jones pass winter camping

Because its a road, the grade is not very difficult, and its wide and well-packed. There is little water here, so make sure to bring plenty along. Once the road starts to climb, there is nowhere to turn around and there are a few tight switch backs. Please respect this closure, and make sure to minimize your impact while camping at any of the other sites included in this guide. There are road signs once you get off I-70 that will help you the rest of the way that say Jones Pass. We nearly flipped our car and tumbled down a hillside when we hit an unexpected patch of ice in early November so certainly take care. Head a bit north of Winter Park until you get to Fraser. The trail is extremely rocky and steep. Day 1 - Hike into Baker Lake Campsite via Boulder Pass (13.1km) Day 2 - Hike to Merlin Meadows Campsite via Jones Pass. Luckily, you should have no problem finding some excellent dispersed camping near Winter Park. Distance to Winter Park: 20 milesRestrooms:NoWater:No, although you may be able to pull water from the nearby creek.Crowds:BusyMap. Getting awesome photos here is almost too easy because of the natural beauty. You'll want to pack wicking base layers for camp, a fleece mid-layer, and a down jacket for insulation. Skiers will enjoy climbing the mountain and skiing down the bowl. adventures and follow local regulations. To get there: Take I-70 west to the US-40 exit towards Winter Park. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Since most of the camping is above treeline, come prepared! Maybe you just like to have an established place to park your car or RV, complete with a picnic table, fire pit, and perhaps toilets or drinking water nearby. This site is a reservation-only campground meant to host large groups. When you reach the GPS coordinates you will find two RV suitable camping areas to your right and left. Pro Tip: There are a LOT of active bears here! Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your The following list contains the7 best dispersed camping areas surrounding Winter Park, Colorado. Eva) along the Rocky Mountains. In addition to this trail there are several more in the area. Just drove up for a quick overnight trip. Plenty of RVs and trailers come up this way, so you shouldnt have any real issues regardless of your vehicle type.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'offpathtravels_com-leader-1','ezslot_4',194,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-offpathtravels_com-leader-1-0'); Why is this our favorite? Build a small platform out of rocks or sticks if snow is on the ground. Or, you can venture on the East or West side of the road and do out and backs. Maybe 5 mph average. About a quarter-mile up, youll see Butler Gulch branch off to the left; keep going on the right fork. This road is paved and 40mph, in excellent condition. Or, you can make a quick right onto Fraser Valley Parkway, then go left at the dead-end onto Road 73. The area with these sites is beautiful. Take your time here; the road gets a bit windy in parts and two-way traffic can be expected. Jones Pass Road is miles of flat, then some steep twisting, smooth jeep road. Fort Collins, CO 80526 Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center Winter Programs. In addition to the campsites along the main road, you can find a quieter site on one of the many spur roads that lead south off of 72. Reservations Only. Lets keep this land incredible for generations to come, make sure to leave no trace. Open in Google Maps. 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. This is where you can go if you really want to get away from people, but stay relatively close to Winter Park (and Denver). 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. 2. Montezuma Road (Keystone) The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. About Us >. The best part about Jones Pass is the incredible alpine camping. $20 per night. A low-key alternative to many of the more glamorous and touristy towns in the area, Winter Park offers top notch mountain biking, a relaxed atmosphere, and tons to do for the outdoor enthusiast. Well cover: Head up I-70 and take the Hwy 40 exit. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 9 min to complete. Please select a reason for flagging this item: 2023 Campendium Inc. All rights reserved. It can be reached by boat and has a boat launch and dock. Please note: Banff National Park is a special place and comes with special responsibilities. Dream of spending the night under the stars without a noisy campground? Pets are welcome at all of the dispersed camping areas included in this guide. Keep in mind that dispersed camping is not permitted towards the top of the road at Rollins Pass. Season: Snow Blocks Top Until Late Summer. An official website of the 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. Sunset Hike at Jones Pass, Colorado. The further up you go the more dispersed and spread out the campsites get. Fish along Woods Creek, West Fork Clear Creek, or Ruby Creek. Our favorite campsite in this area requires a bit of a hike down away from the car, but there are sites all around the reservoir which you can camp right next to your car. Sign up for our bimonthlynewsletter and receivethe latest destination guides, outdoorsy tips, andexclusive offers. Winter Park and the surrounding area is gorgeous, with plenty of amazing camping spots. Not a bad deal at all (must be a member