The Jones Pass Trailhead is located west of Empire and offers a variety of summer and winter activities. Would not recommend any rig longer than 22ft beyond the main camping area. Distance to Winter Park: 16 milesRestrooms:NoWater:No, but may be pulled from Meadow Creek/Meadow Creek ReservoirCrowds: BusyMap. Print/PDF map. Fort Collins, CO 80526 Your article has been an invaluable resource for me, and I look forward to reading more of your writing in the future. website belongs to an official government organization in the Henderson Spur trail will take you to the Continental Divide Trail and allow you to summit Vasquez Peak or Stanley Peak. This site is a reservation-only campground meant to host large groups. Day hike to Merlin Lake. Be sure to let us know in the comments below if you have any questions and be sure to tell us about your trip! Would love to keep this spot secret, but it is just perfect. Vasquez Creek is a perennial favorite for dispersed camping near Winter Park. The coordinates are extremely helpful when camping. Review our Privacy Policy. Jones Pass Road begins by a molybdenum mine, but don't let that fool you. So, be sure to stop by during the best month to ski in Colorado. If youre set on staying here, arrive before the weekend crowds get here to increase your chance of getting a good spot along the water. Didn't make it near the top. Once you hit the dirt road and pass the Jones . At 11,370 Berthoud Pass crosses the continental divide. There is a swifly running creek falling from an expansive high mountain meadow. If youre ever trying to meet up with people in the backcountry, they are a must! The Jones Pass Trailhead is located west of Empire and offers a variety of summer and winter activities. Although not the absolute most peaceful camping site, the Jones Pass sites are close to Denver and really easy to access. how to equip shoes in 2k22 myteam / bombas distribution center / jones pass winter camping. Given the reservoir and creek, it is important to follow Leave No Trace camping principles and be sure you are not impacting this fragile environment. We hope weve provided all of the information you need to plan a dispersed camping trip near Winter Park, and we know youll find the perfect campsite for your upcoming adventure! This popular (and sometimes quite crowded area) is located directly west of the town of Empire, just as Berthoud Pass begins to climb and go into the switchback sections.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'offpathtravels_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_5',199,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-offpathtravels_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0'); Jones Pass has some amazing views of the mountains in nearly every direction, which is the biggest reason to come here. Typically, all the spots fill up by Friday evening, so certainly arrive early if you plan to camp in the summer. As such, it is best to check with the local National Forest Ranger District to confirm your plans. Open in Google Maps. The day to cross the Thorong La Pass, at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) above sea level. The lower down campsites are reachable by most vehicles, but the further up you travel the higher the need for 4WD. Leave a comment below to share your knowledge! To get here from Winter Park, head north to the town of Fraser before turning west onto County Road 50. And for good reason. The hike begins at about 10,500 feet and ends at about 12,000 feet for a 1500 To locate these campsites all you have to do is type in Jones Pass Road into google maps or your iPhone and it will take you straight there. Getting awesome photos here is almost too easy because of the natural beauty. . Its also worth noting that the road accessing the majority of the sites can be quite steep in places. How to Get to Dispersed Camping on Road 50Go north of Winter Park until you hit Fraser, then go left onto Eisenhower Drive, eventually winding onto Road 73. Please select a reason for flagging this item: 2023 Campendium Inc. All rights reserved. There are two main options in this area, but both of them start at the same place. Thank you for sharing your favorite camping spots! However, above that the road gets substantially more rugged. Just beware of cars! The hike is five miles long and rated moderately difficulty. The further up you go the more dispersed and spread out the campsites get. Once you approach the mine there will be a gate and to your rightb202 (FR144) continues and changes to dirt/gravel. There are road signs once you get off I-70 that will help you the rest of the way that say Jones Pass. Thanks for the kind comments. She'd rather be dirty than done up. Head to Vasquez Creek for dispersed camping close to town or go for an adventure down Road 50 for more seclusion. Youll also find some good sites close to the water, but be sure to consult the MVUM to be sure camping is permitted before setting up. Head a bit north of Winter Park until you get to Fraser. Its one of the few places near Denver where you can snowmobile. DMX. I have always loved the idea of camping and exploring the great outdoors, and your article has only fueled my desire to experience it for myself. Butler Gulch is also a popular hiking and cross-country ski trail. -Michael. They provided a great visual representation of the camping sites and really showcased the stunning scenery that surrounds Winter Park. Youll be very close to downtown WP, the Jim Creek trail, as well as Berthoud Pass here. Weve seen two in one day! Jones Pass Road begins by a molybdenum mine, but don't let that fool you. There is a gate that you will have to unlock (in winter months the gate is left open), then follow the 122 road to the end. But you can reach the ridge and hike your way up to the Continental Divide Trail for killer alpine views. The road was so gnarly and full of traffic i turned around before even seeing the campsites. About Us >. Activities year round. Sunset Hike at Jones Pass, Colorado. Although youll have to travel over the pass to get to Winter Park, we think this location merits serious consideration. 