Camping at Shelf Road Sites National Recreation Area

Overview of Shelf Road Sites National Recreation Area

Shelf Road National Recreation Area is renowned among rock climbers for its high-quality limestone cliffs and a wide range of climbing routes. Situated in the high desert region of Colorado, it offers breathtaking scenery and a semi-arid climate that makes it an attractive year-round destination for climbers and campers.

Location and Access

Shelf Road is located in central Colorado, north of the Royal Gorge and near the town of Cañon City. Access is typically via well-maintained gravel roads leading from Highway 50, but it's important to check current road conditions, especially after weather events, as they can change rapidly.

Camping Facilities

The area provides several Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campgrounds, including The Bank, Sand Gulch, and The Gallery. These campsites are usually available on a first-come, first-served basis.

• The Bank Campground is the closest to the climbing areas and often fills up quickly on weekends and holidays.
• Sand Gulch Campground has sites arranged in a loop with easy access to the Sand Gulch climbing sector.
• The Gallery Campground offers a more secluded environment further from the climbing but still within close proximity.

Facilities at these campgrounds are relatively basic and typically include vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. Visitors must bring their own water or be prepared to treat water from nearby sources.

Camping Regulations

• Camping Limit: There is generally a 14-day camping limit within a 28-day period.
• Fires: Depending on the time of year and fire danger, restrictions on campfires may apply. Always check with the BLM for current regulations before starting a fire.
• Pets: Pets need to be under control at all times. In some areas, leashes may be required.
• Waste Disposal: Campers are expected to pack out their trash. Some campgrounds have trash receptacles, but this is not guaranteed.
• Camping Fees: There is typically a nominal fee for camping per night.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

The area exhibits a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cool, but tolerable, winters. The best climbing and camping conditions are generally in the spring and fall. Summer can be hot, and climbers often start their days early to avoid the heat. In winter, sunny days can still be warm enough for climbing.

Climbing Information

The climbing at Shelf Road is mainly sport climbing with hundreds of routes ranging from 5.7 to 5.14 in difficulty. There are also some traditional routes and areas for bouldering. The limestone rock formations require a specific climbing style that is technical and often endurance-based.

Leave No Trace and Conservation

As an outdoor recreation area, visitors are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on the environment:

• Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the regulations and prepare for extreme weather.
• Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack it in, pack it out.
• Leave What You Find: Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species.
• Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not feed animals.
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.

Safety and Emergency

Cell service in the area can be spotty, so it's important to be prepared to handle minor emergencies on your own. Always tell someone your plan and expected return time. For severe emergencies, contact the local authorities or search and rescue. Keep a first aid kit, plenty of water, and know your limits when climbing or hiking.