for this option.) From the top of the pass you can do shuttle runs down the south side of the pass. Jones Pass is located on the Continental Divide. Located just 25 miles north of Greenville, South Carolina . Overall the views were gorgeous and we enjoyed it. 5) Jones Pass Dispersed Camping. ) or https:// means you've safely It has picnic tables and can have portable toilets. Sites begin to appear almost immediately, although continue further back for more solitude. Approximate GPS Coordinates: 39.936357, -105.974654. Typically, all the spots fill up by Friday evening, so certainly arrive early if you plan to camp in the summer. We left at 5:30am and arrived at 6:30am ready to hike. From simply driving to the top of Jones Pass to enjoy a sunset to a weekend of camping in some of Colorados best wilderness, Im an expert in Colorado travel. The road conditions was not so good but doable and worth it! For those looking for more solitude and a quieter dispersed camping area near Winter Park/Fraser, look no further than Country Road 50. Distance to Winter Park: 16 milesRestrooms:NoWater:No, but may be pulled from Meadow Creek/Meadow Creek ReservoirCrowds: BusyMap. Most require a permit to park overnight, which was $10 per night for a 2-axle vehicle during the summer of 2018. Im going to include this one just to avoid confusion with it since its basically the only other established campground in the Winter Park area. There are road signs once you get off I-70 that will help you the rest of the way that say Jones Pass. how to equip shoes in 2k22 myteam / bombas distribution center / jones pass winter camping. Use the custom map layers to find public land, download offline maps, and navigate to your perfect dispersed campsite. Hike to the top of the Pass. And for good reason. How to Get to Meadow Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping AreaHead north of Winter Park along Highway 40. The most popular spot here is right at the entrance to the reservoir. The park's oceanfront setting and natural environment have little development or advertising, creating a refreshing break from the hectic pace of life of Long Island and the metropolitan area. While were sure youll already have the essentials like a great tent,sleeping bags, andcamp chairs, butbelow are some of our favorite items specifically for dispersed camping near Winter Park: Want to know the essentials for your next camping trip? Visitor Information: 970-295-6600, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/arp/recarea/?recid=28436, Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee National Grassland. Once you hit the dirt road and pass the Jones Pass Trailhead you will begin to see camping sites on the sides of the road. Start the Fire - Place your tinder (lightweight material that catches fire easily) on top of the platform. Mountain Range: Front Range. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. The Bultler Gulch Trail exhibits a stream fed valley and expansive views of the mountains. Many people think winter camping is something impossible or extreme. That is just short of summiting the 12,000+ foot mountain shown in the photos. Copyright 2023 Off Path Travels | Privacy | Disclaimer. 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 approach to Jones Pass follows that of the local cat operation Powder Addiction, and as a result Spray Park Trail, Washington 98304, USA. Your writing style is engaging and informative, making it an enjoyable read. website belongs to an official government organization in the more. Although youll have to travel over the pass to get to Winter Park, we think this location merits serious consideration. 1 site. All of this beauty is within a 40-minute drive from downtown Denver. Fire Restrictions for Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, Easy Campfire Cooking: 200+ Family Fun Recipes. The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. This road is paved and 40mph, in excellent condition. Crowds: Busy Map. The Jones Pass area is a massive backcountry skiing zone that is more frequented by snowmobiles than backcountry skiers. Guide to Camping on the Tour du Mont Blanc, Guide to Hiking from Aspen to Crested Butte, Guide to Camping on the West Highland Way, Guide to Camping on the Walkers Haute Route, The Ultimate Guide to the Coast to Coast Walk, The Complete Guide to Snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park, The Best Dispersed Camping Areas Near Winter Park, check fire restrictions at this website before heading out, Butler Gulch trailhead which features a beautiful hike, The BEST Dispersed Camping Near Glenwood Springs. Check out The Dyrt PRO to get campsite reviews, offline maps, and the best map layers for finding public dispersed camping! It is an circle drive with a large parking area on the far end. There are approximately 4 campsites on the circle for tents before you reach the large parking area suitable for RVs. Get it now for just $7. Would not recommend any rig longer than 22ft beyond the main camping area. Would have liked to explore further. The easy access from I-70 makes it a popular place for a hike or a quick drive to the . A little further past Berthod Pass youll find Winter Park, a happening spot with plenty of fun-filled activities. Shortly thereafter, make a right onto Road 50 and keep going until you find a spot. This road is paved and 40mph, in excellent condition. One of my favorites for mountain biking but