Yes, it’s early January, but Colorado Parks and Wildlife is recommending that those contemplating a summer camping trip to a state park make reservations now.

“Our most popular camping sites fill up six months in advance, so planning now could get vacationers a prime camping spot,” said Mercedes Schwall, Parks and Wildlife reservations coordinator, in a news release Monday.

Among the state parks in Southwest Colorado are Navajo, south of Ignacio; and Mancos, just north of Mancos at Jackson Gulch Reservoir.

In all there are more than 3,900 campsites and 50 cabins and yurts at state parks in Colorado, at elevations ranging from approximately 3,800 to 9,400. To see all the options, visit https://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/Pages/ParkMap.aspx. For reservations or more information, (303) 470-1184 or visit http://cpw.state.co.us/buyapply/Pages/Reservations.aspx.

Camping fees range from $10-26, not including the reservation fee and park pass. Every vehicle entering the park, including RVs and towed vehicles, must have a parks pass for each day. Annual parks passes are $70, daily parks passes are $8-9.

“Getting outdoors improves my mood and helps manage stress,” said Ken Brink, parks and outdoor recreation assistant director. “Camping at Crawford, James M. Robb, Mancos, Navajo and Yampa or any of the other state parks gives our family a place to socialize and engage in new adventures.”

Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages 42 state parks, more than 300 state wildlife areas, Colorado’s wildlife and a variety of outdoor recreation.

johnp@durangoherald.com