Caribou Dispersed Camping Area
4.0597 reviewsCaribou Dispersed Camping Area
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping at Caribou Dispersed Camping Area is free, as it is a dispersed camping site. However, campers must strictly adhere to the site markings and rules.
Share this campground
USFSProvider
About this campground
Tucked away along the rugged expanse of National Forest System Road 505, Caribou Dispersed Camping Area offers adventurous souls a chance to experience true wilderness camping. This collection of 11 numbered sites provides a back-to-basics experience where modern amenities fade away, replaced by the raw beauty of the Colorado high country. While the journey here demands a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle to navigate the challenging terrain, your reward is free camping on a first-come, first-serve basis in one of Colorado's most pristine settings. Come prepared with your own water and facilities – this is dispersed camping at its purest.
The campground offers dispersed camping with 11 numbered sites. Primitive camping is strongly emphasized, with no structures or facilities.
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers through the pines at Caribou, where remnants of Colorado's mining heritage blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. Just a stone's throw from the historic mining town of Nederland and the ghostly remains of Caribou Townsite, this area tells the story of fortune seekers who once scoured these hills for silver. Today's campers follow in the footsteps of prospectors and pioneers, while nearby Boulder Canyon's historic cultural routes offer glimpses into the region's rich past. Here, within the protective embrace of Roosevelt National Forest, nature has reclaimed much of what humans once built, creating a fascinating tapestry of wilderness and history.
Weather and SeasonsThe dramatic seasonal shifts at Caribou create an ever-changing canvas for outdoor enthusiasts. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with January temperatures often plunging to a teeth-chattering 7°F at night while barely reaching 22°F during the day. As spring awakens the forest, wildflowers begin their show, leading into mild summer days that draw the most visitors. Early fall rewards those who venture here with golden aspen displays and crisp, clear nights perfect for stargazing. Each season paints the forest differently, offering unique experiences for those willing to embrace the elements.
ElevationPerched between 8,000 and 10,000 feet in Colorado's thin air, Caribou Dispersed Camping Area offers genuine high-altitude adventure. At this elevation, where eagles soar at eye level and the air carries a perpetual crispness, campers experience the true essence of alpine camping. The altitude brings both rewards and challenges – spectacular views stretch for miles, but temperatures can plummet unexpectedly, even on summer evenings. This rarified atmosphere creates an environment where stars seem close enough to touch and sunrise paints the peaks in shades of gold and rose.
Natural Features and SceneryCaribou's landscape unfolds like a natural amphitheater, where towering ponderosa pines and lodgepole forests frame sweeping alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers. Rocky outcroppings punctuate the terrain, creating natural viewpoints that reveal the sprawling majesty of Roosevelt National Forest. In summer, these meadows burst with Indian paintbrush and columbine, while autumn transforms the scattered aspens into rivers of gold flowing through the evergreen sea. The interplay of forest and meadow, stone and sky, creates endless opportunities for exploration and photography, making each campsite feel like a private window into Colorado's wild heart.
Geological RegionSet within the magnificent Roosevelt National Forest, Caribou showcases the raw geological drama of the Colorado Rockies. This rugged landscape tells a story written in stone – ancient granite formations thrust skyward, weathered by millennia of wind and ice into dramatic sculptures. The terrain challenges and rewards in equal measure, with rocky ridgelines giving way to pristine alpine meadows where delicate ecosystems thrive in pockets of soil. Pine forests cling to steep slopes, their roots finding purchase in the thin mountain soil, while exposed bedrock reveals the powerful forces that shaped these mountains. It's a landscape that demands respect while offering unparalleled beauty to those who venture into its embrace.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground requires high-clearance vehicles for most sites due to rough terrain. There is limited accessibility for those with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeSites are moderately sized, with flat ground in some areas but rocky terrain in others.
Sites PrivacyHigher numbered sites tend to offer more privacy, though audible privacy is limited due to proximity.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers recommend bringing high-clearance vehicles and avoiding weekends or peak seasons to secure a site. Earlier arrivals ensure availability.
