Caribou Dispersed Camping Area

Star3.98
287 reviews

Quick Facts

9,997 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Open seasonally, but...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG site

Official Website
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Caribou Dispersed Camping Area
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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...
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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

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What Campers Say

3.98

Mixed Reviews

Based on 287 reviews

231 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewssites

Some mention

noise

"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."

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Campground Map

Caribou Dispersed Camping Area

39.9803, -105.5781

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.

Best Time to Camp at Caribou Dispersed Camping Area

The 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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
2.5 / 5

Summer is busiest: reviewers report crowding, trash, ATV and firearm noise, and increased bear activity.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall noted as quieter and scenic; cooler temperatures but less crowding and noise.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Early spring quieter but cold; access and conditions variable (mud/snow).

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.5 / 5
Top 14% in CO

Positive winter-camping anecdotes exist but cold conditions and access can limit appeal.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: Open seasonally, but specific dates are not provided.

About Caribou Dispersed Camping Area

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.
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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.

Amenities available

Fire rings

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.
HikingHiking trails are available but not specifically detailed in official sources. Some user reviews mention trails connecting to Switzerland Trail.
BikingBiking opportunities exist, particularly on trails like Switzerland Trail that accommodate off-road biking.
Wildlife viewingUser reviews highlight frequent sightings of wildlife such as moose, bears, and small mammals like chipmunks.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear 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.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Caribou Dispersed Camping Area

Reviews

4.0
287 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Caribou Dispersed Camping Area has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% 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 287 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...
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Based on 287 reviews

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 287 reviews

Pro 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 287 reviews

Seasonal 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 287 reviews

Camper 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...
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Based on 287 reviews

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 287 reviews

Accessibility 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 287 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but users caution securing dogs due to wildlife activity such as bears and moose sightings.
Based on 287 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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