Danger in the Forest

[Ronin13]

I've conversed with some Boulder SO deputies, and the problem seems to be getting worse. They've even gone into some of these transient campsites and found them abandoned (the "campers" venture into Boulder to panhandle quite frequently). A lot of times they don't have time to wait around, but on some occasions they found campfires still smoldering, and have had to use the transients' water supply to put out the fires- and they aren't stingy with the water. This whole thing is seeming to be a growing problem with no viable solutions. I don't dare go camping anywhere along the front range without at least my sidearm on me at all times. Luckily our favorite spot down in Park County doesn't get a lot of homeless... yet. It's enough to discourage me from camping in/around Nederland or any other parts of Western Boulder County.

[NeedMoreAmmo]

I've conversed with some Boulder SO deputies, and the problem seems to be getting worse. .....

I have heard of a couple of transient camps being cleared out down in this area, along with an illegal pot grow and some poaching. There isn't a lot of water in this area, except for the South Platte, so I think that helps. I haven't heard of any issues up Waterton Canyon, which is surprising.
I haven't been down Rampart Range Road in years (mostly because of the shooting bans), but I see Flight for Life heading in that direction almost daily for the last few summers. No doubt there are a few problems down there, and probably more than one transient camp.

[hatidua]

There are more or less permanent encampments along Boulder Creek right in the middle of town where overnight camping is technically illegal (which is the case anywhere in city limits actually). I volunteered for the annual creek cleanup that Rocky Mountain Anglers sponsors this year and when the cops were called about one major camp (complete with sofa's and recliners), they said "no, that portion of the creek is on CU property". When the CU police were called, they couldn't be bothered.

If there's no penalty, why would anyone expect these homeless to obey laws?