Overland Reservoir (Dispersed), near Paonia, Colorado, is a stunning spot for those who appreciate the beauty of nature without the frills of developed campgrounds. This area offers a peaceful escape with a few dispersed sites right by the water, perfect for fishing or simply soaking in the views.

Visitors rave about the breathtaking scenery, with many mentioning the enchanting aspen forests and the chance to catch a glimpse of wildlife like deer and elk on the way in. Fishing enthusiasts have had success catching small trout, and the sunsets here are nothing short of spectacular. One camper noted, “We were treated to a lovely sunset and fish jumping,” highlighting the serene atmosphere.

While there are no amenities like drinking water or electric hookups, the vault toilets are conveniently located, and the area is free to use. Just be sure to bring bug spray, as the mosquitoes can be quite persistent. If you're looking for a quiet retreat surrounded by nature, Overland Reservoir is a fantastic choice for your next camping adventure.

Overland Reservoir lies approximately 22 miles north of Paonia near the divide between the Grand Mesa National Forest and the Gunnison National Forest.This area offers a very beartiful setting, with the deep blue reservoir, grassy parks and thick green timber. It is stocked every year by the Colorado Parks & Wildlife with Rainbow and Brook Trout. The average size fish caught is 6 to 8 inches. The reservoir is drained every fall, so the fish have no chance of reaching larger sizes. The fisherman with a boat may have better luck than fishing from the bank. There are many dispersed camping spots located on the east side of the Reservoir.

Overland Reservoir (Dispersed)-Paonia RD

Somerset is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Discover great camping spots near Somerset, reviewed by campers like you.

Somerset

The Best Camping Near Somerset, Colorado

Stocked reservoir with rainbow and brook trout. Smaller fish but fun fishing. 

  

The dispersed camping is located on the east side of the reservoir. Vault toilets located here and no water(except the reservoir). All camping is first-come, first-serve. Bring bug spray as the mosquitoes are pretty bad here.

Peaceful location

Stayed here for a night after visiting the North Rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison!!! Great area &gt; 1 hour down Stevens Gulch rd… got to see some enchanting aspen forests, trout jumping, and the milky way…. plus lots of folks heading out to hunt some critters and oh, cows everywhere hehe :)

awesome free camping

This last minute find at the very end of May was definitely worth the long gravel road to get there. 
You'll see farms in the valley, cruise through the aspens to see epic white caps, and through some pines to the reservoir. We saw lots of deer &amp; some elk on the drive up. 
There are quite a few dispersed spots &amp; vault toilets spread around as you drive up to the reservoir and some along the road next to the water. 
We went fishing &amp; caught a few small trout and enjoyed the breeze over the water. We will definitely be returning! 

Easy Camping with Awesome views 

Other than the plethora of mosquitos, this is one of my favorite camp spots so far. My husband and I arrived around 3:30pm on a Tuesday. Camp sites directly on the banks are few, but we managed to score what I thought was the prettiest spot. There were plenty of spots around if you don't want to be right next to the lake. As mentioned, there were a ton of mosquitos. When the breeze was blowing, it helped, but definitely bring bug spray! In the evening time, we were treated to a lovely sunset and fish jumping. Will be coming back again. Very peaceful place. 

Photos of Overland Reservoir (Dispersed)-Paonia RD

Real photos from real campers