Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area

Star3.98
287 reviews
, Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area, Five miles north of Nederland, CO.

Quick Facts

8,800 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG Ranger District site

Official Website
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Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping is free but limited to 15 designated marked sites.
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

views

Some mention

noise

"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."

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Campground Map

, Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area, Five miles north of Nederland, CO.

Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area

, 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.

Best Time to Camp at Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area

Gordon 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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Busiest season; good weather but overcrowding, noise and trash reduce enjoyment.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Should be quieter with good mountain scenery and wildlife viewing as crowds decline.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Wildflowers and reopening of use; muddy conditions and increased use in late spring can be issues.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5

Quieter in winter but snow and muddy access make camping challenging; access issues noted.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Summer months are busiest, particularly late spring to early fall.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round.
  • Current Alerts: , null.

About Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area

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.
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Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days in one location.

Amenities available

Fire rings

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.
HikingSome 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.
BikingThe area is popular for off-road biking and ATV trails, with connections to the Switzerland Trail.
Wildlife viewingWildlife 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
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

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

Weather at Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area

Reviews

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

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...
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Based on 287 reviews

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...
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Based on 287 reviews

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 287 reviews

Camper 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...
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Based on 287 reviews

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 287 reviews

Accessibility 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 287 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are required to be on a leash. One user mentioned, 'Secure your dogs, moose country too.'
Based on 287 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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