Best CampsitesSites 10 and 11 are favored for RV camping due to less traffic. Site 5 was praised for scenic beauty but noted for trash cleanup. Site 2 is accessible with front-wheel drive.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days in one location. After 14 days, the campsite must be moved a minimum of three miles.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests must camp within 50 feet of numbered markers but specific limits on numbers are not mentioned.
Groups
Group sites are not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutNumbered sites are scattered along NFSR 505 and its off-shoots within 1.5 miles of Five Points. Sites are moderately distanced.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally, but specific dates are not provided.
Reservation PlatformsCamping is first-come, first-serve. Reservations are not available.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come-first-served, and no reservations can be made.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Cell phone service
Activities you can enjoy
Activities available at Caribou Dispersed Camping Area include hiking, wildlife viewing, and off-road vehicle use. Many campers also engage in photography and quiet relaxation amidst its scenic beauty.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available but not specifically detailed in official sources. Some user reviews mention trails connecting to Switzerland Trail.Biking
Biking opportunities exist, particularly on trails like Switzerland Trail that accommodate off-road biking.Wildlife viewing
User reviews highlight frequent sightings of wildlife such as moose, bears, and small mammals like chipmunks.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snow camping might be possible given the area's seasonal road access and rugged terrain. No specific activities like skiing or snowshoeing are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No cutting standing trees. Fire bans may be in place; campers should check local fire conditions.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity has been reported; proper food storage is essential. Rugged terrain makes travel challenging for low-clearance vehicles. Wildlife and inclement weather can pose hazards.
Weather forecast
48
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Boulder Ranger District is nearby for emergency or ranger assistance. Hospitals and police stations are located in the nearby town of Nederland.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo trash facilities are available. Campers are required to pack out all trash. Reviews frequently mention abundant trash left by previous visitors, necessitating clean-up efforts by new campers.
Proximity to water featuresNo direct access to lakes or rivers; the nearby Barker Reservoir in Nederland offers water-related activities.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include excessive trash left by previous campers, noise from gunfire, ATV activity, and overcrowding in summer. Several users have reported unsafe or sketchy behavior from other campers.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Nederland, follow Colorado Highway 72 west for 0.5 miles from the traffic circle. Turn west on County Road 128 and follow it five miles to Five Points (identified by the five-way intersection; loosely-organized parking area and gated roads). Numbered campsites are scattered along both segments of NFSR 505 and its off-shoots within 1.5 miles of Five Points.
High clearance four-wheel drive is recommended. Eldora side is a technical, narrow and steep route. The shelf road is just barely wide enough for small SUVs.Nearby places
Nederland - 5 miles NW
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies can be found in Nederland, which is 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.1
97 reviews
Caribou Dispersed Camping Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed, with highlights of scenic beauty and free camping but frequent complaints about trash, noise from ATVs and gunfire, and overcrowding. Wildlife sightings are common, but some visitors report safety issues such as bears and suspicious activity.
Review Summaries
Based on 97 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews often note the area's beauty, wildlife like moose and chipmunks, and opportunities for rustic camping close to Boulder. Some users appreciate the large campsites and natural...
Based on 97 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include excessive trash left behind by previous campers, loud noises from ATVs and firearms, overcrowding, and poor road conditions requiring high-clearance vehicles.
Based on 97 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving early to secure a spot due to limited availability, packing out trash, and bringing high-clearance vehicles. Secure food and scented items as it's bear country.
Based on 97 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer tends to be crowded, with complaints about noise and trash. Early spring and late fall are quieter but may have cold temperatures. Bear activity is reported more frequently in summer.
Based on 97 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Amazing camping and great views. Just please pack in pack out, don't leave your trash.'
2. 'Bear country—secure your smellies/food and cook away from where you sleep.'
3. 'If you love waking up...
Based on 97 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 10 is recommended for tents due to less traffic, and site 11 for RVs. Site 5 is noted for garbage left behind but offers scenic surroundings.
Based on 97 reviewsAccessibility Features
Access is limited due to rough roads requiring high-clearance vehicles. One reviewer stated only one spot is accessible without such a vehicle.
Based on 97 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but users caution securing dogs due to wildlife activity such as bears and moose sightings.
Based on 97 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025