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Dispersed Camping

Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping

Description

Walden Reservoir is a picturesque lake full of wildlife outside of Walden, Colorado. The Walden Reservoir is an easily accessible destination in a seldom seen portion of northern Colorado for birders, hunters, and those looking for a free, isolated place to rest.

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Location

Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping is located in Colorado

Detail location of campground

Directions

From the intersection of CR 12W and CO 125 just south of Walden, go west on CR 12W and take the first right onto CR 15. The lake can be scanned from various points along CR 15. There are also some small ponds along CR 12W both east and west of the intersection with CR 15.

Coordinates

40.74123443307451 N
106.31531459256271 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

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

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed
  • Group
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Pets

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 Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping needs a permit.

Contact

General Info


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Reviews

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5 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 25, 2025

Mosquitoes !

Easy to get to. Lovely to see. Pelicans and seagulls. Flat, no trees and darned few bushes taller than sage. SO MANY BUGS.

Site Van camping on flats near the lake
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Sep. 5, 2024

Quiet place to overnight; Terrible day experience

We showed up at night and it was very quiet, no problem finding a spot to camp. However, during the day the gnats, bugs, and ants were everywhere. Literally crawled up our boots and bodies. Great place to over night, but terrible place to hang out during the day unless you have a bug net.

Month of VisitSeptember
Reviewed Aug. 27, 2024

On th beach

simple, and easy place to get to… flat awesome sunset

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping by Quinn M., August 27, 2024
  • Review photo of Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping by Quinn M., August 27, 2024
Reviewed Aug. 6, 2022

SUNSETS AND BUGS

Better for campers/cans as there isn’t much privacy for tent campers. Not enough trees for bathrooms so you may want to bring a hide-able set up. SO many mosquitoes and biting ants but the sunsets are gorgeous and make it worth it. Sites aren’t really marked/but are right next to the reservoir. No fires/water pumps.

Month of VisitAugust

Frequently Asked Questions

What facilities and amenities are available at Walden Reservoir for campers?

Walden Reservoir offers very minimal facilities. This is true dispersed camping with no developed amenities - there are no restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings, or potable water available. The area lacks trees for privacy, so those needing bathroom facilities should bring their own portable setup. The reservoir itself is the main feature, with flat ground for setting up camp. Come prepared with everything you need, including water and waste disposal options.

Is dispersed camping allowed at Walden Reservoir in Colorado?

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed at Walden Reservoir in Colorado. The area offers sites right next to the reservoir where you can set up camp. While sites aren't formally marked, there are clear areas where people typically camp. The terrain is relatively flat, making it easier to find suitable spots for your setup. This is true primitive camping with no designated boundaries or site markers.

What outdoor activities can you do at Walden Reservoir besides camping?

Walden Reservoir offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly for bird watchers - pelicans and seagulls are commonly spotted on the water. The reservoir provides a beautiful setting for photography, especially during sunset when the colors are spectacular. While not explicitly mentioned, the reservoir likely supports typical water activities such as fishing. The expansive views and natural setting make it a good spot for stargazing at night when the bugs subside.

What's the best time of year to camp at Walden Reservoir?

The best time to visit Walden Reservoir is likely in early spring or fall when temperatures are moderate and insect activity is reduced. Summer camping, particularly during June through August, brings significant challenges with mosquitoes, biting ants, and gnats that can be quite aggressive during daylight hours. If you do camp in summer, come prepared with extensive bug protection. Nighttime at the reservoir is notably peaceful and offers spectacular sunset views that many find worth enduring the daytime bug issues.