Forest Service dispersed camping sits above Twin Lakes at over 10,000 feet elevation, accessed via a rough gravel road that climbs steeply from the valley floor. The sites scatter through stands of evergreen trees, with many offering direct views down to the twin reservoirs below.
Shelby C. notes having "a direct view of Twin Lakes from my spot," though she found "lots of trees but little shade (at least where I walked around/camped) so plan accordingly." The dispersed sites cluster relatively close together with limited privacy between them. Fire rings mark established camping spots throughout the forested area.
Road conditions require attention, particularly the initial climb from the main highway. Several reviewers mention the rocky, chunky gravel surface that demands higher clearance vehicles for the best sites. Standard passenger cars can access some spots, but Anna H. warns "the roads are also super rocky, so be cautious if you don't have AWD." The area serves as a staging point for Mount Elbert hikers, with trailhead access nearby.
Crowds peak during summer weekends when tent campers fill available sites early in the day. October visits reveal a much quieter experience with fewer neighbors. Cell service reaches most sites, and the elevation brings cold temperatures even in summer months. Campers exploring the broader region can find places to camp near San Isabel National Forest or check nearby options like Lake View Dispersed just down the hill.
Arrive during daylight hours to properly assess site options and road conditions, especially for first-time visitors to the area.
Description
Don't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike and San Isabel National Forests where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping". In some areas, dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers where posted. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingTwin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 1 West is located in Colorado
Coordinates
39.09898969 N
106.3704784 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 94 usersLast on 4/17/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 110 usersLast on 4/17/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 33 usersLast on 4/17/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 94 usersLast on 4/17/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 110 usersLast on 4/17/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 33 usersLast on 4/17/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- 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 Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 1 West needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 11 min from Denver, CO
- 2 hrs 15 min from Colorado Springs, CO
- 2 hrs 21 min from Boulder, CO
- 2 hrs 28 min from Pueblo, CO





























