Free dispersed camping in Roosevelt National Forest, Peterson Lake sits along a stretch of road with several unmarked pull-offs and side roads where camping is permitted. Sites are well-spaced but unlevel, so campers should come prepared with leveling gear. Rigs over 22 feet will have trouble navigating the access roads. Small camper vans fit without issue. Nearby, Peterson Lake Road Dispersed — Roosevelt NF provides additional options along the same corridor, and those planning a broader trip can browse camping near Gould for the surrounding area. This spot works best for self-sufficient campers in compact vehicles who don't need marked sites or level ground.
Description
Free camping (dispersed) is allowed on most national forest lands except in highly developed areas - such as trailheads, campgrounds and picnic sites - and in some of our most visited places. Be sure to check for regulations in advance and look for signs in the area to indicate if camping is allowed.
Some areas allow camping in designated sites only.
Know Before You Go
Check the weather and road closures before heading up. Follow Leave No Trace principles. There are no facilities or trash receptacles. Pack out what you pack in. Make sure camping is allowed. Many lands within the national forest boundary are private or otherwise owned. Check that you’re on National Forest lands: maps. Don't stay too long. Camping is limited to 14 days within any continuous 30-day period at any location within the same 20-mile radius. See Order Plan on building a campfire? Campfire restrictions can occur any time of year. Check for fire restrictions and if you build a campfire, know how to extinguish it.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsPeterson Lake Dispersed Camping is located in Colorado near Estes Park
Coordinates
40.55437 N
105.788198 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 56 min from Fort Collins, CO
- 2 hrs 21 min from Greeley, CO
- 2 hrs 25 min from Cheyenne, WY
- 2 hrs 39 min from Boulder, CO


