Hey guys -- KC organized a great Colorado gathering last year west of Colorado Springs. Is anyone interested in doing it again this year somewhere? It was a good gathering, albeit a little sparsely attended. A lot people expressed regrets about not being able to attend and this would give a second chance.
I'd like to leave the location open - so that whoever decides to organize can scout a good location. We can certainly go back to the same area as last year if that is what people want to do. The access was very good and we had a nice range set up.
These are great opportunities meet great people. Last summer I met a new hunting buddy and we elk hunted together last fall.
As I remember about 50+ said they would attend. Then about a dozen attended. Good group though, but I doubt that 35-40 who said they would be there actually had schedule conflicts, especially sine they had two+ months to clear their schedule.
I was looking forward to meeting more. Don't know if I would go or not this year.
Weather is also a consideration. Southern Colorado (south of I-70) is generally dryer in the early summer and wet late. Northern Colorado is usually the opposite - wetter in early summer and dry late.
Also - Snow pack is about 130% right now (nobody tell Al Gore) and I can only imagine what it will be after the heavy snow months. That could impact early summer gatherings in some areas.
It would be a drive of several hours, but worth it - and only the timimg kept me from joining in last year. The June sched is very heavy here, but sure will participate if the date works.
I'd love to come again. I've been working on a couple steel swinger targets and they will come again of course. I'll let dog-catcher walk them out and place them though. More firepower will be riding along with me as well.
It would be a drive of several hours, but worth it - and only the timimg kept me from joining in last year. The June sched is very heavy here, but sure will participate if the date works.
CCCC:
I'll be at the AZ Rondy and hope to meet you there.
Last year's was pretty easy to get to near Lake George, but there are so many great areas in Colorado. I've never been out on the Grand Mesa - that could be good because there are a ton of small lakes out there for fishing and is less frequented than places near the Front Range and resort towns.
A. I did have a scheduling conflict since it was the same weekend as the state taxidermy show.
B. by real shooting I mean steel set up long range etc.
I know :-) We had some steel at 400 yards, but it would be great to find a location to push that out to 1,000 yards.
You can huck rounds twice that far out here... and camping is free. It's less than 2 hrs north of Denver... ain't much fishin' though. Hotels within 30 min (Cheyenne or Wellington)... and prairie dogs after June 15th.
Is the Pawnee National Grassland near you? Any good places to camp there?
KC
Someone told me a few days ago that the Grasslands had been closed to shooting. Apparently the trash, empty cases, and general screwing up the area was the cause. I've only heard that from one source and have no idea of the truth of the matter.
Someone told me a few days ago that the Grasslands had been closed to shooting. Apparently the trash, empty cases, and general screwing up the area was the cause. I've only heard that from one source and have no idea of the truth of the matter.
Tracks:
You wanna check that out and get back to us please?
CCCC: I'll be at the AZ Rondy and hope to meet you there. KC
I'm sure looking forward to meeting you KC. Let's talk about the Colo gathering.
To all: The Grand Mesa is nice, but last time I was up there fishing the mosquitos nearly carried me away. Don't remember which part of summer that was - anyone know about that?. And, if you are thinking about going west or southwest, there are some nice places up above Delores, etc.
Is the Pawnee National Grassland near you? Any good places to camp there?
KC
Someone told me a few days ago that the Grasslands had been closed to shooting. Apparently the trash, empty cases, and general screwing up the area was the cause. I've only heard that from one source and have no idea of the truth of the matter.
Total bullschitt..... they did close access to a couple square miles off CR 63 and CR96... to accommodate that stupid azz Baker Draw range. They also shut down some shooting south off 96 because it's only about 2-3 miles from Hwy 14.
The remainder is open to any/all shooting provided you're not shooting and leaving garbage. Fabricated steel targets are fine, just no tracers on NFS land.
Mainly posting so I can check back later. We've camped up on the Grand Mesa several times with the herd. There is plenty of real estate, but not many areas that I know of to accommodate long shooting. About 2 out of every 3 years up there the mosquitoes are brutal. Everyone has their own tolerance level I suppose.
Somewhere more central might be easier for everyone statewide, I'm just not that familiar with the country up around Gunnison or the Flattops.
Lots of good camping and long shooting lanes up on the Uncompahgre plateau. But it's even farther away from the state's center of mass than the grand mesa. The Divide Road country is about 1.5 hours SSW from Grand Jct.
Plenty of long shooting in the BLM land north of GJT. But it's like camping on the moon and hot as blazes in June-July.
With 2 jobs and a houseful of kids, I'm not volunteering to do much besides comment on here. Kind of chickenzhit I know, but I'm just being honest. If it does wind up being somewhere and when I could swing it, I'd love to join up.
There was nothing wrong with the place where we camped last year. It had lots of room and lots of good camp spots sprinkled among the trees, that were not used. It was easily accessed from the county road. We could have accommodated many more people. We could walk over to the "range", which was almost 400 yards. I had a good time and I think everyone else did also. But there was nothing great about the camp spot either. The people who attended made it a lot of fun and I guess in the end, that's what it was all about.
I agree KC that last year's spot was really good for a large group. For those who weren't there last year, it was located Northwest of Lake George about 40 miles West of Colorado Springs.
The good thing about that area is that it is already scouted. We know what we get there.
Is the Pawnee National Grassland near you? Any good places to camp there?
KC
Technically, in a strict legal sense, it's impractical because you can't drive or park anywhere other than on a county road. Everything outside the road boundaries is closed to motor vehicles.
On another note I've heard all kinds of horror stories about LE in the Grasslands being pricks although I've never had a problem shooting there.
