Dispersed camping near Westcliffe, Colorado provides access to numerous high-elevation sites with views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Most camping areas sit between 7,500-9,000 feet elevation, creating significant temperature variations between day and night even in summer months. The area receives moderate rainfall during July and August, often in afternoon thunderstorms that clear quickly.
What to do
Hiking directly from camp: At Alvarado Campground, trails accessible from the campground provide routes through diverse mountain terrain. "We felt secluded. Hiking trail was not far from us," notes Trish M., who adds that their favorite campsite (#41) offers creek access and privacy. For more challenging hikes, experienced backpackers can access trails near campsite 43 which "had access to several wonderful trails," according to Glenna L.
Mountain biking on shared trails: The area offers trails with varying technical difficulty. Some routes near Alvarado Campground have usage limitations. "The trails are very narrow, and when encountering another atv, there's really no where to get around. There were also lots of people walking and hiking the trails, making it very dangerous on an atv," reports Alicia S., highlighting the need for caution on multi-use paths.
Stargazing without light pollution: Westcliffe is designated as an International Dark Sky Community. At Lake Deweese State Wildlife Area, campers can observe exceptional night sky views from dispersed sites. Jessica W. notes, "Summer nights during the new moon is a great time to visit. You can see the Milky Way." The higher elevations and minimal light pollution make this area particularly valued for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
Creek-side camping spots: Many visitors select sites that provide natural water features. At North Crestone Creek Campground, the sites follow the creek up the mountainside. Jordan M. reports, "We were right next to the river towards the end of the camping spots and hiked up the backpacking trail at the end to go fishing up at the lake and rivers along the trail."
Secluded sites with adequate spacing: Certain campgrounds offer more privacy than others. "The sites are widely spaced on the lower level. There were plenty of sites," notes Steph C. about Alvarado Campground. Site selection matters for privacy and level ground, as Laura S. advises, "Lower sites are larger, more open, and more recently updated. Sites further uphill are in a mixed state of dilapidation."
Accessible water features: Several camping areas provide recreational water access. At Lake Deweese, Wayne H. describes, "We decided on a non wooded area on the north side of the lake for a great view of the mountain range." However, campers should check current water conditions as Kyli H. warns, "DO NOT let kids or dogs in water, as there is a level red warning for toxic algae!"
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: This region has active bear populations requiring proper food storage. "We are back in bear country a little and we did have an incident with some bears coming into the camp 2 nights in a row because the people next to us left their food out," cautions Jordan M. about North Crestone Creek Campground. Many established sites provide bear boxes, with Felice E. confirming they have "Fire Pit, Picnic Table, Bear Box!"
Seasonal insect conditions: Mosquitoes can be problematic in certain areas and seasons. Steve & Ashley G. report about North Crestone Creek Campground: "The mosquitoes are really bad in the summer season. You could hardly go outside due to the swarms." Similar conditions affect other locations, as Cooper P. warns about Dispersed Sand Area 1: "mosquitoes were absolutely awful so be prepared (mid July)."
Permit requirements: Certain camping areas require permits or licenses. At Lake Deweese State Wildlife Area, camping is not free despite being dispersed. Wayne H. notes: "This is posted as a free dispersed camping area. However I think a fishing license or other wildlife passes are required." Verify requirements before arrival as regulations may change seasonally.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for multi-tent groups: When camping with children, space considerations become important. "We were a party of five with one large tent, one medium size tent and 2 vehicles. Luckily spot 43 at the top of the loop was available and able to accommodate our group," explains Glenna L. about Alvarado Campground, demonstrating the need to select sites that accommodate your specific setup.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers chances to observe mountain wildlife safely. At Dispersed Sand Area 1, Phil G. shares a unique experience: "A large gathering of mountain goats hanging out along the road was a fun surprise! Gorgeous views of Crestone peak and other neighboring mountains."
Off-site attractions for day trips: When conditions at camp become challenging, nearby attractions provide alternatives. Thomas W. suggests: "Had great views of the dunes and visited zapata falls down the road when it got too hot." These side trips can provide relief from afternoon heat or insect pressure while still enjoying natural features.
Tips from RVers
Limited space at certain sites: RV campers should research site dimensions carefully. "The campground won't accommodate fifth wheels only horse and rv up to 30 or so," warns Diane S. about Alvarado Campground. For those with larger rigs, alternative options exist, as DaveAdele C. reports: "We easily got our 40' coach into a very level site."
Hookup availability: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Westcliffe offer varying levels of services. At Valley View Hot Springs, Katie notes: "Campsites with electric hook ups are limited. Bathrooms and showers are clean." For RVers requiring full hookups, Marsha K. recommends Grape Creek RV Park: "The spaces are long and level and each contains full hookups, a large patch of grass, aspen trees, and best of all great views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains."
Access road conditions: Road quality varies significantly between campgrounds. For Lake Deweese State Wildlife Area, Jess C. advises: "The road around the lake is a little rough but we got out 25' travel trailer back here no problem." RVers should research current road conditions, especially after weather events that may affect accessibility.
