Twin Lakes Dispersed

This free dispersed camping area sits along Twin Lakes with direct access via a rough dirt road that requires slow, careful driving. The route narrows significantly once it enters the trees, making it challenging for larger RVs, though smaller trailers can navigate the terrain with patience. Rosemarie H. notes the road is "a little tricky with a trailer but still doable."

Sites spread across multiple areas, from lakeside spots near the dam to elevated positions overlooking the water. Campers consistently mention the close proximity between sites, particularly during busy summer weekends when the area fills quickly. Several reviewers describe dust from passing vehicles as a common issue. Fire pits and picnic tables equip most established sites, though fire restrictions frequently apply during dry periods.

The location provides immediate access to hiking trails, including connections to the Colorado Trail system. Fishing requires a valid license, and regulations change seasonally. Mobile phone coverage reaches most areas. Vault toilets serve the camping zones, though their cleanliness varies according to visitor reports. The area experiences strong, shifting winds that can challenge tent and pop-up setups.

Access proves easier for standard passenger vehicles near the dam area, while more remote sites require higher clearance or walking in from parking areas. Timothy N. recommends arriving early during peak season, noting "this area is very crowded on summer weekends." The proximity to campsites around Granite provides additional options when this popular area reaches capacity.

Pack-out policies apply strictly here. The combination of lake access, trail connections, and free camping draws steady crowds from late spring through fall.

Suggest an Edit

RV Road Trip Guides

Location

Dispersed Camping

Twin Lakes Dispersed is located in Colorado

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

39.07290129 N
106.30831775 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 20 users
    Last on 4/4/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 42 users
    Last on 4/4/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 4/4/26

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 20 users
    Last on 4/4/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 42 users
    Last on 4/4/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 4/4/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites
  • Big Rig Friendly

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Twin Lakes Dispersed needs a permit.

Contact

General Info

Drive Time


Reviews

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

43%
43%
11%
10%
0%

4.0

out of 5

19 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted the stunning lake and mountain views at this free BLM dispersed camping area with basic fire pits. Crowding during peak times and rough access roads were common concerns, though many appreciated the proximity to hiking trails.

Reviewed Mar. 17, 2026

Winter Camping

Took my son snowboarding at Monarch Mountain and he chose this spot. It was right off the highway but didnt feel that way which was nice. Trail road to the site was a bit ruff but any vehicle could get there if youre not in a hurry. Lake was low but didnt do much exploring as it was super cold and windy. Nice little spot!

Sitenot numbered
Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Ryan S., March 17, 2026
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Ryan S., March 17, 2026
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Ryan S., March 17, 2026
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jul. 17, 2025

weekend trip

came friday evening and it was very hard ti find a spot. so many people. eventually found one and it’s beautiful. the lakes are gorgeous. if you don’t have an RV using the bathroom is tough since you are around so many people. also high clearance in certain spots is necessary.

Siteon county road 25 past the dam
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jul. 12, 2025

Mountain views

The area is nice. Lots of spaces and flat spots. The road in is a little rough. Lots of holes and rocks. A little tricky with a trailer but still doable. The only bad is the mosquitos. They were horrible. We were told the mosquitos were unusually early and bad this season. After dark they were gone. Great Mountain views. Lots of great hiking trails. They even had vault toilets which were pretty clean.

Siteaway from the lake against the hill near the interlaken trailhead
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Rosemarie H., July 12, 2025
  • Play button icon
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Rosemarie H., July 12, 2025
Reviewed Jun. 24, 2025

Nice dispersed sites

Lots of sites at the campground. Road has some rocks and bumps but I saw some sedans doing just fine. Close to the lake.

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed May. 19, 2025

Incredible overlook sites

It’s insane that this is free camping considering how easily accessed and gorgeous the views are here. There’s atleast 4 sites along the ridge that are ideal for trailers but some sites are even better for walk in or if you have an offroad vehicle.

Siteno markings
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Reames C., May 19, 2025
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Reames C., May 19, 2025
  • Play button icon
Reviewed Aug. 26, 2024

Very busy but nice if you find a spot

It was mildly off roady getting to the camping area. It seems you can just pull off into the areas that are worn down to camp. People were cramped and close to each other for this campground! Didn’t see any toilets but there are good hikes right nearby.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Ai-Ai T., August 26, 2024
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Ai-Ai T., August 26, 2024
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Ai-Ai T., August 26, 2024
Reviewed Aug. 23, 2024

Nice, spacious, close to lake

We got here yesterday. The roads weren't too too bad to get here. Definitely drove really slow. Have a Honda HRV and did fine. There are a TON of spots, some of them not accessable with cars but there definitely are a lot that are. I have noticed quite a bit of trash when I go to the bathroom in the back areas. It's gross and wish people would pack out their TP. Have had at least 2 neighbors the entire time but it wasn't bad. Other people are at further away sites so it is busy. Overall sites are roomy, clean and comfortable.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Mads G., August 23, 2024
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Mads G., August 23, 2024
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Mads G., August 23, 2024
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Jun. 20, 2024

Multiple options, but busy and dusty

We have camped in this area multiple times and have always had a great stay. Immediate access to Colorado Trail, cycling, hiking, and Twin Lakes activities.   The road can get rough, and is narrow in one spot. Accessible with smaller trailers.  Larger RVs should stick to areas nearer the dam before the road narrows into the trees.  This area is very crowded on summer weekends, so get there early for the best spots. Lots of dust from the passing vehicles.  Decent mobile coverage. Quiet at night.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jun. 10, 2024

