Routt National Forest contains several dispersed tent camping options near Clark, Colorado. Located within the Mount Zirkel Wilderness area, these campsites range from 7,000 to 9,000 feet in elevation, making seasonal weather conditions a major consideration. Most primitive sites have no potable water sources and campers must bring their own supplies.
What to do
Soak at natural hot springs: Strawberry Park Hot Springs offers multiple pools of varying temperatures alongside camping opportunities. Visitor Alex R. notes, "Super clean, great facilities and friendly staff!"
Fishing in alpine lakes: At Hahns Peak Lake Campground, anglers can catch trout in a peaceful mountain setting. Scott W. shares, "We spent a week here and loved it. The campground is an hour north of Steamboat Springs and on Hahn's Peak Lake."
Gold panning: Middle Fork Campground provides access to streams where visitors can try their luck at finding gold. According to Fadelle P., "You can pan for gold or fish. The creek runs right behind a number of the campsites."
Hiking wilderness trails: Several trailheads around Clark serve as base camps for extensive hiking networks. The Katherine Trailhead connects to multi-day backpacking routes with significant elevation gains through subalpine terrain.
What campers like
Privacy at primitive sites: The best tent camping near Clark, Colorado often includes secluded spots away from crowds. Amber P. says about Beaver Creek Trailhead, "Beautiful views, one of our fav places. Completely free just follow the dispersed camping rules."
Well-maintained facilities: Some established campgrounds feature thoughtful landscaping and clean facilities. At Middle Fork Campground, Fadelle P. appreciated that "The owners have planted trees and flowers at every site and the wildflowers were also in bloom."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many tent sites offer chances to observe elk, deer, and various bird species in their natural habitat. The Grizzly Trailhead area provides access to wildlife corridors active during dawn and dusk hours.
No reservation requirements: Several dispersed camping areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing for spontaneous weekend trips. Red Canyon Trailhead offers primitive tent camping without reservation requirements.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Access to some of the best tent camping sites requires appropriate vehicles. Shannon G. found Strawberry Park Hot Springs to be "a beautiful place and the hot springs is the most natural one I've been too. Area is clean and well kept."
Fire restrictions are common: Many trailhead camping areas prohibit fires year-round, while others implement seasonal bans. Pitchpine Trailhead enforces strict no-fire policies regardless of season.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Most dispersed camping locations have no toilets, water, or waste disposal. Lone Pine North Trailhead requires campers to pack out all waste and bring sufficient water supplies.
Temperature fluctuations: Even summer nights can drop below freezing at higher elevations. Joe W., who stayed at Routt National Forest Hahns Peak Lake Campground, reported, "What a beautiful drive to the campsite. Our girls had a blast exploring and making their 'fort'."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds: Families with young children often prefer sites with basic amenities. Joe W. recommends Hahns Peak, saying, "A very clean and peaceful place with an amazing view. The lake itself is beautiful and offers people great photo opportunities."
Plan for limited cell service: Most tent camping areas have no cellular coverage, requiring advance planning for emergencies. Bring physical maps and establish check-in protocols with someone outside your group.
Pack extra clothing layers: Children particularly need protection from rapid temperature changes. Nighttime temperatures at Lone Pine South Trailhead can drop 30-40 degrees from daytime highs.
Bring wildlife-proof food storage: Grizzly Creek Trailhead and surrounding areas require proper food storage containers to prevent animal encounters, as black bears are active throughout the region.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most primitive tent camping areas near Clark prohibit RVs entirely. The few suitable locations have strict length restrictions, typically under 22 feet.
Consider tent camping alternative: Some RVers opt to park at designated areas and set up tents instead. Emily C. shares about Strawberry Park: "I thought this was going to be a real campground with reserved spots as it costs 110$ per night and they say reservations are necessary. However they offered me car park and a spot by the river where I could walk down and cook."
Access road challenges: Many forest roads leading to prime tent camping spots have rough conditions unsuitable for RVs. High-clearance vehicles with 4WD are often necessary, especially after rain events when muddy conditions prevail.
