Stewarding Dispersed Camping Along Phantom Canyon Road
Phantom Canyon Road, part of the Gold Belt Tour Scenic Byway, attracts significant dispersed camping that has begun to encroach on sensitive riparian habitat along Eightmile Creek. Steep access roads contribute sediment to the creek, and maintenance needs have grown.
Peak Exceptionalism supports infrastructure improvements (drainage, boulder barriers to define campsites away from riparian areas) combined with volunteer clean-up efforts. The work is led by the Bureau of Land Management with support from the Royal Gorge Bighorn Roundtable.
A statement of work has been completed with the BLM. RFP and contractor selection are expected later in 2026, with on-the-ground work planned for 2027.
These targeted improvements will protect water quality and habitat while maintaining quality camping opportunities along a nationally recognized scenic byway.
