Camper submitted image from Pole Hill Rd Dispersed - 1

View Photos

Camper submitted image from Pole Hill Rd Dispersed - 2
Nature
Camper submitted image from Pole Hill Rd Dispersed - 3
Activities
Unlock Planning Tools in App
pro

Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Pole Hill Rd Dispersed

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Pole Hill Rd Dispersed is located near Estes Park, Colorado, offering a terrain of forests and hills. The area experiences temperatures ranging from 20°F in winter to 80°F in summer. Nearby attractions include Rocky Mountain National Park and Lake Estes, providing opportunities for hiking and fishing.

Suggest an Edit

Location

Pole Hill Rd Dispersed is located in Colorado

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

40.36699707938773 N
105.42022145329909 W

Open in Google Maps

The Dyrt Alerts

Get reservations at sold-out campgrounds.

Learn More
Presented byT Mobile

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets

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.


2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

0%
25%
0%
0%
75%

2.0

out of 5

3 Reviews

Reviewed Apr. 29, 2025

Beautiful disperse camping once you get there

July 2024.  Stock 2005 GMC 4x4 work truck,  very basic.  Some obstacles that were pretty much to the limit of my truck capabilities.  New Bronco in front of me turned around.  Once past the obstacles (which is why we do this, right?) lots of nice camping.  The only drawback is the large power lines in the vicinity.   No Verizon.  Great views.  This will probably be my go-to overnight place on my way from Nebraska to exploring more of Colorado.

  • Review photo of Pole Hill Rd Dispersed by Mike C., April 29, 2025
  • Review photo of Pole Hill Rd Dispersed by Mike C., April 29, 2025
  • Review photo of Pole Hill Rd Dispersed by Mike C., April 29, 2025
Reviewed Sep. 28, 2024

Camping 10/10. Off-road Trail Extreme

I went up Pole Hill road in a 2018 Toyota Tacoma TRD off-road and it took everything in me to not scrape or bottom out. Lifted 4x4 is highly recommended.

Once you get past the off-road portion, the camping is amazing.

Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Jul. 28, 2024

Access not worth the trouble

Don’t believe the navigation apps and go through lyons, it’s private property ; furthermore if you like I did make the drive though Estes park, have 4WD high clearance and a small vehicle… maybe you’ll make it to this brutally elusive last free camping spot off the main mountain roads

Month of VisitJuly

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dispersed camping regulations on Pole Hill Road?

Pole Hill Road offers free dispersed camping in designated areas once you get past the difficult off-road section. This is one of the last free camping spots near the main mountain roads in the area. Standard dispersed camping regulations likely apply, including pack-in/pack-out policies for trash, proper waste disposal, and respecting existing fire rings. The area has power lines nearby which may affect site selection. For specific regulations and any permit requirements, check with the local Forest Service office before your trip.

What hiking trails are accessible from Pole Hill Road camping areas?

Specific named trails directly accessible from Pole Hill Road camping areas aren't detailed, but the area likely offers informal hiking opportunities on forest service roads and user-created paths. The surrounding terrain provides options for off-trail exploration, though hikers should be prepared with proper navigation tools and knowledge of the area. For established hiking trails, campers may need to drive to nearby trailheads in the Roosevelt National Forest or Rocky Mountain National Park, both of which offer extensive trail systems. Contact the local ranger district for current trail information and recommendations.

Is Pole Hill Road open year-round for camping?

While specific seasonal closure information isn't provided, Pole Hill Road likely has limited access during winter months due to its challenging terrain and high elevation. The road requires high-clearance 4WD vehicles even in optimal conditions, making winter access extremely difficult or impossible when snow and ice are present. Spring and early summer may present additional challenges with mud and runoff. For current road status, contact the local Forest Service office or ranger station before planning a trip outside the primary summer camping season.

Where is Pole Hill Road dispersed camping located near Estes Park?

Pole Hill Road dispersed camping is located near Estes Park, Colorado. There are two main access routes: through Estes Park itself or via Lyons. Important note: Do not attempt to access through Lyons as it crosses private property. The recommended approach is through Estes Park, though this route requires navigating challenging terrain. The camping area is situated beyond the difficult off-road section of Pole Hill Road, offering scenic mountain camping opportunities once you reach the designated sites.