Top Free Dispersed Camping near Westcliffe, CO

Want to go dispersed camping near Westcliffe? Dispersed camping gets you off the grid so you can disconnect from the hecticness of everyday life. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Westcliffe, CO (51)

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Deweese state wildlife area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Deweese state wildlife area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Deweese state wildlife area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Deweese state wildlife area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Deweese state wildlife area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Deweese state wildlife area
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield
    Camper-submitted photo from The Dunefield

    2. The Dunefield

    7 Reviews
    46 Photos
    337 Saves

    Explore 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
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Sand Area 1
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Sand Area 1
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Sand Area 1
    Camper-submitted photo from Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area

    4. Cloverdale Mines Dispersed Area

    2 Reviews
    21 Photos
    46 Saves

    Don'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)
    Camper-submitted photo from South Colony Basin
    Camper-submitted photo from South Colony Basin
    Camper-submitted photo from South Colony Basin
    Camper-submitted photo from South Colony Basin
    Camper-submitted photo from South Colony Basin
    Camper-submitted photo from South Colony Basin

    5. South Colony Basin

    2 Reviews
    8 Photos
    100 Saves

    South 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
    • Tents
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotton Creek Trailhead
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotton Creek Trailhead
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotton Creek Trailhead
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotton Creek Trailhead
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotton Creek Trailhead
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotton Creek Trailhead

    6. Cotton Creek Trailhead

    2 Reviews
    9 Photos
    78 Saves

    The 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
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Common Rec Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Common Rec Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Common Rec Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Common Rec Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Common Rec Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Penrose Common Rec Site

    7. Penrose Common Rec Site

    9 Reviews
    29 Photos
    83 Saves

    Penrose 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
    Camper-submitted photo from Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead
    Camper-submitted photo from Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead
    Camper-submitted photo from Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead

    8. Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead

    3 Reviews
    3 Photos
    10 Saves

    The 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)
    Camper-submitted photo from Crestone Needle Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from Crestone Needle Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from Crestone Needle Trail

    9. Crestone Needle Trail

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    12 Saves
    • Pets
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
Showing results 1-10 of 51 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Westcliffe

169 Reviews of 51 Westcliffe Campgrounds


  • Wendy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area

    Great views

    Lots of open spots in mid October. Slow going on rocky and bumpy dirt road but Chevy express 2wd did fine. Low clearance vehicles take extreme caution. Stayed in loop A, also a B&C.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed
    Oct. 13, 2024

    BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed

    Great Spot

    Was able to find a really nice open spot with amazing views of the mountains. Was big and spacious enough for me and my friend to camp in our vans. No one around for miles!

  • Angela E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotton Creek Trailhead
    Oct. 7, 2024

    Cotton Creek Trailhead

    Beautiful and peaceful 💚

    The sky is GORGEOUS. The road is very rocky & very rough, so you'll want to have decent clearance and be prepared to take it slow. I've never seen so many stars!

  • aThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cripple Creek BLM Area
    Oct. 6, 2024

    Cripple Creek BLM Area

    Great secluded spot!

    We went on a Saturday and it wasn’t crowded at all. The dispersed sites aren’t far from the road since most of the road goes down a valley with hills on both sides however there’s a nice creek running down the whole way. Definitely check it out if you don’t mind a colder night in a valley. Not much room to explore outside your vehicle unless you’re okay walking down the dirt road to see other sites and views.

  • Levi S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacred White Shell Mountain
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Sacred White Shell Mountain

    Easy free camping

    Got here on a Saturday night in September and found a spot right away. It had been raining for awhile too. No issue on the road with a kia sorento.

  • Lily R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed

    Secluded sites along creek

    Drove ~3 miles along the service road to find our spot, it was the second pull off “open-area” with several fire pits to choose from. Road was a little bumpy but would be fine with a 2WD. Gorgeous, secluded spot next to the creek. No Verizon service.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
    Sep. 11, 2024

    Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area

    Lots of Options

    A lot of stuff if the road. I was pulling a popup trailer so we didn’t go too far up the road just in case it got choppy. Seemed like there is quite a few spaces. Talked to a few people who had been staying there for around a week.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sacred White Shell Mountain
    Sep. 11, 2024

    Sacred White Shell Mountain

    Wide Open Spaces

    Not much tree cover at a lot of these spots. Great location to be close enough to the dunes.

    Was pretty windy and sandy while we were there

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Hendricks Flat
    Sep. 9, 2024

    Hendricks Flat

    Beautiful little spot

    My friend and I are roadtripping around a couple states and found this cute little camp site!! There is no running water or toilets but we didn’t mind :)) absolutely gorgeous place!

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed

    great spot by creek

    loved this spot even stayed a couple extra days right by nice size creek the cooler weather was nice and meant not alot of bugs. more traffic on road than expected but not bothersome. people close by but not close enough to hear or bother you in anyway. site was clean. there were more shaded ones but we chose next to water. were a couple empty close by on a holiday weekend.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shavano Mountain
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Shavano Mountain

    Amazing vistas

    Amazing vistas! Big private sites. Tough road that gets progressively technical as you go farther up towards trail head.

  • W D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead
    Aug. 27, 2024

    Wild Cherry Creek Trailhead

    Quiet camping and stars

    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. Verizon cell service was between 1 and 3 bars LTE depending on your line of sight to the tower. Road in is rougher towards the end but definitely doable in any SUV

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hayden Creek Roadside Camp
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Hayden Creek Roadside Camp

    great spot!

