When you are prepping for an expedition into Rio Blanco County’s vast backcountry—whether it’s packing your coolers for a week-long hunt in the Flat Tops or stocking up for a weekend of camping along the White River—knowing where to fuel up on food and beverages is essential. Because there are no commercial retailers once you leave the main town corridors, the grocery and liquor stores in Meeker and Rangely serve as crucial basecamps for provisions.

The Basecamps for Provisions: Grocery Stores

Rio Blanco County relies on independent and regional neighborhood supermarkets that cater heavily to outdoor enthusiasts needing rugged, fresh, and portable meals.

1. Clark’s Market (Meeker, CO)

Located right at 271 E. Market Street, Clark’s Market (historically known to locals as Watt’s Ranch Market) is the premier full-service grocery stop on the eastern side of the county.

• The Highlights: This store offers a robust blend of everyday essentials, high-quality specialty products, premium cuts of meat, and fresh produce.

• Backcountry Conveniences: It features an excellent full-service deli with grab-and-go prepared meals, a hot deli section, and donuts—making it the ultimate spot to pick up a morning breakfast or pack a fresh sack lunch before hitting the Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway. They also offer limited beer selections right on the floor.

2. The Market at Rangely / White River Market (Rangely, CO)

Serving the western desert side of the county at 609 W. Highway 64, this hub is the vital supply station for explorers heading north into the remote canyonlands.

• The Highlights: It provides well-stocked, organized aisles featuring conventional, natural, and gourmet products.

• Backcountry Conveniences: With an excellent fresh meat counter, produce section, and a full deli, it is the perfect local connection to pick up picnic supplies, campfire grilling meats, and trail snacks.

Craft Selections & Spirits: Wine & Liquor Shops

If you want to toast around the campfire under some of the darkest night skies in Colorado, local bottle shops offer everything from cold domestic lagers to highly specialized craft spirits.

1. Blanco Cellars & The Little Cheese Shop (Meeker, CO)

Tucked away at 317 E. Market Street, Blanco Cellars is an absolute hidden gem that prides itself on the motto: “Better Booze & Cheese for the Back Country!”

• The Curation: Far from a generic liquor store, this artisan boutique specializes in small-production, diverse selections of wine, craft spirits, specialty beers, ciders, and sake that offer fantastic value.

• The Perfect Pairing: True to its name, you can get retail cut-to-order cheeses from around the world, premium cured meats, and unique gifts. It is the undisputed premier stop to build a high-end charcuterie board for your cabin or campsite.

2. White River Liquor (Meeker, CO)

Located right in the heart of town at 606 Market Street, White River Liquor is the go-to spot for classic, quick, and convenient beverage pick-ups.

• The Selection: They carry an extensive inventory of ice-cold domestic and imported beers, a wide wall of popular liquors, seltzers, and a solid array of wines perfect for any casual weekend gathering or hunting camp.

3. Powell Liquor Company (Rangely, CO)

Situated at 719 East Main Street, Powell Liquor Company is the premier destination for libations in the western half of Rio Blanco County.

• The Selection: They offer an exceptionally comprehensive and curated inventory of premium spirits, diverse wines, and classic beers.

• The Vibe: Known for its highly knowledgeable and friendly staff, it is an effortless stop right off Main Street to replenish your cooler, grab a bottle of whiskey for the trail, or prep for a special wilderness celebration.

Pro-Tips for Your Trail Provisioning

Plan Your Timeline: Store hours in rural frontier counties can vary widely compared to major cities. For instance, Clark’s Market closes at 6:00 PM on Sundays, and artisan spots like Blanco Cellars operate on specialized mid-day schedules (typically closing around 6:00 PM as well).

Zero Supply Zones: Keep in mind that once you leave the municipal limits of Meeker or Rangely, there are zero additional grocery or liquor storefronts. Always calculate your meals, water, and beverage needs carefully before driving out toward Trappers Lake, the wilderness boundaries, or the remote desert BLM tracks!