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Camping

Across the Yampa Valley, camping opportunities range from campgrounds with full amenities to a true wilderness experience in the Routt National Forest and designated Wilderness Areas. Connect with the ground beneath your feet and feel closer to the stars when you head off into the wilderness for a camping experience in Steamboat Springs. Vast forests, glimmering lakes and scenic views offer the perfect setting for your tent or camper. Whether you hike into the backcountry with supplies on your back, or camp just down the road from your car, explore the great outdoors and seek adventure with Steamboat’s vast camping options.

RV Camping

If you’re traveling with an RV, the KOA is the only campground located in Steamboat Springs. Outside of town options include Stagecoach State Park and Steamboat Lake State Park. The U.S. Forest Service lands surrounding Steamboat also have established campgrounds with amenities like restrooms and water hookups.

Car Camping

Steamboat Lake and Pearl Lake are state parks that offer convenient car camping, as do campgrounds on Rabbit Ears Pass along U.S. Highway 40 and Seedhouse Road in North Routt County. Buffalo Pass is a popular option for car camping with access to dozens of mountain biking and hiking trails. See below for additional campground options.

Steamboat Lake State Park is a popular destination for car camping in the summer.

Backpacking

The Zirkel and Flat Tops Wilderness areas are pristine expanses accessible by backpacking only and offer days upon days of beautiful hikes. When the sun fades from the sky and your legs are starting to tire, set up your tent and lay down your head anywhere you’d like. Next to a high alpine lake or deep in a forest, you’ll feel more connected to nature than you’ve ever imagined.

Backpacking in the Flat Tops Wilderness

Please note: overnight car camping within the city limits of Steamboat Springs is prohibited. Always check the closures of campgrounds as seasons can vary. Visit the U.S. Forest Service office in Steamboat between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday for additional and updated information on campsites and trails or call them at 970-870-2299.

Reservations: As of 2022, Routt County area campgrounds reservations have changed. Please view the article here for updates regarding campground reservations this upcoming summer.

Campgrounds

More Hiking and Backpacking Trails

Fire and WIldlife Saftey

It is vital to always practice fire safety when enjoying campgrounds and wilderness. Follow the link below for the best practices to prevent wildfires. Practice Leave No Trace principles when out camping, hiking, biking, and everything in between. These guidelines were created to empower people with the knowledge and awareness needed to help protect their most cherished outdoor environments.

Be informed on how best to interact with wildlife in Steamboat Springs and the surrounding area. New this summer, visitors to developed recreation sites on the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests must now comply with a forest order that requires proper storage of food and refuse which might attract bears. According to the Forest Order, unless food or refuse is being prepared for eating, being eaten, being transported, or being prepared for acceptable storage, it must be stored in bear-resistant containers or inside vehicles in sealed containers while in a restricted area.

Fire Safety Tips

Practice Leave No Trace

Wildlife Viewing Tips

Bear Saftey