BLM spent a million on two Colorado campgrounds’ improvements

Greater demand for camping has prompted a Colorado field office of the Bureau of Land Management to spend some big money. Since 2019 to today, the Royal Gorge Field Office of the BLM spent a million dollars on expanding camping site availability and comfort on two campgrounds at the Shelf Road climbing area. The site is near Cañon City, southwest of Colorado Springs.

Rock climbers, drive-through scenery fans, fishers

The BLM project doubled the number of sites. With 29 sites at Sand Gulch, and 33 at The Bank campground, more overnighters can take advantage of this popular climbing area. But what if you’re not into rock climbing? There’s plenty of scenery in this backcountry area. And while the road through it is dirt, it’s “doable” with even two-wheel drive. Look for a bit of a climb, starting at 5,330 feet at Cañon City, and topping out at 9,395 feet at Cripple Creek. You’ll see towering limestone and plenty of canyons. Fishing folks can hike into Fourmile Creek for a shot at some wily finned creatures.

BLM spent a million, but more than just dirt pushing

If the BLM spent a million on these two campgrounds, they must have done more than push dirt around and put in site posts. Indeed, the agency says it also added new picnic tables and fire rings, quadrupled on-site parking, and installed four new vault toilets.

“When we charge a fee, the revenue generated stays within the management area where it was collected,” said Keith Berger, Royal Gorge Field Office manager. “This project is an excellent example of what can be done with increased resources.” Expect to spend $20 a night to camp in either of the campgrounds, or half of that for those with the appropriate recreation pass. More here.

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