Colorado Summer Camps Face New Measles Guidelines as State's Outdoor Programs Prepare for Season
Colorado's beloved summer camps, from the Rocky Mountain valleys to the Front Range foothills, are implementing new safety protocols after the CDC issued urgent guidance requiring camps to verify measles immunity for all campers, staff, and volunteers amid a concerning nationwide outbreak.
For Colorado families preparing to send their children to the state's numerous outdoor adventure camps, Scout programs, and wilderness experiences, this means additional health documentation will be required before drop-off day. The measure comes as national measles cases have reached 1,197 infections in 2025, approaching the 2019 record of 1,274 cases.
Impact on Local Camp Operations
Colorado's summer camp industry, which serves thousands of local families and attracts visitors from across the country, must now:
- Verify vaccination records or documented immunity for all participants
- Prepare isolation spaces for potential cases
- Stock protective equipment including face masks
- Develop response plans for potential outbreaks
"Measles is more than just a rash — it can cause serious complications or even death," warns the CDC in their latest guidance to camp operators.
For Colorado's outdoor education centers and wilderness programs, the timing is critical as they prepare for the summer season. Many local camps operate in remote settings, making medical response more challenging and prevention even more crucial.
What Colorado Parents Need to Know
According to CDC data, two-thirds of this year's cases have affected children and teenagers. For Colorado families, this means:
- Check vaccination records early before camp registration deadlines
- Consult with healthcare providers about immunity documentation
- Understand camp policies regarding unvaccinated participants
- Be prepared for potential screening measures at check-in
The American Camp Association advises camp operators to carefully consider their policies regarding unvaccinated individuals, a decision that could affect hundreds of Colorado's summer programs from Pike National Forest to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Looking Ahead
As Colorado's peak camping season approaches, local camp directors are working to balance these new safety requirements with maintaining the outdoor experiences that make Colorado summers special for thousands of young people. Parents are encouraged to contact their chosen camps directly for specific documentation requirements and updated health policies.
This article contains AI-generated content and reflects opinion only. Readers are encouraged to verify all information independently before drawing conclusions or making decisions.
