Big Blue

Big Blue Campground

Want to get away from it all for a few days? I recommend a trip to Big Blue Campground. Big Blue is a National Forest Service campground nestled in a gorgeous valley in Uncompahgre National Forest. The easiest way to get there by taking CO State Road 149 north from Lake City for about 10 miles then on Forest Road 868 another 9 miles to the campground. The drive on FR 868 is a little squirrely and it'll seem like 20 miles. You can also get to the campground from the north by taking FR 867 south from US Hwy 50. FR 867 eventually runs into FR 868 a short way from Big Blue Campground.

I got to Big Blue Campground via FR 867 off of US 50. This road passes several mountain cabins and other signs of human habitation. Eventually FR 867 junctions with FR 868. Not too long after turning right onto FR 868 the road drops down into the this valley that's pristine and secluded. You've made it to the campground

Antique auto spare parts

Valley view close to Big Blue Campground

Big Blue Campground

I think there are only 11 campsites and they are first-come first-served. Fortunately, you'll usually find most of the campsites empty. Campsite #11, located at one end of the campground, is probably the best site.

Campsite #11

Setting up camp

Charlie checks out the facilities

Once camp is set you have several options - exploring, hiking, fishing, frisbee, etc. Or you can grab a cold one and just chill with a good book or your favorite electronic device.
There is a hillside near the camppground covered with scree, and it's home to marmots and pikas. I spotted a marmot but no pikas.

Hillside scree

I did see some really strange bugs.

Mormon Cricket
(Anabrus simplex)

Long-horned Beetle

Trail sign

There are several hiking trails near the campground, including Big Blue Trail, Fall Creek Trail, and Alpine Trail. Sorry, no motorized vehicles allowed.

Alpine Trail

Shrubby Cinquefoil

View from Big Blue Trail

Explorer's Gentian

If you're a fisherman or fisherwoman be sure to bring your spinning reel or fly rod. The campground is located near the junction of Soldier Creek and Blue Creek, and you just might catch dinner.

Blue Creek

Fishermen at work

We've come to the end of an excellent few days in the great outdoors. I'm already planning my next trip back to Big Blue.