Free Camping Collection
Dispersed Camping
Slate River Road Designated Dispersed - CLOSED
Slate River Road Designated Dispersed, near Crested Butte, Colorado, offers a rugged camping experience surrounded by stunning mountain views and the serene Slate River. This area is perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of nature without the frills of traditional campgrounds, featuring dirt pull-offs and the occasional fire ring left by previous visitors.
Visitors have praised the clear markings for camping spots and the easy access to the area, making it a great choice for both seasoned campers and newcomers. The views are a highlight, with one camper noting, “The view was incredible, one of the best we’ve ever had.” While amenities are minimal, there are vault toilets available nearby, and the area is known for its clean environment, encouraging a leave-no-trace approach.
For outdoor activities, the location is a gateway to hiking and mountain biking trails, with opportunities to explore the nearby Paradise Divide. Campers can also enjoy the refreshing Slate River, which runs through the valley, providing a cool escape on warm summer days. Just keep in mind that the dispersed spots can fill up quickly during peak season, so arriving early is a smart move.
Description
National Forest
2024 - THIS IS NOW PRIVATE PROPERTY
All roadside vehicle and tent campers are required to camp ONLY in designated sites. Accessibility is not guaranteed. Please use caution when venturing down forest roads.
Sites are designated by the presence of a 6in X 6in wooden post with a site number and camping symbol along with a permanent metal fire ring. All sites are first come first serve, if a site is occupied please look for another site.
Fires are only permitted in the established metal fire rings. Extinguish all fires so they are cold to the touch.
Sites are limited to two vehicles only per site.
Finding a site to camp and enjoy dispersed recreation activities in remote areas or in relative solitude has become a popular form of camping throughout the Forest. At some more popular areas,toilet facilities may be provided. Contact the local Forest Service office for current information and refer to the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for each forest (Grand Mesa, Gunnison, and Uncompahgre National Forests). Dispersed camping is permitted in most areas of the Forest. Some caution should be used in selecting a site because of intermingled private lands within the National Forest. Recreation maps are available at all local Forest Service offices. Personnel at each office can answer questions on specific sites. Unlike developed campgrounds which are designed and maintained to protect the vegetation, soils, and natural setting, camping in undeveloped areas require more from the camper to help keep the site in the condition in which it was found. Dispersed camping must not occur within 100 feet of water sources (rivers, streams, ponds, or wetlands) or within 100 feet of any road or system trail. In some areas, dispersed camping is restricted to specific sites, contact the local Forest Service office for current information. Campsites can be occupied for no more than 14 days, then the site must be moved at least 3 miles away. Camping is also limited to a total of 28 days in a 60 day period.
In areas closed to the use of vehicles off forest roads, where developed parking sites are not provided, and where not otherwise prohibited, direct access to a suitable parking site within 300 feet of the road is permitted. Such travel must not damage the land or streams. Please select your route carefully, and do not cut live timber. Off road travel should be limited to when the ground is dry. The public is encouraged to camp in locations where others have previously camped and utilized existing routes to those camp areas. Campers are required to leave a clean camp, not to damage vegetation or pollute streams and lakes on the National Forest and implement “Leave No Trace” practices.
Reservation Info
All sites are first come first serve, with a 14 day stay limit.
Location
Slate River Road Designated Dispersed - CLOSED is located in Colorado
Coordinates
38.33495642090098 N
107.404903378054 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonAvailable
- AT&TAvailable
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
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 Slate River Road Designated Dispersed - CLOSED needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 37 min from Grand Junction
- 4 hrs 27 min from Pueblo
- 4 hrs 46 min from Farmington
- 4 hrs 48 min from Colorado Springs