Middle Fork Elk River Camp

This dispersed camping area sits about 125 yards off Seedhouse Road within Routt National Forest, offering multiple sites with established fire rings. Campers can drive directly to the spots or walk in from the access road, with enough space for horse trailers to navigate the loop. The area features at least three separate camping spots that can accommodate groups or provide options for individual parties.

Located roughly 10 miles from Clark, the camp provides views toward the Zirkel Wilderness mountains and sits near the Elk River. Summer temperatures reach the 70s during the day and drop to the 30s at night. The Mount Zirkel Loop trailhead lies just three miles down the road, making this a practical base for hikers exploring the wilderness area.

Suggest an Edit

RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsMiddle Fork Elk River Camp is located in Colorado near Clark

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

40.77301202 N
106.7581462 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No 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

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Middle Fork Elk River Camp needs a permit.

Drive Time


2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Middle Fork Elk River Camp

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

100%
0%
0%
0%
0%

5.0

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 25, 2025

Best spot on seedhouse road

This spot was prime. about 125yds off seedhouse rad and 50 yds off of the access road. Plenty of room to spread out. Fire ring. Epic View of the mountains in Zirkel Wilderness. It was amazing to come back to our camp spot after hiking the Mount Zirkel Loop trail all day, only being 3 miles down the road. Actually has 3 spots with fire rings so could accommodate more.  70s during the day and 30s at night in June.

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Jul. 21, 2024

Great Dispersed Camping Spot Near Steamboat Springs

Great camping spot near Elk Run River and surrounded by the Rockies. It's a pretty big spot with two sides, so there could be two camping spots or one big one. The drive does a loop where you can tell horse trailers have been pulled through, so there is plenty of room for a group. There's a nearby convenience store in Clark that has a liquor store, deli, and post office. We would love to return and visit the Glen Eden Lodge, too! I'm curious as to what is in Slavonia... I'm sure we'll take a look tomorrow. We did drive past the first spot and noticed a few other camping spots just off the road but turned around before going back too far.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Middle Fork Elk River Camp by Kasy A., July 21, 2024
  • Review photo of Middle Fork Elk River Camp by Kasy A., July 21, 2024
  • Play button icon
  • (4) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a permit required for dispersed camping at Elk River?

No permit is specifically required for dispersed camping at Middle Fork Elk River Camp. However, it's always advisable to check with the local Forest Service office for any seasonal restrictions or fire bans that might be in effect. Standard dispersed camping regulations apply, including length-of-stay limitations and proper waste disposal requirements.

Where are the best dispersed camping spots along Elk River?

The best dispersed camping spots near Elk River include the Middle Fork Elk River Camp area, which features a spacious site with two sides that can accommodate either two separate camping groups or one large gathering. The area forms a loop that's suitable for horse trailers and large groups. Prime spots can be found about 125 yards off Seedhouse Road and 50 yards from the access road, offering stunning views of the mountains in Zirkel Wilderness. The location provides ample room to spread out while maintaining relatively easy access to roads.

What activities can you do while dispersed camping at Elk River?

While dispersed camping at Middle Fork Elk River Camp, visitors can enjoy numerous outdoor activities in the surrounding area. The nearby Elk Run River offers opportunities for fishing and water recreation. Hiking is a major draw, with the Mount Zirkel Loop trail just 3 miles from the campsite. The location in the Rockies and proximity to Zirkel Wilderness provides access to extensive trail systems for day hikes and backpacking adventures. The area is also suitable for horseback riding, with adequate space for horse trailers at the camp. Wildlife viewing, photography, and stargazing are excellent given the remote mountain setting.

What amenities or facilities are available for dispersed camping at Elk River?

Middle Fork Elk River Camp offers minimal amenities, which is typical for dispersed camping. The site includes established fire rings for safe campfires. There are no developed facilities such as toilets, running water, or trash service, so campers must be prepared to pack out all waste. The campsite's layout provides plenty of space to spread out equipment and vehicles, with room for multiple tents or setups. Being a true dispersed site, visitors should come fully self-sufficient with all necessary camping supplies.