Road 240 - Dispersed, near Salida, Colorado, is a stunning spot for those who crave a little adventure in the great outdoors. This area offers breathtaking views of Mt. Shavano and the surrounding mountains, making it a prime location for nature lovers and photographers alike.

The camping spots here are mostly tucked away in the woods, providing a sense of privacy and tranquility. Visitors have raved about the beautiful sites along the river, with one camper noting, “Amazing views. There is a lake up there that you can camp at for fees.” Just keep in mind that the road can be rough, so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended.

For those who enjoy hiking, you’re in luck! The area is close to several trails, including the Angels of Shavano Trail, which leads to some of the most picturesque sections of the Colorado Trail. Campers have also mentioned the nearby waterfall, which adds a lovely backdrop to your stay. 

While amenities are minimal—no drinking water or toilets—this spot is perfect for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. Just remember to pack out what you pack in, as there are no trash facilities. If you’re ready for a little rugged charm and stunning scenery, Road 240 - Dispersed is waiting for you.

Road 240 - Dispersed

Looking for the best campgrounds near Monarch, CO? Monarch is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Monarch and user-submitted reviews.

Monarch

The Best Camping Near Monarch, Colorado

This spot is one of the best kept secrets for dispersed camping in Colorado. The road has plenty of camping spots all the way up to the lake. Most spots are wooded and offer plenty of shade. We were lucky enough to end up right along the river. If you keep driving down the road, you will end up at a stunning alpine lake basin that offers plenty of hiking. High clearance vehicle is necessary to get down this road.

A hidden paradise

So I read the only review and it was dead on the money. The road is gravel and rocky but 2wd can make it . If it rains use caution road will be slick. Besides that it's well worth the trip up. Beautiful spots by streams and mountain. 

Dispersed at its best

As soon as the road gets super rocky, you’ll go up a short hill that curves right and the campsite is on the right before you take a left up another hill. I wouldn’t go any further on that road unless you have high clearance and 4x4. The waterfall was awesome to camp by. Flowing well in early June. A lot of traffic during the day on the weekend. 

Waterfall campsite 

This area is absolutely beautiful. There are a few tent camping spots at the bottom right before you cross the bridge. As you continue up the road past the bridge, there are 3 spots you can bring a small trailer to and a couple more tent spots. DO NOT bring your trailer past the 3rd spot up the road after the bridge. And do not drive up that section to the 3rd if it is already taken (scout ahead here, trust me). You won't be able to turn around and the road gets worse with no where to turn around and no spots. There are more places for tent camping the further up you go though but the road is not good so all-wheel or 4WD with clearance is needed. I pretty much only saw trucks and outbacks and 4runners making it up there. 

Other than that, it's next to the water, the trees are good and healthy, near lots of hiking trails, (angels of shavano TH takes you up the most beautiful section of Colorado trail (': it was a butt kicker though), not great service but I had enough to send a text whenever I needed to. I spent 4 nights here and will 100000% be back. Loved it so much. 

Beautiful spot, yucky road READ ME if you have a trailer

Awesome spot if you have a small vehicle and small tent. We have a silverado and a large tent for our family of four. There are a few larger spots but those were already taken. Very rocky as well. Would've loved to camp here but we take up too much space.

Cool but tiny

We camped a few camping spots above where the gate is. On the top side of the falls. Road is rough but we saw stock vehicles and full size trucks using this road. We have a sequoia with a lift and good tires. We never used 4x4 going up and we went all the way up to the mines in 2wd. We did use 4x4 on the way down just to save the brakes. Amazing views. There is a lake up there that you can camp at for fees. Would camp there again. 

Amazing hidden gem

Tried to reach the site but got only to the road bifurcation where is a ramp. Local informed us it is closed due to snow, yet to be melted. This was on April 10.

Closed / not opened access due to snow - April 2024

The spot had amazing view of Mt Shavano and other surrounding mountains. The river was fast flowing. 

Beautiful spot

believe the reviews when they say the road to get to these campsites are ROCKY. i was able to get there in my hyundai santa fe but got nervous a couple of times. despite this, we found a campsite that had a little waterfall and fast flowing creek next to it. it was the perfect little spot. got cold at night but it was to be expected. access to a lot of hiking and if you continue driving up the rocky road, you’ll get to billings lake which was gorgeous.

mount shavano camping

We’re loving this spot. It’s accessible but still feels a bit wild. Our site is very close to the road so we do encounter ATVs and other folks climbing higher up the mountain. We’re in a Revel and we navigated the very rough road well but we didn’t want to push too high. There’s a beautiful creek with tiny waterfalls right near by. Weather has been rainy each afternoon and cool mornings. 

Beautiful escape from the crowds

The road is definitely chunky! There were a few pretty spots before you get to all the dead trees. The one we stayed at was probably the best one in our opinion. The Reservoir was pretty up on the mountains minus all the dead trees. 

Photos of Road 240 - Dispersed

Real photos from real campers