Pike & San Isabel National Forests
Cimarron & Comanche National Grasslands

Q1.   Does your District have a firewood-cutting program and if so what are the details?

A.       Yes, but by permit only. The program runs year round. You must purchase a minimum of three cords, the cost is $10.00 a cord. The cutting area may vary. We can mail you a map with accompanying instructions or you can get one when you pick up your permits at our office. Another point to make is that we sell only dead wood, either dead standing or down.

Q2.   My trees appear to have a disease.  Can someone from your office come out and look at them and tell me what the disease is and how to remedy it?

A.       The Colorado State Forest Service specializes in tree disease questions and a variety of other subjects for private landowner. The telephone number is 719-687-2921 or you can visit them online at http://lamar.colostate.edu/~csfswp/. You might also check with the Colorado State University (CSU) Extension at 719-636-8920 or the City of Colorado Springs Forester at 719-385-5942.

Q3.    How do I make campground reservations?

A.       It depends on what agency operates the campgrounds you are interested in. If it happens to be the National Forest Service or the Corp of Engineers you can make campground reservations through the national reservation center at 877-444-6777 or online at www.reserveusa.com. If you want to make reservations at Colorado State Parks facilities call 800-678-2267 or visit them online at www.reserveamerica.com/.  If you want to make campground reservations at National Park Service facilities call 800-365-2267 or visit them online at reservations.nps.gov/index.cfm. It’s a good idea to make your reservations well in advance. IMPORTANT TIP: You will need to know the name of the campground where you want to stay before you call the reservation center. For instance, if Rampart Reservoir is your camping destination you'll have to tell the reservationists the specific campground at Rampart Reservoir that your interested in, which in this case would  either be Meadow Ridge or Thunder Ridge Campground. Otherwise, the reservationists won’t be able to discern the name of the campground from a geographical place name like Rampart Reservoir.

Q4.   How old do I have to be to get a job with the Forest Service? And if I meet the age requirement how do I get a job with the Forest Service?

A.       You have to be at least 18 years old. Then the first step towards getting employment with the Forest Service is to get acquainted with the variety of Forest Service jobs available. You can do this by logging on to www.fs.fed.us/fsjobs The second step is to fill out an application. You can request an application by mail, online, by telephone, by TTY/TDD or by E-mail. The addresses are: Mail = USDA Forest Service, Automated Staffing Application Program, 1249 S. Vinnell Way, Suite #108, Boise, ID 837709, Online =  www.fs.fed.us/fsjobs, Telephone = 877-813-3476, TTY/TDD = 208-373-4265 and E-mail = fsjobs@fs.fed.us. You can also go online to www.usajobs.opm.gov for a complete listing of Federal Jobs. Good luck.

Q5.    How can I get tree seedlings?

A.       The Colorado State Forest Service sells seedlings. You can reach them at 719-687-2921 for details or visit them online at http://lamar.colostate.edu/~csfswp/. They will also send you a free order form and informational pamphlet at your request.

Q6.    Where can I register my boat and ATV?

A.       The answer is the Colorado State Park’s office. Their street address is: Colorado State Parks, 4255 Sinton Road, Colorado Springs, CO. You can also reach them at 719-471-0900 or visit them online at http://parks.state.co.us/.

Q7.    When will the gate to Rampart Reservoir be open and when does it close for the season?

A.           Weather permitting, the gate to Rampart Reservoir should be open by mid May each year. You can, however, in the meantime hike to Rampart Reservoir from the Rainbow Gulch Trailhead. The 1.4-mile trail will take you to the Rampart Reservoir inlet and to some potentially good fishing. Keep in mind that the campgrounds won't be open until the end of May, again weather permitting. The gate usually closes in November after the first major snowfall.

Q8.    Can I ride my ATV or unlicensed vehicle on USFS Roads? Where is the best ATV areas on your district?

