Dutch Fred

For Colorado locals with a passion for off-highway vehicle (OHV) adventures or those seeking a rustic camping experience with stunning views, Dutch Fred Campground near Sedalia, CO, is a significant destination. Nestled within the vast expanse of the Pike National Forest, Dutch Fred serves as a gateway to the renowned Rampart Range Recreation Area, a sprawling network of trails popular with motorcyclists and ATV riders. While its status as a "free" campground has evolved over the years, it remains a highly valued spot for its access to extensive recreational opportunities and its authentic Colorado wilderness feel.

Dutch Fred is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a hub for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the rugged beauty of the Front Range. The area caters to a variety of skill levels, with dedicated beginner areas like the "Kiddy Corral" and more challenging trails for experienced riders. Even if off-roading isn't your primary interest, the scenic drives, panoramic views, and the opportunity for quiet relaxation under the Colorado sky make Dutch Fred a compelling choice for a mountain escape. It's a place where the sounds of nature blend with the hum of adventure, offering a distinct Colorado outdoor experience.

Dutch Fred Campground is situated on S Rampart Range Rd, Sedalia, CO 80135, USA. This location places it within the Pike National Forest, making it part of a massive recreational landscape that extends across central Colorado. Rampart Range Road itself is a well-known route, particularly among OHV users, and while it offers stunning scenery, some sections are known to be "washboard" roads, meaning they can be rough and bumpy. A vehicle with decent clearance is advisable for a more comfortable journey, especially if venturing deeper into the dispersed camping areas.

The drive to Dutch Fred offers a true taste of Colorado's backcountry, moving away from paved roads and into the heart of the forest. Despite its rustic feel, Dutch Fred is relatively accessible for Front Range residents. Sedalia, a small town with basic amenities, is the closest community. For more extensive supplies, larger towns like Castle Rock or even Colorado Springs are within a reasonable driving distance. Visitors should be prepared for a somewhat rugged approach, but the reward is immersion in a vast recreational area. It's important for visitors to note that while the official Dutch Fred Campground itself is a paid site ($20-$33/night depending on site size as of recent reports), there are still opportunities for free dispersed camping if you continue further south along Rampart Range Road, typically 10-15 miles past the main campground signs, where specific free camping regulations apply.

As a more rustic Forest Service campground, Dutch Fred offers fundamental amenities designed to support a back-to-nature experience, particularly for those engaged in OHV activities:

• Designated Campsites: Dutch Fred Campground features 11 total sites, all suitable for RVs (though with a maximum length of around 20 feet for some nearby similar campgrounds, it's wise to check specific site details for Dutch Fred if you have a larger rig). These are designated, paid sites.

• Vault/Pit Toilets: Basic restroom facilities in the form of vault or pit toilets are available within the campground, providing essential sanitation.

• No Potable Water: It is crucial to note that potable water is generally NOT available at Dutch Fred. Campers must bring their own water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

• No Hookups or Dumps: The campground does not offer electric hookups, water hookups, or dump stations for RVs. Campers need to be self-sufficient in this regard.

• Fire Rings and Tables: Most designated campsites typically include a fire ring for campfires (always check current fire restrictions) and a picnic table for outdoor dining.

• Trailhead Access: A significant service provided by Dutch Fred is its direct access to the Dutch Fred Trail (#679) which connects to over 300 miles of motorcycle and ATV trails within the Rampart Range Recreation Area.

• Beginner Areas: The presence of a "Kiddy Corral" and "Lightfoot's Loop" nearby, specifically designed for beginners, makes it an excellent place for families to introduce younger riders to OHV sports.

Dutch Fred Campground offers unique highlights that make it a compelling choice for certain types of Colorado campers:

• Premier OHV Destination: This is arguably its biggest draw. Dutch Fred is a prime staging area for exploring the extensive Rampart Range motorized trail system. Whether you're on a dirt bike or ATV, the sheer volume and variety of trails are a major feature.

• Beginner-Friendly OHV Zones: The "Kiddy Corral" and "Lightfoot's Loop" are invaluable for families with young or novice riders, providing a safe and controlled environment to learn and practice. This thoughtful inclusion makes the area accessible to a wider audience of OHV enthusiasts.

• Stunning Scenery and Views: Despite the focus on motorized recreation, the natural beauty of the area is undeniable. Campers can enjoy "great views" of the surrounding Pike National Forest, with its ponderosa pines and open spaces, offering a quintessential Colorado mountain landscape.

• Flexible Camping Options: While the core Dutch Fred Campground is now paid, the knowledge that free dispersed camping is available further down Rampart Range Road provides options for budget-conscious campers or those seeking a more secluded experience. This flexibility caters to different camping styles.

• Well-Kept Environment: Reviews commend the area for being "clean and well kept," which is a testament to both Forest Service maintenance and responsible user behavior, ensuring a pleasant experience for all.

• Access to Hiking (Limited within Campground): While primarily known for OHV, the broader Rampart Range area offers opportunities for hiking, including the Devil's Head Lookout Tower trail nearby, for those who wish to explore on foot.

• Remote but Accessible: The drive in, though potentially bumpy, contributes to a sense of getting away from it all, yet it remains within a reasonable distance for day trips or weekend outings from Denver and Colorado Springs.

As Dutch Fred Campground is managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Pike National Forest, specific contact for individual campsites isn't available. For inquiries about conditions, fees, or regulations, it's best to contact the relevant Forest Service Ranger District.

Address: S Rampart Range Rd, Sedalia, CO 80135, USA (This is the general address for the area.)

For general information about the Rampart Range Recreation Area or the Pike National Forest, you can contact the South Platte Ranger District, which oversees this area:

South Platte Ranger District
20006 Pine Cone Lane
Morrison, CO 80465
Phone: (303) 275-5610

It is always advisable to check the official USDA Forest Service website for the Pike and San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands, or Recreation.gov for the most up-to-date information on fees, opening/closing dates, fire restrictions, and any specific alerts for Dutch Fred Campground or the Rampart Range Recreation Area.

For Colorado locals, Dutch Fred Campground and the surrounding Rampart Range Recreation Area represent a unique and valuable outdoor asset, particularly for the active and adventurous. While the shift from free to paid camping for the main campground has occurred, the area still offers a superb experience, especially for those passionate about OHV riding. The access to hundreds of miles of designated trails, including beginner-friendly zones, makes it an unparalleled destination for families looking to introduce their children to motorized recreation in a safe environment.

Beyond the motorized fun, the natural beauty and the opportunity for a rustic escape are significant draws. The knowledge that free dispersed camping options are still available nearby, for those willing to venture a bit further down the sometimes "washboard" road, adds to its appeal for a variety of budgets and preferences. Dutch Fred exemplifies a segment of Colorado's outdoor recreation that is rugged, engaging, and perfect for creating exciting memories. For residents seeking an authentic, activity-rich mountain camping experience that's easily accessible from the Front Range, Dutch Fred offers a compelling blend of adventure, natural beauty, and a well-maintained environment, making it a frequent go-to spot for many Colorado outdoor enthusiasts.

Dutch Fred

S Rampart Range Rd, Sedalia, CO 80135, USA