Free Camping Collection
Dispersed Camping
Red Sandstone - Primitive Dispersed
Red Sandstone - Primitive Dispersed, near Vail, Colorado, is a fantastic spot for those seeking a rugged camping experience surrounded by stunning natural beauty. This area offers a true escape into the wilderness, with sites nestled among aspens and pines, and a babbling stream that adds to the serene atmosphere.
The road leading to the camping area is quite rough, so be prepared for a bumpy ride. Many visitors have noted that while the journey can be challenging, the reward is well worth it, with beautiful views and a peaceful setting once you arrive. As one camper put it, “The camp is a 5, road is a 2,” highlighting the contrast between the drive and the destination.
For outdoor activities, you’re in luck. The nearby Lost Lake Trail offers a scenic hike, and the area is perfect for fishing and swimming, though be sure to bring bug spray to fend off the mosquitoes. Campers have enjoyed gathering around the stone fire pits, making it easy to enjoy evenings under the stars.
While amenities are minimal—no drinking water or toilets—this location is ideal for those who appreciate a more primitive experience. Visitors have remarked on the quiet and beauty of the area, making it a great choice for a weekend getaway or a longer stay in the heart of Colorado's wilderness.
Description
US Forest Service
White River National Forest
There are many dispersed camping opportunities on the forest ranging from backpacking to car-camping along designated Forest Roads. Visitors are encouraged to minimize resource impacts by utilizing established sites rather than creating new ones. Dispersed camping sites along Forest Roads are shown on Motor Vehicle Use Maps, which are available free of charge at ranger district offices. Visitors are permitted to drive vehicles up to 300 feet from designated routes for purposes of dispersed camping as long as no resource damage is incurred in the process. Dispersed camping within 100 feet of lakes, streams, and forest system trails is prohibited unless otherwise designated. Campers may stay for a maximum of 14 days. Some areas may have additional special restrictions. This dirt road begins at the paved Red Sandstone Road near Vail and ends at either Piney Lake or Hwy 131 north of Wolcott: This road gets heavy vehicle traffic and also a fair number of mountain bike riders, so please share the road. The climb is gradual and steady, and all but the very lowest of passenger cars can handle this relatively easy dirt road. The road winds its way up along Red Sandstone Creek and then Indian Creek with occasional views south over Vail Mountain, before reaching its high point near the trailhead for Lost Lake Trail. Here you can choose to head west toward Muddy Pass and Hwy 131, or head toward Piney Lake as your destination. Enjoy the peace and beauty here or take a hike up the Upper Piney River Trail, but remember that the lake is surrounded by the Eagles Nest Wilderness and is closed to bikes.
Location
Red Sandstone - Primitive Dispersed is located in Colorado
Directions
Exit I-70 at Vail exit 176 and take the North Frontage Road west to Red Sandstone Road. Turn right and follow to a gate where the dirt road begins.
Coordinates
39.70155019 N
106.38233627 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TAvailable
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
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.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Red Sandstone - Primitive Dispersed needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 12 min from Denver
- 2 hrs 22 min from Boulder
- 2 hrs 54 min from Greeley
- 2 hrs 57 min from Fort Collins