A.      You must adhere to all posted and published travel management regulations. All of the County Roads prohibit ATV's or motorized vehicles that don't have a license plate. All of the main Forest Roads, generally those passable by cars and low clearance vehicles, are closed to ATV's and motorized vehicles that do not have license plates. Some of those roads include Old Stage Forest Development Road (FDR) 368, Gold Camp FDR 370, High Drive FDR 380, Mount Herman FDR 320, Rampart Range FDR 300, Rampart Recreation Area FDR 306, Crags-Fourmile Creek FDR 350, Seven Lakes FDR 376, and Rainbow Falls FDR 350. As a general rule most of the 4-wheel High Clearance Roads are open to ATV's. You can call with specific questions. To answer your second question, the best place for riding your ATV is Trail System 717 north of Divide, Colorado. Keep in mind that there are several County Roads in the area that are closed.
 

Q9.   When is the Pikes Peak Highway open, how much does it cost and what are the current weather conditions?

A.       The best way to answer this question is to have you call the Pikes Peak Highway Tollgate at 719-684-9383 or toll free 1-800-318-9505 . But generally, the Pikes Peak Highway is open year-round with some closures during severe weather.

Q10.  Do you have a Holiday Tree Cutting Program and what are the details of the program?

A.       Yes we do and it's a very popular program. We, ordinarily, start selling permits at our office in Colorado Springs on the first Monday after Thanksgiving and continue selling permits for approximately two weeks, ending on a Friday. The tree permits sell for $10 and you can purchase up to 5 permits. The cutting area will be in the National Forest on Rampart Range Road north of Woodland Park. No need to rush in first thing on Monday because we don't place a cap on the number of permits we sell.

Q11.  Do you have those golden cards that will get me into National Parks free?

A.        Yes, we have Golden Eagle Passports, Golden Age Passports and Golden Access Passports. The Golden Eagle Passport is an annual pass, which sells for $65. The Golden Age Passport is a lifetime pass for those 62 and older, which sells for $10. The Golden Access Passport is a free lifetime pass for those who are permanently disabled or blind.

Q12.  When and where can I see the wildflowers in bloom?

A.       In general, wildflowers bloom along the Front Range from mid April through late September. Many factors influence the exact time wildflowers bloom, but you can nonetheless expect a pretty good showing from late May through the end of June. Bear in mind that, as a general rule, wildflowers bloom earlier at lower elevations. For details on when and where all the varieties of wildflowers bloom check out one of the many books on the subject, most are available at a public library. You can also call the Forest Service Wildflower Viewing Hotline (800-354-4595) for field reports on the progress of wildflower blooming.

Q13.  How do I get to your office from Interstate 25?

A.      Get off on Exit 141, (Cimarron Street) Make a right turn at the bottom of the exit ramp, Go six blocks east into the downtown area to Weber Street, Turn right (south) onto Weber Street, Travel one and a half blocks down Weber Street. Our office is on the left (east) side of the street. You will know you are there when you see a yellow and dark brown brick building with a matching USDA Forest Service sign in the front, a flag pole, several large ponderosa pine trees and a parking lot on the south side of the building.

Q14.  Are there any lakes you can swim in on your District?

A.        Not on the Pikes Peak Ranger District, but you might check with Colorado State Parks. You can reach them at 719-471-0900 or visit them online at www.coloradoparks.org. You may also consider calling the Colorado Division of Wildlife at 719-227-5200 or visiting them online at www.dnr.state.co.us/wildlife for the lakes and reservoirs under their control.

Q15.How do I get rid of nuisance critters?

A.       You will find the answer to this question at the Colorado Division of Wildlife at 719-227-5200 or you can visit them online at www.dnr.state.co.us/wildlife. I am confident that they will have a solution that will be good for you and for the critters.

Q16.  What's the weather forecast for next month?

A.       You can get the current conditions by calling 1-877-315-7623. You can get the current road conditions by dialing 719-630-1111, extension 7623. You might also try a few of the excellent weather websites on the Internet.

Q17.  Where are the best fishing spots on your district?

A.       Many of our customers swear by Rampart Reservoir; others like river fishing along the South Platte. As to who is right is anybody's guess, but I suspect they both are. The Colorado Division of Wildlife can also assist you in locating the hottest fishing spots. You can reach them at 719-227-5200 or you can visit them online at www.dnr.state.co.us/wildlife. They also can tell you about their stocking schedule. TIP: Click on the "Fishing" button on our homepage to learn more. ANOTHER TIP: Check out the fishing report column in the Gazette Telegraph.