Law Enforcement are dicks everywhere.... especially when they don't know the law. I haven't run into one in over a year.... but I only shoot out there twice a week.
There was nothing wrong with the place where we camped last year. It had lots of room and lots of good camp spots sprinkled among the trees, that were not used. It was easily accessed from the county road. We could have accommodated many more people. We could walk over to the "range", which was almost 400 yards. I had a good time and I think everyone else did also. But there was nothing great about the camp spot either. The people who attended made it a lot of fun and I guess in the end, that's what it was all about. KC
Sensible, here. The location can be interesting, but the few I have attended were made great by the people.
I would think Granby area would be good. Camping (Williams Fork/National Forest) , hotels,City Market, fishing and a large (free)shooting range are all nearby and in summer it's at 8,000 ft. average high in July is 75 with only 1.5 inches of rain.
ill come down ifi can make it work.....went all the way to New Mexico back in August so Colorado is prolly do able if it works around what i have going on....
Hey Lost highway -- I'm not as familiar with the Granby area. I have driven through there on motorcycles. I know pine beetles ravaged pretty hard north of I-70. Do you have a specific area for a group camp in mind to consider?
I would think Granby area would be good. Camping (Williams Fork/National Forest) , hotels,City Market, fishing and a large (free)shooting range are all nearby and in summer it's at 8,000 ft. average high in July is 75 with only 1.5 inches of rain.
I haven't been to that range in a long time, but as I recall it's only 200 yards, unless it's been improved since I was last there.
Hey Lost highway -- I'm not as familiar with the Granby area. I have driven through there on motorcycles. I know pine beetles ravaged pretty hard north of I-70. Do you have a specific area for a group camp in mind to consider?
There are several National Forest campgrounds off Hwy 125, which start about 10 miles up north toward Rand/Walden. I've driven Hwy 125 many times though never turned off any of the N.F. roads. Williams Fork Reservoir (at Parshall) has free camping on the reservoir, fire rings, tables, pit toilets, and a boat ramp. During the week shouldn't be too many people. The area attracts lots of fishermen on weekends. Camped there a few times, can't remember if they have water or not. It's about 3 miles to the Colorado River and 21 miles to Granby. There is a large (free)DOW shooting range directly off Hwy 40, if I recall it is between the Williams Fork turn off and Granby. Nice area with lots of Cottonwoods along the river.
When are y'all wanting to have this get together? I would prefer the high country and would prefer late July/early Aug so I can go look for some big deer
NFS Campgrounds generally don't work for these kind of gatherings. We could have anywhere between 12-50 people and 10-25 rigs, so the area chosen needs to be big enough to handle the upper range, but still be a good set-up if it is on the lower end. Think elk hunting camp on a much bigger scale.
It will need to be scheduled over a weekend (or leading into one).
It needs to be somewhat remote to avoid crowds and a good shooting area needs to be close, ideally in the same vicinity. Even though shooting is completely legal on most federal lands, we are smarter if we choose areas less frequented unless we want unwarranted attention from local Sheriff's department or the NFS officer. Of course, it goes without saying that the shooting area needs to be open, somewhat level and a good backstop.
I think most people want it be in the mountains somewhere. If we go High country in the major ranges, it will have to be July/August due to 130%+ snowpack. If we choose a drier, lower elevation area like the Tarryalls, snow won't be an issue.
If we decide to do it in the same place as last year, I'm happy to help organize it - and KC probably would too, since we scouted this spot last year.
hunstsonora - you suggested backside of Guanella Pass.
Does it have the elements listed above: (space, privacy, area for shooting, etc?)
I'm certainly up new country.
I think so, I will get you some info on the area. Its Geneva creek road on the backside of Guanella Pass. There are some good camping spots there. When the snow melts we can go check it out. There is a lot of wildlife there. I have seen mountains goats, elk, deer and bear right there. Its a beautiful spot
hunstsonora - you suggested backside of Guanella Pass.
Does it have the elements listed above: (space, privacy, area for shooting, etc?)
I'm certainly up new country.
I think so, I will get you some info on the area. Its Geneva creek road on the backside of Guanella Pass. There are some good camping spots there. When the snow melts we can go check it out. There is a lot of wildlife there. I have seen mountains goats, elk, deer and bear right there. Its a beautiful spot
Yeah, I agree with huntsonora. I looked at it via Google Earth and the Geneva Creek Road (USFS 119), a few miles south of the old Geneva Basin Ski Area, looks good. I'm up for joining you guys on a scouting trip when the snow melts. This place is higher and wetter than last year. Looks like prettier country because the vegetation appears to be more montaine zone. Last year the vegetation was more foothills zone and drier.
I was thinking maybe above Cottonwood Lake or somewhere off the West side of the Divide over Cottonwood Pass.
Another potentially good location is northwest of Kremmling off Hwy 134 over Gore Pass. The terrain there isn't super-extreme, lots of huge parks and not as well traveled in the summer. K_Salonek and I hunted that area for elk last fall.
wyocolocowboy,will be passing thru colo a couple of times this summer,sure enjoyed the gathering last year, if the dates work out i would like to come again, dont care where you all pick for a location or date. rio7
RIO - that Remington was the talk of the gathering. What a great firearm. Also -- many thanks for the time you spent with my boy teaching him some shooting techniques. Your patience and generosity were much appreciated. You, sir are welcome at my campfire anytime!
But seriously, family, work first but I am in beyond those conflicts. The Chafee range or the range in Gunny can be had. It just depends if you want to roll out of bed and shoot like the lake George location or get up and drive to it.