4. Denver residents will likely utilize the Arapaho National Forest the most as it's located just west of the capital city with numerous . Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use. If you are looking for a fun, groomed, low-angle approach to alpine bowls, look no further than Jones Pass. 25 maximum. Coordinates: 394625N 1055321W. Or if you want to head west (just north of Silverthorne), you can always go to the area around Green Mountain Reservoir which has many campgrounds and dispersed camping options, such as Cow Creek South, Big Green, Sugarloaf, and Horseshoes Campgrounds. - Check the SnowTel.gov report for a good judgement of whether snowshoes are needed. By the time we got back down from the hike, the parking lot was full of vehicles. Easily accessible from Denver, Butler Gulch is full of jaw-dropping views in all seasons, and anyone in good health can enjoy this gem. To locate these campsites all you have to do is type in Jones Pass Road into google maps or your iPhone and it will take you straight there. Several wooded campsites dot the area and are free to use on a first-come-first-serve basis. A small SUV shouldnt have much trouble reaching the parking area at the base of the climb. Show up too late? Just be careful in this area. Head along Road 50 for a few miles until you enter the National Forest, just past Tipperary Creek. Distance to Winter Park: 20 miles Restrooms: No Water: No, although you may be able to pull water from the nearby creek. Camping is also not allowed at Summit Meadow, Dewey Point, or Glacier Point (camping is permitted near both points, but not at the points themselves). That is just short of summiting the 12,000+ foot mountain shown in the photos. I stumbled on them one time while exploring 4WD roads with my old Pathfinder.I love these dispersed sites for a couple reasons. The trail is extremely rocky and steep. A ride to the top and back is possible with a great payoff at the apex. Youll need to drive a bit past the Henderson mine before camping is permitted, but then youll find several sites on both sides of the road. Unsubscribe anytime. One of my favorites for mountain biking but there is an active bear. Some of the campsites above treeline are simply spectacular. Our dispersed camping checklist has all the camping essentials plus specific items for dispersed camping. Or, you can venture on the East or West side of the road and do out and backs. View the real time traffic map with travel times, traffic accident details, traffic cameras and other road conditions. Winter Park, CO 970-887-4100 Official Website. Sewer and water always on. You will then make a quick left onto County Road 84 / Forest Service Road 129. For more ideas, we recommend checking out the Motor Vehicle Use Maps for the Sulphur Ranger District in Arapaho National Forest. Here's how to build a campfire in the snow: Build a Platform - Build your winter campfire in a flat spot that's protected from the wind. Winter Park, Colorado is an outdoor adventurers dream. The road is also passable by most vehicles, although those with low-clearance cars should look to secure a site closer to town before the road gets rougher. Located just off Highway 40, this isnt the most remote or serene campsite in the area. Jones Pass Road is located on the south side of Berthoud Pass and makes for a stunning dispersed camping area near Winter Park. Get to know this 7.1-mile out-and-back trail near Georgetown, Colorado. A little further past Berthod Pass youll find Winter Park, a happening spot with plenty of fun-filled activities. Jones Pass Road. Always leave no trace; be aware of bears and take proper precautions for food and scented-item storage; and finally, make sure you understand the rules and regulations, including fire bans. Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDXv3XxJ2RsaYqbGgX135Wg/joinFollow me: https://socials.aaronrheins.com/#msfs2020 #a. As you come down the pass, turn right (east) into the campground. But in reality, as long as you have the right gear and plan ahead, it can be a fun way to get your friends together outside in the off-season. Looking to find more dispersed campsites? * View profile. I found the cl Butler Gulch is a pristinely beautiful day hike in the heart of the Arapaho National Forest near Idaho Springs, Colorado. Learn the secret method to finding picture-perfect FREE camp spots in all of your favorite locations. 