Q18.  How much snow is on Pikes Peak?  What about two months from now?

A.       It, of course, varies from year to year and season to season. As an average, however, you can expect a few feet of snow through March or April and then see it quickly recede in May. By June the snow will have disappeared from most areas.

Q19.  What accommodations are there at Barr Camp and what are the fees?

A.      Barr Camp is operated under a special use permit through the Forest Service. To gain an insight into what accommodations they offer and their prices you should contact them at 719-337-0676.

Q20.  Is water available on Barr Trail?

A.       No. In any case, it’s a good idea to take a quality water filter in the event you have to drink untreated, “natural” water. The filter should, at a minimum, be able to, filter out Giardia cysts, which can give you flu-like symptoms.  If you don’t have a filter and you feel compelled to drink the untreated “natural” water then make sure you boil it for 3-5 minutes. It's a good idea to take enough “safe” water with you to see you through the hike.

Q21.  Can I hunt on the Manitou Experimental Forest and at Rampart Reservoir?

A.       The answer is yes with the following conditions: You cannot shoot a weapon within the boundary of the Manitou Experimental Forest in June, July and August and you cannot shoot a weapon within 150 yards of a developed recreation area or building. You must also adhere to the posted and published travel management regulations.

Q22.  Is Gold Camp Road open all the way to Cripple Creek?

A.       No. You can only go as far as Tunnel #3 which partially collapsed in 1988. You can, however, take Old Stage Road to where it meets Gold Camp Road and then continue to Cripple Creek.

Q23.  How much does it cost to ride on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway to Pikes Peak and how do I make reservations?

A.       You can make reservations and check out the fee schedule online at www.cograilway.com or you can call the COG Road Depot at 719-685-5401. You can also e-mail them at cogtrain@iex.net. Generally, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway is open for business April through November.

Q24.  I'd like to get information about the cabins and lookout stations in the Pike National Forest?

A.       We don’t have any cabins or lookout stations in the Pikes Peak Ranger District, but you might check with the South Platte Ranger District in Morrison at 303-275-5610, the South Park Ranger District in Fairplay at 719-836-2031, the Salida Ranger District in Salida at 719-539-3591 and the San Carlos Ranger District in Cañon City at 719-269-8500. You can also visit with these districts online by clicking on their respective buttons on our homepage.

Q25.  Where can I go boating (rafting, canoeing and kayaking) in the Pike National Forest?

A.            Anywhere in the National Forest where it is not expressly prohibited by Special Order. All Forest Service offices should have the Special Orders that pertain to their area of responsibility for you to review. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please respect the rights of private landowners. Ask permission first. Some local favorites for boating and such are Rampart Reservoir, Manitou Lake and the tri-lakes of the North Slope Recreation Area.

Q26.  Where can I go horseback riding in the National Forest?  Can my horse stay with me in the Forest Service campgrounds?

A.       As a general rule you can take horses anywhere in the National Forest not specifically prohibited by Special Order. When there are exceptions they will for the most part be signed. To answer your second question, none of our developed campgrounds accommodate horses, but cast an eye towards the South Platte Ranger District's Indian Creek Campground south of Sedalia on Highway 67. It does have an equestrian section in that campground. For information on this location, call the South Platte Ranger District at 303-275-5610. Also remember that if you take forage with you it must be certified weed free.

Q27.  Where can I purchase Forest Service maps?

A.       You can purchase them at our office either in person or by mail. The cost for a paper map is $6.00 and $7.00 for a plastic map. If you order maps by mail be sure to tell us what maps you want and enclose a check for the total amount. You can also find them in local bookstores and map stores.

Q28.  What are the rules for panning for gold in the National Forest?  And, where are the best places for panning for gold?

A.       You can pan for gold recreationally on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Forest Service lands without a permit, but it’s your responsibility to know that you are on public and not private land. You will also want to avoid patented mining claims. Also keep in mind that you should consult with the Forest Service or BLM before undertaking any kind of activity that would result in ground disturbance.

