Buford Travel Guide

Buford is a small, unincorporated rural community in Rio Blanco County in northwestern Colorado, situated along the North Fork of the White River at an elevation of roughly 6,500 feet. It sits in a broad valley flanked by forested ridges and is one of the few named communities in an otherwise sparsely populated stretch of Colorado's Western Slope.

The area is firmly ranching and outdoor recreation country. Visitors come primarily to fish, hunt, camp, and explore the surrounding White River National Forest rather than for any urban amenity. Population is extremely small — measured in dozens rather than hundreds — so travelers should arrive self-sufficient and with realistic expectations about services.

Buford's setting is genuinely scenic: open meadows transition quickly into conifer forests, and wildlife including elk, mule deer, and pronghorn are commonly seen from the roadside. For travelers seeking solitude and access to Colorado's less-visited backcountry, Buford serves as a quiet and unhurried starting point.

Visas and Entry

Buford is in the United States. For visa requirements, visit TravelerPulse's Visas section and check with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

What to Know Before Arriving

• Cell service is extremely limited in and around Buford. Download offline maps (e.g., Gaia GPS or Maps.me) before you leave a larger town.
• Services are minimal. There is no hospital, pharmacy, or large grocery store in Buford itself. Stock up on fuel, food, and supplies in Meeker (approximately 20–25 miles west) before arriving.
• Weather changes fast at this elevation. Even in summer, temperatures can drop sharply after sunset. Pack layers regardless of the season.
• Hunting seasons (primarily elk and deer) in autumn draw significant regional traffic; if you plan to hike or camp during this period, wear blaze orange as a precaution and verify season dates with Colorado Parks & Wildlife before your trip.

Buford is reached via Colorado State Highway 132, which branches off State Highway 13 near Meeker. The drive from Meeker takes roughly 30–40 minutes along a paved but winding road that follows the North Fork of the White River.

The nearest commercial airport is Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT), approximately 100 miles to the southwest. Steamboat Springs (Yampa Valley Regional Airport, HDN) is another option, roughly 80–90 miles to the northeast. Both require a rental car or private vehicle to complete the journey — there is no shuttle, bus, or ride-share service serving Buford.

A 4WD or high-clearance vehicle is recommended if you plan to explore forest roads beyond the highway. Many secondary roads in White River National Forest become impassable when wet or after snow. Verify current road conditions with the White River National Forest ranger district before driving remote routes.

There is no public transportation of any kind in or around Buford. A personal vehicle is the only practical means of getting around. Most visitors arrive by car or truck, often towing boats, ATVs, or horse trailers.

Forest roads and two-track trails extend in many directions from the valley. Some are accessible to standard passenger vehicles; others require 4WD and high clearance. Road conditions change seasonally and after storms, so check with the Blanco Ranger District of the White River National Forest for current access information before heading out.

Formal lodging within Buford itself is very limited. The area has historically had a small lodge or cabin rental operation near the North Fork — verify current availability locally or through regional booking platforms before your trip.

Camping is the most reliable and common accommodation option. Developed campgrounds exist in the White River National Forest within driving distance, and dispersed camping is permitted on National Forest land subject to current rules. Check recreation.gov and the White River National Forest website for campsite reservations and any applicable fees.

For those preferring standard hotel amenities, Meeker offers modest motel options and is a reasonable base for day trips into the Buford area.

Fishing

The North Fork of the White River is the main draw for anglers. It holds brown and rainbow trout, and much of the river corridor near Buford is accessible to the public. A valid Colorado fishing license is required; purchase one through Colorado Parks & Wildlife before your trip. Regulations vary by section of river — check the current fishing rules on the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website.

Hunting

Rio Blanco County is well regarded for elk and mule deer hunting. White River National Forest and adjacent BLM lands offer significant public hunting access. Colorado Parks & Wildlife manages licenses and seasons; apply for limited draw tags well in advance as many units are oversubscribed.

Hiking and Camping

The White River National Forest surrounding Buford has dispersed camping areas and informal trails. Developed campgrounds in the broader area offer basic facilities (verify availability and any fee requirements at recreation.gov or locally). Dispersed camping on National Forest land is generally permitted with some restrictions — confirm current rules with the Blanco Ranger District.

Wildlife Viewing

Elk are frequently seen in the valley meadows, particularly at dawn and dusk. The drive along Highway 132 itself offers good opportunities to spot deer, pronghorn, and occasionally black bear. Keep a respectful distance from all wildlife.

Buford has extremely limited food and drink options — do not count on finding a restaurant or convenience store reliably open. The Buford Store (a small general store/bar that has served the community for many years) has historically provided basic supplies and food to visitors, but hours and current operation should be verified locally before relying on it.

Meeker, roughly 20–25 miles to the west, is the nearest town with grocery stores, gas stations, and a modest selection of restaurants. Plan your meals around what you bring with you, and treat any local service you find as a welcome bonus rather than a guarantee.

Emergency Services

The nearest hospital and full emergency services are in Meeker (Rio Blanco County). Cell service is unreliable in the Buford valley and surrounding forest roads. Consider carrying a satellite communicator (e.g., Garmin inReach or SPOT device) if you plan to travel into the backcountry.

• Emergency: Dial 911 where service permits
• Rio Blanco County Sheriff: Verify the non-emergency number locally or online before your trip
• Blanco Ranger District (White River NF): Check the U.S. Forest Service website for current contact details and road/fire conditions

Water

If camping or hiking, treat all surface water before drinking. Carry a reliable filter or purification tablets.

Altitude

The Buford valley sits around 6,500 feet, with surrounding terrain reaching much higher. Travelers coming from lower elevations may feel mild altitude effects. Stay hydrated and allow a day of acclimatization if you plan strenuous activity.

Buford and the surrounding area present the typical safety considerations of remote mountain country rather than any particular crime concern. The primary risks are environmental: sudden weather changes, flash flooding in the river valley, wildlife encounters, and the hazards of driving remote forest roads.

In summer, afternoon thunderstorms are common and can be severe. If you are hiking above treeline or in open terrain, plan to be off exposed ground by early afternoon. In winter, Highway 132 can be snowy and icy; check CDOT road conditions before travel.

Bear activity is present in the area. Store food and scented items properly when camping — use bear canisters or hang food away from your sleeping area. Never approach wildlife, however habituated it may appear.