Traversing thousands of miles of wide-open, little traveled terrain, the Great Plains Trail takes walkers and bicyclists past many hidden gems, from canyons to secret swimming holes, vast savannah-like grasslands and roaming herds of bison.
Less than a mile off the route in southern Baca County, Colorado, travelers can make camp on public land, explore ancient petroglyphs and, in good weather, swim in excellent, spring-fed pools at the Carrizo Canyon Picnic Area. Tenting is allowed year-round, free of charge, and there are four spaces for vehicle camping.
During your visit, you may see many unusual bird species, including the black-chinned hummingbird, Cassin’s kingbird, greater roadrunner, Mississippi kite, Western screech owl, and canyon wren. The pools are home to snapping turtles, softshell turtles, bullfrogs and channel catfish, while bull snakes, rattlesnakes, collared lizards and the Texas horned lizards can be found on canyon walls and dry uplands.
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Directions and area maps
Directions: From La Junta, Colorado drive south on Highway 109 for 58 miles; turn left (east) on Highway 160 for 25 miles; turn right (south) on County Road 10 for 9 miles; turn right (west) on County Road M for 5.5 miles and turn left (south) on Forest Service Road 539 for 1.9 miles to the parking area. From Springfield, Colorado take Highway 287 south for 17 miles; turn right (west) on County Road M for 22 miles, turn left (south) on Forest Service Road 539 for 1.9 miles to the parking area.
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Thanks for the great information, Clay. Your photos are beautiful, and the screenshots are quite helpful.