The U.S. Forest Service is now accepting public comments on a proposed dispersed camping management plan aimed at improving camping experiences and protecting natural resources on public lands near Leadville, Buena Vista, and Salida.
The plan focuses on enhancing vehicle-based dispersed camping—often referred to as car camping—by maximizing access along forest roads while reducing environmental impacts.
According to the Forest Service, the plan would:
- Designate specific dispersed camping areas
- Improve access to forest road-adjacent sites
- Reduce damage to local ecosystems
- Support better parking and camping opportunities for the public
A preliminary environmental assessment, maps, supporting documents, and instructions for submitting public comments are now available online at fs.usda.gov.
Community members, recreationists, and stakeholders are encouraged to review the proposed changes and share their feedback during the open comment period.