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. Idlewild Campground is one of the most popular and highest reviewed campsites in the Winter Park area. First-come, first-served. Jones Gap State Park. You can visit Jones Pass year-round, however the road is snow-free from late June until mid-October. Distance from Denver: 1 hour, 13 minutes; 53.5 miles If dispersed camping seems a little too wild for you, try your hand at camping off Jones Pass Road. It is a short drive to the top of the pass when it is not snowed shut, and at the top, you are rewarded with panoramic mountain views in every direction! Restrooms: No Water: No, although you may be able to pull water from the nearby creek. Ever? Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Located in Arizonas Sonoran Desert, Quartzsite is a popular RVing destination, especially for th With more than 30 parks to choose from, Arizonas state park system is filled with diverse landsc Arkansas excellent state park system provides RVers and tent campers with well-maintained campgr Indiana RV Campgrounds: 7 Places to Camp, Hike, and Explore the Hoosier State. Here's the complete guide to visiting Jones Pass, Colorado. 3. Road 72 offer mile upon mile of dispersed camping near Winter Park, just southwest of the town of Fraser. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. 10 Incredible Colorado Backpacking Trails, Practical info about visiting Jones Pass, Colorado. It's located in north-central Colorado, stretching from south of I-70 to north near Rocky Mountain National Park. This is a great area to do some exploration, or you can continue on to summit and descend on the other side. In addition, the map below gives an overview of each sites location with a full description included in the following section. Shortly thereafter, make a right onto Road 50 and keep going until you find a spot. 17 sites. At the end you will experience beauty and solitude that only Colorado can provide. A few notable places to check out include: Jones Pass, Colorado is an excellent city break for the nearby Denver-metro area. Merino socks and ankle-height hiking boots will suffice in most situations, and your feet will be far happier in insulated boots. Jones Campground at Squaw Lake. Winter Park is one of our favorite Colorado mountain destinations. Yes, it is right off of the road and you may hear some noise from the highway and from the nearby train tracks. Weve put together the following dispersed camping guide in hopes of helping you navigate the often confusing process of finding a free campsite in the area. One of our favorite things about dispersed camping is the lack of need for any permits or fees to be paid. This post is going to cover the best camping near Winter Park for dispersed camping as well as camping at campgrounds and RV parks. Corona Pass Road is located east of Winter Park and has tons of great dispersed camping options along its length. Our favorite aspect of the Vasquez Creek dispersed camping areas is that it is close to the Vasquez Creek itself, so you can have ready access to a great water source and splash around in the flowing water.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'offpathtravels_com-banner-1','ezslot_2',171,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-offpathtravels_com-banner-1-0'); The biggest downfall to Vasquez Creek dispersed camping is that it can get crowded. Centennial Trail. Youll enjoy stunning views and relatively easy access here, making this a great camping option. The trail becomes indistinguishable after the first mile or two, but usually you can follow previous skiers' tracks up the mountainside.What you miss in wildflowers or mine sightings, you gain in pristine, untouched, classic blue and white Colorado winter beauty. Sites 1-10, 21-30, 101-110, are closed Nov. 1 - April 1. Flora, and Mt. How to Get to Vasquez Creek Dispersed Camping AreaThis one is so easy to get to, its almost laughable. Plus, geta free Carry-on OnlyPacking List! Thank you for sharing your knowledge and passion for camping with your readers. ) or https:// means you've safely I was also impressed by the beautiful photos you included in the article. 20 miles from Winter Park. Distance to Winter Park: 14 milesRestrooms:NoWater:NoCrowds: ModerateMap. Copyright 2023 Off Path Travels | Privacy | Disclaimer. Keep reading to learn about our seven favorite dispersed campsites near Winter Park! We left at 5:30am and arrived at 6:30am ready to hike. We pulled in around 7pm on Saturday evening and unsurprisingly all the actual spots lower down along the road were taken. I wouldn't call After a night of dreams and nightmares, the alarm clock rang in our little hut at Thorong High Camp at 4:45 a.m. We were not hungry because of the effects of altitude, but we had a little breakfast and started the final hike-a-bike toward the pass by the light . The area is popular because it has beautiful views and offers easy access to hiking up Vasquez Peak. Moderate 4.4 (310) Arapaho National Forest. Beautiful area, right along a stream - only complaint is that it got COLD at night, but that could be lack of preparation on our part. The campground is mostly gravel and packed dirt, with not much vegetation, on the lake shore. Located just 25 miles north of Greenville, South Carolina . The trailhead provides access to the Butler Gulch Trail (#144) and the motorized road to the top of Jones Pass. There are plenty of sites available on the reasonable drive up that are on the left side of the road next to the river but they're all ground tents only. As some of the best free camping near Denver, Jones Pass offers up killer mountain views and plenty of activity. We decided to try our luck higher up and followed the road until we ran into a jeep that had set up camp in the middle of the road because it was snowed out just beyond them. After about 0.9 miles, make another left to stay on USFS 129 and continue along it for just over 8 miles until you reach the reservoir. The following list contains the7 best dispersed camping areas surrounding Winter Park, Colorado. Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you. How to Get to Jones Pass Dispersed CampingAfter traveling through the town of Empire, youll travel just about 8 miles then make a left onto Road 202 / 203 toward Jones Pass. Check Out the Latest GearWe LOVE finding the best new gear. Tolmie Peak Lookout - Eunice Lake Hike to an old fire lookout with in-your-face We feature outdoor activities and off the beaten path destinations in the US and Mexico. Keep in mind there are no amentities. From the Berthoud Pass parking lot, follow the Continental Divide Trail south for 2 miles up to Colorado Mines Peak. (15.6km) Skill Level: Medium. Continue upwards until the trees give way to an alpine environment. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. There are several more spots up here, although most of them are small and may require a small walk to get to. Start the Fire - Place your tinder (lightweight material that catches fire easily) on top of the platform. The road here is generally passable by most vehicles, although the further in you get the more difficult the road gets. In fact, over 2 miles of trails along the creek are just outside of the campground. Reservations must be made by phone by calling 970)726-1132 or (970)726-0889. Tennis Has Met Its Match: Play Pickleball at These 45 RV Campgrounds, 18 Campgrounds Where You Can Stay Cool This Summer. If you're a beginner winter camper, choose a location that's easy to get . Respi Mee Sup Sabahiiat. Then afterward, you can even check out some of the best ski towns in Colorado too. The pass itself is usually snowed in until August. Some toilet paper was left behind and despite being good stewards of our environment, I'm not picking up somebody else's TP without latex gloves, something I'll add to our camp kit. Sign up for our bimonthlynewsletter and receivethe latest destination guides, outdoorsy tips, andexclusive offers. Tips for making camp in the snow: Pick a spot that's sheltered from the wind and free of avalanche danger, then prep your tent site by packing down the snow. You will pass by the permit area on your way to the reservoir, so make sure to stop to get one. Wanna learn more about things to do in Colorado? As always, if youre pulling a trailer, camping in a van, or have a heated RV, you can certainly extend this season by a month or two. During the summer, there are plenty of great reasons to go camping near Winter Park. Nearby Grand Lake offers up water-filled recreation. Photo: Rob Writz. I found the cl Its sister trail, Butler Gulch, is an all-time favorite hike (both summer and winter), and since they share a trailhead, I knew Jones Pass would be special as well.Jones Pass is not the type of trail I normally take, since it is actually a 4x4 road that is used for Jeeping in the summer and snowmobiling in the winter. In Yosemite Valley, Upper Pines Campground and Camp 4 are available. Pro Tip: This is prime avalanche country and plenty of people have triggered slides and even died here. There are a lot in open areas with great fews but may be super windy depending on when you go up there. Ive done this drive in an Acura RDX with only minor scrapes along the bottom of my vehicle, but the going was a little tough. If you make it past the initial pot holes it is decently smooth sailing from there. Youll be close to the Tipperary Creek trailhead here and also have relatively easy access to all of the services available in Fraser. Jones Pass Road Dispersed Camping - Winter Park Area. We maneuvered sideways and leveled our truck with the help of a few strategically placed rocks and called it good. There are no facilities. Then check out our full list of25 Cool Camping Gadgets. Jones Bay is one of Lake Roosevelt's smaller, more rustic campgrounds. Here are a few handy tips for camping at Jones Pass: 4WD and high-clearance is highly recommended to reach the upper camping and the top of the pass. The area around the big fence by the meadow seemed about optimum to me and a few other campers. There are road signs once you get off I-70 that will help you the rest of the way that say Jones Pass. Not a bad deal at all (must be a member for this option.) But you can also continue straight. Yosemite National Park - California. Theres a variety of options, including skinning the trail and skiing trees or making your way up to the low-angle bowls. (Please keep in mind the minimum distance for camping near water.). (877) 754-3474. Oh man what a great spot! The trail is extremely rocky and steep. Accessible only by boat, Jones Island Marine State park is a 188-acre marine camping park with 25,000 feet of saltwater shoreline on the San Juan channel. Winter Park and the surrounding area is gorgeous, with plenty of amazing camping spots. jones pass winter campingwhat are leos attracted to physically. Relax and camp in beautiful mountain scenery. Or, you