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    Open Space

    Minimalist Camping at Sandstone Ranch

    The Board of County Commissioners appreciates feedback. The next step is to get countywide feedback via a countywide community survey this spring. Until then, this idea is on hold. 

    The Board of Douglas County Commissioners is committed to practicing and promoting responsible stewardship of historic and natural resources in rural and suburban areas.

    In 2025, we are considering a pilot camping program that may include 5-10 minimalist camping sites at Sandstone Ranch following the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace.

    View map of proposed sites.

    March 2025 Update: Thank you for your feedback to Douglas County Commissioners and staff on the continuing work to explore the possibility of limited camping at Douglas County Open Space properties, including Sandstone Ranch.

    Public comment and engagement are essential to the planning and decision-making process, which remains in the early planning stages. Commissioners are now planning to invite countywide feedback in a forthcoming Citizen Survey, anticipated to be distributed in spring 2025.

    Please sign up for our news distribution list to ensure you receive the survey. You may also fill out the feedback form at the bottom of this page.

    What is minimalist camping exactly?

    Across our beautiful state, there are many different ways to camp – from traditional tent camping and RV camping to backcountry and primitive camping. Each type comes with its own set of rules and requirements based on the location. Any sites in Douglas County will follow the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace.

    Minimalist Camping is:

    • Undeveloped, designated and dispersed sites
    • No plumbing, running water or utilities
    • Pack-in and pack-out all belongings and waste

    Minimalist Camping is not:

    • Developed sites or tent pads
    • Running water, wastewater services or other utilities
    • Camping with cars, RVs, trailers or other motorized vehicles

    Program FAQ

    Under the proposal to allow camping, would campfires be allowed?

    No. Campfires would be prohibited. The rules will be enforced per Resolution No. R-013-153. Please also see Rules and Regulations Concerning the use of Douglas County owned or operated Buildings, Facilities, Parks, Trails and Open Spaces.

    Where did this idea come from to look into allowing camping at Sandstone?

    Commissioners are looking into this idea due to a communicated desire for public access to Sandstone Ranch.

    Is there going to be an extra cost to Douglas County/taxpayers to enforce safety and manage overnight campers?

    The costs will be from staff time for development of the proposal and planning. Additionally, Open Space has requested an additional Ranger and Camp Host position to be funded. An initial estimate for the pilot sites at Sandstone is $379,400 for the first year.

    Sandstone is known as the "crown jewel" of Douglas County open spaces, what will be done to ensure it stays pristine if camping is allowed?

    To receive a camping permit, visitors will take and pass a Leave no Trace training program that will be integrated into the reservation system.

    Have other Douglas County properties been considered for camping?

    Yes, Prairie Canyon Ranch, Nelson Ranch Open Space, Red Mesa and Lincoln Mountain Ranch Open Space have also been considered.

    Have questions or thoughts on this project? Share them here.

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