Colorado Bend's Primitive Sites Need Three Different Packing Lists

Colorado Bend has three kinds of individual primitive sites, and the shared label can hide big differences. At the drive-up sites, the river is 75 to 100 yards away. Potable water is nearby, not at each site. Self-contained RVs up to 20 feet may use the loop, but there are no hookups or dump station.

Walk-in sites are for tents along the river. The carry from the parking area is about 50 yards, and water and restrooms are nearby. That is a short walk until coolers, chairs, and sleeping gear all have to make the trip.

The two backcountry areas ask much more. River sites are less than a mile from their trailhead. Windmill sites are one mile from their trailhead and five miles from the river and main campground. Neither area has water or toilets. Each site holds four people, and open fires are barred. A containerized fuel stove may be used for cooking.

Choose the site before choosing the gear. A small RV may fit the drive-up loop, a river tent means a carry, and a backcountry night means packing every drop of water. Check the live park alerts too, because temporary fire restrictions and hunt closures can change what is open or allowed.