Gray Jay Group

Introduction / Overview

For us Coloradans who truly seek to immerse ourselves in the raw, untamed beauty of the Rocky Mountains, Gray Jay Group Site offers an unparalleled backcountry experience. This isn't your drive-up car camping; it's a designated group wilderness campsite that demands a commitment to the trail but rewards intrepid adventurers with breathtaking scenery and profound solitude. Located in the majestic wilderness accessible from the Allenspark area, likely within or on the fringes of Rocky Mountain National Park, Gray Jay Group Site provides an extraordinary opportunity for a group of adults to disconnect from the modern world and forge deeper connections with nature. It’s a place "completely surrounded by water," creating a unique island-like feel, accessible only by a "narrow bridge" after a significant hike. While it lacks conventional amenities, its allure lies precisely in its remote, pristine setting, offering direct access to alpine lakes and high-country trails. This site is revered for its "amazing view" and the chance to truly experience the quiet grandeur of Colorado's wilderness. For experienced groups willing to embrace the challenges of backcountry travel, Gray Jay Group Site promises an unforgettable and deeply rewarding outdoor adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Gray Jay Group Site is located in the wilderness accessible from Allenspark, CO 80510, USA. This places it in a prime position for venturing into the high country of the Rocky Mountains, often associated with the eastern side of Rocky Mountain National Park or adjacent National Forest wilderness areas. Crucially, access to Gray Jay Group Site is not by vehicle directly to the campsite. Instead, it requires a backcountry hike, specifically noted as "from the beginning of the East Inlet Trail." The East Inlet Trailhead is typically located near Grand Lake, on the western side of Rocky Mountain National Park, which suggests a significant and potentially challenging journey from the Allenspark side of the park, possibly involving extensive hiking or even a long drive around to the Grand Lake entrance. The specific mention of a "narrow bridge to get across to the campsite" further emphasizes its remote, island-like nature, indicating it’s a site truly nestled within the wilderness, surrounded by water. Due to the required hike, it is not suitable for those with limited mobility or very young children, as highlighted by customer reviews. This remote location ensures a true wilderness immersion, far removed from road noise and light pollution, offering an unrivaled sense of peace and connection with the pristine Colorado landscape. Proper planning for trailhead access, trail conditions, and backcountry travel is essential for reaching this secluded gem.

Services Offered

As a designated backcountry group wilderness site, Gray Jay Group Site offers very primitive services, consistent with a true wilderness experience. The focus is on providing a designated, low-impact camping area for groups, rather than a developed campground with extensive amenities. Services are minimal and require campers to be largely self-sufficient. Based on typical wilderness group sites and customer reviews:

• Designated Group Campsite: The site is specifically designated for group camping, capable of accommodating a sizable number of adults (e.g., a group of 10 adults with multiple tents fit comfortably).
• Tent-Only Camping: This site is exclusively for tent camping; RVs, trailers, or vehicle access are not permitted. All gear must be backpacked in.
• Pit Bathroom / Vault Toilet: A basic pit toilet (described as "just seat and hole underneath" by a reviewer) is available on-site, providing a designated and sanitary means of waste disposal. These facilities are designed for minimal environmental impact in wilderness settings.
• Fire Ring: A designated fire ring is typically provided for campfires (subject to strict fire restrictions, especially in dry conditions). Campers should be prepared with alternative cooking methods if fire bans are in effect.
• No Potable Water: There is no piped drinking water available at the site. Campers must pack in all their water or filter/treat water from nearby natural sources (e.g., the little lake or stream), following Leave No Trace principles.
• No Trash Collection: Campers are required to practice Leave No Trace principles rigorously, meaning all trash, including food scraps, must be packed out of the wilderness. There are no dumpsters or trash receptacles on site.
• No Hookups: As a wilderness site, there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups. Campers must be fully self-contained.
• Bear Safety Measures: Due to the presence of bears, campers are strongly advised to follow strict safety procedures for food storage and other "smell-ables." This typically means using bear-resistant containers or hanging food properly.
• No Shower Facilities: There are no shower facilities. Campers should plan for basic personal hygiene in a wilderness setting.
• Limited to No Cell Service: Expect extremely limited or no cell phone service in this remote location, further contributing to a true disconnect from technology.

