Kenosha Pass, located off of the 285, is one of Colorado’s best aspen viewing spots. contact us online! They both work as lamps, which are at a premium in this type of situation. Watch later. That makes electricity indispensable. Snowflakes in the air limit the distance sound can travel, as it also absorbs sound waves. By RMHP. Take North Platte River Road to South Colorado 67. Please follow all National Park guidelines when camping in this area. With my extension cord and surge bar, I was able to keep the devices charged and they did a lot more than just supply games, work material, and videos. Jones Pass Road is probably the most popular and most picturesque site you can visit when you looking for winter camping sites in Colorado. There are a lot of spots and basks you can choose from. There is a wide of campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park that are open to the public and accessible with a vehicle. In Colorado, primitive camping is also referred to as “dispersed camping.” It simply means you’ll be staying well away from the regular amenities of a campsite: no toilets, no drinking water, no showers. My sleeping bag is designed to keep me warm without my clothes. You can buy sheets of Reflectix and cut them to the size of your windows for all-around protection from the sun and the cold, creating a darker and warmer refuge for winter car camping. Mosquitos and other bugs aren’t around to bother you during the winter months, either. There are only a few spots camping … Dispersed camping in Colorado does come with some rules, however We find that while cold weather camping, our combined body heat makes the interior 10 to 20℉ warmer than the ambient outside air temperature! Colorado does get cold, but it often warms up during the daytime. Melting and boiling snow will be the best way of getting fresh water, as a lot of water purifying products don’t perform as well in cold temperatures.Â. Take advantage of the sun being out and hang all items that need to be dried off on top of your tent. We would say that this is the best place for 4×4 driving in the whole state. However, climbing Longs Peak at this time of the year is not recommended. There are also plenty of trails in this area for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Wind does pick up in this area, as well, so plan accordingly. It sits at the eastern edge of Stillwater … The tent will also need to be staked down by longer, tougher stakes that can penetrate the frozen ground, to keep it from blowing away in the wind. Ski and snowboard boots were dried off thoroughly before they ended up in the car. Put it on til the heat is on. Keep water bottles upside-down, as ice forms from the top down, your water supply isn’t blocked. Sauls Creek. Winter camping in Colorado is a magical experience. A lot of the trees in this area have been removed due to mountain pine beetle damage, so there isn’t a lot of tree cover. Build a wall around the perimeter of your tent to reduce wind impact, but make sure the tent still has room for ventilation. Note - Bring a surge bar. In Colorado,"winter camping" is often done in early to middle spring, when the high country still has winter conditions but there is more daylight and warmer temps—though there are hardy campers out there in the heart of January as well. Take Colorado 67 south to West Pine Creek Road in Douglas County. Winter is in full-effect in southwestern Colorado! With little-to-no other campers around…. South Fork Campground provides direct access to the South Fork Trail, a popular horse trail during the warmer months. From the differences between private and public land, to RV/Car Camping, versus backpacking there’s a ton of different options for every different type of person. Best Spots for Car Camping in Colorado This Fall. Campgrounds in this area are accessible by vehicle, which means less hiking to find a camp spot. The more bodies, the more breathing, and the more breathing, the more condensation - especially if you’re truck camping in winter. There are a mixed of paid developed campgrounds and undeveloped primitive campsites that are free. I wanted to buy a mini propane heater, but it turns out that wouldn't be good in a confined space like a car. Then, you have to consider space. NEXT - How to Avoid I70 Traffic When Going To Resorts, Sammy Hagar Details Final Conversations With Eddie Van Halen. As fresh snow accumulates on the ground, it acts as a sound absorber like other porous materials, such as fiber or foam. Call 970-726-8700 The sound of the campfire drowning out the white noise in the background warms the soul and soothes the mind. Winter camping on the Western Slope is an adventure unlike any other. It’s no secret that this state is home to some extremely charming settings. It's critical to plan ahead. Peep the Aspens with Free Camping near Kenosha Pass. In this post I’ll give you my take on