Camping Along the Poudre River in Colorado

The sixty mile long Poudre Canyon stretches from the Continental Divide of Rocky Mountain National Park through the northern foothills, then meanders through Fort Collins and Greeley to its confluence with the South Platte River. Along its way, the Poudre River flows through a diversity of landscapes. Granite cliffs and mountain forests dominate the upper Poudre, while sagebrush meadows dotted with wildflowers and ponderosa pines are found in the lower Poudre Canyon. Wildlife abounds in the area.

You'll find so much to do. White water rafting has become one of the main activities in the Poudre Canyon. The best months to raft are June and July, but you will find rafters all summer long. Imagine the thrill of shooting the rapids and the calm and serenity as you pass through the less violent waters. View the scenery that you pass by. Pine forests, open meadows, and deep canyon areas. Then head to your campsite at the end of a terrific day to relax and cook supper by your roaring fire.

When you wake up, you decide to hike one of the many trails that you'll find along the Poudre. Young Gulch Trail, Mount McConnel Trail, and Greyrock Trail are amongst the most popular hiking spots in the Canyon. These trails will take you on a nature extravaganza into the less seen parts of the area and give you panoramas that most visitors don't partake in. All of these are located near some of the most popular campgrounds found here.

Fly fishing has long been an important activity in the Poudre Canyon. The Poudre River is a world class fly fishing river. It is Colorado's first designated National Wild and Scenic River. There are areas set aside for the native wild trout that are catch-and-release only. But other sections of the river can be fished where you can take your catch home to your campsite to cook them up at the end of the day. A gourmet meal that deserves being served in the finest of restaurants.

Camping along the Poudre River is a Colorado delight that your family can't afford to miss. Experience some of the best scenery and activities that northern Colorado has to offer. Relax at your campsite by the hypnotic fire with your family. Share the daily experiences this area has to offer. Truly discover what Colorado is all about.

All campgrounds in the canyon cater to both tent camping and RV's. Some are modern and provide exercise activities like basketball courts, while others are more rustic and secluded. There's a campground choice that will satisfy any campers' mood. Most also provide handicap accessibility. Even if you are just driving through, picnic areas abound.

This year make the Poudre River one of your camping destinations while vacationing in Colorado. Whether you focus your camping trip on the Poudre or just stay one night on your way to other Colorado destinations, you'll find that you will fall in love with the scenery of this canyon and the experiences that you have here.