Weston Pass Dispersed Camping (West Side): Ultimate Guide
Welcome to the comprehensive guide to dispersed camping on the west side of Weston Pass. This guide aims to provide you with all the essential information you need for a safe, enjoyable, and responsible camping experience in this beautiful area. From detailed descriptions of how to access the campsites to important safety tips and regulations, you’ll find everything you need to prepare for your adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to dispersed camping, this guide will help ensure that you are well-prepared and informed before setting out on your journey.
At a Glance:
- Reservations: None
- Fees: $18/Night
- Max Stay: 14 Nights
- Season: June-Sept
- Elevation: 9,500-10,500ft
- # of Sites: 12+
- Toilets: None
- Showers: None
- Drinking Water: None
- Trash Service: None
- Fire Pits: Stone rings
- Accessibility: 2WD
- Managed By: Pike-San Isabel National Forests
Dispersed Camping Along Weston Pass (West Side)
To plan your visit, check out my area description and maps, photos, weather forecast, directions, and more in my camping guide below.
Camping Area Description
If you do not have 4WD and high clearance, you can only access these campsites from the west. Otherwise, you can come from the east side (where there are additional dispersed campsites).
Start from the highway, the road first passes through the Mount Massive Lakes Resort, which is privately owned with no access. Once you pass through a cattle grate, you are on public land and camping is allowed.
After passing through the rock narrows, campsites will gradually begin to appear, mostly on the right side of the road, but there are a few on the left side.
The road is rough in a few areas, but most passenger cars and trailers can make it to about 3.5 miles from the top of Weston Pass before reaching a rough, steep section that blocks easy access for passenger vehicles.
There are also a number of side-roads that lead off the main route and have more campsites and spots to explore.
Be Aware: There are several federal mining claims along Weston Pass. While you can legally camp on a claim, you cannot damage any structures or remove any ore or you may be charged with a crime.
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Area Maps
This map shows the area along the west side of Weston Pass. Please Note: While there is more camping available on the east side, you need 4WD and high clearance to make it up the west side past this section.
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Elevation Profile
This graph shows elevation change along the west side of Weston Pass until you reach the 4WD section. It also shows the slope and aspect changes, tree cover, and other information about the route.
Photos
Check out these photos of the west side of weston pass and some of the campsites I stumbled upon while visiting. Taken August, 2024.
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- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
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Weather Forecast
Check the weather forecast before your trip to ensure you are prepared for any conditions. The weather in this area can change rapidly, so it’s essential to be ready for both hot and cold temperatures.
National Weather Service
The National Weather Service (NWS) is a trusted source for accurate and up-to-date weather forecasts. Offering detailed information on weather conditions, it helps campers and outdoor enthusiasts plan their trips safely and effectively. Below, you can find the latest weather forecast for the Weston Pass corridor.
HighpointWx
HighpointWX is a specialized weather forecasting service that provides highly accurate and localized weather information for outdoor enthusiasts. It is particularly useful for those planning camping trips, hikes, and other outdoor activities, offering detailed forecasts that help ensure safety and preparedness.
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Getting There
Here’s how to get to the west side of Weston Pass from the east and from the west.
From the West:
- Head east on US-24 E from Buena Vista.
- Turn right onto County Road 7 (Weston Pass Road).
- Follow Weston Pass Road for approximately 11 miles.
- You will reach the west side of Weston Pass; camping spots are available along this route.
From the East:
- Head west on US-285 N from Fairplay.
- Turn left onto County Road 5 (Mosquito Pass Road).
- Turn right onto County Road 22 (Weston Pass Road).
- Continue on Weston Pass Road for about 10 miles.
- You will reach the west side of Weston Pass; camping spots are available along this route.
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Activities
One of the best parts about dispersed camping is how close you are to the mountains and outdoor adventures! Here are some fun activities and things to do near Weston Pass:
- Hike a Colorado 14er: Reach the summit of Mount Sherman or the Decalibron 14ers, all within 30 minutes or less.
- Visit a Mountain Town: Check out Leadville, Buena Vista, or Fairplay and dig into their rich history and charm.”
- Relax by an Alpine Lake: There are dozens of great lakes within an hour’s drive including Turquoise Lake and Kite Lake.
