Get far out in the woods and stay in the Rio Grande Forest at Elk Creek Campground. Not to be confused with the three other Elk Creek Campgrounds scattered throughout Colorado that hug this popular creek, this one is found west of Antonito. A great place to lay your head while exploring the area, this campground is very popular among anglers and hikers from all over.
The grounds contain 31 campsites, many of which offer individual fire rings and picnic tables for your convenience. Be prepared to rough it a bit with your pooch, as there aren't any hookups availableĀ here. Over at the pull-through sites, things do get a bit tight with only side-by-sides available. There are no tables on these lots and only 7 grills for everyone to share. You'll be happy to know that there is a host on-site to help with any issues you may encounter, and a hand pump for drinking water is also provided.
Elk Creek and other nearby streams make for some excellent fishing, so bring along that tackle box! Your fur-baby will be pleased to hear that hiking trailheads are right nearby, so the two of you can spend time two- or four-footing it through the terrain. Not too far away, you'll also find a steam engine that takes travelers through a series of old, abandoned towns in the mountains. For something a little more in the wild, head to the San Juan Wilderness Area -- just make sure you don't get lost!
While enjoying the campground, please keep your canine compadre on their leash at all times. To keep this and all other Colorado parks friendly to pooches, be a good pet parent and always clean up your dog's waste so their mess doesn't wreck someone else's day. The park also asks that our furry friends not be left on their own at any point during their stay.
If quiet camping in the Colorado woods sounds like something you and your pup are into, add Elk Creek Campground -- the one in Rio Grande -- to your adventure list!