Camping Near Dead Trees. Need Help

In Colorado, we are a couple of decades into several beetle epidemics, and many parts of the state are completely covered in beetle kill. At first, they were just dead, but now they are falling down. I can even recall a couple of reports of a tree falling on people camping. So yep … I hear you.

In some places it has become almost impossible to camp in a completely safe way. I try hard to stay far away from dead trees. And if it’s windy, I’ll really go the extra mile to find open areas or live trees. But there are times when I take my chances.

I just hiked Colorado last fall. Beautiful, even areas with dead trees. But yeah, I had to risk it a couple of nights. Thanks.

It’s not an option for me. I keep going and find one without dead trees-even if the only site is crappy.

I don’t worry. My tent is 15 times stronger than steel.

🤣🤣

Ignorance is bliss! Years past I didn’t even think about it. Now I take it very serious and have had to hunt/hike-on many times to find a suitable spot. Sucks when the sun is setting, feet are tired, and all you want to do is crash, but better than being smooshed.

The odds are with you. If you win, you get a good night’s sleep. I mean other than sitting up every five minutes listening to the wind blow. If you lose, well, you know.

I try to be as safe as possible because somewhere down the road, I’m going to mess up. Having the proper safety gear and following safe practices enhances my experience and gives me a little more confidence to push myself a little harder.

To answer the question. I stand on the fifth. There was a spot that we called “Dead Tree Camp” for obvious reasons.  I wouldn’t in any way want to suggest that it is okay.

It’s amazing to me how most backpackers – in my experience – don’t even think about this question when pitching a tent. They religiously filter water, but pitch under a tree with a giant dead hanging limb.

Here in Colorado at least, most blowdown happens in winter. When you camp around standing dead in the summer, the odds are in your favor. How you act upon that knowledge is up to you and your own personal tolerance for risk.

I’m personally somewhat aggressive when it comes to campsite selection. A quick triage can reveal whether or not the nearby dead trees are a clear and present danger. I’d guess that I alter my tent site plans because of trees maybe 20% of the time.

Good question, though. Maybe I’ll take detailed notes about dead trees and site selection this summer.