Spring Camping in Colorado
Spring camping in Colorado can be a daunting task no matter your skill level. Having the right gear can make all the difference between a bitter cold night and a comfortable night’s rest. Knowing the terrain of the area you are going to would be the first step to having the camping experience of a lifetime.
Colorado River Rentals’ outpost in Granite offers fun for the whole family. With 4 cabins and numerous camping locations, this is an ideal spot if you want a camping experience but would prefer to keep a little comfort in your life. During the day there is hiking and biking along with ziplining, horseback riding and fly fishing. Nestled in the Arkansas Valley, this area offers beautiful views and fun for all ages.
Chihuahua Gulch offers a more secluded camping environment. Getting to this area can be a bit dicey as a person would have to park and then hike with their packs to make camp. If you are willing to suffer a blister the Chihuahua Gulch area is worth it! Although I would recommend bringing mole skin. Off-roading is a popular activity in this area if you have the right vehicle.
Buena Vista is a quintessential Colorado hang out. 11 miles outside of Buena Vista is Cottonwood Pass, an ideal location to truly experience the outdoors. Being roughly 2 hours outside of Denver the city atmosphere doesn’t touch this tucked away little paradise. Hiking during the day can lead to hidden waterfalls and laying under a wide open ski gives a clear view of local meteor showers.
To best maximize your camping adventure some basic supplies are necessary, I would recommend bringing:
- A sub zero sleeping bag
- A tent with ventilation, a vestibule, a window and a tarp
- Proper attire for the weather: thick socks, a light but warm jacket, multiple layers as nights can tend to get cold
- Food and Water: check if your campground/area requires a filtration system
- Fire materials: check your camping location for fire bans prior to departure
- First Aid kit: all the basics (band-aids, antiseptic, Neosporin) and even some unusuals (mole skin for blisters)
- Toiletries: travel size are perfect for a camping trip!
The most important thing to remember is to use proper camping etiquette and, no matter where you camp, keep the campsite as clean or cleaner than when you got there.