Q29.  What are the best mountain biking trails on your district?

A.       One of the favorites is the 11.6-mile trail around Rampart Reservoir. But, you'll want to do some exploring to determine which trail may be a favorite for you. We have trails of every level of difficulty from easy to extreme. You will find a good variety of guidebooks on the subject at your favorite bookstore or even at a public library.

Q30.  What are the best hiking trails for children?

A.       The three trails we recommend are Waldo Canyon Loop No. 640 (6.8 mile loop/Easy), the Crags Trail No. 664 (2 miles one way/Moderate) and the Aspen Grove Trail No. 712 (.4 mile loop/Easy).  Other favorites are Centennial Bicycle Trail No. 669 (8.2 miles/Easy) and the Rampart Reservoir Trail No.700 (11.6 miles/Easy). Take plenty of water, rub on some sunscreen and have fun!

Q31.  Can I pick berries in the National Forest?

A.       Yes, for personal use only. The strawberries are especially delicious.

Q32.  How do I avoid bear encounters and what do I do if I'm face to face with a bear?

A.       Our first suggestion is to make noise while you’re hiking in the forest (metallic noise is best) to avoid an encounter altogether. If you’re camping keep your camp clean, store your food safely, dispose of garbage properly, sleep well away from food areas and store any toiletries safely. But, if all else fails and you find yourself face to face with a bear here are some suggestions according to the Division of Wildlife: stay calm, stop, speak softly and if the bear attacks fight back. Black bears have been driven away when people have fought back with rocks, sticks, binoculars and even their bare hands. If you’d like to know more about bear safety we’d be glad to send you a Colorado Division of Wildlife brochure called “Living With Wildlife In Bear Country.” And if you do have an encounter with a bear, which you probably won't, the Colorado Division of Wildlife would like to hear about it. You can reach them at 719-227-5200 in Colorado Springs.

Q33.  Are the lakes and reservoirs iced over?

A.       They generally begin to ice over in November and then thaw out around mid April or mid May.

Q34.  Is the Rampart Shooting Range open and how do I get there?

A.        It is open to the public. The directions are as follows: From I-25 take exit 141 west. This will place you on Cimarron Street (also known as Highway 24). Travel west on Cimarron Street approximately 5 miles until you reach the Manitou Springs exit. Get off on the Manitou Springs exit-traveling west. This will take you under Cimarron Street. Turn right on Garden of the God's Place, i.e., the first street past the Cimarron Street overpass. A short distance from there you will turn right on Garden of the God's Road. Follow Garden of the God's Road to Balancing Rock. You will see Forest Development Road (FDR) 300 on the left a short distance past Balancing Rock. When you turn on to this road you will see a sign that identifies the road as FDR 300. Follow this rough, bumpy and washboard road approximately six miles to the Rampart Shooting Range. RECOMMENDATION: Think about taking a high clearance vehicle because this road is very rough in places.

Q35.  When is the Pikes Peak Marathon held and can I hike up Barr Trail while it is being held?

A.       You can get more information by calling the Pikes Peak Marathon Committee at 719-473-2625. Barr Trail remains open to the general public during the marathon.

Q36.  When is the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and can I camp along the road when it is being held?

A.       The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb will be held on the last Saturday of June. No, there is no camping permitted during this time.

Q37.  What is the telephone number to the Pikes Peak Summit House and what are its hours of operation?

A.       The telephone number is 719-661-8080. I'd recommend that you ask them for their hours of operation since they can vary.

Q38.  What are your rules for having pets in the National Forest?

A.       They should be leashed if you are in a Wilderness area, a developed recreation area or on a heavily traveled trail that’s covered by a Special Order. Otherwise, your pets should be under voice control at all times.

Q39.  What is the elevation of Pikes Peak?

A.       14,110 feet.

Q40.  Can I do recreational shooting on Mt. Herman Road?