the practices and products that make surviving winter car camping less miserable. , Mountain Life In this video I go over my winter setup for sleeping in my SUV. To live in the car for 2 days, I made a rule. Colorado Car Camping Warm-weather car camping is the most basic type of camping, requiring the least specialized, least expensive gear. I’m reticent to give away all of the good spots, but I’m happy to share enough to get people exploring. Share. My duties as your host on the radio and our website really is much busier in the summer, so I am lucky to have quite a few weekends free when the snow is actually on the ground. The cold weather doesn’t attract large crowds of campers as do the warmer months. Designated campsites are available in Telluride Town Park, as well as in surrounding areas within a twenty-minute drive from town. Chances are that when you look back on your winter camping experience, you won’t remember the cold, but you will forever remember the things you were able to see and do. Without a bag rated for 0°, I wouldn't even try it. For that, I had a warm shower, washers and dryers, Wifi, bathrooms, and that all important electric hookup, I was able to enjoy sleeping in my car. There is a calming silence that comes with winter camping. But the problem is, slope-side lodging is often unattainable—at least on a regular basis. Bring your camera as there is a great view of Glacier Basin from the campground and some great open trails for exploring. Schedule a Visit Today - Call 970-726-8700, Best Places to Buy Vacation Rental Property. If you’re keen to give winter camping a try, follow these tips to make the most of a snowy night out. Tap to unmute. General Tips. Here is a suggested list of items to bring for Colorado winter camping: There’s no shortage of camping spots in Colorado, especially in the Grand County area. I didn't know that I'd have Wifi at the Steamboat Campground, but even without it, I had more things to do on my iPad and iPhone than I had time. If the cold weather is too much, there are hot springs nearby. They are always nice and toasty when I don them again. The money question is another story. Longs Peak Campground is one of the highest camping areas in RMNP, as campers at this location are usually preparing to climb Longs Peak. Cold Springs Campground – Routt National Forest, southwest of Yampa Here, solitude is absolutely guaranteed. Take advantage of the trails being less crowded, as it can get crowded all other times of the year, and for good reason – the views from this trail are captivating. It’s going to be cold, so prepare accordingly. July 16, 2020. In particular, tents are broken into two categories: three season and four season. Where to Camp During Winter on Colorado’s Western Slope. Shopping. When you prepare meals, remember to think about how much time it takes to cook and also clean up. Info. As Colorado winters can be brutally cold, be sure you have a sleeping bag that is appropriate for the temperatures, and plenty of layers and insulation to keep warm during those long winter nights. , Colorado Lifestyle Storing all gear, other than sharp items (knives, shovels, etc), in the tent will also keep you warmer. Here are 5 things that I think helped me stay comfy at 0° and below. with No Comment Yet. 1. Well, if this photo doesn't explain it, then it's not an activity you would be into. If you crave spectacular beauty, solitude, and enjoy winter camping in the wilderness, these incredible winter camping … Prepare your campsite by digging out the snow a couple of feet down and packing the bottom layer down with your snowshoes or boots. Sugarloaf Campground is nestled in the Williams Fork Valley, near the Williams Fork River. Winter camping in America is growing in popularity and is available in a variety of landscapes, climates & terrains across the entire USA. When it comes to natural beauty and great outdoor destinations, few states can compare to Colorado. No reservations are needed, fire bans are not an issue, and areas will most certainly not be packed. So, until I own something up there, I need to be creative so I can spend a lot of time at Steamboat. Even if I have it, spending it all on hotel rooms isn't a very good investment. And as always, leave no trace principles should be observed here. Whether the spots are accessible via car or they require a short hike into the site, there are plenty of places to camp in the winter. I had my heat, my iPhone charging, and next time, I may even bring a little lamp. Winter camping in Colorado can truly be an enchanting, unforgettable experience. 