saw people coming out so I can assume there are spots further in. It's dispersed camping, so not fancy but a great place to park our teardrop for the night.
Lyds F.TravelerSacred White Shell Mountain
Beautiful Free Camping
Free camping only 15-20 mins away from great sand dunes national park. There were all sorts of campers utilizing this area—large rvs/buses, vans, roof top tents, tent campers. It is wide open so you can see other campers but lots of room to spread out so we still felt alone. The wind did pick up around 9pm and was absolutely crazy for a few hours. The best part is gorgeous views of Blanca peak and the STARS! Some of the most incredible I’ve ever seen.
- RRachel P.Traveler
Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area Dispersed Sites — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
Dispersed Sites with Epic Views
There a number of dispersed camping sites off of 181 but they are directly off the road, and if you turn right onto 173 there are more open spaces with incredible views. There are fire rings set up on either side of the road and access to the singletrack bike trail nearby as well.
Guide to Westcliffe
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Westcliffe, Colorado, where nature's tranquility meets adventure. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
Medano Pass for dispersed campers
- The Medano Pass Primitive Road offers a unique experience with its scenic views and 4x4 trails, making it a favorite among off-road enthusiasts.
- Campers can enjoy the thrill of crossing Medano Creek while taking in the breathtaking surroundings, perfect for those seeking a bit of adventure.
- This area is known for its spacious camping spots, allowing for a more private experience in nature.
Beautiful landscapes while free camping near Westcliffe
- The Dunefield showcases striking sand dunes framed by majestic mountains, providing a picturesque backdrop for your camping experience.
- Visitors have noted the stunning sunsets and starry nights, making it an ideal spot for photography and stargazing.
- The area is well-maintained and offers a clean environment, enhancing the overall camping experience.
Dispersed campers should check out Lake Deweese State Wildlife Area
- The Lake Deweese State Wildlife Area features beautiful lakeside views and opportunities for fishing, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Campers can find several dispersed sites that provide a sense of seclusion while still being close to amenities in nearby Westcliffe.
- The area is known for its diverse wildlife, offering a chance to observe nature up close while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Westcliffe, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Westcliffe, CO is Sacred White Shell Mountain with a 4.5-star rating from 53 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Westcliffe, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 54 dispersed camping locations near Westcliffe, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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