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Camper submitted image from Piney River Road Dispersed Camping

Piney River Road Dispersed Camping

Approximately ten dispersed sites line the gravel Piney River Road leading toward Piney Lake, with campers parking between the road and creek. The National Forest road requires high clearance and extends 8-11 miles north of Vail, taking 30-45 minutes to reach the camping areas. Sites accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, though the rough road surface challenges larger rigs.

The creek runs alongside most sites, providing water access for fishing. Traffic flows regularly between the sites and the lake resort, particularly during peak season. Cell service remains unavailable throughout the area. Winter access becomes limited when the forest service locks the road gate, typically in late November. Lost Lake offers an alternative with similar dispersed camping further up the drainage.

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Location

Dispersed Camping

Piney River Road Dispersed Camping is located in Colorado

Coordinates

39.6980063649098 N
106.43752291946869 W

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

Site Types

Dispersed

Features

For Campers

Alcohol
Fires

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.

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2 Reviews

Sarah S.

Legend

Reviewed Nov. 23, 2025

Lost Lake Trailhead

I just stayed at the Lost Lake Trail Head. Not much traffic up here with 3" of snow. There was one campsite on the way up here that looked super awesome. NF Road will have its gate locked for the winter in a couple days. NF Road was atrocious, one of the worst I've been on. However, once you're up here, it's just magic when it's covered in snow.

Month of VisitNovember

(10) View All

Gabe D.

Scout

Reviewed Aug. 14, 2025

Beautiful views close to Piney Lake

There are ~10 free dispersed camping sites along Piney River Road leading up to the resort on the lake. The sites are all drive in, but no amenities. The creek runs along the road and the sites are between the road and the creek. Piney Lake is one of the most incredibly beautiful places and you can go hike by the lake, fish, or grab lunch at the restaurant.

Downsides (depending on how you look at it) - no cell service, 30-45 min (8-11 miles) drive on the dirt/gravel roads north of Vail depending which spot you go to, quite a bit of traffic to and from the resort.

Site6

Month of VisitAugust

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping at Piney Lake?

Dispersed camping at Piney River Road follows standard Forest Service dispersed camping regulations. The sites are free to use with no reservation system - camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Since these are primitive sites with no amenities, campers must pack in all supplies and pack out all trash. Practice Leave No Trace principles, including properly managing campfires when permitted. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip. Stay within established sites between the road and creek, and respect the 14-day stay limit typically enforced in National Forest dispersed camping areas.

Where is Piney Lake dispersed camping located and how do I access it?

Piney River Road Dispersed Camping is located along Piney River Road heading toward Piney Lake in Colorado. There are approximately 10 free dispersed camping sites situated between the road and the creek as you drive up toward the resort on the lake. These sites are accessible by vehicle with drive-in access. The road follows the creek, offering scenic views throughout the journey to the incredibly beautiful Piney Lake area. No specific amenities are available at these dispersed sites.

What is the max vehicle length at Piney River Road Dispersed Camping?

Piney River Road Dispersed Camping allows vehicles up to 40 feet.

Are fires allowed at Piney River Road Dispersed Camping?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Piney River Road Dispersed Camping, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

Does Piney River Road Dispersed Camping have wifi?

No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Piney River Road Dispersed Camping does not have wifi.