I am pretty familiar with the Buena Vista/Salida area. I have camped in and around there for years. The biggest issue is finding a suitable place for a big throw-down camping area for a big group. The Sawatch Range is mighty steep. A lot of the land down in the canyons is private, so you gotta get up high. There are some neat places on Cottonwood creek west of Buena Vista, but that is at least 30 minutes from this range. The next drainiage is up towards Mt Princeton and it get really rocky up by St Elmo. There may be an area up there, by Iron City. The next area after that is either up on Antero or on Monarch Pass. All of these will be a drive to that range. There would easily be some good places up on Aspen Ridge East of there, but you have to drive around to get across the Arkansas River - again at least 30 minutes to this range.
With the way the snow is piling up, I'm thinking late June or late July. Stay away from the 4th
Here is the Arkansas River Valley with the Sawatch Range behind.
We don't need one, but if there is a great free range with steel already up, it certainly is worth consideration. Last year we set up a 400 yard range within walking distance of camp and it was great!
Other possibilities might somewhere in the Gunnison Area, Flattops, maybe somewhere in the San Juans?
If you do Gunnison or the San Juans can we wait until late July so I can go look for some big ass deer while I'm there?
There is also a great camping spot on the backside of Guanella Pass that could be fun and its only an hour and a half from Denver
I know the Gunnison area pretty good. We could park a hundred camps on BLM land near Antelope Creek and shoot long range until we ran out of ammo. I would love to go there but that would be kind of selfish of me because it's a long way from the I-25 corridor where most people live.
Huntsonora is talking about Geneva Creek. He and I and WyColoCowboy are planning to do some scouting in that area as soon as the snow melts and the mud dries. It would be a lot more convenient for people living on the Front Range.
i would love to attend...keep me in the loop w/ a pm please, somebody ??????
elkivory:
This thread is now sticky. So you can just check in every few days to catch up on the doins or participate in the planning. Everybody's input is welcome.
I have no clue as to what my schedule is this summer but since I live out here I plan on keeping an eye on this thread and maybe doing a drive-by when this gets going.
Date is not set in stone yet, so keep checking. We realize that every weekend will result in conflicts. Stay tuned. Snowpack could also be a big factor on date and location. It's getting deep out there.
We are looking at scouting several locations. There's a lot of snow up there right now, so I'm thinking we'll have to see when we can get out to scout.
I'm taking my daughter's to Europe in June and will return on July 1st. If these dates stick I should be able to make it this time. Hopefully the job doesn't [bleep] me up again this year. Put me on the interested list again.
Okay. Then consider us there...unless something else takes priority, like summer school or such. Even then, part of my girls will be there. It has been a long while since I have been to one, however the girls will enjoy seeing all the campfire folks. The girls (including me) miss all of it. Sheila
We have had three weeks to consider the proposed dates and everyone seems to be OK with July 18, 19 & 20. No major conflicts that I'm aware of. So let's make that the date for the gathering.
Not yet. We're waiting for the snow to melt to do some scouting. Huntsonora has proposed Geneva Creek just south of the old Geneva Basin Ski Area. Looks good on Google Earth. WyColoCowboy and K_Salonek have proposed another location where they hunted last fall. Both locations are close to the Front Range. We'll check out both locations and put up some photos and details for everyone to ponder.
This whole area is a series of beautiful valleys with good water, both North and south of hwy 134. The area just south of 134 along Rock Creek looks good also, but would need to be scouted.
Looks like a good spot. Real pretty. Are there any brookies in those ponds? Farther away from the Front Range than Geneva Creek but maybe just as easy to get to.
Just another point of info. From the GPS spot on the link you provided, the FS road that goes west and then northwest is closed, so that whole area west is blocked off from vehicles. There is TONS of firewood so no need to haul it in like we did at Lake George.
1. Northwest of Lake George in Pike National Forest (Same site as last year)
2. Backside of Guannella Pass (near old Geneva Basin Ski Area)
3. Northwest of Kremmling off Hwy 134.
Here's a map with the three areas:
The weather is supposed to be gorgeous this weekend. I know sites #1 and #3 very well, but never been to #2. So, I'm thinking about burning a tank of gas and heading up towards Guanella Pass if that road is open yet.
I would also like to see site #2 and would like to accompany you. But I'm booked for a morning day hike on Saturday and dinner with friends on Sunday at 5:30. What does your schedule look like? Any way to squeeze a trip in on Sunday morning?
KC - My internet was down at the house this weekend, so I didn't see you post. I didn't go out to scout, but I did get some range time in with my son, though. Next weekend is packed, but maybe the weekend of the 17th?
I'll meet you guys up there the 17th and show y'all the spot I was thinking about. It's close to Guanella and you can glass moose, goats, sheep, deer and elk and Mount Bierstadt is a beautiful hike that's not too difficult and it's right there too.
Mount Bierstadt is a beautiful hike that's not too difficult and it's right there too.
huntsonora:
What a misleading statement. Yes, Mt Bierdstadt is beautiful, it is close to Guanella Pass and it's an easy day-hike to the summit. But you have to go through the infamous willows on the way. I've climbed it three times when I was younger. I must have been out of my mind. BTW that's also a good place to hunt ptarmigan.
I'll meet you in the parking lot at the Pass at 09:00AM on the 17th.
I'm going to try to work out so I can go on this day as well. I'm interested in seeing the area. I'm a little concerned about recreational use in the area - there seem to be a lot of parking areas and the sat photos show a lot of cars in parking lots. I'd love to get into a more alpine setting than last year and have the opportunity to do a little fishing as well.
huntsonora - Where exactly is the area you are targeting?
