Wetmore, Colorado camping sites occupy the transitional zone between the plains and mountains at approximately 6,000 feet elevation. The area experiences large temperature swings with summer daytime highs often in the 90s dropping to the 50s at night. Most campsites near Wetmore sit within Ponderosa pine forests or along creek drainages where wildlife sightings are common.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 1-mile trail near Ophir Creek Campground requires crossing the creek in three places using stacked logs. "We took the 1-mile trail south to a really nice waterfall. The trail is pretty well worn and you have to cross the creek in three places, walking over stacked logs - some pretty precarious 'bridges'," writes Randy H. Be cautious of poison ivy along creeks and trails.
Mountain biking: Royal Gorge trail system offers options directly from East Ridge Campground with minimal crowds. "I found some great trails with some amazing views. Planned on just staying overnight but a change of plans allowed us to stay throughout the next day," notes Dustin S. The Canyon Rim and Overlook trails provide gorge views on a 4-mile out-and-back route.
Gold medal fishing: Arkansas River access within 15 minutes of several campgrounds. "Nearby access to Gold Medal fishing on Pueblo Tailwater," mentions Keri F. about Lake Pueblo. Early mornings or evenings yield best results during summer months when water temperatures rise.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites offer more privacy than established campgrounds. "Stayed for the weekend, found a place tucked back away from the road and felt completely secluded from the world. No service, no noise, just the sound of the creek and an occasional car driving by," shares Hayden P. Sites deeper along the road provide greater isolation.
Stargazing opportunities: The region's minimal light pollution creates ideal night sky viewing. "At night the site was amazingly dark. This was my first real time seeing the Milky Way. During the Perseids, shooting stars were out. By far the largest and brightest either of us had ever seen," writes Marissa W. about Davenport Campground.
Creek sounds for sleeping: Several campgrounds feature creek-side sites where water provides natural white noise. "Many sites are right along the creek and it was really flowing and creating some nice 'white noise,'" notes Randy H. about Ophir Creek Campground. Request sites closest to water when making reservations.
What you should know
Bear country precautions: Food storage requirements apply throughout the region. "Bear country here too (come prepared) we luckily didn't cross paths with any," cautions Elina S. about camping at Ophir Creek. Most campgrounds don't provide bear boxes, so campers should bring appropriate containers.
Limited or no cell service: Many campgrounds lack connectivity. "There is no signal so get your communication out of the way before entering. I found no running water, had to melt snow," writes Sebastian about Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites. Download offline maps and campground information before arrival.
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds have problematic water sources. "Water system needs work; well water has rust and sediment, be prepared!" warns Joel G. about Haggards RV Campground. Another camper noted, "All fine for a night except we filled our tank with the most disgusting undrinkable water imaginable" at Aspen Acres. Bring drinking water when possible.
Tips for camping with families
Dog park access: Haggards RV Campground provides a large fenced area for pet exercise. "There is a nice dog park on-site. In fact, the best we've seen while traveling. Our older greyhound, who usually just follows us, actually did a few laps," notes Terry P. The facility maintains pet-friendly policies throughout the property.
Junior Ranger programs: Weekend educational activities available for children. "We took our kids (2, 5, & 7) to the junior ranger class they host at the visitor center almost every Saturday. They learned about boat safety and got free sunglasses and emergency whistles. My 7 year old niece finished her ranger booklet and got a junior ranger badge, which she loved," shares Marissa B.
Walk-in site logistics: Several campgrounds require carrying gear from parking areas. "We probably had the worst walk-in site, distance wise. A long walk with all of our stuff. We'll chose a different one next time," advises Michael P. about Ophir Creek. When booking, consider proximity to parking, especially with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site orientation matters: Check configuration before booking. "Camping hack: pull up google maps and check out your spot from an overhead view to make sure the site orientation works with your set-up. The majority of sites at Juniper Breaks Campground have the picnic table and fire ring on the drivers side of your vehicle (if you back in)," advises Marissa B.
Electrical hookup locations: Power outlet placement can affect setup. "We only wish we had a longer power cable. Our port is at the back and the outlet was way up front. To reach, we had to set up near the front of the site which limited our parking," notes Michelle G. about Aspen Acres Campground.
Wind preparation essential: Many campsites experience strong gusts. "The campsite is exceptionally windy so best not to pop-up a shade structure unless you're prepared to watch it fly away," warns Maria M. about camping at Lake Pueblo. Secure all loose items and consider wind direction when positioning RVs.
Traveler