    This is a terrific find! level, shaded, right by nice size creek. perfect for exploring and quiet. we were in tent but saw several largeRV. some traffic but never heard another person. were a few spots right next to us but we were the only ones there . several a long road though nicely spaced out. small gas station close for gas and ice if needed otherwise about 45 min for supplies. ark river couple miles great spot to enjoy also rafting close etc.stayed couple extra days we just enjoyed the quiet. was also very clean and maintained. will definitely be back!

  • Amy L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Deweese state wildlife area
    Aug. 25, 2024

    Lake Deweese state wildlife area

    Fine for a night

    The directions from this app didn’t exactly take me to the campsites. The campsites are along Lake Deweese Rd at the NE end of the reservoir. There are several sites all in very close proximity. There is virtually no privacy from neighbors but it worked from me for a night. It looked like some campers may be permanently occupying the sites.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Great Sand Dunes Dispersed
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Great Sand Dunes Dispersed

    Good spot if you get there early

    There’s plenty of spots off the main road, but seems like you need to get there early. We showed up around 6 pm. The road does get pretty rough eventually, and we didn’t trust our minivan going through the “unmaintained” section, we turned around and were able to find a connecting side road that had plenty of open space out there. When entering the road initially, the side road would be about half way up to your left. Pretty close to Great Sand Dunes National Park, so we were happy with this location! Nice mountain view.

  • Erika L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Sand Area 1
    Aug. 14, 2024

    Dispersed Sand Area 1

    Door and peaceful

    Loved hearing the creek roaring in the background and feeling the sun on my skin surrounded by cactus - an I in Texas!?

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crestone Needle Trail
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Crestone Needle Trail

    I stayed for days. Really liked the location.

    There are more than one listing for places to camp along FS 949. 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. Plenty of camping spots all the way up to the end of the road where there is a fairly busy trailhead.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Phantom Canyon

    Beautiful, but Far from Pristine.

    Absolutely beautiful area! We pulled in on a Friday evening with thunderstorms all around. There were plenty of sites available when we showed up, but they were all full by Saturday morning. We weren’t able to get one of the spots near the creek, but had our own hidden ravine tucked away on the left side of the road. I believe it was the 3rd to last pull out and the last one on the left side of the road. Stunning… but the smell from previous campers unsuccessfully trying to burn their trash in the fire rings (thankfully we brought our solo stove to cook on) and all the litter was a bit overwhelming. Broken glass, toilet paper/feces not buried, cigarette butts, and just trash everywhere. Unfortunate for the area, our spot was the cleanest one we came across. We took some walks past others near the creek that looked like they had just hosted full on frat parties.

    It was just super unfortunate and disgusting to go to such a beautiful area and have previous campers all but ruin it for us.

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed
    Jul. 28, 2024

    BLM Mt. Blanca Rd. Dispersed

    Quick Stop

    Quick and easy to find. Area was easily accessible. A great option for those on a budget and attempting to avoid paying fees for one night stays. Nice views of the valley and mountain behind. Sites were not the most level going up the mountainside and a bit rocky. Would stay there again!



Guide to Westcliffe

Camping near Westcliffe, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to hike, stargaze, or just relax in nature, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: There are several trails nearby, especially around the Pinon Flats Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "From the campground, you can easily hike up to the creek and the east face of the dunes within 15-30 minutes."
  • Stargazing: The area is known for its dark skies. A camper at Zapata Falls Campground said, "You MUST take a walk down into the dunes after dark… simply breathtaking."
  • Exploring the Sand Dunes: The Great Sand Dunes National Park is just a short drive away. One visitor noted, "Our site overlooked the Sand Dunes, with a trail out into the dunes for hiking every morning."

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Red Canyon Park highlighted, "This is a beautiful park with great dispersed sites!"
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like the Great Sand Dunes Oasis, are well-maintained. A visitor mentioned, "The bath house was clean."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peacefulness of places like East Ridge Campground. One reviewer said, "The campsites were all well maintained and several had great views of Canon City."

What you should know

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A camper at Pinon Flats Campground warned, "In July, there were a ton of mosquitoes everywhere except over the sand."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Zapata Falls Campground, have basic facilities. One visitor noted, "There are no frills at Zapata Falls--no hook-ups, no hosts, and only vault toilets."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak season. A camper at Sand Dunes Recreation mentioned, "You do have to reserve online now in advance."

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. The Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA has a playground and mini-golf. One parent said, "Lots of great stuff for kids. Slide, playground, mini golf."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on little ones, especially near water. A reviewer at Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites shared, "I splashed in the creek and caught crawdads."
  • Plan for Weather: Be ready for changing conditions. A camper at Alvarado Campground advised, "Make sure you stake everything down and add some weight to it too."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds have size restrictions. A visitor at Mosca Campground noted, "Quite a bit of RVs parking in the tent sites trying to push out tent camping."
  • Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. The Great Sand Dunes Oasis offers this, and one camper said, "Our RV spot had full hookups."
  • Be Mindful of Space: Sites can be close together. A reviewer at Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA mentioned, "The spots are a little close together and you don’t get to choose your spot."

Camping near Westcliffe, Colorado, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful scenery and plenty of activities, it's a great spot for families, RVers, and anyone looking to escape into nature.

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 Lake Deweese state wildlife area with a 4-star rating from 5 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 51 dispersed camping locations near Westcliffe, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.