there is an active bear. As some of the best free camping near Denver, Jones Pass offers up killer mountain views and plenty of activity. Highly recommended! Dispersed camping near Winter Park is no different, and none of the dispersed camping areas in this guide require a permit or have any associated fees. 303 Jones Gap Rd, Marietta, SC 29661, USA. For further information see: Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee National Grassland - Jones Pass Trailhead (usda.gov) Travel the first mile along the Jones Pass Road to the top of the valley floor, then leave the road and proceed north . During the summer, there are plenty of great reasons to go camping near Winter Park. Easily accessible from Denver, Butler Gulch is full of jaw-dropping views in all seasons, and anyone in good health can enjoy this gem. Does it get cold at night? Drinking water is available May through September. Restrooms: No Water: No, although you may be able to pull water from the nearby creek. Once you approach the mine there will be a gate and to your r Road 72 is a good option if you prefer to be close to services, as its an easy drive into Fraser or Winter Park from here. Distance to Winter Park: 14 milesRestrooms:NoWater:NoCrowds: ModerateMap. I especially appreciated the detailed information you provided on the various camping sites in the area, including their amenities, pros, and cons. 17 sites. You can continue along Road 50, turning onto Road 32 deep in this area and you will eventually make your way to Horseshoe Campground. Snow tends to linger in many areas surrounding Winter Park through mid-June and the flurries can begin as early as September at many of the camping areas included in this guide. Because if youre willing to look, you can find some incredible dispersed campsites all around the reservoir and camp very close to the waters edge. Unless there has been a deep snowfall recently, you may not even need snowshoes; YakTrax should be sufficient. The west entrance to. It has a capacity of 36 people and 10 cars. Youll be close to the Tipperary Creek trailhead here and also have relatively easy access to all of the services available in Fraser. In general, winter wilderness users must camp at least one mile away from a plowed road. Nearby youll find theButler Gulch trailhead which features a beautiful hike. Corona Pass Road is located east of Winter Park and has tons of great dispersed camping options along its length. 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. Forest Service Road 128 heads back into the wilderness behind Winter Park for several miles, and there are dispersed campsites along most of its length. This information is incredibly valuable for someone like me, who is looking to plan a camping trip in the near future. Winter Park is one of our favorite Colorado mountain destinations. Whitefish Mountain Resort. Idlewild Campground is one of the most popular and highest reviewed campsites in the Winter Park area. Day hike to Merlin Lake. Jones Pass is an easily accessible trail for most vehicles with a good number of camp sites along the road. Rumpl Puffy Blanket - The coziest camp blanket out there. Share sensitive information only With mountain vistas, tumbling waterfalls, and pristine forests, the Upstate is home to some of South Carolina's most stunning landscapes, including Jones Gap State Park. Sewer and water always on. Upon exiting I-40 head towards the molybdenum mine on 202. We pulled in around 7pm on Saturday evening and unsurprisingly all the actual spots lower down along the road were taken. 10 Incredible Colorado Backpacking Trails, Practical info about visiting Jones Pass, Colorado. By the time we got back down from the hike, the parking lot was full of vehicles. Corona Pass Rd. As some of the best free camping near Denver, Jones Pass offers up killer mountain views and plenty of activity. Camping. 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. But you can reach the ridge and hike your way up to the Continental Divide Trail for killer alpine views. Begin your hike around sunrise as inclement weather often rolls in during the late afternoon. 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 Out the Latest GearWe LOVE finding the best new gear. Here's the complete guide to visiting Jones Pass, Colorado. The area to your left does require higher clearance. 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. We had no problems while camping here besides random strong gusts of wind at night. Lift Tickets for Ski Mountains: Many ski mountains in-state offer discounted lift tickets to seniors. 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? 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. It takes about 40 minutes to drive to from Winter Park. This post is going to cover the best camping near Winter Park for dispersed camping as well as camping at campgrounds and RV parks. A winter's worth of exploration is awaiting you in Jones Pass. However far you decide to go, the beauty of this area will take your breath away. Part of the allure of Vasquez Peak is the extensive wildflowers of the summer months. At 11,370 Berthoud Pass crosses the continental divide. Moderate 4.4 (310) Arapaho National Forest. Was a nice high altitude stop over camp site. Distance to Winter Park: 8 milesRestrooms:NoWater:NoCrowds: ModerateMap. We highly recommend downloading offline maps (Google Maps app, Motion-X GPS, and Gaia GPS are all great options). 