I just scanned across this post and figured I would chip in...Posthole Pete wrote: ↑Tue Jul 27, 2021 10:33 amCan anyone confirm or deny that you can no longer just get there early?
It does seem like a gray area because I am hearing both sides of the coin from different people.
I have yet to ever make it up to the lake but if its anything like National Parks or Mt Evans, you can just go in there early.
(Ok, fo realz tho!) While there is no camping, you are allowed to sleep in your car in the overnight parking lot, if you have a reservation. This is according to my own experience last year, as well as earlier post in this thread.
Regarding going in early, you CAN do that, as there is nobody there yet to stop you. But in contrast to National Parks or Mt Evans, this is not allowed and you could get a ticket and/or be towed. Would they do that if you displayed a parking stub purchased at the old after-hour machine (which may or may not be operational at this point)? Your choice if you want to risk finding out. Me personally, I am too mentally weak and not prepared.