This article about free camping near Denver is brought to you by Life in Tents. Their collection of luxury glamping tents will make any camping experience memorable, especially camping in Colorado.
If you’re looking to spend a few quiet nights under the stars at an established campground near the busy city of Denver, Colorado, they can fill up fast. They’re also expensive, especially in popular areas, which is why you should check out these spots for free camping near Denver that will help teach you how to camp off the grid.
While most free camping spots tend to be remote, that is not always the case. Some free camping options can actually be found just outside a city center, like Denver. In those cases, you might forget you’re “roughing it” in the middle of nowhere, because these camping areas can still be bustling with people. And with more than 23 million acres of public land in Colorado, that makes it one of the best states for free camping. Let’s go over some of the best free spots now.
7 Spots for Free Camping Near Denver
Buffalo Creek Recreation Area
Buffalo Creek Recreation Area, located just over an hour from Denver in the Pike National Forest, offers free dispersed camping. Because they are close to the Colorado Trail and Buffalo Creek Mountain Bike Area, these campgrounds are great for an overnight break after a busy day of adventure.
Dispersed camping is permitted only at specific sites with markings such as “Parking” and “Tent” in the South Platte Ranger District. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites—if no fire restrictions are in effect. Please check the latest restrictions before you go! Although the road is dirt, it is well maintained, easy to access, and you can camp for up to 14 days at the same site.
“The sites are large, and so far from other sites, you think you’re alone in the wilderness.” – Mandi K.
Campground Details
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: Dispersed
- RV sites: No
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
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Beaver Park Reservoir
The dispersed camping sites at Beaver Park Reservoir are conveniently situated near Brainard Lake and other Rocky Mountain National Park sights. Camping here is an excellent way to get out into the wilderness, only 90 minutes from Denver.
Though Beaver Reservoir itself is privately owned, the area is usually peaceful. You can go hiking, horseback riding, or skiing in the winter on the Beaver Reservoir Cutoff Trail.
“Beautiful spot with a gorgeous view of a couple of mountain peaks (Thunderbolt Peak?) with the reservoir in the foreground.” – Andrew G.
Campground Details
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: Dispersed
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
Dream Canyon Campsites
Dream Canyon Campsite is just an hour from downtown Denver and is also a convenient distance to Boulder. The best areas for camping are near a craggy section of cliffs that are renowned for their rock climbing.
There is limited water and no restrooms, so plan your trip carefully or go with a local who can show you the best spots. The area is well worth the trek. The canyon is dry with little vegetation, so it’s not for amateurs.
“It is just out of reach of the city and far enough away where we can find some peace and quiet. The views are incredible!” – Hayley K.
Campground Details
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: Dispersed
- RV sites: No
- Fires allowed: No
- Pets allowed: Yes
Captain Mountain Trailhead
Image from The Dyrt camper, Matt C.
The Captain Mountain Trailhead is about an hour from downtown Denver and is worth the drive. The trail covers the gorgeous Captain Mountain and gives stunning views of Mt. Evans and the rest of the nearby mountain range.
The Forest Service allows camping at least 100 feet from trails and water sources, so it’s an adventure for serious backpackers. The trail to the mountaintop is nearly 9 miles long, making it strenuous to climb, but it’s worth it if you want to see the peak.
“An amazing variety of wildflowers abounds throughout the trail. Water sources are easiest on the northern portion of the trail.” – Matt C.
Campground Details
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: Dispersed
- RV sites: No
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
This article about free camping near Denver is brought to you by Life in Tents.
Their luxurious glamping tent rentals make any camping experience better.
Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir
If you’re looking for a stunning nature escape within an hour’s drive from Denver, Gross Reservoir is a must-visit spot, and better yet, you can camp for free. Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir offers dispersed camping for no fee, making it easy to enjoy a getaway with gorgeous views on a budget.
The road into the campground is rough, so if you’re traveling in a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you’ll find the journey easier. There is a 14-day camping limit in one location, and you can only stay a maximum of 28 days within a 60-day period. There’s no water onsite, but there are vault toilets. If you’re willing to rough it, you’ll be rewarded with epic sunsets and peaceful lake views.
“Beautiful spot, extremely hard to get to (in a camper van) with rough uphill roads. Didn’t experience any of the noise or ruckus mentioned at camping spot 2, had so much room and incredible views. Highly recommend!” –Taylor M.
Campground Details
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: Dispersed
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Check before you visit
- Pets allowed: Yes
Rainbow Falls Dispersed Camping
Although Rainbow Falls is just over an hour and a half south of Denver, it’s a reliable choice for easy, free camping. It’s a popular destination for off-roading, so it may get crowded when the weather is dry enough for ideal ATV riding. The area is not designed for RVs, but when the ground is dry enough, you may be able to park successfully in some areas.
Although there are few water sources or restrooms, the site is not far from Manitou Springs, which has many small shops. Try nearby Cave of the Winds Mountain Park for zip lining, spelunking, and much more. Also, check out Mt. Manitou and the Manitou Incline hiking trail for a real hiking challenge.
“A very windy weekend when I was there, so be cautious with your fires. People ride the trails from sunup to sundown, so the noise can get a little annoying.” – Brandon N.
Campground Details
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: Dispersed
- RV sites: No
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping
Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping is the only option for camping if you plan to hike up Mount Herman. It still is a drivable 90 minutes from Denver, even though it’s close to Colorado Springs. Many locals in the area enjoy taking in the outdoors by hiking, off-roading, and trail running. The majority of trailheads along Mt. Herman Road offer short hikes of 2-3 miles, making them ideal for families and beginner backpackers.
There are no restrooms or drinking water on the trails, so make sure to bring plenty of water and pack out your waste before leaving your campsite.
“If you enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies, drive-in dispersed camping, and putting your off-roading skills to the test; this dispersed campsite is a must-visit!” – Monte P.
Campground Details
- Price: Free
- Number of Sites: Dispersed
- RV sites: No
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
These spots for free camping near Denver allow you to enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty without the hassle of the city or expensive fees at traditional campsites. To explore more of Colorado’s mountainous beauty, check out The Dyrt’s complete list of campgrounds in Colorado.
