Tips for first-timers wanting to camp during Colorado’s busy summer season

DENVER (KDVR) — Thousands hope to enjoy camping in Colorado’s high country this summer and fall, but getting a reservation can be difficult this late in the year due to rapid population growth in the metro area.

A Center for Western Priorities study shows the estimated peak season occupancy of reservable campsites in Colorado jumped from 41% to 71% between 2014 and 2020.

New residents as well as those who are expert campers say taking time to find a spot is worth it. They are anxious to enjoy the experience of camping and being closer to nature.

“It’s a really cool way to get outside and just escape the craziness of life for a little bit,” Mitchell Marquadt told FOX31.

As of Jan. 1, 2020, all Colorado state parks require camping reservations . Colorado Parks and Wildlife told FOX31 it is wise to plan early and make reservations as early as six months ahead of time.

Tips for new Colorado campers looking for gear

Outdoors Geek store owner Will Marquadt outfits campers across the nation who need to rent or buy equipment and offers solid advice about how to camp in Colorado. He says his staff is busy every day.

“There’s more demand than there are places for people to camp right now,” he said.

Marquadt advises beginners to start with a simple campsite.

“Stay somewhere where you’re around people and then, if you love that, you can take the next step,” he said.

Campers should select a tent based on the size of their group. A tent’s sleeping space can be smaller than many first-timers expect.

“If there were two of you I would probably go with a four-person tent,” Marquadt said.

Padding provides more comfort on the ground. Sleeping bags should be temperature-graded for warmth, even during the summer season when significant decreases in temperature can occur at night.

“Even if you’re talking about something that says 30 degrees warmer that’s probably OK for you as a new camper,” Marquadt said.

Sitting by the campfire on the ground may sound rustic to some, but Marquadt advises bringing along seating options that help you stay off the ground.

“Anywhere in the backcountry, you’re not going to probably have a picnic table or anything to sit on so it’s either a stump or you make sure that you have a chair,” he said.

Each camper should pack proper communication devices and emergency supplies. CPW told the Problem Solvers that campgrounds in the southern part of the state are likely to have more last-minute vacancies.

Many people cancel, so keep a close eye on the reservation page. Being flexible on dates and destinations can improve your chances of finding a campsite.

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