Locale suggestions in CO for trip with 3-year-old

Golden Gate Canyon SP? There are “backcountry” sites that may fit your criteria. Not dramatic, but very pleasant.

http://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/GoldenGateCanyon/Documents/GoldenGateTrailMap080715.pdf

Nearby White Ranch is free and has walk in hiker sites. A little bit more walking more so than a typical walk-in car camping site, but  very easy by backpacking standards. Another pleasant if not dramatic place. I’d link it..but, that makes the post vanish. :O

Near Breck, Mohawk Lake that is popular for children. My buddy and I did this trip with his son a few years ago. May be more difficult with a three-year old vs a four year old.

Many places in the Lost Creek Wilderness. Easy walking in parts with lots of creeks.

Lost Lake just outside of the  Indians Peaks Wilderness. I’d do this on a Sunday/Monday if possible. The hike up is BLAH in my opinion but is a really nice destination, though.  No permit needed since it is just outside of the wilderness boundary. Less than 3 miles R/T as well with very moderate elevation gain.  Designated camping spots around the lake.  I’ve only camped there in winter. :)

The first two choices are very local,easier and won’t be as busy overall.

LCW is probably a nice happy medium if you look at the map and plan accordingly.  Lost Lake is good eye candy but I really would not do on a weekend as it can get SUPER busy.

Hope that helps.

(I wish the link issue would be fixed. :(  )

Thanks, Mags!  I had a feeling you’d come through with great suggestions.  I was just checking out your site for ideas on another trip I’m planning, too.

Great Sand Dunes National Park- great for kids.  The little critters can play at will in the sand and in Medano Creek.  My daughter is 9 and still asks to go back regularly.  The Creek is usually higher earlier in the summer, though.  Several campsites (reservations needed) are near trailheads, though your options open up if you have 4WD and can get to Point Of No Return trailhead.    And there is a hot springs pool nearby in Hooper, for recovery.

Thanks, Dean!

Bring shovels and buckets for playing in the creek.  Seriously- it’s the big draw for the kids, and has a peculiar pulsatile flow.  A magnet is handy, too, to separate magnetite sand from the rest of it, though you can’t keep it since it’s a national park.  A cheap plastic sled to go sledding down the dunes is fun, too.

DO NOT go if it’s windy.  That’s miserable, with sand in everyone’s eyes.