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Established Camping

Summit Lake

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.

Description

National Forest

Summit Lake Campground generally does not open until Mid July and is located on Buffalo Pass in the Steamboat Springs Area. It provides 9 back-in campsites and 6 walk-in tent sites. Each site has a table and a fire grate, and vault toilets and trash service is offered. Day Use is also obtainable in two parking lots provided for the visitor to use while fishing or picnicking. Only hand powered watercraft are permitted on Summit Lake, with no boat ramp available. This campground provides great opportunities for mountain biking, dirt biking and ATVing, horseback riding, fishing and hiking. It is located near the boundary of Mount Zirkel Wilderness which offers numerous backcountry opportunities. This campground is managed by the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District.

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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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Access

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

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Good
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

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

Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

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
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
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
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.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost to camp at Summit Lake?

    Camping at Summit Lake can starts at $10.00.

  • What is the max vehicle length at Summit Lake?

    Summit Lake allows vehicles up to 18 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Summit Lake?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Summit Lake, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Summit Lake have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Summit Lake does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Summit Lake?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is good, AT&T is unknown, and T-Mobile is unknown.