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$10 / night

$10 / night

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Established Camping

Summit Lake

5 Reviews
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Summit Lake, near Coalmont, Colorado, is a picturesque campground that offers a serene escape into nature. With its stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, it’s a fantastic spot for those looking to unwind and soak in the beauty of the outdoors.

The campground is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for tent and RV camping. Visitors have raved about the incredible sunsets and starry nights, with one camper sharing, “Stars were AMAZING that night.” While there are no reservable sites, the well-maintained grounds include picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for gathering around the campfire.

For adventure seekers, Summit Lake is surrounded by trails for hiking, biking, and ATV riding. The drive to the campground can be a bit bumpy, but many agree that the journey is worth it for the stunning scenery and tranquility. As one reviewer noted, “If you're willing to make the trek, it is definitely worth it!”

While the campground doesn’t have water on-site, it does provide essential amenities like toilets and trash disposal. Just keep in mind that it can get busy during peak times, so plan accordingly. Whether you’re looking to relax by the lake or hit the trails, Summit Lake is a great choice for your next camping adventure.

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Location

Summit Lake is located in Colorado

Detail location of campground

Directions

Directions from Steamboat Springs: Travel 2 miles north of Steamboat Springs on Routt County Road 36 (Strawberry Park Road), then 13 miles northeast on Routt County Road 38 (Buffalo Pass Road). Campground is at the summit.

Coordinates

40.5450005 N
106.68400055 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Teal Lake Group Campsite

Teal Lake Group Campsite

17 min away

Hidden Lakes Campground

Hidden Lakes Campground

20 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

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Reviews

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5 Reviews

Sue B.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Aug. 9, 2025

Stunning views

Lovely area, stunning views and lots of hiking options. Only a few sites to accommodate our camper van. Most are best for tents.

Arrived early evening (5:30ish) on a Thursday and stayed 1 night. Encountered a couple of ATV riders packing it in for the day. Can imagine it could have the potential to be busy with dirt bikes and ATVs on the weekends.

A long drive to get to Steamboat. We were told by both a law enforcement employee and the ATVers not to take the road to the left (west) past the lake down as there are parts that require high clearance. If you have a vehicle that can handle it, it cuts the trip in half.

Site1
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Summit Lake by Sue B., August 9, 2025
  • Review photo of Summit Lake by Sue B., August 9, 2025
  • Review photo of Summit Lake by Sue B., August 9, 2025
  • (20) View All
G
Reviewed Aug. 29, 2021

One of the best nights of my life!

We caught a beautiful sunset on the way up. Saw and heard wildlife. Stars were AMAZING that night. Saw so many shooting stars. We had perfect weather when we went.

Site4
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Summit Lake by Grace B., August 29, 2021
  • Review photo of Summit Lake by Grace B., August 29, 2021
  • Review photo of Summit Lake by Grace B., August 29, 2021
AThe Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Aug. 1, 2021

Hidden Gem

Beautiful quiet campground  but a little hard to get to. Road from the east is much better than from Steamboat Springs. Quiet , well maintained,  more suited to car/tent camping. Great views of lake from many sites. Grills, tables, trash and toilets, No water. Went on weeknight  in July and it was about 3/4 full

Site2
Month of VisitJuly
Jennicca T.
Reviewed Jul. 9, 2019

Worth The Bumpy Drive Up

The lake was beautiful. We went in July 2018 not really knowing what we were getting into. Google maps will tell you it is a 20 min drive from Steamboat... It does not take into account driving slow due to the road condition. The drive time is actually about 45 min to an hour. I did see small cars attempt to go up but I highly recommend 4x4 to get there.

If you're willing to make the trek it is definitely worth it! The drive actually has some great views on the way up. Lots of trails for biking, hiking or ATVs. When we went it was relatively quiet and very busy. We also went the weekend of the balloon festival so I expected it to be much busier.

Overall would so again if my main goal was to hike or do activities in that area. This is not a campground to stay at if you plan on doing activities in Steamboat, unless you don't mind the drive up.

  • Review photo of Summit Lake by Jennicca T., July 9, 2019
  • Review photo of Summit Lake by Jennicca T., July 9, 2019
  • Review photo of Summit Lake by Jennicca T., July 9, 2019
  • (4) View All
Vincent C.
Reviewed Jun. 6, 2018

Not worth a night

Long drive for a loud, crowded campground. Expect plenty of dirt bikers also. I would either keep going up Buff pass toward Fishcreek Res. or camp lower just below the second gate.

Showing results 1-5 of 5 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and facilities are available at Summit Lake Campground?

Summit Lake Campground offers basic facilities suitable for a rustic camping experience. The campground provides picnic tables, fire grills, trash collection, and vault toilets. There is no potable water available, so campers need to bring their own water supply. The sites are more suited for tent camping, though a few can accommodate camper vans. Each site offers beautiful views of the lake, making it worth the minimal amenities.

Where is Summit Lake Campground located near Steamboat Springs, Colorado?

Summit Lake Campground is located about 45 minutes to an hour drive from Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The access road requires careful navigation and slow driving due to its condition, which is why the journey takes longer than map estimates suggest. The approach from the east is notably better than from Steamboat Springs. The campground sits at a higher elevation, offering stunning mountain views, wildlife sightings, and impressive stargazing opportunities.

Is dispersed camping allowed at Summit Lake?

Summit Lake primarily offers designated camping sites rather than dispersed camping. For those seeking dispersed camping options, continuing further up Buffalo Pass toward Fishcreek Reservoir may provide better opportunities. Alternatively, camping at lower elevations just below the second gate could be an option. Always check with local forest service offices for current regulations regarding dispersed camping in the area.

What do visitors say in reviews about Summit Lake Campground?

Visitors describe Summit Lake as a beautiful camping destination with stunning views and excellent stargazing opportunities. Many appreciate the quiet weeknight atmosphere, though it can become crowded and noisy on weekends with significant ATV and dirt bike activity. The campground is well-maintained but requires preparation for a rustic experience. The access road presents challenges, taking 45-60 minutes from Steamboat Springs due to rough conditions. Most sites accommodate tents best, with limited options for larger vehicles. Hikers appreciate the various trails available in the surrounding area.

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