The dispersed camping areas surrounding PSICC offer primitive camping options at elevations between 5,000-8,500 feet. The terrain ranges from open meadows with mountain views to creek-side spots tucked among ponderosa pines. Weather patterns can change rapidly, with summer temperatures ranging from 45-85°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms between July and September.
What to do
Creek-side relaxation: At Phantom Canyon, many sites are positioned close to the water. "It is a canyon so you won't have any cell phone signal, though I had my Starlink set up and it worked flawlessly," reports one camper who found the creek access a major draw.
Fishing opportunities: The areas near Rampart Range Area Dispersed Campsite provide fishing access within a short drive. One visitor noted, "Aprox. 1 mile of the road was bad, other quite good," making this a practical option for anglers with proper vehicles.
Rock climbing: Several primitive sites offer climbing opportunities just steps from camp. "Also has access to climbing walls right by sites," mentions a visitor to Phantom Canyon, where the natural rock formations attract both beginners and experienced climbers.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer good wildlife spotting chances. A camper at clyde dispersed camping reported, "saw a couple of moose on my way in and around 9pm one ran through my campsite!" Plan for dawn or dusk observation for best results.
What campers like
Solitude on weekdays: Primitive camping areas are significantly less crowded Monday through Thursday. At Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed, one visitor shared, "We drove ~3 miles along the service road to find our spot, it was the second pull off 'open-area' with several fire pits to choose from. Road was a little bumpy but would be fine with a 2WD."
Stream sounds: Many campers appreciate sites near moving water. A Gold Camp Road visitor mentioned, "Found a good spot right next to the creek with a mini fire pit and enough flat ground to pitch a tent. The spot was gorgeous and the sound of the creek completely drowned out any noises or people."
Mountain views: The elevation provides expansive vistas. A camper at Penrose BLM sites commented, "Campsites are spacious and all have a great view. Awesome spot to ride dirt bikes, side by sides, etc."
Star viewing: Minimal light pollution makes night skies spectacular. "The stars are beautiful at night," noted one camper at Penrose Common Rec Site, highlighting how the open terrain offers unobstructed celestial observation.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads deteriorate after rain or snow. A visitor at Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping shared, "The road in is gravel and pretty choppy, but the weather was good and my car made it fine but I was going like 5 mph. If the weather wasn't good you would probably need 4x4."
Limited amenities: Come fully prepared with all essentials. A camper noted, "No water sources so you'll have to pack out water. All the fire pits are hand build and being on the finger you're pretty exposed to the wind keeping the fires small and not very hot."
Trash issues: Previous campers sometimes leave garbage. "We arrived early on a Saturday and there were quite a few people already around and two spots available. Unfortunately there was trash everywhere and after we set up I went around to clean some up," reported a visitor at Rampart Range Road.
OHV traffic: Many sites experience off-road vehicle noise, especially weekends. "This was a solid campsite but nothing special. Bugs were horrid... not sure if it was just my site or what but they were awful. Very spread out sites which is nice," shared another camper.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Arrive early Thursday or Friday to secure flat camping areas. "Most of the sites are not flat," warned a Rampart Range Road visitor, which can be challenging for setting up multiple tents for family camping.
Creek access: Choose sites near water for natural entertainment. At Gold Camp Road, a camper observed, "Saw fish in stream a couple of deer and tons of chipmunks. Saw a little trash here and there. Please be respectful and pack in and PACK OUT!"
Insect protection: Prepare for mosquitoes, especially near water. "Given that it's next to the creek, there are bugs, so go prepared with fly traps and mosquito repellent," advised a visitor to clyde dispersed camping, highlighting the need for proper preparation.
Tips from RVers
Size considerations: Smaller trailers have more site options. A visitor to BLM Rec. Trail Dispersed mentioned, "The first few spaces can easily fit a full sized camper trailer but after that I wouldn't suggest going too far."
Turnaround space: Scout ahead before committing to narrow roads. One camper recalled, "We ended up in a dead end road with private residence. Luckily our teardrop trailer is small and somehow we managed to turn around back."
Leveling challenges: Bring plenty of leveling blocks for uneven terrain. "We got our 19 foot travel trailer into a spot with icy conditions, but the road does get quite a bit rougher if you keep going in," noted a Penrose BLM sites visitor, emphasizing the importance of preparation for uneven ground.