A.            Although recreational shooting is generally permitted in the National Forest there are exceptions and conditions. The exceptions are normally outlined in Special Orders.  In this case, Special Order 91-08 prohibits recreation/target shooting in all of El Paso County including the area west of Monument. You can obtain a map from us that shows you exactly where these restrictions apply. The best alternative area for recreation/target shooting west of Monument is off Mt. Herman Road and down Forest Development Road (FDR) 322A. This area is located in Teller County approximately six miles from Red Rocks Ranch Road. The other common sense conditions are as follows: (1) you cannot discharge a firearm in or within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site or occupied area (2) you cannot discharge a firearm across or on a Forest Development road or a body of water adjacent thereto, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result in such discharge (3) you cannot discharge a firearm into or within any cave. I would also advise you to familiarize yourself with Colorado State law regarding possessing and transporting firearms.

Q41.  How long will it take me to drive to the top of Pikes Peak?

A.       Allow yourself approximately 2 hours one-way. Remember that you must be off the Pikes Peak Highway by sunset—no overnight parking is allowed. The road is 38 miles roundtrip.

Q42.  How long will it take me to hike up Pikes Peak?

A.            Approximately three hours if you're a world-class marathoner. If not, it could take you from 8 to 12 hours, depending on your fitness level. Then, again, you could drive up to Pikes Peak in about 2 hours or take the Cog Railway which would get you there in about 1:15 minutes.

Q43.  How do I reach the C.S.U. Extension?

A.       You can reach them at 719-636-8920 or visit them online at www.colostate.edu/Depts/CoopExt/.

Q44.  What is the Fall Colors & Wildflower Viewing hotline?

A.       The number to both is 800-354-4595.

Q45.  Can you see the curvature of the earth from Pikes Peak?

A.       Yes.

Q46.  How big is the Pike National Forest?

A.            1,288,383 acres more or less.

Q47.  Where can I go in the forest to get rocks, pinecones, pine boughs,

            logs, posts, etc.?

A.       You have to have a permit to remove any minerals or wood products from the National Forest. To obtain one of these permits check with your nearest Forest Service office.

Q48.    I’d like to have my wedding ceremony in the National Forest, how do I go about it.

A.        Contact the ReserveUSA Reservation Center at 877-444-6777 or visit them online at www.reserveusa.com to reserve a Group Campground for the ceremony.

Q49.    How old do you have to be to volunteer to work for the Forest Service?

A.        There are no age limitations. Just fill out an application and we will take it from there. 

Q50.    Do you sell books and maps at your office?

A.        Yes, we sell a variety books and maps through the Rocky Mountain Nature Association which is a non-profit organization. We also sell Forest Service maps for all the National Forests and National Grasslands in Colorado.

Q51.    Can I use a metal detector on Forest Service lands?

A.        We discourage the use of metal detectors on Forest Service lands to protect and preserve cultural and historic artifacts.   Also, you should be aware that the National Historic Preservation Act generally prohibits collecting anything 50 years old or older.

South Platte RD

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Alphabetical Index of Linked Questions by Subject

Q. Can someone homestead on the National Forest? 

A.  No, this is an old rumor that is still found in some publications.

Q.  What about cabins and recreation residences?

A.  There are no US Forest Service owned cabins or recreational facilities available for rent in the South Platte Ranger District. However, other areas of the National Forests have rentals available.  Follow this link for more information: http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/permits/cabinrentals.htm

Q.  When do I need to get a special use permit for a recreation event, group use, outfitter and guide?

A.  In General:

1. When an entry fee or participation fee is collected to cover direct expenses (food, transportation, prizes, etc.) and indirect expenses (advertising, purchase replacement of equipment, etc.).  Donations are considered fees if they exceed direct costs.  Funds collected in excess of direct costs can be expended at the holder's discretion.

2. Applicant is organizing an activity that uses National Forest lands to attract participants.  Money is being charged to provide this 'good or service'.  Guides or leaders are paid or compensated.

3. When there is a group of 75 or more even if there is no entry or participation fee.

4. Non-profit status does not circumvent permit requirements.

Q.  What are the rules for dispersed camping?

A.  If you are going to an area where others have camped before, pick a site that's been used before. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites, so using existing ones will minimize your impact in the forest. If there is no existing campsite, then follow these Leave No Trace guidelines:

Q. Which campgrounds are gated and/closed?

Below are campgrounds and several roads which are gated and closed seasonally or permanently.  Please call our office (303-275-5610) for information and/or opening dates.

