Arapaho National Forest Saints John Creek Dispersed Area

Saints John Creek Road climbs from Montezuma toward the old mining sites, passing a handful of dispersed camps tucked into krummholz and alpine meadows around 11,000 feet. Sites are primitive—just cleared spots with fire rings—but the setting is spectacular with Grays Peak looming overhead. Creek provides water after snowmelt. Gets busy on summer weekends with 14er climbers.

Last 3 miles require 4WD as the old mining road gets rocky and rutted. Snow lingers until late June most years. Sites fill fast Friday nights in summer, but weekdays you’ll likely have the place to yourself. Afternoon thunderstorms are serious business this high—plan accordingly.

Alpine camping below Grays Peak