Routt National Forest's Seedhouse Campground sits along the Elk River corridor northeast of Steamboat Springs, operating under US Forest Service management from late May through early September. The road in carries a rough access warning, so campers with low-clearance vehicles should plan accordingly. No RVs are permitted. Sites are set within forested terrain with some open areas, and multiple reviewers mention that the sound of the river carries through much of the campground, including at night.
Water access is a consistent draw here. The Elk River runs close enough to be audible from most sites, and fly fishing is a noted activity. Trailheads leading toward the Mount Zirkel Wilderness are roughly 15 minutes away, with the route to Lake Gilpin drawing specific mention. Nearby options include Middle Fork Elk River Camp and the Seedhouse Group Site - Medicine-bow Routt Nf (CO) for groups or parties needing more space.
Cell service is absent at the campground. The town of Clark, about 20 minutes out, has free WiFi and a general store with firewood. Steamboat Lake, a bit farther, offers day-use showers and laundry facilities for a $7 pass. Temperatures can drop into the 40s overnight even in midsummer, so warm layers are worth packing regardless of the forecast. Reservations are available and recommended, as Samuel L. sums it up well: "Rustic, quiet campground and friendly rangers."
Seedhouse works well for anglers, hikers, and campers comfortable with a remote setting who want a base for exploring camping spots around Routt National Forest without sacrificing basic amenities like drinking water and trash service.
Description
Overview
Seedhouse Campground is a gateway to the Mount Zirkel Wilderness along the Elk River with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, camping, off highway vehicles, hunting, fishing, river rafting and more. At an elevation of 8,000 feet, Seedhouse Campground lies in the mountains of the Park Range near the Middle Fork of the Elk River. The Middle Fork of the Elk River is so close, campground visitors can hear its roar. Campers can access the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail via a connector trail nearby. There are 24 campsites, 15 of which may be reserved. Remaining sites are first-come, first-served. There are two hand pump water systems throughout the campground.
Recreation
Seedhouse is located near Mount Zirkel Wilderness and provides a great gateway for hiking and biking. Trout fishing is accessible on the river as well as several mountain streams. Campers can access the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail via a connector trail nearby.
Facilities
There are 24 campsites, 15 of which may be reserved. Remaining sites are first-come, first-served. Each site is spacious and equipped with a campfire ring and picnic table. There are two hand pump water systems throughout the campground.
Natural Features
At an elevation of 8,000 feet, Seedhouse lies in the Rocky Mountains in the heart of the Routt National Forest near the Middle Fork of the Elk River, which visitors can hear from the campground. The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland encompass nearly three million acres from central and northeastern Wyoming to north-central Colorado. Black bear, bobcat, coyote, elk, mule deer and moose are just some of the many animals that inhabit these rich and diverse lands.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors might also enjoy stopping by Steamboat Lake State Park, only a short drive away. Many more outdoor opportunities exist in the surrounding national forests and grasslands, including hiking, biking, camping, horseback and off-road vehicle riding, fishing, hunting, sightseeing and winter sports.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsSeedhouse Campground is located in Colorado near Clark
Directions
From downtown Steamboat Springs, Colorado, take U.S. Highway 40 west and turn right on Routt County Road 129, locally known as Elk River Road. Continue north 17 miles, cross the Elk River just beyond the Clark Store, and turn right along the river on RCR 64, which becomes Forest Road 400/Seedhouse Road. Continue for 9 miles. Seedhouse Campground is on the right, just after the bridge over the North Fork of the Elk River.
Address
925 WEISS DRIVE
Steamboat springs, CO 80487-9315
Coordinates
40.7723833 N
106.7714667 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 7/15/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 7/15/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
Drive Time
- 3 hrs 45 min from Cheyenne, WY
- 3 hrs 52 min from Boulder, CO
- 4 hrs 2 min from Fort Collins, CO
- 4 hrs 24 min from Greeley, CO
