The Clark area sits at approximately 7,800 feet elevation in northwestern Colorado's Routt County, with significant temperature variations between seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 40°F at night to 80°F during daytime, while winter can bring deep snow and sub-zero conditions. Many campgrounds close seasonally, though several locations offer yurts and cabins for winter use.
What to do
Paddling on no-wake lakes: Pearl Lake State Park Campground offers pristine paddling experiences on a mountain lake that prohibits motorized watercraft. "You aren't allowed to take a boat of any kind on Pearl. The lake looks like glass and is so peaceful! You are allowed to fish from the shore and paddle board on lake," explains a regular visitor.
Hiking mountain trails: Several trails wind through the surrounding mountains, providing options for various skill levels. At North Michigan Campground, campers enjoy "hiking nearby is AMAZING and there is mountain biking and activities in Steamboat Springs," according to one reviewer. Another mentions the Lake Agnes trail: "It was a steep climb but well worth it. We alternated looking at the beauty of Lake Agnes and watching the skiers hiking to the top."
Wildlife viewing: The area is known for moose sightings, particularly in State Forest State Park. "We were around Cameron Pass and had given up on seeing any moose when we saw traffic slowing and cars stopped alongside the road - there were two young bull moose snacking by a small river on the side of the road!" shares one visitor who stopped at the Moose Visitor Center.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Campers frequently mention the well-designed sites at Steamboat Lake State Park. "We love camping on Steamboat Lake. It's absolutely gorgeous, surrounded by mountains, and offers plenty to do while visiting, including fishing, boating, biking, and hiking," shares one reviewer. Another notes, "The sites were spread out with trees and some privacy. The electric loop was full and the sites very close together."
Riverside relaxation: Water access is a major draw for many campers. At Steamboat Springs KOA, one camper reports, "We had a tent site right on the river. The river running through the campground was so refreshing after a day at the Balloon Rodeo... once we got back to the KOA we were so hot we took our chairs & sat them in the middle of the river & chilled."
Quiet off-season camping: Several campgrounds offer excellent experiences during less crowded periods. "We make a habit of visiting the week after Labor Day. The crowds are gone and the campground is peaceful. Amenities as small boat rentals remain open. The local deer migrate into the campground," shares one visitor to Steamboat Lake State Park.
What you should know
Winter access challenges: Many forest roads become impassable during winter months due to snow. "We stayed at these spots entirely due to the fact that bear lake was still frozen and the road up there was impassable," notes a camper at Bear River Designated Dispersed.
High winds at some locations: Certain campgrounds experience regular strong winds. One camper at Wolford Campground warns, "The campground has no shade, no trees, no cover, only some picnic tables have roof covers but no wind block. There is no cover or shelter from the wind. And it blows, everyday, according to the camp hosts. Sometimes extremely high winds - 40+ mph."
Limited services: Most campgrounds in the area have basic amenities only. "There were pit toilets, and they were well maintained. The sites appeared to have once had more in the way of trees and shade, but it looks as though SFSP was hit by the pine beetles, like so much of Colorado," reports a visitor to State Forest State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Reservoir activities: Yampa River Headquarters Campground offers family-friendly water access. "We spent July 4th holiday at this campground. The site had lots of green grass and some trees. We were close to the boat ramp so it was an easy walk down to the river," shares one visitor. Another mentions, "There is a nice reservoir and swimming beach at a nearby state run park."
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds feature play areas and activities designed for children. "We had a fantastic time at Steamboat Lake! Our family of 4 (5 year old & 9 year old) enjoyed the location, amenities, and nearby trails," notes one family camper. Another visitor to the Steamboat Springs KOA mentions, "There is a small pool, updated miniature golf course, trike rentals and the Yampa running through the campground."
Yurt accommodations: For families seeking an alternative to tent camping, yurt camping in Clark, Colorado offers comfortable shelter with basic furnishings. North Park Campground in State Forest State Park provides yurts with mountain views. "There is also Yurt camping here. There is no electric hook up for the RVs but there is a dump station. Water can be found in a few areas around the park," explains a camper.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookups: Several campgrounds offer electrical connections. "We camped in the non-electric loop and there were very few people. The sites were spread out with trees and some privacy. The electric loop was full and the sites very close together," reports a visitor to Steamboat Lake State Park.
Limited leveling space: Some RV sites require careful positioning. "Wasn't horrible leveling a small camper, but I can see why larger ones would have a hard time," notes a visitor to Wolford Campground. Another camper mentions, "We stayed in the original Campground with a center, gravel, pull thru, #71. Then, moved to #31 a back-in site against the fence and away from the road. Although it was smaller, we personally liked #31 better."
Dump stations: Plan ahead for waste disposal, as not all campgrounds offer full hookups. One RVer at Yampa River State Park notes, "Dump station and potable water fill available. Sites only have electric but 30 and 50 Amp. Sites have plenty of room between them."
