White River National Forest contains over 2.3 million acres with elevations ranging from 5,900 to 14,265 feet, including eight wilderness areas and ten mountain peaks over 14,000 feet. Horse camping opportunities extend beyond Twin Lakes, with several dispersed sites accommodating equestrian needs throughout the forest's extensive trail system. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing at higher elevations, even during summer months.
What to do
Hike Capitol Peak trails: Avalanche Campground provides access to multiple trails, including paths toward Capitol Peak. "There is also a nice trail up the mountain that forks into two other trails," notes Anthony S., who describes the campground as an "absolute gem" with "access to the creek."
Fish at Clear Creek Reservoir: This free dispersed camping area offers waterfront sites with fishing opportunities. "Super awesome and spacious sites! We got one right by the creek it was great," reports Erin. The reservoir provides trout fishing with seasonal conditions affecting access—"As of March 3rd, 2021 the lakes are frozen and snow still on the ground."
Explore Colorado Trail sections: Kenosha Pass Campground connects directly to the Colorado Trail with multiple hiking options. "The trailhead for section 6 of the Colorado Trail is right next to the campgrounds so we checked out a portion while we were here and loved it," writes Steve C., who appreciated the campground's cleanliness and well-spaced sites.
Soak in natural hot springs: Located near Radium Recreation Site, Radium Hot Springs provides a natural soaking experience. "The hot spring is definitely the highlight of this campground and a major draw for me. It is a beautiful natural hot spring located at the bottom of a cliff along the banks of the Colorado River," explains Isabelle K., noting the spring maintains temperatures around 80-90 degrees.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed camping areas offer good site separation. At Four Mile Road Dispersed, campers appreciate the spacing between sites. "The sites were beautiful and well separated," Matt C. reports, noting the area has "gorgeous sites" despite being popular on weekends.
Access to mountain views: The elevated terrain provides scenic vistas throughout the region. "Sitting above Twin Lakes Reservoir is Lakeview Campground... The campground's location on the hillside allows for an excellent view of Twin Lakes and the surrounding mountains," describes Alex H., who notes it's "also close to the South Mt Elbert and Colorado Trail for easy hiking."
High-altitude locations: Many sites sit at elevations that provide cooler temperatures in summer. At Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 2 West, "These spots are super easy to access as long as you take it slow down 125B. It snowed/rained most of our stay, but Elbert & La Plata peaked through for some great views early morning," according to Garrett G.
Bear-resistant storage: Several campgrounds provide bear boxes for food storage. At Avalanche Campground, "Bear proof storage boxes and fire pits are available for each space," Hayley O. explains, which helps with wildlife management in this remote setting.
What you should know
High clearance vehicles required: Many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. "This site definitely requires high clearance! There were quite a few campsites nearby which were taken. I ended up just claiming the first one that caught my eye with no one around... you'll be driving around 5 mph with all the rocks and bumps in the road," warns Matthew G. about Twin Lakes Dispersed.
Limited or no cell service: Most forest campsites have little to no connectivity. "There is no Verizon service anywhere on the campgrounds," notes Steve C. about Kenosha Pass, while others report spotty service throughout the region depending on elevation and location.
Weather changes rapidly: The mountain environment brings unpredictable conditions year-round. "We had a blast with this spot, arrived late at night and woke up inside an aspen grove," Dwight R. reports from Twin Lakes, where visitors should prepare for sudden temperature shifts and precipitation.
Tick awareness: Some areas have tick populations, particularly in spring and summer. At Deep Creek Trailhead Camp, Spencer B. warns, "The biggest complaint was the multiple ticks we discovered while sitting around the camp fire. Make sure to keep a close eye for ticks."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites with amenities: Families often prefer campgrounds with basic facilities. "Lakeview Campground was a great home for a few days of breathtaking views and relaxing nights. Daniel the Host was welcoming... Loop E has brand new toilets that were maintenanced at least once a day, so clean!" reports Natasha H.
Plan for varied temperatures: Mountain elevations cause significant daily temperature swings. "In mid-September the nights and mornings can be cold, when I woke up at 6am the temperature was 34 degrees F," explains Erik S. about Avalanche Campground, suggesting families pack warm sleeping gear even during summer months.
Look for equestrian-friendly sites: Horse owners with families need specific accommodations. Four Mile Road offers sites where horses are permitted, though without dedicated facilities. The open spaces accommodate portable corrals and highlines, with sufficient parking for trailers on packed ground that supports equestrian camping needs.
Water access considerations: Water sources may be unreliable or seasonal. "I'm glad we always pack water bc I was surprised that the water was out for the season—I didn't see anything during my reservation or confirmation emails," Natasha H. shares about Lakeview, highlighting the importance of bringing sufficient water supplies.
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Most forest roads have restrictions for larger vehicles. "For those without AWD/4WD vehicles I would use caution/advise against since the drive to get into the actual grounds requires a bit of off roading including crossing a creek," advises Hayley O. about Avalanche Campground.
Generator policies vary: Many dispersed sites prohibit generators due to noise. At Lakeview Campground, "We were lucky and came in during the week and there was almost no one... Go up as far up the mountain as you can. The back drop of the mountains is spectacular," recommends N.I., suggesting weekday visits for quieter experiences.
Scout sites before committing: Road conditions can change seasonally. "If you go up 24 toward the South Elbert trailhead, you'll find lots of dispersed camping options for everything from RVs to tent camping... The road into the site was a bit sketchy but doable in my 2WD Honda CRV," notes Myrinda G. about dispersed options near Twin Lakes.
Allow extra time for setup: Higher elevations and weather can complicate arrival. "The road is rather bumpy and when it rains it will be a total mess. Most of the time this has to be extremely busy," explains another camper, emphasizing the need for flexible scheduling when bringing an RV into backcountry sites.