I'm going to try to work out so I can go on this day as well. I'm interested in seeing the area. I'm a little concerned about recreational use in the area - there seem to be a lot of parking areas and the sat photos show a lot of cars in parking lots. I'd love to get into a more alpine setting than last year and have the opportunity to do a little fishing as well.
huntsonora - Where exactly is the area you are targeting?
Its on the backside of Guanella Pass down on Geneva Creek and its a beautiful campsite in an alpine setting. You'll like it. Guanella is a 20 minute drive or so from there
Mount Bierstadt is a beautiful hike that's not too difficult and it's right there too.
huntsonora:
What a misleading statement. Yes, Mt Bierdstadt is beautiful, it is close to Guanella Pass and it's an easy day-hike to the summit. But you have to go through the infamous willows on the way. I've climbed it three times when I was younger. I must have been out of my mind. BTW that's also a good place to hunt ptarmigan.
I'll meet you in the parking lot at the Pass at 09:00AM on the 17th.
I'm not gonna make it this weekend. A buddy just gifted me two tickets behind the dugout for Saturday's Rockies game. I look forward to hearing what you guys find.
I'm not gonna make it this weekend. A buddy just gifted me two tickets behind the dugout for Saturday's Rockies game. I look forward to hearing what you guys find.
Yeah, I would jump on those tickets too. Sorry you can't make it. Huntsonora and I will take some photos and post them for everyone to see.
Today I drove up to Geneva Creek. That's the area that huntsonora suggested. The pass was closed so huntsonora couldn't make it from the north. I drove up from the south. BTW I haven't bothered to set the calendar on my camera so don't let the dates confuse you.
Saw some buffalo along the way.
The mountains were glorious.
This is the first view that you see of the area.
There's a forest service corral open to the public. So it's convenient to bring horses or mules.
There are a couple dozen good camping spots that generally resemble this one.
Another representative example of the camping spots.
This a beautiful area just like huntsonora said. It would be great to hold the gathering there. However, it has advantages and disadvantages. It's pretty accessible. Drive I-70 to Georgetown and then south up over Guanella Pass. Then continue south about four miles to Geneva Creek. Pretty good roads all the way. There's a nice creek there and a 4x4 road that goes way up into the valley to an old mine.
The disadvantage of this spot is that we won't have it to ourselves. There were already three camps setup for the weekend. We could definitely count on there being others campers competing for spots and they might also get upset if we setup a range and started shooting.
I still want to check out the spot that WyColoCowboy suggested.
I am hoping/looking forward to coming up this summer - have never been to one of your CO gatherings and do not want to barge in with presumptuous "info". Should posit, however, that the several Campfire meets we have enjoyed big time had zero neighbors to be concerned about (no neighbors to be concerned about us!) and so the shooting, cameraderie, etc. went down easily and enjoyably.
KC -- Thanks for going up, and after the Rockies piss-poor performance yesterday, I chose poorly... lol
That does look like a beautiful area, but I share your concern about traffic and activity in the area. When you look at Satellite photos all the parking areas are full of cars.
KC -- Thanks for going up, and after the Rockies piss-poor performance yesterday, I chose poorly... lol
That does look like a beautiful area, but I share your concern about traffic and activity in the area. When you look at Satellite photos all the parking areas are full of cars.
That parking areas on the pass are 20+ minute drive from the camping area but there will be others camping in those campgrounds I'm sure.
Glad you made it up KC! Sorry I couldn't meet you there and looking forward to what else y'all find
KC -- Thanks for going up, and after the Rockies piss-poor performance yesterday, I chose poorly... lol
That does look like a beautiful area, but I share your concern about traffic and activity in the area. When you look at Satellite photos all the parking areas are full of cars.
That parking areas on the pass are 20+ minute drive from the camping area but there will be others camping in those campgrounds I'm sure.
Glad you made it up KC! Sorry I couldn't meet you there and looking forward to what else y'all find
Gotta admit -- I'm a lot jealous about KC going backpacking for a week... I need some of that...
I'm back, but only for a short while. I'm going to hike the Rainbow Trail from Poncha Pass to the Medano Pass Road, 83 miles, 14 nights. I'm breaking it up into three trips. You think that might take some of the weight off of my belly????
We still need to settle on an area for the gathering. I think Geneva Creek, even though it's a real pretty place, is out because there will be too many other people.
We could go to the same spot as last year. There was nothing wrong with that spot, just not as pretty as some. Might be prettier this year with all the snow and rain. Man everything is green wherever I go.
Or we could go to the spot that WyColoCowboy suggested. Can we get some current photos of the area? Maybe GPS coordinates so we can look on Google Earth?
I'll be leaving tomorrow afternoon and won't be back for about three weeks.
I really like the looks of that spot. Not too far to go for the Denver people or guys north of there. A little farther than last year for us guys in Colorado Springs. But it looks like prettier country. So it's worth the travel time. The USGS map shows a Rock Creek and some beaver ponds.
One place I want to go check out is that area south of Hwy 134 & just West of Rock Creek State Wildlife Area. There is great fishing in there and some good sites (on Google Earth) for a group camp. There are some clear cuts nearby for firewood and water in the creek below. (If you click on the picture, it will take you to photobucket where you can zoom in on the picture.
Is the Pawnee National Grassland near you? Any good places to camp there?
KC
Technically, in a strict legal sense, it's impractical because you can't drive or park anywhere other than on a county road. Everything outside the road boundaries is closed to motor vehicles.
