COLORADO STATE FOREST
The Colorado State Forest is a 71,000 acres (290 km2) forest located in Jackson County in the U.S. state of Colorado. Trees in the Colorado State Forest include Engelmann Spruce and Subalpine Fir in areas of higher elevation, and Lodgepole Pine and Quaking Aspen at the mid and lower elevations.
The Colorado State Forest was officially established on 2 December 1938 by President Franklin Roosevelt.
Colorado State Forest is located in north-central Colorado and is often referred to as the "Never Summer Mountains." Its rich history dates back to the time of indigenous Native American tribes, such as the Ute and Arapaho, who used the region for hunting grounds.
The history of the forest is characterized by the influx of settlers during the late 19th century. With the discovery of gold and silver in Colorado, particularly during the Colorado Gold Rush of the 1850s, the area surrounding Colorado State Forest experienced a rapid increase in population. However, the harsh winter climate and rugged terrain made sustainable settlement difficult.
In the early 20th century, efforts were made to protect the land as a state forest. The Colorado State Forest was established in 1970 and encompasses approximately 41,000 acres of diverse terrain, including alpine tundra, subalpine forests, and montane ecosystems.
The region is also known for its logging heritage. During the early 20th century, extensive logging occurred in the area to provide timber for the growing mining industry and the construction of railroads. However, unsustainable logging practices led to deforestation and environmental degradation in the region.
Efforts to restore and manage the forest began in the 1950s. The Colorado State Forest initiated reforestation projects, including planting spruce, fir, and pine trees. These efforts aimed to restore the forest and enhance its ecological value as well as provide recreational opportunities for visitors.
Today, Colorado State Forest offers various recreational activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing. The forest's diverse ecosystems provide habitat for a wide range of wildlife species, including moose, elk, mule deer, black bears, and numerous bird species.
Colorado State Forest continues to be managed by the Colorado State Forest Service and Colorado Parks and Wildlife, ensuring the preservation and sustainable use of this important natural area for current and future generations.
Day-UseFishingyes
Huntingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
Bike Trailsyes
Bridle Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Electric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
1. State Forest State Park: This park offers over 40 primitive campsites, dispersed camping options and cabins for rent.
2. North Michigan Reservoir Campground: Located within the state forest, this campground has sites available on a first-come-first-served basis with picnic tables, fire grates and vault toilets.
3. Bockman Campground: It is located in high-country setting at an elevation of approximately 9,500 feet near Gould town center offering both RV & tent campgrounds along with yurts rental option as well.
4. Crags Campground: A more secluded area that provides great opportunities to view wildlife like moose or elk while enjoying your stay amidst nature's beauty.
5. Ranger Lakes Campsite: Known for its fishing spots it also features restrooms facilities, drinking water availability etc making it ideal spot especially if you are travelling with family.
6. Dispersed Camping: For those who prefer solitude can opt for backcountry camping which allows visitors to set up their tents anywhere they want following certain rules.
7. Yurt Rentals: The Never Summer Nordic Yurts provide unique lodging experience inside Colorado state forest where one gets chance to enjoy panoramic views from comfort of these cozy accommodations.
8. Cabins/Cottages: Several rustic style cabins/cottages are scattered throughout the park providing basic amenities such as beds,stove etc but guests need bring own linens,sleeping bags,pots/pans/utensils.