Rampart ranger camp and dirt bike area

For Colorado locals who live for the thrill of the open trail and the serenity of a mountain escape, the Rampart Ranger Camp and Dirt Bike Area offers an unparalleled experience. Located within the expansive Pike National Forest, this isn't your typical single campground; it's a vibrant recreational zone designed for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts, offering a mix of designated dispersed camping sites and direct access to hundreds of miles of exhilarating trails. If your ideal Colorado getaway involves firing up your dirt bike or ATV, enjoying stunning scenery, and finding a campsite that truly accommodates all your gear, Rampart Ranger Camp is a top-tier destination you need to explore.

What sets the Rampart Ranger Camp and Dirt Bike Area apart is its dual focus on providing excellent camping facilities and being a premier hub for motorized recreation. Reviewers consistently praise the "great camphosts" and "clean sites," highlighting a commitment to guest experience that elevates it beyond a simple forest access point. It's a place where you can comfortably set up camp, whether in a tent or a large toy hauler, and then immediately embark on an adventure. The diverse landscape, accommodating different types of campers and riders, makes it a highly versatile and appealing option for a wide cross-section of Colorado's outdoor community. This area perfectly blends adventure with accessibility, ensuring that both thrill-seekers and those seeking a scenic retreat can find their niche.

The Rampart Ranger Camp and Dirt Bike Area is conveniently situated at 1141 Rampart Range Rd, Sedalia, CO 80135, USA. This address places it squarely within the sprawling Pike National Forest, making it an accessible natural escape for residents across the Front Range, including Denver, Colorado Springs, and Castle Rock. The primary access route, Rampart Range Road (Forest Service Road 300), is a well-known artery that traverses through this popular recreation area, leading directly to various camping spots and trailheads.

Accessibility to the Rampart Ranger Camp is generally considered good, particularly for those driving a variety of vehicles, including those towing toy haulers. While Rampart Range Road is an unpaved, native surface road, it is typically maintained during the operational season (mid-May to December 1st, weather permitting) to accommodate traffic. Visitors should be aware that conditions can vary, with some sections being rough or corrugated, though most vehicles can navigate it. The ease with which campers can reach designated sites that can accommodate everything from a small tent to a "40ft toy hauler" is a significant advantage, removing the logistical challenges often associated with more remote camping. Its relatively short distance to major towns like Castle Rock ensures that essential supplies and amenities are always within easy reach, providing a practical balance between wilderness immersion and modern convenience.

The Rampart Ranger Camp and Dirt Bike Area, as part of the larger Rampart Range Recreation Area, offers a range of essential services designed to facilitate a comfortable and engaging outdoor experience, particularly for its target audience of OHV enthusiasts and campers. While the focus is on a more natural, designated dispersed camping environment, certain amenities are provided to enhance the stay.

• Designated Dispersed Camping Sites: The area offers specific, marked sites for dispersed camping. These sites provide a more private and rustic camping experience than traditional campgrounds, while still being managed by the Forest Service. Some of these sites may be reservable through Recreation.gov and may require a fee ($22-$33 per night depending on size).
• Accommodating Site Sizes: A key service highlight is the variety of site sizes available, capable of accommodating "everything from a tent site to one that will accommodate a 40ft toy hauler." This ensures that campers with larger vehicles and extensive gear, typical of OHV enthusiasts, can find suitable spaces.
• Clean Sites and Environment: Reviews consistently commend the "clean sites," indicating a good level of maintenance and care by the camphosts and Forest Service, which contributes significantly to a pleasant camping experience.
• Vault Toilets: Throughout the broader Rampart Range Recreation Area, clean vault toilets are generally available at key access points and some designated camping areas, providing essential restroom facilities in a relatively primitive setting.
• On-site Camp Hosts: The presence of "great camphosts" is a frequently praised aspect of the area. These hosts contribute significantly to the positive atmosphere, provide assistance, and ensure regulations are followed, enhancing the overall safety and enjoyment of visitors.
• Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Many designated sites within the Rampart Range Recreation Area are equipped with fire rings and picnic tables, offering basic conveniences for cooking and outdoor dining. Campfires are allowed as long as fire restrictions are not in place.

