Aspen Glade National Forest Service Campground, Colorado

A spur of the moment trip to Aspen Glade Forest Service Campground in Southern Colorado is a highlight of this summer's camping experience. Aspen Glade is on Rt. 17 about 15 miles west of Antonito at US 285, just over the border from northern New Mexico.

A number of us met up there and all managed to find first come/first served spots right on the Conejos River. The Conejos is a trophy trout stream in a beautiful setting nestled in a narrow alpine covered canyon. The three days on the river included trying out our rusting abilities to fly fish. What a challenge! The brisk wind made it impossible to cast upstream or across the stream. But we tried and had great fun being out in this lovely place.

This is a dry camping site but there is water available. The campground closes this week but keep it in mind for next year with an aim to get the choicest sites -- either 20, 21, or 22.