Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland sits at elevations ranging from 6,000 to over 12,000 feet across northern Colorado and southern Wyoming. The area experiences wide temperature swings with nighttime temperatures dropping below 40°F even in summer months. Many campgrounds are accessible via dirt forest roads that can become difficult to navigate during spring runoff or after rainfall.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: Multiple trails from Seedhouse Road provide access to stunning alpine lakes in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness. "There is a nice hike that goes over the dam and then climbs up and away from civilization," notes a visitor to Pearl Lake State Park Campground.
Paddleboarding on calm waters: Lakes throughout the region offer ideal conditions for paddleboards with minimal motorboat traffic. At Ranger Lakes Campground, "The lake is perfect for canoe, paddle board, kayak, we tried swimming but the water is super cold. It's also very clear and clean."
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts abundant wildlife including moose, deer, and bears. "We were visited by a moose at dinner time two nights in a row as she had unfortunately become accustomed to eating from people's unsecured trash and had a special liking for hot dogs and potato chips," reports a visitor to The Crags Campground.
Mountain biking: Trail systems offer technical terrain for experienced riders. "I love the ability to ride into town to the mountain bike trails on Emerald Mountain. On your way back from the amazing singletrack, be sure to stop at Taco Cabo to grab to-go grub," recommends a camper from Steamboat Springs.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Lakefront camping spots provide direct water access and increased privacy. A visitor to The Crags Campground noted, "This is a pitch your tent, start a fire, watch the deer walk thru type campground. Beautiful views of the Rockies, trails for all levels of hiking."
Yurt accommodations: Yurt camping in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests provides shelter with basic amenities in remote settings. "We stayed in cabin #3 and it was an awesome experience! We had room enough for 4 people and 3 dogs and didn't feel like we were on top of each other. The gas stove kept us nice and toasty all night long!" shares a winter visitor to North Michigan Campground.
Natural hot springs access: Thermal pools offer relaxation after hiking or during cooler weather. "Super clean, great facilities and friendly staff!" notes a visitor to Strawberry Park Hot Springs, which maintains natural pools of various temperatures.
Off-season solitude: September and October visits often yield greater wildlife sightings and fewer crowds. "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 a camper from Dutch Hill Campground.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have no cellular coverage, requiring advance planning. "There is no cell serves past the entrance so be sure to book in advance," warns a visitor to North Park Campground.
Wildlife safety concerns: Proper food storage is critical as wildlife frequently enters campgrounds. At Steamboat Lake State Park, one camper observed that "Full on weekends and the sites very close together," noting that "The electric loop was full and the sites very close together."
Road conditions: Access roads to remote campgrounds can be challenging for certain vehicles. A visitor to Laramie River Road Dispersed camping reports, "The road is a county dirt road but it is very well maintained and fairly wide."
Reservation systems: Most established campgrounds require advance booking through state reservation systems. "This is a reservation only campground. If you drive in and find an un-reserved site you can take it for the night but need to reserve online for subsequent nights."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible fishing spots: Many lakes offer shore fishing suitable for children. At Steamboat Springs KOA, "This campground has so many perks. Not only is there a beautiful Mountain View but it also has the Yampa river running through it... my favorite part about this campground is the fact you can stand on the bridge or sit by the Yampa River and enjoy the beauty and sounds, and watching people fly fish."
Temperature management: Pack warm clothing even for summer trips due to significant day-night temperature variations. "It does get cold at night even in summer as it's about 9,000 ft above sea level," advises a camper from Laramie River Road.
Activity centers: Some campgrounds offer additional recreation beyond hiking and fishing. "There is a small pool, updated miniature golf course, trike rentals and the Yampa running through the campground," notes a KOA visitor.
Wildlife education opportunities: Ranger programs and visitor centers provide educational experiences. "We stopped in the visitor center for maps and hiking recommendations. We settled on Lake Agnes. It was a steep climb but well worth it."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most Forest Service and dispersed sites lack hookups entirely. "No hookups but the views are worth it!" notes a visitor to North Park Campground.
Dump station locations: Plan waste management carefully as dump stations are limited. "Only has electric and water hookup and the dump station was not convenient," warns an RVer at Ranger Lakes Campground.
Site selection strategy: Research individual sites as size and sun exposure vary greatly. "Half of the upper loop sites have a lake and mountain view. Plenty space between sites for privacy too," shares a camper from North Michigan Campground.
