Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area
4.0597 reviews, Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area, Five miles north of Nederland, CO.
Gordon Gulch 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 is free but limited to 15 designated marked sites.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Roosevelt National Forest, Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area offers an authentic wilderness experience for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. This free, first-come, first-serve destination features 15 designated campsites scattered across rugged terrain, where adventurers can immerse themselves in Colorado's untamed backcountry. Each site provides a front-row seat to nature's grand theater, with strict camping boundaries ensuring the preservation of this pristine ecosystem for generations to come.
Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area is a free, first-come, first-serve dispersed camping site offering primitive camping only. It is not suitable for campers seeking developed amenities.
Historical SignificanceThe Gordon Gulch area has long served as a gateway to Colorado's high country, where generations of outdoor enthusiasts have found respite from modern life. This corner of Roosevelt National Forest continues to embody the spirit of public lands, offering free access to wilderness camping just as early conservationists envisioned.
Weather and SeasonsGordon Gulch showcases nature's full spectrum throughout the year, from crystalline winter wonderlands blanketed in snow to sun-drenched summer days perfect for exploration. The high-altitude location means weather can shift dramatically, with snow patches and muddy sections possible even during warmer months. Winter transforms the area into a snow-covered paradise, while summer brings wildflower blooms and golden afternoons. Spring and fall offer their own magic, though visitors should prepare for unpredictable conditions and dress in layers year-round.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 8,800 feet above sea level, Gordon Gulch delivers the quintessential high-altitude camping experience. The thin mountain air carries the scent of pine and adventure, while cooler temperatures provide relief from summer heat. Visitors should pace themselves as they adjust to the elevation, allowing their bodies to acclimate to this lofty perch among the clouds.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of towering pines stretches across rolling rocky hills, creating a dramatic landscape that defines Colorado's mountain wilderness. Ancient granite formations punctuate the forest floor, while meadows burst with seasonal wildflowers. Wildlife thrives here—majestic moose browse through the underbrush, black bears forage for berries, and eagles soar overhead. Each sunrise paints the rocky peaks in alpenglow, while evening brings a symphony of wilderness sounds under star-studded skies.
Geological RegionSet within the majestic Roosevelt National Forest, Gordon Gulch showcases the raw geological beauty of Colorado's Front Range. At 8,800 feet, weathered granite outcroppings tell stories of ancient mountain-building forces, while dense pine forests blanket the slopes between rocky ridgelines. This rugged terrain creates diverse microclimates and habitats, supporting an impressive array of wildlife from the smallest alpine flowers to magnificent moose and bears that call these mountains home.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is not explicitly noted for accessibility features. Roads are rough and uneven, and access to sites may be challenging for some individuals, especially those with mobility impairments.
Sites SizeThe campsites are moderately sized, with some offering more privacy and spacing than others. According to one user, the higher-numbered sites provide more seclusion.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across the sites. Some are far enough apart to ensure visual privacy but lack audible privacy due to their proximity. Higher-numbered sites tend to be more secluded.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesHigher numbered sites are more private but harder to access due to road conditions. "Sites in the official ‘area’ are moderately sized and the higher numbered sites are more private."
Best CampsitesSite numbers 10 and 11 are recommended for tent and RV camping due to less traffic and a more secluded experience.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
,null.
Check-out
,null.
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days in one location.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified.
Groups
There are no designated group sites. Campsites are limited to individual, primitive setups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are scattered along NFSRs 226, 314, 228, and 233 within 1.5 miles east of Highway 72.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable as the sites are first-come, first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first serve availability for all 15 numbered sites. Sites fill quickly during peak seasons and weekends.
Cancellation Policy, not applicable. All sites are first-come-first-serve.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Cell phone service
Activities you can enjoy
The Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and off-road vehicle use. However, the area is frequently noted for its rugged terrain, noise from nearby activities, and occasional disturbances from other campers.
Hiking
Some users have noted hiking opportunities in the area, but no specific trails are mentioned. The surrounding pine forest and rocky hills provide a rustic and natural hiking experience.Biking
The area is popular for off-road biking and ATV trails, with connections to the Switzerland Trail.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as moose, bears, chipmunks, and squirrels are often spotted in the area. Campers are urged to take precautions in bear country, including securing food and cooking away from sleeping areas.Winter Activities
Winter camping is possible, but snow and mud often persist, making the terrain challenging.Water Sports
There are no water sports facilities at this site.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire bans are common and must be adhered to. Rangers patrol regularly to ensure compliance.
- Quiet hours are No formal quiet hours are listed, but noise complaints from firearms and ATVs are common.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as bears, coyotes, and moose are commonly spotted. Rugged terrain and rough roads pose a challenge for low-clearance vehicles. Trash and glass left by campers can also be hazardous. "Bear country - secure your smellies/food and cook away from where you sleep."
Active alerts, null.
Weather forecast
52
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.4 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
Emergency services available in Nederland, CO, 5 miles away. The town has access to basic medical and police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer months are busiest, particularly late spring to early fall.
Trash and recyclingThere are no trash or recycling facilities. Campers are expected to pack out whatever they bring in. Several users reported significant issues with trash left behind by other campers, affecting the site's cleanliness.
Proximity to water features, null.
Common complaintsTrash and waste left by previous campers is a recurring issue. "There is a lot of trash at these sites, don't be that human!" Noise from ATVs and firearms disrupts the peace.
Host, null.
Campground Map
, Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area, Five miles north of Nederland, CO.
Driving directionsFrom Nederland, head north on Colorado Highway 72 for five miles and turn east onto NFSR 226 (this turnoff is 1/2 mile north of milepost 37). Numbered campsites are located along NFSRs 226, 314, 228 and 233 and their off-shoots.
Road access is rugged and challenging with frequent poor conditions including snow, mud, and rough terrain, especially the further you go into the campground. Low clearance vehicles may struggle. "The dirt roads are rough and the further back you go, the more likely you are to get stuck."Nearby places
Nederland, CO (5 miles, 10 minutes), Boulder, CO (30 miles, 45 minutes), Denver, CO (41 miles, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Supplies including groceries, camping items, and garbage disposal can be found in Nederland, CO, approximately 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.1
97 reviews
Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users have mixed experiences at Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area. While many appreciate the beautiful natural setting, free access, and proximity to Boulder, numerous complaints focus on the site's poor maintenance, trash left behind by previous campers, and disturbances from other users. Wildlife sightings, particularly bears and moose, are common, and the area is noted for its rugged terrain and lack of facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 97 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praise the area's natural beauty, wildlife sightings, proximity to Boulder, and free camping. One user remarked, 'Beautiful area and nice that it’s free,' while another noted, 'Amazing...
Based on 97 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues include significant trash left by previous campers, noise from off-road vehicles and gunfire, and a lack of maintenance. Safety concerns are frequently mentioned, with reports of 'suspicious...
Based on 97 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle for easier access to more remote sites. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. Pack out all trash and consider cleaning up after others to help...
Based on 97 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The site is heavily used during summer and weekends, leading to overcrowding and increased noise. Winter camping is quieter but challenging due to snow and muddy terrain.
Based on 97 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'If you love waking up to the sound of gunfire, like you've been recently dropped into a side street of Kabul...' - Alex Schuster
2. 'This place is awesome. We stayed for two nights and did a...
Based on 97 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
One user recommended site #10 for tents and #11 for RVs as quieter spots with less traffic. Others noted site #5 was covered in trash but had beautiful views.
Based on 97 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features, but the rough terrain and lack of facilities may make it challenging for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 97 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are required to be on a leash. One user mentioned, 'Secure your dogs, moose country too.'
Based on 97 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025