Campround Review:

Springer Gulch in Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area is absolutely beautiful. About 40min from Colorado Springs, its an easy to access escape west of Pikes Peak. When you drive into the Recreation Area, the road continues into a canyon and follows along the creek. You wont get any road noise here or cell reception. There are many picnic areas and campsites along the way.

We stayed at Springer Gulch campsite a few miles in. The road is a little rough so it can be slow going. Each of the established campgrounds have restroom facilities and water pumps. Sites are clean and each campground has a camp host. If you forget to bring your firewood, most of the hosts should have some to sell. All of the sites have a fire pit/grill and picnic table. Sites go fast so make sure you reserve yours plenty ahead of time.

There are a lot of activities in the area to enjoy including hiking and fishing. Overall we loved our little weekend getaway. Would recommend any day.

Product Review:

As a Ranger for the Dyrt, I get to test products from time to time. At Springer Gulch in Eleven mile Canyon Recreation Area I tested the aramba Waterproof Hard Shell Jacket by Mishmi Takin. The jacket was an upgrade for me from my old waterproof jacket and I'm much happier with it. There were a lot of things I loved about the Garamba.

1. Fit & Function: It fits excellent without being too tight or too large. It leaves enough room for proper layering in colder weather.
2. Adjustability: It has many double zippers, velcro straps, draw strings, etc. to change the jacket to your current needs. All are easy to reach and function easily.
3. Abrasion Resistance: The material feels more durable to the touch compared to many lightweight hard shell jackets. I'm not afraid to wear it on trails with dense growth.