Beautiful Wildlife & Nature You’ll Find While Colorado River Camping

Looking to spot Colorado wildlife while camping in Glenwood Springs? Keep an eye out for elk in open meadows and black bears roaming rugged mountainsides. The Glenwood Canyon area offers diverse wildlife and postcard-worthy scenery. If you’re planning a Colorado River camping adventure, Glenwood Canyon Resort combines wildlife, nature, and laid-back fun.

Elk grazing in a Colorado mountain meadow near Glenwood Springs

Mammals

Watch for mule deer along the trails and bighorn sheep scaling rocky cliffs. You may hear coyotes at night and catch a glimpse of red foxes at dawn or dusk. Beavers, marmots, and squirrels round out the rich ecosystem around Colorado River campgrounds. Nature lovers will find plenty to admire while cabin camping in Colorado.

Bighorn sheep on rocky cliffs in Glenwood Canyon

Birds

Birders at Glenwood Canyon Resort can spot more than 100 species along the Colorado River. Look for vivid Steller’s jays, Western tanagers, and raptors like ospreys and bald eagles fishing the river. You may also hear mourning doves or woodpeckers in the cottonwoods. Don’t forget binoculars for a memorable birdwatching day.

Bald eagle flying over the Colorado River

Amphibians & Reptiles

Wetlands and side channels support amphibians like western tiger salamanders and calling frogs after summer rains. Keep an eye out for northern leopard frogs, a sign of healthy waters. Harmless reptiles such as western terrestrial garter snakes and ornate box turtles add to the area’s biodiversity.

Northern leopard frog near a riparian pond

Insects

Monarch butterflies drift through meadows, dragonflies skim the river’s surface, and summer fireflies add evening sparkle. Peek under logs and along streambanks for beetles and crickets that thrive in the canyon’s microhabitats.

Monarch butterfly on wildflowers near Glenwood Springs

Notable Natural Areas

Base yourself at Glenwood Canyon Resort to explore nearby wild places. The White River National Forest offers miles of trails and wildlife viewing. Watch for moose near streams, elusive bobcats in brushy draws, and golden eagles soaring above the canyon.

Trail through White River National Forest

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Glenwood Canyon Resort offers river views, easy wildlife access, and comfortable cabin rentals in Glenwood Springs, CO. Book your stay and immerse yourself in Colorado River camping.

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