Colorado Summer Camps Face New Measles Guidelines as State's Outdoor Programs Prepare for Season
Colorado's beloved summer camps, from the Rocky Mountain foothills to the Eastern Plains, are implementing new health protocols as the CDC urges camp operators nationwide to verify measles immunity for all participants amid a concerning surge in cases.
The directive impacts hundreds of Colorado's outdoor programs, including popular destinations like Cheley Colorado Camps near Estes Park and the numerous day camps serving Front Range families. According to new CDC guidelines, camp operators must now verify vaccination records or documented immunity for campers, staff, and volunteers.
What This Means for Colorado Families
Local camp operators are adapting their registration processes to meet these requirements while maintaining the outdoor experiences Colorado families treasure. Parents sending children to summer programs should prepare to:
- Provide documented proof of measles vaccination or immunity
- Be aware of new health screening procedures at check-in
- Understand camp policies regarding unvaccinated participants
Rising National Concern
The urgency comes as CDC data shows 1,197 confirmed measles cases in 2025, approaching the 2019 record of 1,274 cases. For Colorado's camp industry, which serves thousands of local children and welcomes participants from across the country, the stakes are particularly high.
"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 its guidance to camp operators.
Local Prevention Measures
Colorado camp operators are taking proactive steps, including:
- Stocking medical supplies including face masks
- Preparing isolation areas for potential cases
- Training staff on symptom recognition and response protocols
- Updating health screening procedures
With two-thirds of this year's cases affecting children and teens, Colorado's robust summer camp industry faces unique challenges in balancing outdoor education opportunities with public health responsibilities. Local camp directors are working closely with county health departments to implement these new guidelines while preserving the outdoor experiences that make Colorado summers special.
Parents planning to send children to Colorado summer camps should contact their healthcare providers and camp administrators early to ensure all necessary documentation is in order before the summer season begins.
This article contains AI-generated content and reflects opinion only. Readers are encouraged to verify all information independently before drawing conclusions or making decisions.