On another note I've heard all kinds of horror stories about LE in the Grasslands being pricks although I've never had a problem shooting there.
A solution to a road block like this is the use of horses to transport shooters to the range area. Surely there are plenty of horse ranchers who could supply the animals required to "train" all interested shooters to and from the range. Easy logistical solution IMHBAO.
I've been popping in and out and will continue to do that for a most of the summer. Trying to drop some weight by staying in the mountains and avoiding the pantry and frig. So far it seems to be working. Just got back from a short camping trip with Mrs. KC. I tried to get to the GPS coordinates on High Rock Creek yesterday. Too much snow to pull a travel trailer. I hope someone gets up there soon so we can decide if that's the spot.
Are you the person that setup the prairie dog shoot at the Lake Roosevelt gathering? If so, could you set it up again at this get-together? That was fun.
CCCC:Are you the person that setup the prairie dog shoot at the Lake Roosevelt gathering? If so, could you set it up again at this get-together? That was fun. KC
Hi KC - nothing to be proud about even though I did "invent" that version a while back. It is simple, and fun. Will be pleased to bring the stuff and set up the scheme - would prefer that someone else (maybe a non-participant?) run the actual shooting as I would like to shoot too.
The weather didn't cooperate so I didn't head up this weekend. Too much rain all over. I'm now planning for next weekend heading up Saturday afternoon. Hoping for better weather...
I just got back about an hour ago and found what I think is a great spot for a camp. Lots a shelter from trees, plenty of room, a range within 500 yards and water nearby - good fishing, too!
I'm going to have a quick PM with KC and K_Salonek and get this nailed down. Watch for final posting of location soon!
I like that spot. Lots of green meadows, trees and creeks. Lots of good places to camp and a good spot for a range that's pretty close to the camp. There might be some brookies in those ponds and maybe some rainbows in Little Rock Creek.
Easy to access from I-70, either via Hwy 9 to Hwy 134 or from Wolcott via Hwy 131 to Hwy 134. We'll have to put up some signs at the USFS roads.
I could get up there early and setup my trailer and maybe another tent or two to hold the spots.
Okay - We have a location! (Click on any of these pictures to open larger in Photobucket)
I went up Saturday and Sunday and found a great spot. Large camp under trees and lots of space, shade, grass and wood. Water is nearby and a good range about 500 yards from the main camp.
GPS is 40.049558, -106.661176
2.1 miles from HWY 134 on FR 225 (via FS260) (click pictures to open larger in Photobucket)
In relation to I-70:
Topo with highlighted roads from Hwy 134:
Zoom of area. Rock Creek is on the right of photo.
Here's the camp:
View from road (Camp under the trees)
Big 5 foot fire ring with lots of adjacent space to set up a kitchen tent and another large tent near the ring
Lots of spread out space - room for 20+ rigs all with shelter and level.
K_Salonek texted and said that he will be happy to bring the big tent and re-name it "KC's Kitchen".
We did have a pretty good kitchen setup inside his tent last year. Don't see why we can't do the same this year.
I suggest that Friday evening's dinner should be barbeque pot luck.
I can bring a small propane barbeque. Can anyone bring a big propane barbeque?
Who can bring mild and hot barbeque sauce?
How about biscuits & gravy & eggs for Saturday breakfast? I'll bring a bunch of biscuits and gravy. Kevin and/or I will be happy to fry any meat that people bring to share.
Who can bring eggs?
And maybe also we could setup that burrito buffet, same as last year, for dinner on Saturday? I'll bring all of the ground elk meat and I'll also bring a bunch of tortillas.
Who can bring tomatoes, lettuce, grated cheese, salsa?
Kevin's propane oven is really neat. Those hot sweet rolls that he made were great.
Any suggestions and/or volunteers for breakfast on Sunday?
CCC wrote that he will be happy to bring all the stuff for the prairie dog shoot, like we had at Lake Roosevelt. But he wants to compete so we need someone to run the show.
I certainly also want to invite my Wyoming brothers to come down as well. The site is only about an hour from Steamboat/Craig. You could throw a rock (or lob a .270) and hit Wyoming...
Ok -- I just sent individual PMs to everybody on the list. I sent individual ones so we all don't get tons of messages every time someone replies. KC wanted to keep all the planning on the open forum thread, rather than in PM's so if everyone could post here that would be great!
Looks like a terrific spot! Thanks for all the legwork on this, fellas. I'm still at about 50/50 odds for showing, depending on a couple other irons in the fire. Could be anywhere from and one son and me in a tent to the whole herd of six in the 31' bumper pull camper. I should know by the Friday prior.
I will know more closer. Looks like I can get up there a little earlier and set up the kitchen tent/meeting hall.
Huge tent with all kinds of room for wayward souls that might need a place to crash.
We won't need the heat, but I will bring a 3-Dogs wood stove that makes a fantastic slow-cooker, to prime menu ideas. Will also bring an oven-2 burner stove and couple tables.
I'll bring the same tables, stoves, pots, pans, etc., and lantern that I brought last year.
I'll try to arrive on Thursday and I'll help you setup the tent. We can also setup some small tents to take possession of several camp spots for those who will arrive later. One of those tents can be used as a latrine.
I suggest that Friday evening's dinner should be barbeque pot luck.
I can bring a small propane barbeque. Can anyone bring a big propane barbeque?
Who can bring mild and hot barbeque sauce?
How about biscuits & gravy & eggs for Saturday breakfast? I'll bring a bunch of biscuits and gravy. Kevin and/or I will be happy to fry any meat that people bring to share.
