Circle the Wagons
Bear Creek Lake Park (BCLP), Lakewood, CO.
May, 2024
Twelve intrepid campers and Wagon Masters found a beautiful 2600-acre Bear Creek Lake Park to gather in the middle of interstates and residential areas. Everyone was impressed with the campsites and everything there was to do in the park. Campers included Kyes, Robinson, Willis, Novovesky, Prinslow, Gilliland, Templeman. Wagon Masters were Freas, Edwards Morkovin and Davenport.
It was May in Colorado with some rain and strong wind one night. All except a planned Sunset Hike on the schedule went off without a hitch, beginning with the Wagon Masters’ dinner on Sunday night. Chili (two kinds), corn bread, salad and brownies seemed to make everyone happy.
Monday brought a new idea to the Columbines. We had the Skunk Hollow covered shelter rented for the day and we were treated to a catered brunch by Flipping Flapjacks. We all enjoyed the meal and not one Columbine had to cook anything. How about that. Another aspect of the day were the Day Trippers. BCLP is close to many of us so we enjoyed the company of Anderberg, Bowman, Dugdale, Venable and Kotulak who came for brunch with some staying for other activities.
OK, maybe another first for us was the Monday afternoon archery lesson provided by Rangers Grace and Heather and Volunteer Karen. Nine Columbines received instruction and in sets of three “shot their arrows into the air.” As each set of three went back to the line for more arrows, accuracy improved and the Columbines who came to watch were kind in their cheers. And no injuries – just learning and fun. Congratulations to Betsy, Belva, Bobbi, George, Terry, Fred, Chris, Bruce and Bill. And the Willis Archery Team came with bows, arrows and all necessary equipment and joined in the fun, albeit further down range with more skill. That night we all gathered at the shelter for Subway sandwiches and lots of conversation, including some Day Trippers.
Tuesday saw many of us heading for Golden and the History Museum or the Mountaineering Museum. Golden has lots to offer so many simply headed to hikes, mountain trips or one of the many things offered in the Golden area. All campers and Day Trippers were given a Golden magazine and various brochures for activity planning. That night we had a large crowd for dinner at the Morrison Inn. More good food and lots of conversation, jokes and laughter. Happy hour helped all of that along.
Wednesday morning saw us gather for coffee, homemade scones, eggs, corn bread and juices. With help from everyone the canopy was taken down and stored away, the sign put away and the Columbines all headed off for what was a short ride home for many.
If you have not been to BCLP please pack lunch, or not, and head over for the day and go to the Visitors Center or just take a ride around. There is a lot to do and acres to enjoy.
Thanks to everyone who participated in this event.
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