For Colorado hunters chasing elk through the Rockies, mule deer on the Western Slope, or pronghorn across the eastern plains, the 2025 season brings big opportunity and some big changes. This year’s updated big game regulations, limited draw tag revisions, and shifting predator patterns mean one thing: being mobile, prepared, and comfortable will give you the edge.
A camper from Trailer Source makes that possible. Whether you are posted up in a GMU outside Gunnison or scouting the high country above Meeker, your camper becomes your basecamp, your shelter, and your greatest strategic tool.
2025 Season Highlights and What to Expect
This season kicks off Colorado’s new five-year Big Game Season Structure, designed to better align rifle seasons with the peak of the rut and reduce hunting pressure on migratory herds.
What Makes 2025 Special
- Rifle seasons are shifting to allow a break between first and second rifle, encouraging better movement during early season hunts
- Nonresident archery elk tags are now limited west of I-25, creating new urgency for strategic draw planning
- Herd numbers are up for elk, deer, and moose thanks to strong post-winter recovery
- Secondary draw and OTC leftover tags remain a good option for those who miss the primary window
- More pressure on public land means having a mobile, well-equipped camper is more critical than ever
Why a Trailer Source Camper Changes the Game
- Stay Where the Game Is
With vast elevation swings and remote units scattered across the state, being able to move your camp is essential. Hunting GMUs near Steamboat, Craig, or Del Norte? Public land campsites can be hours from motels or towns. A camper lets you stay where the action is and relocate as conditions or pressure change. - Comfort That Powers Performance
After a twelve-hour day in snow, wind, or sun, nothing restores your body like a warm camper with a real bed, hot shower, and meal ready to go. Scent control is easier. Sleep is better. You prep smarter and hit the glassing spot on time. - A Long-Term Investment in Your Lifestyle
Trailer Source campers are designed for more than a single hunt. These are four-season rigs built to haul gear, support families, and make weekend adventures or backcountry pursuits easier year-round. Over time, owning your camper saves money compared to hotel stays or rebuilding basecamps from scratch each season.
Features Built for Colorado Hunting
When choosing your hunting rig from Trailer Source, look for:
- Four season insulation for high elevation units where temps can dip below freezing
- Toy hauler configuration if you run ATVs, e-bikes, or need space for processed game
- Onboard shower for hygiene and scent control
- Exterior kitchen or wild game prep station to keep mess and scent outside the cabin
- Large fresh water tanks and backup containers for remote hunts without hookups
Deep Strategy Tips for 2025 Hunters
Apply Smart and Early
The draw opens March 1 and closes April 1. With OTC archery eliminated for nonresidents in much of western Colorado, the pressure is on to secure a limited tag. Use preference point data, GMU harvest history, and your hunt goals to make informed decisions.
Monitor Wolf Activity
Wolves are now established in multiple Western Slope counties including Eagle, Grand, and Pitkin. Their presence can shift elk patterns, reduce bugling, and increase difficulty. Check CPW updates and avoid overhunted zones. Some units may face added regulation or predator activity during rut.
Pack for Shifting Weather
October can swing from 60 degrees to blizzard overnight. Your camper should be winterized and stocked with snow chains, propane, backup power, and zero-degree sleep systems.
Choose Your GMUs with Pressure in Mind
Units that were popular for OTC archery will see increased pressure on rifle hunts. Consider lesser-known GMUs with improving herd numbers and strong draw statistics.
Leverage the Secondary Draw
If you miss the primary draw, apply during the secondary window June 19 through June 30. Then grab leftover or surrendered tags on August 5. Many solid units appear here last minute.
Pack Smarter, Hunt Longer
The most successful 2025 hunters will approach basecamp setup like a mission:
- Bring high-end coolers for ice retention and game storage
- Use portable solar or generator setups for power off-grid
- Add a GPS device or satellite communicator for high country safety
- Keep a toolkit, first aid kit, and tire repair supplies ready for rugged roads
Trailer Source Advantage
With seven Colorado locations, Trailer Source has you covered no matter where your hunt begins. Our team includes outdoor enthusiasts and experts who understand what Colorado hunters need to succeed.
Visit us in Wheat Ridge, Longmont, Frederick, Erie, Colorado Springs, Grand Junction, or our utility and cargo camper center in Wheat Ridge to view the best selection of hunting-ready campers in the state.
Whether you are preparing for an archery elk hunt near Meeker or a rifle mule deer tag in Unit 62, we will help match you with the perfect camper to support your hunt, your gear, and your goals.
Final Word
The 2025 Colorado hunting season brings new opportunity but also new complexity. Changing tag rules, unpredictable weather, growing predator impacts, and tighter access for nonresidents mean that preparation is everything.
With a rugged, fully equipped camper from Trailer Source, you control your basecamp. You stay closer. Sleep better. Hunt longer. And move faster when the animals do.
Stop by your nearest Trailer Source or browse online at www.trailersourceinc.com to get ready for your best season yet.