Features / Highlights

Gray Jay Group Site, despite its primitive nature, offers truly exceptional features and highlights that are uniquely appealing to Coloradans seeking an authentic wilderness adventure:

• Exceptional Seclusion and Privacy: Being a hike-in group site "completely surrounded by water" accessible by a "narrow bridge," the site offers a rare level of privacy and seclusion, allowing groups to enjoy their time without immediate neighbors or road noise.
• Stunning Scenic Views: Reviewers consistently highlight the "amazing view" from the campsite, which likely includes views of the surrounding mountains, the "little lake," and the pristine wilderness of Rocky Mountain National Park.
• Direct Water Access: The site's unique position by a "little lake" provides direct access for fly fishing (which one reviewer enjoyed) and potentially other quiet water activities like packrafting or enjoying the lakeside ambiance.
• Proximity to Backcountry Trails: Serving as a base camp, the site offers immediate access to various hiking trails. Reviewers mention using it as a base to reach "5th lake the next day" and its connection to the "East Inlet Trail," offering challenging and rewarding wilderness treks.
• High-Altitude Environment: Located within the high country, the site provides a true alpine experience with crisp air and unique ecosystems, characteristic of Colorado's most majestic areas.
• Wildlife Observation: While some campers reported not encountering bears (despite warnings), the wild setting provides opportunities for observing various forms of Rocky Mountain wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Authentic Wilderness Experience: This site is a highlight for those who desire a challenging yet rewarding backcountry experience, far from the conveniences of developed campgrounds, offering a profound connection to nature.
• Star-Gazing Opportunities: With minimal light pollution, the night skies are likely to be incredibly dark, offering spectacular opportunities for stargazing and astronomical observation.
• Challenging Access (Highlight for Adventurers): The "not an easy hike from the beginning of the East Inlet Trail" is seen as a feature for experienced hikers seeking a true wilderness challenge.
• Natural Bug Presence: As expected in a natural environment, "ants, spider, mosquitoes, the usual" are part of the experience, reminding campers to bring appropriate repellents and take precautions, reinforcing the authentic wilderness setting.

Contact Information

Address: Allenspark, CO 80510, USA (Please note this is a general town address; the specific site requires wilderness permit information.)

For wilderness permits, reservations, and the most accurate information regarding Gray Jay Group Site (which is managed by Rocky Mountain National Park), please contact:

Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness Office:

Phone: (970) 586-1242 (for wilderness permit information and current conditions)

General Rocky Mountain National Park Information: (970) 586-1222

Website: For reservations, visit Recreation.gov, searching specifically for "Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness Permits" or "East Inlet Trail" to locate available group sites. Wilderness permits are highly sought after and typically require advance planning, often months in advance, especially for group sites during peak season.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For us Coloradans, Gray Jay Group Site represents the pinnacle of an immersive mountain experience, perfectly suited for those who truly embody the spirit of high-country adventure. Its prime location in the wilderness accessible from the Allenspark area, deep within or bordering Rocky Mountain National Park, offers an escape that few conventional campgrounds can match. The very fact that it's a backcountry, hike-in site, "completely surrounded by water" and accessed by a "narrow bridge," is not a hindrance but a profound draw for experienced locals seeking genuine solitude and a physical challenge.

This site is ideal for groups of adults who are well-versed in Leave No Trace principles and self-sufficiency. It encourages a deep connection with nature, away from the distractions of modern life. The opportunities for pristine fly fishing right at your tent flap, combined with direct access to extensive, breathtaking trails like the East Inlet Trail leading to higher alpine lakes, speak directly to our innate love for hiking, exploration, and wilderness pursuits. The "amazing view" and the chance to witness the raw beauty of the Rockies up close, including potential wildlife sightings (while being bear-aware), are experiences we truly cherish.

While the lack of traditional amenities like showers or potable water might deter some, for the seasoned Colorado outdoor enthusiast, this is part of the allure—a chance to prove resilience and truly disconnect. It fosters a sense of accomplishment and a deeper appreciation for the rugged landscapes that define our state. Gray Jay Group Site isn't for everyone, but for the discerning local groups ready to shoulder their gear and embrace the wild, it offers an unparalleled, unforgettable, and truly authentic Rocky Mountain wilderness experience that will leave you refreshed, invigorated, and deeply connected to the heart of Colorado.

Gray Jay Group

Allenspark, CO 80510, USA