Who can bring eggs?(WyColoCowboy volunteered)
And maybe also we could setup that burrito buffet, same as last year, for dinner on Saturday? I'll bring all of the ground elk meat and I'll also bring a bunch of tortillas.
Who can bring tomatoes, lettuce, grated cheese, salsa? (Splash1SD volunteered)
Any suggestions and/or volunteers for breakfast on Sunday?
Who can bring chips, dips, salsa?
Who can bring coffee, cocoa, soft drinks?
CCCC will bring all the stuff to setup the prairie dog shoot like we had at Lake Roosevelt. But he wants to compete so we need a volunteer to run the game. We will also some other games like metal spinners, gongs, etc.
I have some steel swingers but may need some help. My work schedule can be messy in the summer so I may need a volunteer to run the steel up the hill. I'll be up for Sunday for sure, Saturday maybe, Friday doubtful.
One shot from a COLD barrel with any firearm, any sight, any position - at a life-sized prairie dog on paper with a 1/2 inch dot on the chest. Closest to the center of dot wins.
Specific distance to be decided on-site according to available setup - but normally somewhere between 150 and 200 yards.
I'd still like to think I am coming. Never know with the wife's work schedule. Probably only come up and hang out on Saturday, and then drive home since I am not that far away.
I'm leaving on Friday and will be gone for a couple of weeks. It would be nice if we could lock some of this down.
I suggest that Friday evening's dinner should be barbeque pot luck. I can bring a small propane barbeque. Can anyone bring a big propane barbeque?
Who can bring mild and hot barbeque sauce?
How about biscuits & gravy & eggs for Saturday breakfast? I'll bring a bunch of biscuits and gravy. Kevin and/or I will be happy to fry any meat that people bring to share.
Who can bring eggs?(WyColoCowboy volunteered)
And maybe also we could setup that burrito buffet, same as last year, for dinner on Saturday? I'll bring all of the ground elk meat and I'll also bring a bunch of tortillas.
Who can bring tomatoes, lettuce, grated cheese, salsa? (Splash1SD volunteered)
Any suggestions and/or volunteers for breakfast on Sunday?
Who can bring chips, dips, salsa?
Who can bring coffee, cocoa, soft drinks?
CCCC will bring all the stuff to setup the prairie dog shoot like we had at Lake Roosevelt. But he wants to compete so we need a volunteer to run the game. There will also be some other games like metal spinners, gongs, etc.
Not much chance we will be having a fire ban. I will bring some green coffee beans and camp-roast some coffee. Just cause we are camping does not mean we can't be civilized!
I will put a pot of chilli or bean-dip on the 3-dogs stove. Also will bring filler when we know whats coming up.
Thinking maybe a couple dozen baked-taters for Friday. I've got some garden chives and will bring some sour-cream, for Friday.
Not sure what the oven fits, it would be nice to go over so there are enough baked potatoes to shred for hash browns in the am.
Cooler space is something to keep in mind. We can make shade for the coolers, anyone can't think of anything else? Bring themselves and a bag of ice. Or just themselves!
So it sounds like there are plans being made for dinner on Friday....breakfast and dinner on Saturday, and breakfast on Sunday. Izzat correct?
So how many hungry people per meal? Best guess......
FjLee:
I have suggested that we have a BBQ pot luck for dinner on Friday and I'll bring my small propane BBQ. But we still need a big BBQ if we're going to cook food for the multitudes.
I think we've got Saturday meals (breakfast & dinner) pretty well covered. Myself, WyColoCowboy, K_Salonek, and Splash1SD have that taken care of.
So far, no one has volunteered any suggestions for Sunday breakfast.
WyColoCowboy is keeping track of the list of attendees and his estimate of 30 people is probably about right, based upon attendance at previous similar events.
Thinking maybe a couple dozen baked-taters for Friday. I've got some garden chives and will bring some sour-cream, for Friday.
Not sure what the oven fits, it would be nice to go over so there are enough baked potatoes to shred for hash browns in the am.
Cooler space is something to keep in mind. We can make shade for the coolers, anyone can't think of anything else? Bring themselves and a bag of ice. Or just themselves!
Kevin:
I'll bring a 120 quart cooler with ice and a 12-pack. So there should be extra room.
Your oven is really neat but it will take several shifts to cook 30 baked potatoes. I'll bring a roll of aluminum foil and some margarine. We can bake potatoes in the coals of the campfire.
I suggest that Friday evening's dinner should be barbeque pot luck. I can bring a small propane barbeque. (fjlee volunteered Dutch Oven Beans)
Still need a big barbeque.
Still need mild and hot barbeque sauce.
How about biscuits & gravy & eggs for Saturday breakfast? I'll bring a bunch of biscuits and gravy. Kevin and/or I will be happy to fry any meat that people bring to share.
Who can bring eggs?(WyColoCowboy volunteered)
And maybe also we could setup that burrito buffet, same as last year, for dinner on Saturday? I'll bring all of the ground elk meat, a couple of onions, and I'll also bring a bunch of tortillas.
Who can bring tomatoes, lettuce, grated cheese, salsa? (Splash1SD volunteered)
Any suggestions and/or volunteers for breakfast on Sunday?
Tracks can't make it this year so we'll need others to bring chips and dips and salsa. (fjlee volunteered homemade jalapeno relish) Still need chips, dips & salsa.
Who can bring coffee, cocoa, soft drinks?
fjlee has volunteered to bring peanuts and juice.
CCCC will bring all the stuff to setup the prairie dog shoot like we had at Lake Roosevelt. But he wants to compete so we need a volunteer to run the game. There will also be some other games like metal spinners, gongs, etc.
