Colorado Summer Camps Face New Measles Guidelines as State's Outdoor Programs Prepare for Season
Colorado's beloved summer camps, from the Rocky Mountain wilderness programs to local day camps across the Front Range, are implementing new health protocols as the CDC urges heightened measles immunity verification amid a concerning nationwide outbreak.
The guidance comes at a critical time for Colorado's robust outdoor education sector, which serves thousands of families from Colorado Springs to Fort Collins each summer. According to new CDC guidelines, camp operators must now verify measles immunity documentation for all campers, staff, and volunteers.
What This Means for Colorado Families
Parents preparing to send their children to Colorado's numerous summer programs should be ready to provide vaccination records or proof of previous measles infection. Local camp directors are particularly concerned given that CDC data shows nearly 1,200 measles cases nationwide in 2025, approaching the 2019 record of 1,274 cases.
"Measles can spread quickly in summer camps because campers and staff spend a lot of time together in close contact with each other. Measles is more than just a rash — it can cause serious complications or even death," the CDC warned in their latest guidance.
Impact on Local Camp Operations
Colorado camp operators are now faced with crucial decisions about their vaccination policies. Key requirements include:
- Maintaining detailed immunization records for all participants
- Establishing protocols for unvaccinated individuals
- Preparing isolation spaces for potential cases
- Stocking protective equipment including face masks
Of particular concern for Colorado's outdoor education community is that two-thirds of this year's confirmed cases have affected children and teenagers - the primary demographic for summer camp programs.
Protecting Colorado's Camp Legacy
The Centennial State's summer camps have long been a cornerstone of youth outdoor education, with programs ranging from wilderness survival in the Rockies to science camps near Garden of the Gods. Camp directors across Colorado are working to implement these new guidelines while maintaining the rich outdoor experiences that Colorado families have come to expect.
Parents planning to enroll their children in summer programs should contact their local camp operators to understand specific vaccination requirements and safety protocols being implemented for the upcoming season.
Colorado families seeking additional information about measles prevention and vaccination requirements can consult their healthcare providers or visit their county health department website for local guidelines.
This article contains AI-generated content and reflects opinion only. Readers are encouraged to verify all information independently before drawing conclusions or making decisions.