Nice area but

Its a pretty rough road for private cars- we ended staying near where it was easier to pass. Can be quite packed at weekends

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Aug. 11, 2023

Sites on top of each other

Twin lakes dispersed - just south of Leadville - right on the lake. Sites are all right on top of each other. There is no space and too many people coming through the area looking for a site. We pulled in on a Thursday lunchtime after the kids had gone back to school and it was packed. Only a few sites left. If you plan to fish or kayak then I guess you have to stay here but there are better options in the area. There is good hiking as it is right next to the Interlaken Trailhead and connects to the Colorado Trail.
lNeed to go in off season for privacy.

Sitenot numbered
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Chris P., August 11, 2023
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Chris P., August 11, 2023
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Chris P., August 11, 2023
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Jul. 6, 2023

Rough Road Great camping

My friends and I got lucky with a spot and had the best time! There was spots located all over, it was quite busy being 4th of July weekend but the people were so kind and friendly. I would return again!

Sitetwin lakes dispersed camping
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by ally , July 6, 2023
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by ally , July 6, 2023
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by ally , July 6, 2023
Reviewed Aug. 8, 2022

Dog friendly and a great spot during the week

This spot is great but is extremely packed on the weekends. The road getting in is also extremely rough, but if you take your time and avoid the large rocks and holes you’ll be fine. I was able to drive my promaster back here and I don’t have 4x4.

SiteNA
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Brooke S., August 8, 2022
Reviewed Feb. 13, 2022

Great experience

Stayed one night overlooking Twin Lakes. Beautiful scenery and great place to stop for the night. I think it was $15 for the night, with dedicated fire pit,grill and parking space. Plenty of room between other sites too.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Matt H., February 13, 2022
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Matt H., February 13, 2022
  • Play button icon
Reviewed Jul. 11, 2021

Beautiful spot

Can get pretty busy depending on what time you get there but great views especially if you can get a spot down by the lake.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by John D., July 11, 2021
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by John D., July 11, 2021
Reviewed Jul. 9, 2021

Epic Views, Trails & FUN!

I live around the corner from Twin Lakes so it's literally my backyard getaway.. Most recently spent the 4th of July out here. It's all BLM camping equiped with fire pits. Fire bans are in effect frequently, highly advise to check current status on them prior to starting a campfire. The wind can get a bit crazy out here so it's highly recommended that all camping equipment (pop ups & tents) be mounted in all directions, the wind shifts direction in no time at all and rain showers occur sometimes daily but come & go. Also, a fishing licence is required to fish and I'd advise highly to follow the rules & regulations if doing so. There is a round-about area that runs adjacent to the Colorado Trail where individuals can park and walk camps in if spots are taken. No restrooms or showers or hookups. Please pack out trash. Roads are a bit sketchy so low to the ground vehicles should be parked next to the dam (yellow metal fence area).

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Mark J., July 9, 2021
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Mark J., July 9, 2021
  • Review photo of Twin Lakes Dispersed by Mark J., July 9, 2021
  • (16) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the reviews like for Twin Lake dispersed camping area?

Twin Lakes Dispersed camping generally receives positive feedback for its stunning lakeside location and mountain views. Campers appreciate the immediate access to hiking, biking, and water activities. The area is popular for its free camping with beautiful scenery, though the rough access road requires careful driving. Most visitors enjoy their experience despite the site's popularity, especially on weekends and holidays when it can become quite crowded. Some mention challenges with limited privacy between sites during busy periods and occasional issues with trash. Overall, the spectacular setting and recreational opportunities make it a well-regarded destination despite some drawbacks.

Where is Twin Lakes dispersed camping located in Colorado?

Twin Lakes Dispersed camping is located just south of Leadville, Colorado, along the shores of Twin Lakes. This Bureau of Land Management (BLM) area offers lakeside camping with views of the surrounding mountains. The camping area is easily accessible but does require navigating a somewhat rough access road. Many sites are positioned with direct lake access, and the area connects to the Colorado Trail and various hiking and biking paths. Its proximity to Leadville makes it a convenient base for exploring the region while enjoying waterfront dispersed camping opportunities.

What's the best time of year to go camping at Twin Lakes?

Summer and early fall are ideal for camping at Twin Lakes, offering warm days and access to all recreational activities. Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends, especially during peak summer months. Early fall provides beautiful scenery with fewer visitors after schools are back in session. Be aware that mosquitoes can be particularly bothersome during summer months, especially near the water. If planning a weekend visit during summer, arrive early to secure a spot as the area fills up quickly. Always check fire ban status before your trip, as restrictions are common during dry periods.

Are there designated campsites at Twin Lakes or is it all dispersed camping?

Twin Lakes offers both dispersed camping and some more established sites. While primarily a dispersed camping area, many sites have dedicated fire pits and established parking spaces. Some sites feature a $15 fee with amenities like fire rings and grills. The camping areas are visible as worn-down pull-offs where vehicles have previously parked. Sites vary in accessibility - some are suitable for trailers and small RVs while others are better for tent camping or require off-road vehicles to access. The sites closer to the dam tend to be more accessible for larger vehicles.