5 Tips For Winter Car Camping in Colorado [VIDEO, PICTURES] I go to Steamboat to ski as much as humanly possible. It may not sound too appealing to be camping outside at high altitude, with cold wind and snow blowing down from the mountains, but the rewards will certainly make it worthwhile. Doubling up on a few items like an extra hat, gloves, and boots will keep you most comfortable. Guanella Pass is famous for being the starting place to two of the front ranges most famous mountains, the 14ers Mt. GPS: 37.2432, -107.5512. Arapaho National Forest sits on the continental divide and offers a variety of lakes and winter activities close by. Remember to shed layers as it gets warmer, as sweat can become your worst enemy in the cold.Â, The secret to staying warm while camping in the winter is: snacking. Whether you’re a casual camper or a seasoned backcountry lover, there are limitless opportunities for camping spots in Colorado. Winter Car Camping Colorado. There’s no dealing with highway traffic driving up to the resorts, or booking a costly reservation with a nearby hotel. If you’re a beginner, there is a good chance you won’t be camping through the winter so a three-season shelter is perfectly fine. Glacier Basin is one of the most popular campgrounds in RMNP, known for its picturesque views. Evans. It has a bathroom, but it is not full-service until May. you’ll be able to experience an inner peace with total solitude. The camping along Michigan Creek Road is open year-round (accessible only by snowmobile in winter). It’s always best to pack for one or two extra days while winter camping. If you’re a fan of other winter recreational activities like skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, tubing, or snowmobiling, you’ll find that camping puts you in the closest proximity to a lot of those activities in the Grand County area. Hit I-25 south. Preparing for things like strong winds or heavy snowfall will allow you to avoid problems and enjoy the experience to the fullest.Â. Bonus: If you don’t want people to know that you’re sleeping in your car, covering your windows with sunshades or Reflectix makes you a more secretive car camper. OR Winter Car Camping Colorado - YouTube. Why would I do this, you ask? Posted by Content on October 25, 2019 in Colorado Colorado winter camping puts you front and center of the iconic, majestic winter scapes that so many other people travel from afar to experience. It also prevents you from stepping through a soft snowdrift while in your tent, which could rip a hole in the bottom of the tent.Â. It provides an intimate, exclusive view of the beautiful lakes, streams, meadows, and mountains that this area has to offer. In the distance, the snowfall and the wind combine to make a still, white noise – essentially a silence you can hear. Even when you don’t feel thirsty, make sure you’re drinking plenty of water. Winter Camping near Vail, Colorado Plan for your holidays here! Avoid parking where trees may fall. Which is, honestly, a little overwhelming. Let’s start with the blatantly obvious. Sleep with your water bottle so that it doesn’t freeze. Hardcore skiers in Colorado know one of the best ways to find fresh powder is to wake up next to the mountain. As a general Colorado rule of thumb, it’s always best to prepare for the worst of conditions while winter camping. Long underwear, thermals, sweaters, gloves, hats, and coats. Keep a close eye, as this area is known to have a large amount of moose. They are only allowed to be worn in the driver's side. Why You’ll Love It: If you’re looking for a peaceful camping spot in southwest Colorado, this is a great option. While camping in the winter might seem too intense for some, being prepared and having the right gear will set you up for a great Colorado adventure. From utilizing established Forest Service campgrounds, Bureau of Land Management back roads, or privately owned getaways like the KOA, car camping is fairly easy to perfect. This will ensure that the snow doesn’t melt from underneath you as you sleep. If you’re interested in camping in Winter Park, Colorado there’s some things you should know. Copy link. You’ll find that braving the cold weather will warm your soul with a certain coziness and comfort. Elevation Staff. Camping also offers an affordable way to enjoy the greater Telluride region. One of easiest alternatives, though, is to sleep in a mobile basecamp like a van, truck, or RV. Why you should camp here: With rarely crowded trails, it’s one of the best free campgrounds in Colorado for remote backcountry camping Reservations accepted: No Best seasons: Summer, Fall Campsite type: Tent RV hookups: No West of Kremmling, King Mountain Recreation Area is no secret among hunters, but seems to be unknown to most others. The 5 Things You Need to Do in Durango this Winter. Bierstadt and Mt. Facebook. I’ve spent years camping in dispersed sites in Colorado, and I’ve racked up a few favorite locations. Farther off the beaten path than most car-camping spots, this is the uppermost campground along FR 900. From the stunning vistas of Rocky Mountain National Park to the rocky spires of Garden of the Gods and the breathtaking views along the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway, there is much to see and do there.One of the best ways to experience these settings is to spend a few night camping out under … Twitter. Timber Creek Campground is located on the west side of RMNP, right next to the Colorado River. Elevation Staff. Hope you guys enjoy this video of our Winter Car Camping trip in near Echo Lake/ Idaho Springs Colorado. Your body will start to cool down while you sit to eat, so smaller meals and eating while moving will best help you stay warm.