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Sand Wash Basin

6 ReviewsAdd Review

This free dispersed camping area sits on BLM land northwest of Maybell, accessible via dirt roads that require at least all-wheel drive and high clearance. Sand Wash Basin spans a large area with multiple camping spots scattered throughout the valley, giving campers flexibility to find their preferred level of isolation. The region is home to roughly 700 wild horses, and visitors frequently spot these animals during their stay.

Road conditions vary significantly depending on weather and location within the basin. Several reviewers note the main access routes can be challenging, with one mentioning they "bottomed out one time and came very close several others" in a 2014 RAV4. The terrain becomes more demanding deeper into the valley, where 4WD becomes essential for reaching elevated viewpoints like Lookout Mountain.

The area attracts ATV and dirt bike riders who use the extensive trail network. Canada0718! F. calls it a "perfect spot for riding" with tons of trails available. Weekend crowds are common due to off-road vehicle enthusiasts, though the vast space means campers can usually find quieter spots away from the activity. Wind can be intense, particularly at night.

Facilities are minimal – pit toilets are available but not always accessible depending on season. Campers should bring all supplies from Maybell, the nearest town for resupply. For those wanting developed amenities, East Cross Mountain offers a more structured camping experience to the south.

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Map & DirectionsSand Wash Basin is located in Colorado near Maybell

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

40.6197718 N
108.36925482 W

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Connectivity

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    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 5/13/26

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 5/13/26

Access

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

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites
  • Big Rig Friendly

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

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Reviews6 Camper Reviews - Sand Wash Basin

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5.0

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6 Reviews

Reviewed Jan. 17, 2026

Great place to Park with Bathroom

We were there in mid-January and grateful to find the unlocked pit toilet. The place was quiet and dark (it was January and NO ONE was around). We saw wild horses a little further away from where we parked the van.

Month of VisitJanuary
  • Review photo of Sand Wash Basin by Julie K., January 17, 2026
  • Review photo of Sand Wash Basin by Julie K., January 17, 2026
Reviewed May. 15, 2023

Beautiful and Wide Open

I ended up driving to Sand Wash after my first site about an hour west was kind of flooded and crowded. I showed up right when the sun was setting and was able to catch some horses about 20 mins after driving past the entrance to the area. The roads were very sketchy at some points, but by 2014 RAV4 was able to make it (though I did bottom out one time and came very close several others - at least AWD and high clearance are a must). Make sure you go to Sand Wash Basin's website. People that live there published an unofficial map of the different parts of the park with way more detail than Google Maps ever could, plus other facts and info about the place. The only downfall was it was super duper windy at night to the point where it was tough to sleep even with my heavy canvas tent walls. I ended up leaving the next morning because the wind had gotten worse and the forecast said it would be twice as bad as the next night. Definitely keeping this spot on my favorites list.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Sand Wash Basin by Casey H., May 15, 2023
  • Review photo of Sand Wash Basin by Casey H., May 15, 2023
  • Review photo of Sand Wash Basin by Casey H., May 15, 2023
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Jul. 26, 2022

Sandwash Basin BLM - Dispersed

There's a few spots it's a dirt/mud road through the entire Basin but there's some beautiful spots overlanders or vans can make it too. Lookout mountain in particular has amazing views and a few small spots, however 4wd is recommended. I made it when it was dry I. A 2wd van but it was sketchy the whole way up. Definitely gonna have to leave immediately if it rains

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Sand Wash Basin by Maddict , July 26, 2022
Reviewed May. 18, 2021

Be on the Lookout for Wild Horses

This area is located directly in the middle of the Wild Horse area of Northwest Colorado. This seems to be the place to ride dirt bikes or do some mountain biking. 

This is easy to find location since there is a large sign right off the road and there is TONS of space for camping. 

We stayed here one night on the way to Idaho and it was a great stopover spot for the night but due to ATV's and lots of people coming through, it's not a quiet long term camp spot. 

Co Rd 67, Maybell, CO 81640

  • Review photo of Sand Wash Basin by Hayley K., May 18, 2021
Reviewed Jun. 4, 2019

Sand Wash Basin BLM

-BLM management camping

-Free

-Awesome place to camp! 

-Bring your dirt bikes and ATV’s! Perfect spot for riding. Tons of trails!

-Bring your camera because you just may be able to see some of the 700 wild horses roaming the area! Beautiful moment and capture if you do! 

-This campground spot fills up quick on weekends due to the riders but still is pretty remote and the riders don’t bother you. 

-Lots of hiking around.

-Beautiful scenery!

-Maybell,CO is the closest town to get anything so be sure to bring all your survival necessities( plenty of water, food, gas if you’ll be riding atv’s or dirt bikes, etc..)

-4wd recommended, especially if you go further down through the valley, gets pretty rough and big broken sharp rocks on the road. 

-There are no bathrooms

Month of VisitMay
Showing results 1-6 of 6 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Sand Wash Basin located and how do I access the BLM camping areas?

Sand Wash Basin is located in Northwest Colorado in a wild horse management area. The site is easily accessible as there's a large sign right off the highway marking the entrance. Once inside, there are dirt/mud roads throughout the basin leading to various camping areas. Some spots require 4WD access, particularly those near Lookout Mountain which offers stunning views but has more challenging terrain. The roads can be sketchy in places, especially after rain, so plan your vehicle choice accordingly. There's plenty of space for camping throughout the basin.

What are the rules and regulations for BLM camping in Sand Wash Basin?

Sand Wash Basin offers free camping under BLM management. Standard BLM dispersed camping rules apply, which typically include a 14-day stay limit. Pack out all trash and practice Leave No Trace principles while camping. The area is shared with wild horses, so maintain a respectful distance and don't disturb them. For motorized activities, stay on established trails to protect the landscape. Fire restrictions may apply depending on conditions, so check with local BLM offices for current regulations before your trip.

What activities can I enjoy while camping in Sand Wash Basin, Colorado?

Sand Wash Basin offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly the chance to observe some of the 700 wild horses that roam the area. It's a popular destination for off-road activities with numerous trails perfect for dirt bikes and ATVs. Mountain biking is also enjoyable on the basin's terrain. Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of scenic landscapes and wild horse viewing opportunities. Hiking and exploring the natural terrain are additional activities available in this beautiful area of Northwest Colorado. The basin provides stunning views, especially from elevated camping spots.

What amenities or facilities are available at Sand Wash Basin camping areas?

Sand Wash Basin offers basic facilities with at least one bathroom noted near the camping areas. As BLM land, expect primitive camping conditions with few amenities. There are no hookups for RVs, running water, or electrical services available. The camping areas are undeveloped, so you'll need to bring everything required for your stay, including water, food, and waste disposal equipment. Some camping spots provide excellent views of the surrounding landscape, particularly those at higher elevations like Lookout Mountain.

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