Looks like I won't make it this year was looking forward to meeting folks always good to put a face with a handle. Maybe next year. Have a great time folks. Cheers NC
I just spent 9 days camped at high elevation in the Uinta's in Utah. On the way back to Denver it occurred to me that I should swing by the Gore Pass area and look over the chosen area for the "24Hour" get-together.
I got to the designated coordinates on the afternoon of Saturday July 5th. Not the best arrival time, due to it being a holiday weekend. Surprisingly, "our" spot was vacant. There was a large group camped due south. A small camp located to the north, and a CITY was camped straight West of our spot. A moderate amount of vehicular travel on Forest Svc. Rd. 225.
This whole general area is very attractive. "Our spot" even more so!! Lush green grass, lottsa firewood, quite level, scenic view. My wife and I really liked it.
We stayed there 2 nights, and by Monday morn most of the other folks had left. It got me to thinking, though. It might be wise to designate a "Plan B" camp area for our group. Just in case our spot is occupied. Someplace close by.....so it was visible from Plan A location.
I'm. Glad you liked fjlee! All those trees andgrass will make for some nice- cool afternoons when the sun is hottest. I think KC and k_salonek are planning on heading up early to insure we get the space. As you saw there are several places that would be good plan B's nearby. I'm shocked that camp was available over the 4th. It's Beautiful isn't it?
Trying hard to make this work - buddy can't make it - most likely will be solo. The long drive should be well worth it if you guys are as good as we hear - and as you appear.
What would be the best/shortest route to the camp from Silverthorne or Vail or Edwards? Coming north on CO 91 or US 24 from Leadville.
Is there a list of things still needed - food, equip, etc.?
I just got back from ten days of car camping, hiking, and fishing. Had a good time but I'm never going to be able to brag about my fishing prowess. Will be leaving in a couple of hours for some down time at the cabin.
I'll arrive at the gathering location on Thursday and "take possession" of the spot by setting up my little trailer and a tent.
Got a message from WyColoCowboy and it looks like the gathering this year will be an intimate affair as it seems like there will only be a dozen or so people who can make it. That's OK with me. I'll bring food for 16 people.
Am looking forward to meeting some new Campfire guys this coming weekend, and gathering stuff for the trek. Traveling light - will sleep in PU bed.
Waiting for a reply from KC on food/other needs. Please say so if you know of such,
As requested, will be bringing the targets and other minor stuff needed for the PD shoot. Will set it up for 200 yards assuming the "range" allows. Any bore, any sight, any position/rest - one shot from cold bore at the 1/2" vital dot.
Is anyone bringing shooting benches or tables, seat/stool, etc? Anyone bringing target frames/other targets? Needs there?
I suggest that Friday evening's dinner should be barbeque pot luck. I can bring a small propane barbeque and some mild BBQ sauce. I'm a whimp, so if you want hot sauce, you'll have to bring your own. (fjlee volunteered Dutch Oven Beans)
Still need a big barbeque.
How about biscuits & gravy & eggs for Saturday breakfast? I'll bring a bunch of biscuits and gravy. Kevin and/or I will be happy to fry any meat that people bring to share.
Who can bring eggs?(WyColoCowboy volunteered)
And maybe also we could setup that burrito buffet, same as last year, for dinner on Saturday? I'll bring all of the ground elk meat, a couple of onions, refried beans & rice, and I'll also bring a bunch of tortillas.
Who can bring tomatoes, lettuce, grated cheese, salsa? (Splash1SD volunteered)
Any suggestions and/or volunteers for breakfast on Sunday?
Tracks can't make it this year so we'll need others to bring chips and dips and salsa. (fjlee volunteered homemade jalapeno relish) Still need chips, dips & salsa. (Let's assume that everyone will bring a bag of potato chips and dip or a bag of tortilla chips and some salsa).
Who can bring coffee, cocoa, soft drinks? (Let's assume that everyone will bring their own drinks)
fjlee has volunteered to bring peanuts and juice.
CCCC will bring all the stuff to setup the prairie dog shoot like we had at Lake Roosevelt. But he wants to compete so we need a volunteer to run the game. There will also be some other games like metal spinners, gongs, etc.
OK, I'll be bringing a load of chips/dips/salsa - aiming to cover all needs.
Is the coffee/cocoa covered?
Is Sunday breakfast set/covered. If not, I can bring pancake mix and related stuff - not much of a cook so would wish help and a griddle. Best to know above by tonight due to distance/timing.
I can bring pancake mix and related stuff - not much of a cook so would wish help and a griddle.
Great idea. I'll help you cook the pancakes. Kevin and I will both have griddles and double burner stoves.
I've suggested that everyone bring their own drinks and that each person bring a bag of potato chips and some dip or a bag of tortilla chips and some salsa.
Unfortunately, my portable gas grill took a cr@p last year and I haven't replaced it. I have that old gas grill that I converted to charcoal that I could bring up as a fallback, but i'd need to know so I can plan for the space.
I'm still planning on bringing lots of eggs a couple pounds of bacon and a big bag of potatoes. I'll bring a lot of sandwich stuff as well.
Map quest says about 575 miles and 10+ driving hours.
Just so I don't mess up the final part (forest road numbers on GoogleEarth seem goofy), looks like I come across CO 134, turn south on FR 206 about 1 mile and then bear left on FR 225 about a mile to the general location. Will the camp site be visible at that point or is there something more specific?
Hoping to arrive before dark on Thursday. If it's after dark, guess I'll just look for a fire or blow the horn until KC shows up.
