June 29, 2026
Can you believe it’s almost July?
Summer is flying by here at Kebler Corner, and the campground has been buzzing with campers enjoying warm days, cool mountain evenings, and everything the North Fork Valley has to offer. As we head into one of the busiest weekends of the year, here’s what’s happening around the area this week.
Last-Minute Fourth of July Camping
Still looking for Fourth of July plans?
We have very limited campsites remaining for Independence Day weekend. If you’ve been thinking about escaping to the mountains for a few days of camping, fishing, hiking, and small-town celebrations, now is the time to reserve your spot before we’re completely booked.
The Fourth of July is one of our favorite weekends of the summer, and we’d love to help make your holiday one to remember.
Fresh Produce Season Is Here
One of the best parts of summer in the North Fork Valley is the abundance of fresh, locally grown produce.
Whether you’re cooking dinner back at camp or looking to explore the area’s agricultural roots, local farms and markets are overflowing with seasonal favorites.
Currently in season you’ll find:
Cherries
Strawberries
Asparagus
Potatoes
Zucchini
Summer squash
Mushrooms
Kale
Collards
Arugula
Lettuce and salad mixes
Turnips
Mustard greens…and much more as the growing season continues.
Arbol Farmers Market
Every Tuesday evening, the Arbol Farmers Market transforms Paonia Town Park into a lively gathering place featuring local produce, artisan goods, flowers, baked goods, live music, and community.
When: Tuesdays | 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Where: Paonia Town Park
Hotchkiss Farmers Market
Every Saturday morning, browse fresh fruits and vegetables, handcrafted products, baked goods, and locally made gifts while supporting North Fork Valley growers and makers.
When: Saturdays | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: Creamery Arts Center – Hotchkiss
Upcoming Summer Events
Paonia Cherry Days | July 3–4
One of the valley’s longest-running traditions returns this week.
Paonia Cherry Days celebrates the area’s rich agricultural heritage with a parade, live music, food vendors, local craft booths, family activities, and Fourth of July festivities. It’s the perfect way to experience the welcoming small-town atmosphere that makes the North Fork Valley so special.
Whether you’re staying for the holiday weekend or simply visiting for the day, Cherry Days is an event you won’t want to miss.
Learn More: https://paoniacherrydays.com/
Crested Butte Wildflower Festival | July 10–19
Just over the mountains from Kebler Corner, the world-famous Crested Butte Wildflower Festival showcases one of Colorado’s most spectacular wildflower displays.
Enjoy guided hikes, photography workshops, garden tours, art classes, and educational programs celebrating the incredible alpine blooms that make this region famous each July.
It’s a fantastic day trip for anyone looking to experience another side of the Gunnison Valley.
Learn More: https://crestedbuttewildflowerfestival.org/
Anthracite Creek Fly Fishing Report | Week of June 29
Fishing continues to improve as runoff begins tapering off and water clarity increases.
Current Conditions
Morning fishing remains the most productive, with water temperatures staying cool and trout actively feeding before the afternoon heat arrives. As runoff continues to decrease, anglers are finding more consistent success throughout the creek.
Recommended Flies
Chubby Chernobyl
Elk Hair Caddis
Yellow Stimulator
Pat’s Rubber Legs
Prince Nymph
Hare’s Ear
Copper John
Olive Woolly Bugger
Dry-dropper setups are becoming increasingly effective as insect activity picks up.
Where Fish Are Holding
Look for trout in deeper pools, undercut banks, shaded runs, and slower seams adjacent to faster current. As water conditions continue improving, fish are beginning to spread throughout the creek rather than concentrating only in slower water.
Current Fire Conditions
Hot, dry weather continues across Colorado’s Western Slope, and wildfire activity has increased throughout the region.
Several wildfires have been burning across Western Colorado in recent weeks, including the Gold Mountain Fire in Ouray County, The Snyder Fire in Mesa & Grand Counties, and the Willow Fire in Grand County.
Here at Kebler Corner, Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are currently in effect to help protect our campground and surrounding forest. These restrictions are more stringent than the county-wide regulations and are in place for the safety of our guests and the surrounding landscape.
Please note: Gunnison County remains under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, but all guests staying at Kebler Corner are required to follow our Stage 2 restrictions while on the property.
We appreciate everyone’s cooperation as we work together to keep our campground safe throughout the summer.
Helpful fire information links:
Gunnison County Wildfire Information
Current Fire Restrictions Map & Updates
See You Around Camp
With Cherry Days just around the corner, fresh produce filling local farm stands, excellent fishing conditions, and another beautiful holiday weekend ahead, there’s never been a better time to experience everything the North Fork Valley has to offer.
Whether you’re joining us this week or planning a visit later this summer, we look forward to welcoming you to Kebler Corner.
Yours in camping,
Emily & Paul