- Wildlife Viewing: Sit down with a good book and with a bit of patience and luck, you can see elk, deer, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and more.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
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Amenities
Like most dispersed camping areas, there are no amenities available along the west side of Weston Pass. You must come prepared to be totally self-reliant while camping in the area.
There is no drinking water, however there is easy creek access to get water if you have the means to purify it.
There are no bathrooms or trash services. Be prepared to pack out your waste and dispose of it properly.
Water can be gathered from nearby creek but it must be treated or boiled first to kill or filter out parasites and harmful bacteria.
Nearest Towns:
- Leadville (30 minute drive)
- Fairplay, Colorado (40 minute drive)
- Buena Vista, Colorado (50 minute drive)
Nearest Hospitals/Emergency Rooms:
- Saint Vincent Health, Leadville (35 minute drive)
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Leave No Trace
Camping has the potential to create serious land impacts that damage the fragile ecosystem in multiple ways. Practice Leave No Trace ethics to minimize your impact and protect this area for future generations.
Here are some top tips to keep in mind:
- Plan ahead and prepare: Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you’ll visit. This includes understanding any fire bans, wildlife considerations, and weather conditions that could affect your trip. Ensure you have all necessary permits and have a solid plan for emergencies.
- Dispose of waste properly: Pack it in, pack it out. This means taking all trash, including food scraps and biodegradable waste, with you when you leave. Use established waste disposal facilities when available, or pack out human waste using portable toilets or waste bags.
- Leave what you find: Preserve the past by examining, but not touching, cultural or historic structures and artifacts. Leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you find them to allow others to enjoy them as you did.
- Minimize campfire impact: Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the backcountry. Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle or lantern instead of a fire. Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires. Keep fires small and burn only small sticks that can be broken by hand.
- Respect wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors, and exposes them to predators and other dangers.
- Be considerate of other visitors: Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience. Be courteous, yield to other users on the trail, and keep noise levels down.
By following these tips, you can help preserve the beauty and integrity of high-altitude environments like Gothic Road for future campers.
Learn more by reading our Leave No Trace Tips here.
Recommended Gear
Here’s what I recommend bringing with you while camping on the west side of Weston Pass in Colorado.
- REI Co-op Base Camp 4 Tent: This spacious and durable tent is perfect for car camping, offering plenty of room for four people and their gear. It’s designed to withstand various weather conditions, making it ideal for the unpredictable mountain climate. Buy Now
- Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad: Stay warm and comfortable with this lightweight, insulated sleeping pad. It provides excellent insulation from the cold ground and packs down small for easy transport. Buy Now
- Coleman 3-in-1 Camping Stove: This versatile camping stove allows you to cook meals easily, whether you’re boiling water, grilling, or using a griddle. It’s compact and easy to use, making it a great addition to your camping gear. Buy Now
- YETI Tundra 45 Cooler: Keep your food and drinks cold for days with this rugged, high-performance cooler. Its durable construction and excellent insulation make it perfect for extended camping trips. Buy Now
- GCI Kickback Rocker Chair: Enjoy comfort and relaxation around the campfire with this portable rocking chair. It’s lightweight, easy to set up, and provides a comfortable seating option after a day of hiking or exploring. Buy Now
- Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp: Illuminate your campsite with this powerful and reliable headlamp. It offers multiple brightness settings and a long battery life, making it essential for nighttime activities. Buy Now
- Rocky Talkie Mountain Radios: Stay connected with your group using these durable, long-range radios. They’re designed for outdoor adventures, providing reliable communication even in remote areas. Buy Now
- Garmin InReach Mini 2: Ensure your safety with this compact satellite communicator. It allows you to send and receive messages, track your location, and trigger an SOS in emergencies, even when you’re out of cell range. Buy Now
Safety Tips
Weston Pass is a backcountry area with little to no cell service and few modern amenities. Self-reliance and the ability to respond actively during emergencies is critical for the safety of you and your party. Follow these safety best practices while visiting Weston Pass to have a safe and enjoyable camping
- Camp in Existing Sites: Only camp in the existing campsites to minimize environmental impact and ensure compliance with forest regulations.
