Dispersed Camping

DISPERSED CAMPING

Dispersed camping and boondocking is camping on public lands away from developed recreational facilities. Dispersed camping does not provide any services, meaning no trash disposal, dump site or restroom facilities. Campers are expected to be self-contained packing in and out all supplies and waste.

When dispersed camping

• Follow Leave No Trace Principles
• Camp at least 150 feet from any water source (stream, lake, pond, etc.)
• Stay no more than 14 days
• Travel to campsites on designated roads and trails
• Park and set up tents on durable surfaces away from vegetation
• Poop responsibly following “Doo Colorado Right” principles of correct burial or packing it out
• Be wildlife aware. Black bears are in this area food and food waste need to be properly stored. Click here to learn more about bear safety
• If a fire is built, ensure it is fully extinguished before departing. Drown it, stir it and feel it. If you can’t touch it with your bare hand it’s too hot to leave. Click here to learn more about campfire safety

It’s recommended that you check in at information centers and ranger stations to learn more about dispersed camping locations in the area before heading out to ensure you are not on privately owned land.

Dispersed camping is not allowed in the Leadville Historic East Side Mining District, this land is privately owned. Dispersed camping is not allowed in the Turquoise Lake and Twin Lakes Recreation Areas, camping in these areas is only allowed in USFS designated campgrounds.

How do you know if you are on public land? Ask at local Visitor Centers, Ranger Stations or download a local Motor Vehicle Use Map – PDF Version – Avenza Maps Version

Backcountry huts and yurts near Leadville and Twin Lakes make camping fun and comfortable year ’round.

Whether you are car/RV camping or backpacking doing your part to care for and protect public lands keeps these areas beautiful and useable for the future. Overuse and misuse can lead to damaged ecosystems and habitats and ultimately closures.

So grab some friends, trek to a cozy base camp, and explore the wilderness.

Stay the Trail, Tread Lightly and Leave No Trace