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. Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Before we list off these great sites, we want to remind everyone to practice safe dispersed camping fundamentals. Respi Mee Sup Sabahiiat. So, be sure to stop by during the best month to ski in Colorado. 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. Do you not enjoying having camping neighbors right next to you? As some of the best free camping in Colorado, it's great to have this spot so close to home. 5. From Denver: 1 hour, 15 minutes Final Destination: This about five-mile dirt road, which requires four-wheel drive, climbs to 12,600 feet on the Continental Divide. This is just before Highway 40 turns sharply, going from a westbound road to eastbound as the first major switchback of Berthoud Pass begins. It gets steep at some parts and you'll exhaust some calories. Butler Gulch is also a popular hiking and cross-country ski trail. See our posts on25 Cool Camping Gadgets, Top 5 Camping Gear, and 35 Unique Travel Gifts. Unfortunately, due to heavy use, multiple new campsites being created, and increasing impacts from trash and human waste, the National Forest Service has prohibited camping in the area. Until at least May of 2022, Vasquez Creek will remain closed to dispersed camping. I wouldn't call this travel trailer friendly but everybody adventures differently. Overall Rating. 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. 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. This area could easily fit a large Class C or several trailers. Length 7.1 miElevation gain 2,017 ftRoute type Out & back. Photos (235) Directions. Located just off Highway 40, this isnt the most remote or serene campsite in the area. Junction City - Schreiner Park Campground, Upper Teton View - Toppings Lake Dispersed Campsites 8-16, Oliver Lee Memorial State Park Campground, Video: Where to Camp in Quartzsite, Arizona. 125 RV sites, numerous dispersed tent sites, 4 restrooms with flush toilets and showers available for a fee, potable water at central location, trash and gray water disposal, RV dump station nearby at South Mesa, two boat ramps, cartop and trailered, two buoyed swimming areas, picnic tables and BBG grills . Your descriptions of the outdoor activities and adventures that can be had in the area also caught my attention and have inspired me to plan a trip there soon. Given the popularity of the area please be sure to leave your campsite in better condition than you found it and always practice Leave No Trace camping. This means that the prime camping season will be over the summer months from May-September. Not big rig friendly for sure. Past this trail head the road narrows and heads a steady uphill. At 11,370 Berthoud Pass crosses the continental divide. 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. the wing slows this car down a lot. I stumbled on them one time while exploring 4WD roads with my old Pathfinder.I love these dispersed sites for a couple reasons. Distance to Winter Park: 20 miles Restrooms: No Water: No, although you may be able to pull water from the nearby creek. There were approximately 4 sites on the road up but they were more suited for vans or tents. From there, head east a My friend Austin and I hiked up to Mt Flora last year on what was probably the coldest day ever. Hiking opportunities include hiking on the Continental Divide Trail via the Henderson Spur trail and/or driving to the top of Jones Pass. For more information check out our complete guide to dispersed camping in Colorado here. There is also the Midland Campground adjacent to the dispersed camping area should a developed site better suit your needs. Check out these resources: Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Phone +1 864-836-3647. Hot Sulphur Springs is another very popular spot nearby. Thanks for the kind comments. As a Colorado resident of nearly 11 years, I make it a point to visit this . Distance to Winter Park: 5 milesRestrooms:NoWater:No, but may be pulled from Vasquez CreekCrowds: BusyMap. $20 per night. How to Get to Vasquez Creek Dispersed Camping AreaThis one is so easy to get to, its almost laughable. At the end you will experience beauty and solitude that only Colorado can provide. Continue straight along the dirt road. Did you know you can also rent an RV or camper van for dispersed camping in comfort? Easily accessible from Denver, Butler Gulch is full of jaw-dropping views in all seasons, and anyone in good health can enjoy this gem. 32 maximum. Upon exiting I-40 head towards the molybdenum mine on 202. The Wildflowers of Vasquez Peak. Here are the main things to think about when camping in winter: . Grab a Book to Learn MoreGet one of these incredible books to improve your camping skills: I just read your article on camping near Winter Park and I must say, it was an absolute delight! However, be aware that regulations often change, campsites close, and the Forest Services makes changes to camping rules. