Camping near Maybell, Colorado provides access to the rugged terrain of northwestern Colorado at elevations ranging from 5,900 to 7,500 feet. The region's semi-arid climate typically features warm summer days with temperatures in the 80s and cool nights dipping into the 40s even in July. Winter camping remains technically possible at lower elevations, though access roads often become difficult to navigate due to mud or snow conditions.
What to do
Wild horse viewing at Sand Wash Basin: This free BLM area 20 miles northwest of Maybell offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. According to one visitor, "Bring your camera because you just may be able to see some of the 700 wild horses roaming the area! Beautiful moment and capture if you do!" Sand Wash Basin provides an expansive area for both camping and wildlife observation.
River fishing access: The Yampa River provides excellent fishing opportunities with several access points. At Juniper Canyon, one camper noted, "access to the river for fishing was both incredible and makes this an amazing off the beaten path campground." The river is home to rainbow trout and several other species.
Hiking nearby trails: Several trails extend from campgrounds in the area. Deerlodge Park Campground offers hiking opportunities with scenic views. A visitor mentioned, "Deerlodge trail is nearby and is an excellent hike. We did see fresh bear poo but off of the main trail."
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The remote location provides exceptional stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. At Deerlodge Park Campground, one camper shared, "The night sky here is like nothing I've ever seen. I was fortunate enough to have a new moon and clear skies with consistent meteors."
River access for swimming: During summer months, the Yampa River provides swimming opportunities. A visitor to Juniper Canyon reported, "The river is shallow and wide and warm enough to swim in... access to the river for fishing was both incredible."
Privacy at primitive sites: Some campgrounds offer more seclusion than others. At BLM CO 1597, a visitor noted, "there were about 5 designated campsites spaced out along the road and we only stopped about halfway," indicating good separation between sites for those seeking more privacy.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to many dispersed camping areas requires vehicles with appropriate clearance. At Sand Wash Basin, a camper advised, "4wd recommended, especially if you go further down through the valley, gets pretty rough and big broken sharp rocks on the road." Another camper similarly noted about BLM CO 1597, "the road going in starts out fine but quickly turns slightly treacherous with large dips on the sharp curves."
Weather preparation is essential: The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations and wind conditions. A camper at Sand Wash Basin shared, "it was super duper windy at night to the point where it was tough to sleep even with my heavy canvas tent walls. I ended up leaving the next morning because the wind had gotten worse."
Water availability is limited: Most dispersed camping areas lack water sources. At Maybell Park, a visitor pointed out it is "the last place to stop for water or dumping after steamboat springs," making it an important resupply point before heading to more remote areas.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access at town park: Families looking for developed facilities should consider Maybell Park. One reviewer noted, "There is power for RV's and picnic tables. There is also a water refill and a park for kids to play."
Shade considerations for summer camping: Many sites lack natural shade. A visitor to BLM CO 1597 warned, "there was zero tree coverage so we woke up with the sun and were boiling by 9 and it was time to go!" Consider bringing shade structures during summer months.
Swimming opportunities: Some riverside campgrounds offer swimming access that kids enjoy. At Juniper Canyon, one camper noted the river was "warm enough to swim in," making it suitable for family water activities during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Dumping stations and utilities: Maybell Park offers services important to RVers. A camper shared, "This is a great small town overnight stop... There is also a water refill and a park for kids to play. It is the last place to stop for water or dumping after steamboat springs."
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional work to level RVs. At Yampa River Headquarters Campground, a visitor noted, "The RV sites are a bit close together, the tent sites are much more private. The RV sites have an awning-like structure with an enclosed side to the west."
Size limitations at primitive sites: Many dispersed camping areas can't accommodate larger RVs. A Sand Wash Basin camper advised, "There's a few spots it's a dirt/mud road through the entire Basin but there's some beautiful spots overlanders or vans can make it too."
