Craig, Colorado sits at 6,198 feet elevation in northwest Colorado's Yampa Valley, with most camping areas located between 6,000-9,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms in July and August. Most campgrounds near Craig have seasonal operations, with limited facilities available during winter months.
What to do
Fishing at Freeman Reservoir: Just 22 miles northeast of Craig, the reservoir offers non-motorized boating and fishing opportunities. "My brother caught a 16" rainbow which provided supper one night," notes one visitor at Yampa River Headquarters Campground.
Fall color viewing: The higher elevation campgrounds provide spectacular autumn displays. "We went up in Mid-sept with our dogs to photograph fall color change and were not disappointed. There is a short trail around the reservoir and we even got pictures of a couple beavers," reports a camper about Freeman Reservoir Campground.
Mountain biking: The region offers trails for various skill levels. "We stayed for 5 nights on vacation to ride the mountain bike trails and hike. Was convenient but would consider staying elsewhere in the future," shares a visitor at Eagle Soaring RV Park.
What campers like
Natural privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at certain campgrounds. "The campsites are well separated, and screened by trees for good privacy. Despite a mostly full campground after dark it was very quiet, no generators, no barking dogs, and no big parties," reports a guest at Freeman Reservoir Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area's diverse ecosystems attract various animals. "The mule deer were nightly visitors during our two night stay," mentions a camper at Dutch Hill Campground.
Seasonal quiet periods: Visiting during off-peak times provides a more peaceful experience. "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," notes another Dutch Hill camper.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. "No cell and weak WiFi reception, so I was not able to use phone or computer," reports a guest at Trail and Hitch RV Park in Meeker.
Weather patterns: Mountain weather can change rapidly. "Was very cold when I was here, low about 12° also got hit with 40-60 mile an hour winds - Strongest I've experienced in six years traveling in this RV," shares another Trail and Hitch visitor.
Insect activity: Mosquitoes can be troublesome in some areas. "The mosquitos are awful at all times of the day! And the wildflowers are stunning," mentions a camper at Bear Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some rv sites near Craig, Colorado include play areas for children. "Playground is nice. Very friendly," shares a visitor at River Camp RV Park in Meeker.
Fishing opportunities for kids: Several lakes in the area are stocked and offer easy fishing access. "2 great lakes that are stocked (3 kids + 1/2 hr = 12 trout) within walking distance," reports a happy family at Bear Lake Campground.
Wildlife education: Small animals provide entertainment and learning opportunities. "The chipmunks were alittle intrusive but my dog was fully entertained by them," mentions another Bear Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Many campgrounds near Craig have well-maintained rv pads. "Sites are gravel for the RV, very level, and very well maintained. All sites are pull through. Hookups are in very good condition," notes a traveler at Eagle Soaring RV Park.
Driving conditions: Access roads to some camping areas require caution. "Caution: The road is very washboard the entire way, so plan on about 45 minutes to get there from Yampa," warns a visitor about the route to Bear Lake Campground.
Sewer connections: Some rv sites near Craig, Colorado have unusual hookup configurations. "Our sewer connection has a small uphill to it, but still slightly below our tank bottoms," reports a camper at River Camp RV Park.
Site selection for privacy: When reserving rv camping near Craig, choose sites carefully. "Good space between sites, some are quite remote from others," mentions another River Camp visitor, highlighting the variation in site privacy even within the same campground.
