Big Creek Lakes Campground

Go way up in the Rocky Mountains for your next camping adventure at Big Creek Lakes Campground in the Medicine-Bow Routt National Forest. Don't expect thick brush, however, as the area has been heavily logged to try and eradicate a pine beetle infestation. There is a silver lining in the situation, though -- the removal of these trees has actually lead to more natural sunlight in the campground, which has been well-received.

While here, you'll have your choice of one out of 54 campsites, only 24 of which may be reserved ahead of time. Sites cost $10 per night and come with picnic tables and fire rings with grills. Drinking water is provided, as is a boat ramp for easy lake access. There are also areas to hitch your horse at the campsite, along with stalls for them to stay in. A host will help you with anything you need during mid-June all the way until September, easing the minds of many travelers.

There is much fun to be had up in the mountains during the summer months -- but be warned, it can snow at these high altitudes at any time. Big Creek Lake is the source of most of the good times here, giving you access to activities like boating and salmon fishing. Motorized boats can operate in the lower section of the lake, while the upper portion is perfect for canoes and kayaks. Mount Zirkel Wilderness surrounds the campground and is a great place to go hiking -- you may even stumble across a moose!

Canine campers can join their human counterparts at this facility, provided they stay on a leash at all times. Due to the number of large predators in this forest, you must never leave your pup unattended at any time. It is also vital to clean up all of their waste properly so as to not attract any of these opportunistic mammals. 

If you'd like to truly go wild this summer, Big Creek Lakes Campground is definitely the place to do it!