Dispersed Camping off FS 542
A
Reviewed Oct. 16, 2021

Windy and chilly, need high clearance 4x4

We stayed here with our pull behind trailer and I do not recommend doing what we did. It’s very hard to get up to the actual spots. We actually almost got a ticket parking at one of the next to the road spots on the way in. The ranger said if it doesn’t have a metal ring, it’s not a legit spot and you can get ticketed. So keep going down the road, there will be one large spot to the left and a right turn to the others. The road through where the others are is VERY tight. You definitely need something high-clearance with 4x4 as there are large ruts on either side, potholes, and large rocks.

Plan to arrive well before dark, as it’s very hard to find the rings in the dark. There are small brown numbered signs but the spots kind of blend together in the dark, so I definitely advise arriving during the day.

There are bears, wolves, coyotes, rabbits, and some rodents in the area. It was down to freezing at night when we stayed so we didn’t encounter anything major. It can get very windy as well so watch out closely with your fire if you have one.

Elevation is about 7500 feet so if you’re from sea level like us, give yourself some time to acclimate before you go venturing on one of the many trails or canyon hikes nearby.

Month of VisitNovember