can venture on the East or West side of the road and do out and backs. The hike is five miles long and rated moderately difficulty. Flora, and Mt. Jones Pass. Dispersed camping (also known as primitive camping or car camping) is free tent camping with access to your vehicle. The closest and most convenient option for dispersed camping near Winter Park is Forest Service Road 128. If you are able to have a campfire, be sure to completely put it out prior to going to sleep or leaving you campground for any amount of time! Be aware that as of July, 2017, the road is among the worst I've encountered in my travels. Have you written a blog post about Jones Pass Road Dispersed Camping? Continue with Recommended Cookies. Pets should be kept under control at all times, especially in areas where wildlife could be present or when you have other campers nearby. Many people travel the road via snowmobile in winter. The Best Way to Reach There: From Denver, take I-70 west. The Jones Pass area is a massive backcountry skiing zone that is more frequented by snowmobiles than backcountry skiers. At these sites we received 1 bar of Verizon 4G. It has a capacity of 36 people and 10 cars. Because its a road, the grade is not very difficult, and its wide and well-packed. The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. Get your free guide to traveling off the beaten path and a carry-on only packing list, plus exclusive updates! For the most part, the sites were clean. Solar Power Bank Charger - Keep your gadgets charged with the power of the sun. Make a left on Road 72. Jones Pass is along the Continental Divide. Lets keep this land incredible for generations to come, make sure to leave no trace. Hands-down its one of my favorite day trips from Denver. 3. Just 40-minutes outside of Denver, you'll find a wonderful world of high-alpine adventures. Berthoud Pass is 55 miles from Denver making it one of the closest places to get out and backcountry tour in the winter. And its not just the winter season that keeps people outside. Happy trails! Winter Park. In this post, Im giving away some of the best-kept secrets in Colorado. Continue straight along the dirt road. Required fields are marked *. The road is slightly washboard with no significant ruts. Totally worth it and I still can't get over the fact that this is an hour from Denver. Although several of the dispersed camping areas near Winter Park in this guide are very close to town, youll still want to come prepared to be self-sufficient. Check out the Motor Vehicle Use Maps here. It is critical that you check and obey any and all fire restrictions. At the end you will experience beauty and solitude that only Colorado can provide. Jones Pass Road is located on the south side of Berthoud Pass and makes for a stunning dispersed camping area near Winter Park. Continue for about 2 miles southwest and youll start to see some of the first spots along the Vasquez Creek. However, because it connects with a network of trails that spread all over th Berthoud Pass is 55 miles from Denver making it one of the closest places to get out and backcountry tour in the winter. The area with these sites is beautiful. Typically you can snag a spot on Saturday too, if you arrive early in the afternoon. If those options arent enough to satisfy your needs, I recommend checking out camping near Granby, Lake Granby, or Grand Lake all to the north of Winter Park. Keep in mind that many folk will also look to camp along Road 73, north of here, although that is not officially permitted per the Arapaho National Forest MVUM. You can stay for a maximum of three days, and you must register at lodging check-in. 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. Turn right (east) off of Highway 40 (Main Street) directly into the campsite. Montezuma Road (Keystone) I began my trek at dawn, and by sunrise I had gained enough elevation to see a spectacular sunrise. A winter's worth of exploration is awaiting you in Jones Pass. This area is excellent if you want to stay close to town, but would like to have a few more roads to choose from and want to try a bit to get away from other people. More Information: FreeCampsites.netApproximate GPS Coordinates: 39.899251, -105.806662if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'offpathtravels_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_3',193,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-offpathtravels_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Meadow Creek Reservoir has some of our favorite dispersed camping near Winter Park. From the top of the pass you can do shuttle runs down the south side of the pass. Wonderful pictures and useful iinformation links. Jones Pass Road is miles of flat, then some steep twisting, smooth jeep road. Gaia GPS - Download offline maps for easy navigation! Crowds: Busy Map. Just drove up for a quick overnight trip. Beautiful spot, with camping spots along the creek, which are getting harder to find. There was maybe one site where you might be able to squeeze in a roof top tent but the site was occupied and we weren't going to investigate. First-come, first-served. Elevation: 12,454 ft (3,796 m) County: Clear Creek County / Grand County. the wing slows this car down a lot. This is a popular dispersed camping area that is accessible for most vehicles, including small RVs and those pulling a trailer.