- Do Not Drive Off-Road: Stay on designated roads and trails to prevent damage to the landscape and protect wildlife habitats.
- Park Only Where Allowed: Use designated parking areas to avoid blocking roads or damaging vegetation.
- Campfires Only in Rings: Use stone fire rings provided at campsites to contain fires and prevent wildfires.
- Keep Dogs Leashed: Keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other campers.
- Do Not Pick Wildflowers: Leave wildflowers and other natural features undisturbed to preserve the beauty and biodiversity of the area.
- Campsites Must Be Occupied: No site-saving is allowed. You cannot leave your gear in a site unoccupied for more than 24 hours.
Learn more by reviewing our complete mountain safety guide.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Permits, Regulations & Guidelines
THERE ARE NO PERMITS OR RESERVATIONS REQUIRED.
Campfires are allowed but only in stone campfire rings located in each campsite.
Please follow Leave No Trace practices and recreate responsibly to preserve free and open access to this spectacular camping area.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
National Forest Regulations
Follow these US Forest Service rules and regulations while camping in the area:
- Be aware & follow posted regulations on national forest lands.
- Keep noise levels down to avoid stressing wildlife and livestock, as well as other visitors.
- Respect private property.
- Do not carve, chop, cut or damage any live trees.
- Camping is limited to 14 days within any continuous 30-day period.
- Developed campgrounds may not be used when posted closed.
- No camping is allowed within 100 feet of all lakes, streams and developed trails except for designated campsites
- Be sure your fire is completely extinguished before leaving. You are responsible for keeping fires under control.
- Keep dogs and pets under voice control at all times.
- Using or possessing fireworks on national forest land is prohibited.
- Travel only on designated off-highway vehicle routes. Travel slowly through water or mud. Do not make new tracks outside of the roadbed. Obey road closures and locked gates.
- Vehicles must obey posted parking regulations. Unless otherwise posted, one may pull off a road to park.
- Wilderness areas have specific rules and regulations that must be followed in order to protect these areas from our collective impacts
Check the US Forest Service safety page for other general guidelines.
Additional Resources
For more information on camping at Weston Pass, consult the following resources:
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Frequently Asked Questions
If your question isn’t addressed below, leave a comment and we will get back to you with more information as soon as possible.
A: No permit is required for dispersed camping at Weston Pass, but it is always good to check for any updates or changes in regulations.
A: Yes, dogs are allowed, but they should be kept under control and on a leash to protect wildlife and other campers.
A: Cell phone reception can be spotty or non-existent in the area, so plan accordingly and do not rely on your phone for navigation or emergency communication.
A: Campfires are allowed unless there is a fire ban in place. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip and follow fire safety guidelines.
A: In case of an emergency, try to reach the nearest ranger station or contact local emergency services. Having a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger can be very helpful in remote areas.
A: Weston Pass is named after the early pioneer and prospector, Maurice Weston, who explored this region during the 19th century. The pass was an important route for miners and settlers seeking to make their fortune during the Colorado Gold Rush. Its historical significance lies in its use as a transportation route that connected the mining towns of Leadville and Fairplay. The name has endured as a tribute to the pioneering spirit and the role the pass played in the development of the area.
A: Yes, visiting Weston Pass is worth it for several reasons:
- Scenic Beauty: Stunning landscapes, from rugged mountains to serene lakes, offer great photography and nature appreciation.
- Outdoor Activities: Ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and relaxing. Great starting point for hiking Colorado 14ers like Mount Sherman.
- Historical Significance: Rich history as a Colorado Gold Rush route, offering a glimpse into the past.
- Dispersed Camping: Provides a remote camping experience with no amenities, perfect for self-reliant campers.
A: The west side of Weston Pass is not accessible for all vehicle types. The road conditions can be challenging, with steep grades and tight corners. Small trailers and campers are likely okay, but larger RVs and trailers are not recommended. 4WD is required to get over the pass.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Alex Derr is an Eagle Scout, climber, and environmental policy expert located in Denver, Colorado. He created The Next Summit to help others stay safe exploring the mountains and advocate to preserve the peaks for the future. Follow him on Linkedin or Twitter or click here to contact him.
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- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
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