[quote=CCCC]Map quest says about 575 miles and 10+ driving hours.
Just so I don't mess up the final part (forest road numbers on GoogleEarth seem goofy), looks like I come across CO 134, turn south on FR 206 about 1 mile and then bear left on FR 225 about a mile to the general location. Will the camp site be visible at that point or is there something more specific? quote]
Sounds correct 'cept for 1 item. At the intersection of FR206 and FR 225, bear right onto FR 225......that'll approx. be a westerly direction. Follow FR 225 up the gentle switchback.....continue on.....About 2.2 odo miles from the asphalt, start looking for an un-numbered twin track that goes left/south. "Plan A" camp is just a few hundred feet south of FR225.
Despite the rain we've been having, the weather for this weekend is looking great! Slight chance for a shower on Saturday, but Friday and Sunday look clear and warm.
Gents, I won't be able to attend after all. I was so looking forward to it. Too many incomplete projects around the homestead and I'm running out of weekends. If anyone comes through GJ on the way there or back, I'll have a cold one for you. And possibly a hammer and tape measure for use on the deck project.
Sorry you guys weren't able to shake loose, we were all hoping to meet the people that go with the names. We didn't have a large group but that gave us a little more time to visit and get to know those that could make the trip!
KC, thanks for busting your butt to make the weekend a success. Well Done and Thanks very much!
It's got me thinking about planning a little further ahead for a southwest visit next year as well, there are a bunch of very good people on this forum.
Thank you all from the girls and me. It was appreciated and enjoyed. It was great to meet some for the first time and catch up with the rest. Think Bean Sprout is committed to camping and she has been hooked by the fishing bug bad...she wants to go all the time now. Really good memories and times had by all. Thanks again.
Thanks to all who posted these photos - neat reminder of an excellent weekend. I especially enjoyed the good discussions with keen minds and interacting with the young folks. Fine people in your group. You all represent Colorado very well, and the scenery ain't bad either.
Well, Louise and I finally packed up and pulled outta camp mid-day Monday.
Great adventure!!!
Youngsters, oldsters, and �tweensters��it was all good.
Since this was our first �CAMPFIRE� get-together, Louise and I want to thank everyone for making us feel so welcome. Nice!!
There was a good mix of personalities and backgrounds present, making for a Heckuva lot of stimulating Campfire talk. It was what I had hoped for.
A pat on the back specifically for COLODOG��who brought his PACT chronographing hardware, plus the patience to help me use it. And it worked flawlessly. We chrono�d my elk load, and also my deer/antelope load.
�..and a big �Thank you� to all the others��who pitched-in and did the necessary leg-work to make something like this a success. Initially finding the beautiful campsite, cooking, washing dishes, gathering/cutting firewood, picking up trash��.etc.
![[Linked Image]](http://s8.photobucket.com/user/DDP2005/media/longfence1_zps9923eebd.jpg.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://s8.photobucket.com/user/DDP2005/media/IMG_0608_zps8f16ccc9.jpg.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://s184.photobucket.com/user/wyodivot/media/Kremmling.png.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l109/crowvalleyforge/20131017_080002_RichtoneHDR-1.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l109/crowvalleyforge/20131017_135124.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://s184.photobucket.com/user/wyodivot/media/princeton.png.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://s184.photobucket.com/user/wyodivot/media/Rendezvous-1.png.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0130_zps5cc845d0.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0137_zps47c6056a.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/DSCF0138_zps39834917.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/DSCF0141_zps3f5d8578.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/DSCF0140_zps5ba167f3.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/DSCF0142_zps0cdc6d57.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://s184.photobucket.com/user/wyodivot/media/Camp.png.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://s184.photobucket.com/user/wyodivot/media/highwaymap.png.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://s184.photobucket.com/user/wyodivot/media/RockCreekTopo.png.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://s184.photobucket.com/user/wyodivot/media/RockCreekRendezvous2.png.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://s184.photobucket.com/user/wyodivot/media/DSCN1491.jpg.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://s184.photobucket.com/user/wyodivot/media/DSCN1481.jpg.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://s184.photobucket.com/user/wyodivot/media/DSCN1477.jpg.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://s184.photobucket.com/user/wyodivot/media/DSCN1471.jpg.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://s184.photobucket.com/user/wyodivot/media/DSCN1470.jpg.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://s184.photobucket.com/user/wyodivot/media/DSCN1416.jpg.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://s184.photobucket.com/user/wyodivot/media/DSCN1423.jpg.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://www.okcgunclub.org/images/prairie%20dog%20target.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l109/crowvalleyforge/20140620_150022.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l109/crowvalleyforge/20140713_202253.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://s184.photobucket.com/user/wyodivot/media/RockCreekRendezvous.png.html)
![[Linked Image]](http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c124/huntsman22/rondy/IMG_3032_zpsa6526774.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c124/huntsman22/rondy/IMG_3031_zpsd2be64e9.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0170_zps9994bbb4.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0171_zps9e086433.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0167_zps94e3ed1b.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0183_zps24c7f834.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0184_zpse9d1f6b2.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0153_zps8aec57cf.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0172-1_zps35d1ad21.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0174_zps325c122f.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0165_zpsc37befe0.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0166-1_zpsa57ea139.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0187-1_zps07a7ee5b.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0186-1_zps9dbe2b77.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0163-1_zpsf85ef897.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0162_zpsf9762fae.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0161-1_zpsb2969b63.jpg)
![[Linked Image]](http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww288/KCKeen/24%20Hour%20Campfire/DSCF0160-1_zps13b4e8c2.jpg)