Middle Fork (FR 230) in CO -- Camping Rules & Access in Colorado
Middle Fork (FR 230) in CO
Why
U.S. Forest Service opens most of its land to dispersed camping unless a local order restricts it. Check the unit's current orders before you commit.All 5.6 miles in are maintained only for high-clearance vehicles, dirt the whole way. Climbs 3,000 ft over 5.6 miles through 6 switchbacks, with sustained grades near 20% and pitches to 29%. Stretches run along a shelf with a drop of up to ~140 ft on the downhill side. Dead-end road with no mapped turnaround, so expect to back out or unhitch.
Mount Aetna stands 3,193 ft above the site, 1.5 miles north. Private here, with the nearest through road 1.5 miles off. Boss Lake Reservoir lies 0.6 mi off.
Pike and San Isabel National Forests, Salida Ranger District: Camping at any location within the same 20-mile radius for more than 14 days within any continuous 30-day period… Camping within 100 feet of a body of water (such as a lake, stream, pond, or river) unless in a Forest Service developed recreation site or designated dispersed site.
| Fire restrictions | Set by Pike and San Isabel National Forests, Salida Ranger District. Check current orders |
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September normals 33–62°F, 1.4″ rain. Monthly averages, PRISM 1991–2020.