The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Radium Recreation Site is one of many natural areas in Colorado protected by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The BLM, a federal government agency, has the job of administering a variety of public sites throughout the United States. BLM camping is a frequent activity for guests at these sites, which include campgrounds, hiking trails, day-use areas, and other recreational facilities. The majority of these places provide opportunities for multiple forms of outdoor recreation in a remote and peaceful setting. Many of the sites also feature unique landmarks and geological features.
The Radium Recreation Area is located in northern Colorado, approximately 75 miles west of Denver, CO. Nestled on the banks of the Upper Colorado River, the site is primarily used as a put-in and take-out point for people fishing or boating in the large river. Visitors can also partake in camping, hiking, and other activities in the surrounding area. There may be several wonderful BLM sites in your region, and you can find the closest ones by searching online for "BLM camping near me" or "Bureau of Land Management camping near me."
Located in Arapaho National Forest to the east of the Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, this loop trail boasts lush scenery and several beautiful waterfalls. Along the way, you'll pass through woodlands and across a footbridge. In addition to hiking, the route is excellent for mountain biking and horseback riding as well. It's also partially paved and a great option to bring your dogs along, although they'll need to be leashed.
Length: 4.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This breathtaking out-and-back trail lies within Arapaho National Forest as well. The route provides excellent opportunities for bird-watching, and when there's snow on the ground, it's great for cross-country skiing, too. As you get closer to Mount Flora's summit, the trail becomes narrower and less defined, and that section may be challenging for some hikers. If you can manage it, the views are tremendous.
Length: 6.2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
The Radium Recreation Site is a fantastic place for both fishing and boating. There are usually tons of fish in this area of the Upper Colorado River, and the most common species caught are brown and rainbow trout. If you prefer to spend your day boating, you can take your kayak or canoe out on the stream. The BLM site features two paved boat launches that you're welcome to use during your visit.
If you're looking for rock climbing opportunities near the Radium Recreation Site, your best bet may be to visit the nearby Arapaho National Forest. There are several popular rock climbing routes found in the area. One challenging option is The Citadel Summit Trail, which you should only attempt if you're an experienced climber. The climb can be very steep at times, but if you make it to the summit of Citadel Peak, you'll be rewarded with some of the best views in the region. A couple of other climbing routes to check out are the Kingston Spur East via St. Mary's Glacier route and the Torreys Peak and Grays Peak Loop.
You'll find the best opportunities for wildlife observation in the region by heading north or east into the heavily forested areas. These areas support many unique species that you might be lucky enough to see. A few examples are bobcats, moose, elk, mule deer, beavers, and coyotes. You may see some of these creatures near the Colorado River, but because the BLM site tends to get quite busy, most animals usually keep their distance. However, you may see various birds soaring above the site.
The Radium Recreation Site is a wonderful place to sit down for a picnic. Not only is it located right by the beautiful Colorado River, but it also contains two picnic shelters. Why not bring along lunch and enjoy a relaxing picnic before you start your day's activities?
BLM RV camping is a popular activity at the Radium Recreation Site. The site serves as a campground and features nine standard campsites that can accommodate RVs. There aren't any RV hookups, but the campground does include a couple of basic amenities. If you're looking for more modern accommodations with electricity and significant amenities, you'll have to travel to one of the area's other campgrounds. There are no such Bureau of Land Management campgrounds nearby, but if you head northeast of the area, you can enjoy RV camping at the Red Mountain RV Park.
Technically, because the campsites at the Radium Recreation Site require a small fee, you'll have to go elsewhere for Bureau of Land Management free camping. One option is to travel farther north or south along the river to look for a peaceful spot near the water. You may be able to find a secluded area for a primitive campsite.
When you're planning a trip to the Radium Recreation Site, you should consider what time of year you will be visiting. There is a limited number of campsites available at the site, and between Memorial Day and the end of September, it tends to get extremely busy. If you visit during that time period, you would be wise to have a solid backup plan for overnight accommodations.
If you're planning to partake in fishing or boating in the Colorado River, keep in mind that the stream often runs high during spring due to the melting winter snow. If possible, you should plan your trip for the summer or early fall for the best experience. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
To help preserve the beautiful natural area for future generations, please do your best to minimize your impact during your visit. The BLM requires that you adhere to the "Leave No Trace" principles. There will likely be other guests at the site, and it's important that you treat them with courtesy and respect at all times.
To reach the Radium Recreation Site from Kremmling, CO, travel south on Hwy 9 for approximately one mile. When you come to Grand County 1 (Trough Road), turn west and follow the road for about 15 miles. When you reach County Road 11 (Sheephorn Road), turn right, and that will take you to the BLM site's parking area.
Ready to visit Radium Recreation Site? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you will have your RV to return to for the night where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
