Colorado State Land Board reviews proposed campground leases with Ramble Outdoors

The Colorado State Land Board is taking significant steps to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities across the state, as discussed in their recent public meeting on May 19, 2025. A key focus of the meeting was the potential expansion of developed recreation leases, which aim to diversify revenue and improve access to outdoor activities.

Abe Medina, the recreation program manager, presented an overview of the current landscape of recreation leases, emphasizing the need for more developed options. Currently, most leases are non-developed, but there is a growing demand for facilities that offer enhanced experiences for visitors. This shift aligns with the state’s strategic goals to optimize the value of state trust lands and capitalize on the booming outdoor recreation economy.

The board heard from Ramble Outdoors, a Colorado-based campground developer, which is looking to partner with the State Land Board to create new camping facilities. Their approach focuses on providing quality outdoor experiences while maintaining a low environmental impact. Ramble Outdoors has already established successful campgrounds and aims to fill a gap in the market for tent camping, which has seen increased interest post-COVID.

During the meeting, the board discussed the terms and conditions for these leases, including the length of agreements and revenue-sharing models. The proposed model includes an 8% share of gross revenue from the campgrounds, which could significantly benefit state land revenues while promoting outdoor recreation.

The discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration between the State Land Board and private developers to ensure that new recreational facilities meet community needs and environmental standards. As the board prepares for future decisions on developed recreation leases, the feedback gathered during this meeting will guide negotiations and help shape the future of outdoor recreation in Colorado.

This initiative not only aims to enhance recreational opportunities but also seeks to generate sustainable revenue for the state, reflecting a proactive approach to managing public lands. The board's commitment to expanding developed recreation leases signals a promising future for outdoor enthusiasts in Colorado.