In Colorado, they are not playing around regarding camping reservations. You need to book months in advance, which we did not do. Luckily using the recreation.gov app, I found a campground on Memorial weekend, only a couple of weeks before the holiday.
Sand Gulch Campground is a hidden gem in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Nestled among towering trees and surrounded by rugged peaks, this campground is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The Campground
The campground offers a variety of sites, ranging from primitive tent sites to full hook-up RV sites. Each site is spacious and well-maintained, with plenty of room for campers to spread out and enjoy the natural surroundings.
This campground had the bare minimum of what you would need: one outhouse. Having somewhere to do your business is such a luxury in the outdoors. The site itself was also very nice. We had a picnic table and a fire pit, and they had a raised flattened area to stake down the tent.
They clarified that you are responsible for bringing your trash home, as they did not have garbage bins onsite. There was also no running water. So you had to bring everything you needed home with you. A note to be mindful of the amount of trash you create.
We stayed in #3, which was a walk-to space. It was an extremely easy walk, and I loved the privacy it gave us. It was set back, and there wasn't a walking path close to our site.
I highly recommend a sunshade because it gets hot in the sun, and there is no escape.
Recreation
One of the highlights of Sand Gulch Campground is its proximity to some of the area's best hiking and mountain biking trails. From the campground, visitors can access miles of scenic trails that wind through the mountains and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The area is also well known for rock climbing. It is a must-visit destination for any rock climber looking for a challenging and rewarding experience. The routes are challenging but doable with the right technique and gear. The sandstone walls provide great friction. The atmosphere at the crag is friendly and supportive, with climbers of all levels encouraging each other. We even saw a couple hiking up with their cat in a backpack.
For those who prefer to stay closer to camp, plenty of other activities keep them occupied. The campground has a playground for kids, a volleyball court, and horseshoe pits for adults. There's also a small pond nearby where visitors can try fishing.
Overall, Sand Gulch Campground is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to get away from it all and enjoy the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Its various sites and activities make it the perfect place for families, couples, and solo travelers.
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