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock The trailhead provides access to the Butler Gulch Trail (#144) and the motorized road to the top of Jones Pass. As a Colorado resident of nearly 11 years, I make it a point to visit this beautiful landscape every year. * The further up you go the more Berthoud Pass is 55 miles from Denver making it one of the closest places to get out and backcountry tour in the winter. The road here is generally passable by most vehicles, although the further in you get the more difficult the road gets. From here, you can keep going west to reach Road 3, then take that southwest to Highway 9. - Get there early to avoid the crowds. However, there is substantial avalanche risk so do your homework before heading out. Be sure to keep food and trash stored properly (away from your tent, sealed up in a car with the windows rolled up and doors locked). To get to Jones Pass Road, turn left on Henderson Mine Road. Yosemite Winter Camping. Check out our full list of 25 Cool Camping Gadgets. Backcountry skiers will love the mellow terrain with plenty of options for some steep stuff. $10 per night. With access to the Continental Divide, amazing views, alpine terrain, and fun low angle skiing, this destination is a great winter objective for skiers of all abilities. You can always camp low and hike high. The biggest downfall to this campground is that they did have to come and clear away most of the trees located within the campground area. (877) 754-3474. Jones Bay is a reservation only campground with 9 . more. 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. Flora, and Mt. Less crowds means, you have the wondrous lakeshore to yourself, in true peace! The road is 7 miles out and back. 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. Heres some fun-filled activities along the pass. A ride to the top and back is possible with a great payoff at the apex. This road is also ATV-friendly. 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. Wanna learn more about things to do in Colorado? Arapaho National Forest contains more than 723,744 acres (1100 square miles) of recreation. Well start off with dispersed camping because here at Off Path Travels, we love to get away from it all. The area features a rustic camping cabin, fishing & boating on the Wapsipinicon River, and an on-site park ranger residence. (8.1km) Day 3 - Hike out via Packer's Pass. 1015 Glades Dr, Whitefish, MT 59937. Jones Pass is a popular spot with backcountry skiers and riders as well as snowmobile enthusiasts. Many people travel the road via snowmobile in winter. 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. It also makes it much easier to see and hear your neighbors. Print/PDF map. Jones Pass Road. If youre really lucky, you can go dispersed camping (or wild camping or boondocking as its sometimes known) for an entire trip without seeing another person. Forest Service Road 129 leads to the reservoir, and dispersed camping is permitted on it as it winds its way to the reservoir. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore - Michigan. The biggest benefit to this site over the others is that it has drinking water onsite! Matsell Bridge Natural Area - primitive camping within 3700 block of Matsell Park Road. Its also worth noting that the road accessing the majority of the sites can be quite steep in places. Please explore responsibly! From there, head east a My friend Austin and I hiked up to Mt Flora last year on what was probably the coldest day ever. 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. Your email address will not be published. jones pass winter campingwhat are leos attracted to physically. If you have a decent 4x4 vehiclethe road is a breeze. Jones Campground at Squaw Lake. These are also great options when Stage One fire restrictions are in place because you can usually still have fires in permanent fire pits found in campgrounds. She'd rather be dirty than done up. Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use. Road 72 offer mile upon mile of dispersed camping near Winter Park, just southwest of the town of Fraser. It was 9 degrees at the Berthoud Pass parking lot and we had 32mph winds nearly the whole way. We feature outdoor activities and off the beaten path destinations in the US and Mexico. Or, you can venture on the East or West side of the road and do out and backs. Taking Road 50 west from Fraser will lead you into a treasure trove of wilderness with more dispersed campsites than you can count. We maneuvered sideways and leveled our truck with the help of a few strategically placed rocks and called it good. More Information: Google ListingApproximate GPS Coordinates: 40.054719, -105.753044. 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. Location submitted by: Loving Every Mile. Will absolutely be coming back to explore higher up once the snow melts. Your email address will not be published. Some come up here if youre looking for great views and can brave the additional altitude because it is quite high up there! 5 Jun. Now that you have all of this wonderful information, make sure to use it wisely and respect your neighbors and nature. It is always important to check current snow conditions, especially in the Spring. Jones Pass Road begins by a molybdenum mine, but don't let that fool you. . Several wooded campsites dot the area and are free to use on a first-come-first-serve basis. 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. You'll enjoy stunning views and relatively easy access . If the trail head is empty a 30ft trailer can be turned around. Winter Park, CO 970-887-4100 Official Website. In this post, Im giving away some of the best-kept secrets in Colorado. Although not the absolute most peaceful camping site, the Jones Pass sites are close to Denver and really easy to access. Ever? Everything from when to camp, what to bring, and how to get there.