Â, Maintaining hydration is key to a great winter camping experience. However, you’ll find that with the right gear and preparation, Colorado winter camping provides a private, memorable experience of this state’s best features. Some are just suitable for car camping with tents, other can fit a full fledge travel trailer. The average daily budget for a Colorado road trip is between $150-$200 – this includes gas, a rental car, lodging, food, drink, and entry fees.. Thankfully, Colorado has some of the cheapest gas in the USA, which will help you stretch your dollars. The summer crowds are gone, a gentle quiet washes over the woods, and you don’t need to venture far to feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere. However, with that popularity comes the need for some to go a little deeper into the wilderness to get away from the crowds. If stakes aren’t an option, you can stuff sacks full of snow, bury them, and secure them to the tent. Car camping in Colorado can be as luxurious as you make it, which is why it’s so darn appealing. Start easy. There are designated campsites, but chances are you won’t be fighting for a spot in the winter. It sits next to Willow Creek and provides plenty of backwoods trails for winter trekking. I paid $20 per night at Steamboat Campground. But, so that my slippers and ski pants aren't freezing in the morning, I take them off in the bag and keep them there. Fifth: Don’t Let Condensation Win, Ventilate While Cold Weather Camping! It’ll just be you and the wilds of nature (and maybe a buddy). If playback doesn't begin shortly, try … January 6, 2021. In winter, these areas transform into a wonderland of blankets of snow and ice. When I was in the rest of the car, I'd take them off and slide into a comfy pair of slippers! Some of those places suitable for summertime camping are just as great, if not better, in the wintertime. This area is known for its fly fishing and plenty of open spaces. General Camping Information. In-town camping is perfect for family outings or groups gathering for a festival. It may seem inviting to stay under the warm covers and experience the mountains another time. You can seek out extreme solidarity, natural stillness, and captivating views. So, I found myself a used Yakima Rocket Box and set my Subaru up for some car camping at Steamboat Campground. If you’re willing to brave chilly temperatures, you’ll be rewarded with pristine winter landscapes, peaceful camping spots, and far fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. Guanella Pass is a gravel road that runs from Hwy 70 in the north (from the beautiful small town of Georgetown) south to Highway 285. Heat is produced as your body digests food, so you’ll stay a little warmer as proteins, carbohydrates, and fats are kept in your system. Denver Creek Campground is one of the more secluded campsites in this National Park. Many of which attracts plenty of tourism every year, no matter the season. This area does not provide a lot of shade and cover, so plan accordingly. My body generates heat, the bag keeps it in. For a detailed list of other camping spots in the Grand County area, check out “Camping in Winter Park Colorado.”. Simply pack up your gear when you’re ready to leave the campsite and go enjoy other winter activities in Granby, Winter Park, Fraser, and other areas. Whether or not it is possible depends on the answers to a few questions. Layer the hell up! Ideal for smaller RVs, vans & tents; Sauls Creek gives you plenty of … Thankfully, the reason I am so focused on spending time in Steamboat is because of the amount of snow they have. Mummy bags do amazing things, and the prices for great bags are super cheap nowadays. Some of the best views that this National Park has to offer are in this area. So this list of best Colorado camping spots (in no particular order) probably will grow over time. Even if it is cheap, gas will still be one of your greatest expenses because it can be difficult to properly gauge how much you will actually use. Regardless, dispersed camping has one major theme: you can arrive at the site with your car! No boots in the back. Winter in Vail is your next destination If you are searching for your next outdoor getaway, take a trip to Vail, Colorado … Nearest Town or Attraction: Bayfield, Colorado. Winter Camping in Colorado | Tips and Best Locations to Camp