Campgrounds	Roads/Areas
Big Turkey	NFSR 543
Flat Rocks	Rampart/Daken
Devil's Head	Dump Road NFSR 512
Goose Creek	behind Timberline NFSR 125
Green Mountain	Webster/Red Cone NFSR 565
Indian Creek	Waterton
Jackson Creek	Top of the World NFSR 538
Kelsey
Kenosha (includes Glider Rd.)
Lone Rock
Meridian
Molly
Meadows
WigWam

Q.  Can I tell you were I am going so that you can call for help when I don't return?   

A.  We do not keep records of recreational visitors to the National Forest.  We suggest that you tell friends and family members your intentions and give detailed directions or a map of the area which you plan to hike to or camp in along with the date and time you plan to return.  Should you not return by the expected time, this will give them the information they need to contact our office along with the local sheriff's department to initiate a search and rescue.

Q.  Are there any RV dump stations nearby?

A.  There are no RV dump stations in the South Platte District campgrounds.  The nearest dump stations are Fairplay Texaco, Fairplay, CO 719/836-2021; Lake George Cabins & RV Park, 8966 County Road 90, Lake George Colorado 80827; phone & fax 719/748-3822.  Follow this link for more listings http://www.coloradodirectory.com/.

Q.  Are there any bears, mountain lions, rattlesnakes...?

A.  The South Platte Ranger District is home to an abundance of wildlife including many dangerous animals.  If you are new to Colorado or unfamiliar with hiking or camping with wildlife, we suggest that you contact Colorado Division of Wildlife for more information.  Brochures are also available at our District office in Morrison.

Q.  I have problems with raccoons, woodpeckers, bears, deer, elk, fox, mountain lions. What can I do?

A.  The Colorado Division of Wildlife has a problem animal hotline at 303-297-1192 or visit their website at www.dnr.state.co.us/wildlife/.

Q.  My son is camping somewhere up there, can you contact him?

A.  We do not search for or contact individuals on recreation in the forest unless it is an emergency. In emergency situations USFS law enforcement will attempt to find the individual. If you have a friend or family member planning a trip to the forest, you may want to ask that they leave you their travel plans (location and days away) should an emergency arise. This will enable law enforcement to conduct a more efficient search of an area to locate the person. 

Q.  I want to have a wedding in the woods, what do I need to do?

A.  You will not need a special uses permit if you have fewer than 75 people.  You can obtain the appropriate paperwork on the USDA Forest Service website or contact our office directly at 303 275-5610. Please let us know in advance of your plans for weddings.

Q.  Can I sell hotdogs, t-shirts, jewelry alongside the road?

A.  No. Private individuals cannot conduct retail business on National Forest lands without a permit which we generally would not allow in these circumstances.  

Q.  Can people shoot guns where ever they want?

A.  All National Forests are open to recreational shooting unless otherwise posted. Firing a gun is not allowed: a) within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; b) across or on a road or body of water; c) in any circumstance whereby any person may be injured or property damaged.  Additionally, the South Platte District has certain areas which are closed to recreational shooting.  Please see the Rampart Range Shooting Closure information on this site along with Rules For Visitors. 

Q.  Can we have a paintball game?

A.  Yes.  Paint-balling is allowed in the National Forest and is excluded from shooting closures in effect.  Paintball cannot be conducted as a for profit business venture on National Forest land.

Q.  Can you hold a campsite for your friends?

A.  Certain campgrounds in the district may be reserved in advance.  Follow the Camping link for more information on these sites.  For non-reservable sites, regulations require that a site be occupied at the time the fee is paid.

Q.  Can you have a bike in the Wilderness?

A.  No.  Wilderness regulations forbid any wheeled or motorized vehicles from entering the Wilderness Area. 

Q.  Are there any special rules for the Wilderness?

A.  These few basic rules are designed to safeguard the special quality of wilderness. Your voluntary cooperation is the best way to preserve and protect these areas while you use and enjoy them.

