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Camping and camp fires in Summit County

Kim Marquis
summit daily news
Summit Daily/Reid Williams
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Thousands of people spend their vacation nights under the stars in Summit County.

There are many options for camping here, from nearly a dozen organized campgrounds to a limited choice of spots in surrounding forests.

It’s a safe bet to reserve a campground site ahead for a weekend stay in Summit County between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Those who don’t plan ahead can usually nab a spot early Friday for a site around Dillon Reservoir. Sites are usually available at Green Mountain Reservoir north of Silverthorne.



Local campgrounds offer rest rooms, trash receptacles and water. Some have picnic tables and metal fire pits that are important if you plan to have a campfire. Stay limits range from 10 to 14 days at a cost of about $12 per night.

If a fire ban is in place at the time of your visit, campfires are only allowed in metal fire pits available at organized campgrounds. During a fire ban, campfires in stone fire rings at dispersed sites are not allowed.



The local office of the U.S. Forest Service recommends watching a campfire at all times. To put it out, drown it with water then stir up the coals until the pit is cold.

Campers can be issued a $100 ticket for failing to completely douse a campfire.

To determine if a fire ban is in place and for information about individual campgrounds in the area, call the U.S. Forest Service district office at (970) 468-5400, visit the office on Blue River Parkway in Silverthorne or visit http://www.dillonrangerdistrict.com. The web site includes maps, facility and reservation information and directions to local campgrounds.

To make reservations ahead of your planned stay, visit http://www.reserveusa.com or call (877) 444-6777.

Questions about the status of local fire bans can be directed to local law enforcement agencies and fire departments.


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