Camping at Kelsey Campground

Overview of Kelsey Campground

Kelsey Campground is located within the Pike and San Isabel National Forests, Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands (PSICC), a vast and diverse area spanning over three million acres across central and southeastern Colorado. This region is known for its scenic vistas, a variety of wildlife, and a wide range of outdoor recreational activities.

Key Features of Kelsey Campground

• Location: Kelsey Campground is nestled in a forested setting, typically at a high altitude, which offers cooler temperatures during the hot summer months.
• Campsites: The campground offers a number of campsites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. Specific details about the number of sites, lengths of sites, and if they offer electric hookups can vary.
• Facilities: Basic amenities like vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings/grills are usually provided. However, there may be limited or no access to running water, so campers should come prepared with their own supplies.
• Access: Access to the campground is generally via mountainous roads that may be narrow and winding. It's important to check road conditions, especially if traveling in a larger vehicle or with a trailer.

Activities in the Area

• Hiking: There are usually numerous trails accessible from the campground for all difficulty levels, offering the chance to explore the beauty of the surrounding forest.
• Fishing: Many campgrounds in the PSICC are located near streams or lakes, providing opportunities for fishing.
• Wildlife Viewing: The Forests and Grasslands are home to diverse wildlife, including deer, elk, and various bird species. Kelsey Campground's natural setting offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• Sightseeing: The PSICC's landscape includes mountains, forests, and grasslands, providing a rich environment for scenic drives and sightseeing.

Reservation and Fees

• Reservations: Campsite reservations may be available through the National Recreation Reservation System (NRRS). Some campgrounds offer first-come, first-served sites in addition to reservable sites.
• Fees: You can expect to pay a nightly fee for camping, which will vary depending on the specific services and amenities of Kelsey Campground. Additional fees may apply for extra vehicles or for the use of group sites.

Season and Access

• Open Season: Kelsey Campground's operating season will depend on the local climate and conditions. Generally, campgrounds in the PSICC are open from late spring through early fall. However, dates can change due to weather and snowpack conditions.
• Access limitations: Due to higher elevation and the potential for snow, roads to the campground may be closed or impassable during the off-season or after snowstorms even within the normal operating season.

Important Reminders

• Bear Safety: In bear country, it's critical to practice bear safety by securing food, cooking away from sleeping areas, and following all posted guidelines.
• Leave No Trace: Campers are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on the environment.
• Fire Restrictions: Depending on current conditions, there may be fire restrictions in place. Always check the local regulations and fire danger levels before starting a campfire.

Contact Information

Before heading to Kelsey Campground, it's a good idea to contact the local ranger district office for the most current information regarding conditions, reservations, and campground specifics. You can find contact information on the US Forest Service (USFS) website for the Pike and San Isabel National Forests, Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands.

Keep in mind that the information can change and it is always best to verify the details prior to planning a camping trip.