Q.  How do you stake a mining claim?

A.  Before you begin prospecting, you should check the BLM records for any claims in the area in which you are interested. Follow this link for more information on Prospecting.

Q.  Can someone gate access to the National Forest?

A.  Yes.  Some private property does not have legal right-of-way for public access.  

Q.  Do I need a license to ride my ATV or motorcycle on the roads?

A.  If you plan to ride on the 'roads' then yes you must be a licensed driver and your vehicle must be licensed as well.  However, a drivers license is not required to ride 'off-road'.  

Q.  Do I need a state permit for my ATV, motorcycle or snowmobile?

A.  Yes.  Your vehicle must have a current Colorado registration to operate in the National Forest.  Permit information can be obtained at Colorado State Parks.

Q.  Can I rent a cabin or fire lookout tower?

A.  Many National Forests do have cabins or lookouts available for rent, however, the South Platte Ranger District does not at present.  Check the USDA Forest Service website for a listing of properties.

Q.  How many days can I camp at a National Forest site?

A.  There is a 14 day maximum stay allowed for a site.  You can extend your stay by relocating to a new site on different National Forest.

Q.  Where can I get information on tree disease and insects?

A.  The Colorado State Forest Service specializes in tree disease questions and a variety of other subjects for private landowner. The telephone number is 719-687-2921 or you can visit them online at http://lamar.colostate.edu/~csfswp/. You might also check with the Colorado State University (CSU) Extension at 719-636-8920 or the City of Colorado Springs Forester at 719-385-5942.

Q.  Can I cut the beetle killed trees near my property?

A.  Sometimes a permit can be issued for fuelwood. Contact our office at 303 275-5610 for more information on dealing with Mountain Pine Beetles.

Q.  Can I cut dead or down trees for firewood?

A.  Not if they are located on National Forest land.  Dead trees provide habitat for a number of species of wildlife.  The South Platte District opens fuel wood cutting areas during the summer months and permits are available at our district office in Morrison.  Check out the Fuel wood link on this site or call 303 275-5610.

Q.  Can I get some branches, cones, mushrooms, rocks, moss, etc for my project?

A.  You may gather small quantities of branches, pine cones etc. for personal use.  You may NOT gather large quantities of wood for firewood that is not to be used on site or gather other items in the forest which may affect wildlife habitat.

Q.  Can you float down the rivers?

A.  There are few areas of the South Platte River that are good floats in our district due to the shallow river depth and/or rapids and there are several areas along the river that are privately owned.  By Colorado law, these property owners can restrict access the the portion of the river than runs through their property.  For those desiring to float the river it is important that they check the depth and current of the river in the area they choose and be aware of any property restrictions.

Q.  Can I drink the water?

A.  Water taken from lakes, rivers, streams and ponds may look clean and have no undesirable odor or taste. Unfortunately, however, pathogens found in water not only are harmful, but also are invisible to the naked eye and may be odorless and tasteless. These bacteria, viruses and protozoa can cause mild nausea and fever or can develop into more serious illnesses, such as severe diarrhea, hepatitis or typhoid fever. Water from lakes, rivers, streams and ponds should always be disinfected or filtered before being used for drinking or cooking.

Q.  Does my dog have to be on a leash, can I take my dog, horse anywhere?

A.  Yes. Dogs are required to be leashed in the National Forest.  Horses are permitted throughout the National Forest unless otherwise posted. Horses are not allowed in campgrounds other than Indian Creek Equestrian Campground.

Q.  Can I take my RV, trailer on this road or that road?  

A.  Many Forest Service Roads are quite narrow and rough and may be unsuitable for RV's or trailers.  Several campgrounds also have narrow roads or sharp turns which may be difficult for RV's or trailers.  Please check with our office at 303 275-5610 for more information before heading out on your trip.

