Pike National Forest

Finally! Our first overnight stay that was 1) free and 2) not in a parking lot.

The Forest

We finally made it to Colorado! We also finally made it to the part of the country that has tons of BLM and National Forest Land which means free camping on public land. After so many nights in a parking lot, this was a joy!

Campervan parked in a camping spot within the Pike National Forest. Snow is covering the ground around the campsite.

The unpaved (dirt) road was a bit wet with patches of snow so we didn't take our chances of going too far and snagged the first camping spot we saw. The areas beyond the road were covered in snow. As the dogs walked around in some parts, they sunk to their bellies in the snow.

Close up of Bernard, a large white and tan dog, in the middle of the snow covered forest.

We woke up to the pine trees covered in a dusting of snow (or maybe just frost) and it was so peaceful and serene. I was still feeling too rushed to make it to Southern California in time that we didn't stay for more than a night. Knowing now that I make it with several days to spare, I wish I would have stayed at least another night. I hope I make it back (and farther up the road).