Beyond its basic services, the Rampart Ranger Camp and Dirt Bike Area boasts several features and highlights that firmly establish it as a premier destination for Colorado locals, especially those passionate about motorized recreation and scenic beauty. These elements contribute to its unique appeal and why it’s so highly recommended.

• Extensive OHV Trail System: The most prominent highlight is the direct access to "hundreds of miles for dirt bikes and quads" within the Rampart Range Motorized Recreation Area. This vast network of trails caters to all skill levels, from beginner to expert, and offers diverse terrain, making it a dream come true for off-road enthusiasts. This includes over 30 designated trails and connections to other areas like the Pikes Peak Ranger District for even more riding opportunities.
• "Beautiful Scenery" and Panoramic Views: Nestled within the Pike National Forest, the area offers breathtaking natural beauty. Reviewers consistently mention the "beautiful scenery" and "amazing views," providing a stunning backdrop for all activities, whether riding, hiking, or simply relaxing at the campsite. The higher elevation ensures cooler temperatures, a welcome relief from the summer heat of lower elevations.
• Remote Designated Dispersed Camping: While offering amenities, the designated dispersed camping provides a sense of remoteness and privacy, allowing campers to truly immerse themselves in the forest environment. This balance of being somewhat off-grid yet having accessible facilities is highly valued by many outdoor enthusiasts.
• Friendly and Helpful Camphosts: The positive impact of the "great camphosts" cannot be overstated. Their presence ensures a welcoming atmosphere, helps maintain cleanliness, and provides assistance, creating a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone. This human element significantly enhances the overall quality of a visit.
• Versatile Camping Options: The ability to accommodate "everything from a tent site to one that will accommodate a 40ft toy hauler" is a huge advantage. This flexibility makes it an inclusive destination for various camping styles and group sizes, ensuring no one is left out of the adventure.
• Proximity to Devil's Head Fire Lookout: While not directly on-site, the area's close proximity to the popular Devil's Head Fire Lookout hike offers an excellent non-motorized recreational option. This iconic hike provides challenging terrain and incredibly rewarding 360-degree views, adding another dimension to the outdoor experience.

For more specific information regarding the Rampart Ranger Camp and Dirt Bike Area, including current conditions, specific site availability, or regulations, it's always best to consult official Forest Service resources. While the address is provided, it's important to remember this is part of a larger National Forest recreation area.

Address: 1141 Rampart Range Rd, Sedalia, CO 80135, USA

For inquiries related to the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands (which includes Rampart Range), the South Platte Ranger District office can be a valuable resource:

Phone: (303) 275-5610

It is always recommended to check the official US Forest Service website for the Pike National Forest or Recreation.gov for the most up-to-date information on fees, closures, fire restrictions, and specific site details, especially since some designated sites may be reservable.

For Colorado locals, the Rampart Ranger Camp and Dirt Bike Area represents an exceptional and accessible outdoor playground, perfectly tailored for diverse recreational pursuits. Its convenient location near Sedalia means residents from Denver and surrounding Front Range communities can reach this mountain haven without a long, arduous journey, making it ideal for both quick weekend getaways and more extended stays. This proximity allows for frequent visits, truly making it a local favorite.

The primary draw for many Coloradans is the unparalleled access to a vast and well-maintained OHV trail system. If you own a dirt bike or an ATV, this area is designed with you in mind, offering "hundreds of miles" of varied terrain right from your campsite. This eliminates the need for separate staging areas, maximizing your riding time and overall enjoyment. The ability to accommodate large "toy haulers" further cements its suitability for motorized enthusiasts, ensuring all your gear and vehicles are welcome.

Beyond the thrills of off-roading, Rampart Ranger Camp offers a genuinely beautiful natural setting with "amazing views" that embody the essence of the Colorado Rockies. The presence of "great camphosts" and the commitment to maintaining "clean sites" elevate the camping experience, ensuring comfort even in a more dispersed setting. Whether you’re seeking a remote, peaceful tent site or a spacious spot for your RV and toys, Rampart Ranger Camp provides "something for everyone." It’s a place where adventure meets comfort, making it a perfect, recurring escape for the outdoor-loving Colorado local.

Rampart ranger camp and dirt bike area

1141 Rampart Range Rd, Sedalia, CO 80135, USA