Q.  Where do I report crimes against people and property?

A.  In case of emergency dial 911. You can also report any crime you witness to local law enforcement for the county in which you observed the crime as well as to our District Law Enforcement at (303) 275-5610.  Jefferson County Sheriff (303) 277-0211; Douglas County Sheriff (80)0 654-2733; Park County Sheriff (30)3 838-4441; El Paso County Sheriff (719) 520-7205

Q.  How do I volunteer?

A.  We do use volunteers and recruit through Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado.  You can contact them at (303) 715-1010 ext. 17.  You can also send your resume and a cover letter indicating your interest to the district in which you're interested in working.

Q.  Can I make a donation?

A.  Yes.  You can make a donation by sending a check to our District Office noting that it is a donation. 

Q.  Can I dig up a tree, bush, plant?

A.  Not without a permit. Please contact the South Park Ranger District in Fairplay for more information 719 836-2031.

Q.  Can I plant a tree, bush plant?

A.  Not without a permit and it has to be a native species.

Q.  Can I leave a tent or campsite unattended?

A.  Generally, you cannot leave personal property unattended for any reasonable period of time.

Q.  Is there someone in Devil's Head Tower, can he/she give an interpretive presentation?

A.  Devil's Head Tower is staffed from May to October.  Many of our lookouts are quite knowledgeable and available to answer questions on the tower.  However, their primary function is to watch for signs of smoke or fire and therefore would not be available for an extended presentation.

Q.  Is there someone available to talk to at Buffalo, Bailey, AG, or Indian Creek?

A.  These work centers serve as 'base' during our summer seasonal months but rarely have people available to talk to during working hours since most staff members are in the field.  If you need information or to speak with a particular individual it is best if you call the District Office in Morrison (303) 275-5610 and request a message be forwarded.

Q.  Where can I buy a map?

A.  We carry maps for all Colorado National Forests and Grasslands and maps can be purchased in person from our District Office in Morrison or by mail by sending a check for the total to our office with your name and address.  Please call 303-275-5610 for availability and prices.  Credit Card orders can be placed by calling 303-275-5350. Click here for additional information on other map resources.

In addition to maps we carry several guide books through the Rocky Mountain Nature Association.

Q.  Where do I take feces, bugs, plants, fungus. etc for identification?

A.  Feel free to bring you questions and items to our District Ranger Station in Morrison for identification. We have several Wildlife Biologists, Foresters and a Silviculturist on staff who will be glad to help you or direct you to the appropriate state cooperative agency.

Q.  Can you survey our common boundary?

A.  No. However, you can contact our Forest Supervisor's Office in Pueblo to see if they have a survey on file.  (719) 553-1400.  You are responsible for knowing where your boundary is located.  If you build on National Forest land it will be considered trespass and will have to be removed.

Q. Can I use my Golden Eagle, Age, or Access card instead of paying the fee?

A.  Golden Eagle, Age, and Access passports can be used for free entrance to only those areas that charge entrance fees, or to Congressionally designated National Recreation Areas, National Monuments, and National Scenic Areas.  Golden Age and Golden Access passports provide a 50 percent discount for facilities and services like camping, swimming, parking, boat launching, and cave tours.

Be aware there is now a new Interagency Pass that replaces the current Golden passes. Current cards will be honored until their expiration. Find out more information here.

Q.  Are fees for recreation activities on federal lands new?

A.  Recreation fees have been in place on public lands for many years under the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act and other authorities.  Under these authorities, land management agencies have charged for many activities including entrance to national parks, monuments, historic sites, recreation areas, national wildlife refuges, as well as camping, swimming, parking, boat launching, and cave tours.  Most of these fees have gone directly to the Federal Treasury.  Unlike traditional fees, those under the fee demonstration program are returned directly to the project or site.  The Forest Service decided to test many new kinds of fees at sites that traditionally had no fees.  Most Forest Service fees for day use are between $2 and $5 per day, with other fee structures in places for annual passes, for children, and for volunteers.  Other agencies under this program have increased fees at existing sites.

Q.  Why do you use concessionaires to run campgrounds etc.?

A.  The Forest Service has very limited funding with which to fulfill its mission. By using concessionaires to operate and maintain developed recreation areas it frees appropriated funds to be used on much needed other projects in the forests. For more information follow this link RMRC.