Winter Camping
Winter camping can be a fun and unique outdoor Colorado experience, but it also requires careful planning and preparation otherwise the enjoyment will be nonexistent and it may even turn dangerous.
The key to a successful winter camping trip is to stay warm, dry, and safe. To do that, you need to know what to bring and to be smart about your locations.
Winter Camping Gear
First and foremost, the right gear for your winter camping trip will go a long way. This includes a warm and waterproof tent, a good sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures, and insulated clothing and footwear. It’s also a good idea to bring extra blankets, a stove and fuel for heating and cooking, and any necessary medications or first aid supplies.
Insulated Tents
Some tents are insulated to help provide additional warmth. Ultimately this will weigh more but can be a great option if you have the room or are going car camping.
As soon as you spend a cold night or hot morning in one, you’ll never want to go back to a standard tent again.
Crua provides one of the more popular options. Their patented Insulation not only works in the cold to keep heat in, but it also works in hot weather keeping the heat out.
Due to the extra material, these are slightly more expensive on average and can run between $300-$1,200.
Sleeping Bags
For your sleeping bag you will want to consider the temperature rating of the bag. This will give you an idea of the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep you warm. You will often be colder before the temperature, so its best to bake in some buffer.
You’ll also want to consider the shape and design of the sleeping bag. A mummy-style bag, which is narrow at the feet and wider at the shoulders, can be a good choice for cold weather because it traps heat more efficiently.
REI makes their own branded sleeping bags that are often very affordable. However, if you’re planning on staying the night in the Colorado winters, we recommend spending a little extra to stay warm. The Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 0 should get you through most cold night
You’ll also want to look for a sleeping bag that has a high fill power, which indicates the warmth-to-weight ratio of the insulation. Down is a good choice for cold weather because it is lightweight and has a high warmth-to-weight ratio, but synthetic materials can also be a good option because they are less expensive and still provide good insulation.
Winter Camping Clothes
It’s important to dress in layers when camping in the winter. This helps to trap heat and stay warm.
Start with your base layer. Pick moisture-wicking materials, such as wool or synthetic fabrics, to keep your skin dry. Avoid cotton as it can trap moisture and is difficult to dry. Base layers from REI here are fine and will also save you some money.
Add a middle layer of insulation, such as fleece or down, to trap heat and provide warmth. This should be easy to add or remove when necessary.
Finish with an outer layer of waterproof and windproof materials, such as nylon or GORE-TEX, to protect against the elements.
Location
To start your winter camping adventures, you might consider exploring Rocky Mountain National Park, which offers scenic views and a variety of winter activities; Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, which has sand dunes that are fun to explore in the winter; or the Mesa Verde National Park, which has ancient cliff dwellings to explore.
It’s important to choose a campsite that is sheltered from the wind and has good drainage to prevent water from pooling. Avoid camping in low-lying areas or near bodies of water, as these can be more prone to cold temperatures and wind chill.
When setting up your campsite, make sure to dig out any snow that may have accumulated on the ground and create a level surface for your tent. It’s also a good idea to bring a tarp to put under your tent to create an extra layer of insulation and protection from the cold ground.
Winter Camping Tips
To stay warm at night, it’s important to keep your sleeping bag and clothing dry. This means keeping your tent ventilated to prevent moisture buildup, and avoiding activities that could get you wet, such as hiking through deep snow or crossing bodies of water. It’s also a good idea to pack some chemical heat packs or hot water bottles to help warm up your sleeping bag before bed.
To make for a warmer morning. Pack some of your next day’s clothes into your sleeping bag while you sleep. This will let them be your body temperature when you are ready to start the next day.
Finally, it’s important to be prepared for any emergency situations that may arise while winter camping. This means bringing a first aid kit, a map and compass, and a flashlight or headlamp. It’s also a good idea to let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return, in case you need help.
Overall, winter camping can be a fun, rewarding, and unique outdoor experience, but it’s important to be prepared and take the necessary precautions to stay warm, dry, and safe. With the right gear and planning, you can enjoy the beauty and solitude of Colorado’s winter wilderness.
If you are looking for some additional camping gadgets, check our our list from 2022