Western Colorado 2017 Elk hunt GMU 11 & 22

[DJFL81]

Hello, trying to find more information on western Colorado units 11 & 22.
Does any one have specifics on where you can camp? Looking for a DIY.
How difficult is the terrain? I will be traveling with my FiL and BiL, who both will be 67 and we are looking for a fun time exploring the outdoors with a chance at seeing and possibly taking an Elk. We understand the elevation is anywhere from 5500-9000ft.
Our thoughts are to put in for the draw - to gain exposure and set the time table - win or not we would still go for an OTC in 3rd season.
How are the state trust lands within the BLMs operated? I understand there may be some you can hunt and some you cannot.
Given some private property lines cross access points to BLM - I would assume, in a given area, would be best to ask for permission to cross over?
Looking for guidance.
Thanks.

 

[hoshour]

Look at the CO Hunt Atlas and Google Earth to get a better idea of the terrain

The national forest map online (google the name of the forest) I think shows camping areas. You can also contact BLM

 

[JimP]

For the terrain you can find just about everything Colorado has to offer in those units. But for the most of it you will find cedars, junipers, and brush for the animals to hide in.

For camping all you need to do is find a wide spot where you can pull off the road and camp. That is as long as you are not on private property and there are no "no camping" signs. Without looking at any Forest Service maps I will say that those units are just about all BLM on the public land.

Most of the School Trust Lands can be hunted no problem even without permission. The ones that I have seen where you can't are usually posted. Public or BLM roads crossing private property can be driven on with no permission, but any other time you will need permission from the owners to cross over or hunt them. In Colorado you need to know where you are at, no property is required to be posted as private.

 

[DJFL81]

Thank you for the heads up and reply.
I have been using Google earth a lot, as well as picked up a DIY hunt map. There are not a lot of posted camping areas so to speak in this unit, however I have been told just about anywhere in BLM is able to camp in; as you have stated JimP. We will look out for the No camping signs, though.

 

[JimP]

I doubt that you will find any designated camping spots as I mentioned. Also I just threw that no camping thing out, but there may be areas that they don't want anyone to camp.

 

[Slugz]

DJ,
Shoot me a PM and I can help a little with 22.