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Camping near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland

553 Reviews

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland in Colorado provide diverse camping opportunities amidst the majestic Rocky Mountains. Big Creek Lakes Campground is a popular choice, open from June to August, offering access to the serene lakes perfect for fishing and kayaking. Deep Creek Campground, nestled within the forest, presents a tranquil setting with nearby hiking trails that showcase the area's natural beauty. The proximity to the Colorado River allows for additional water-based activities, such as rafting and fishing. Campers should be aware that some sites may have limited amenities, requiring self-sufficiency. The summer months bring pleasant weather, though afternoon thunderstorms are common, so preparation is key. Winter camping is possible but requires specialized gear due to snow and cold temperatures. The nearby Great Sand Dunes offer a unique landscape for exploration and photography. Wildlife enthusiasts may encounter moose, elk, and various bird species during their stay. Facilities at these campgrounds range from basic to more developed, with some providing potable water and restrooms. It's advisable to check for any seasonal closures or restrictions before planning your trip. Whether you're camping in a tent or an RV, the area's natural attractions and recreational opportunities make it a worthwhile destination.

Map showing campgrounds near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, ColoradoExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland (190)

    1. Big Creek Lakes Campground

    6 Reviews
    Cowdrey, CO
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 723-2700

    $20 / night

    "Great spot for car camping in Colorado except its distance from Denver. It’s a trek! Takes at least 4 hours (that’s if you’re lucky). Lots to do."

    "Big Creek Lakes Campground, Colorado (close to Wyoming border): camping here is only open for 3 months out of the year: June, July & August."

    2. Dutch Hill Campground — Steamboat Lake State Park

    27 Reviews
    Clark, CO
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 879-3922

    $18 - $28 / night

    "Colorado does a great job with their parks and this is no exception. Stayed here spur of the moment booking two nights prior to the stay."

    "This is one of our favorite campgrounds in Colorado. We make a habit of visiting the week after Labor Day. The crowds are gone and the campground is peaceful."

    3. Six Mile Campground

    4 Reviews
    Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 326-5258

    "on six mile road near the CO/WY border. We did the float on the North Platte River. This is a minimal campground near the river with nothing more than a vault toilet."

    "Potable water a walk aways...may need 3 hands to operate. Excellent hiking opportunities."

    4. Beaver Creek Trailhead

    1 Review
    Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, CO
    4 miles

    5. Dispersed Camping in Routt National Forest

    4 Reviews
    Cowdrey, CO
    13 miles
    Website

    "After deciding to take a weekend rafting trip along the Wyoming/Colorado section of the Platte River, we planned to just find dispersed camping options within the surrounding National Forest area."

    6. Encampment River Campground — Bureau Of Land Management

    7 Reviews
    Encampment, WY
    18 miles
    +1 (307) 328-4200

    "Short walk to his/hers vault toilets in day use area. Trash cans nearby. Site was level & accommodated my van. Area for setting up tent. Hammock camping possible."

    "There is a nice trail along the river that obviously was made by anglers, but you can go for some ways before it petters out."

    7. Pickaroon Campground

    3 Reviews
    Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, CO
    13 miles
    Website

    "There's a trailhead nearby for Douglas Creek Trail. This is a Wilderness and it is wild. We saw Marmots, Big Horn Sheep, and other wildlife."

    8. Sunrise Vista Campground — Steamboat Lake State Park

    12 Reviews
    Clark, CO
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 879-3922

    $18 - $28 / night

    "Nice, quiet site with mountains all around. Walking distance to the trail around the lake. Beautiful view of Hahn's Peak!"

    "Lots of access to restrooms & potable water. Lake & shower access is about a mile away drive or 1/2 mile walk on a trail."

    9. gilpin lake

    1 Review
    Clark, CO
    12 miles

    10. Seedhouse Campground

    4 Reviews
    Clark, CO
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 870-2299

    $26 / night

    "Perfect campsite for being remote but still close to some conveniences if you would like. I stayed with my group of 7 from Thursday 7/23 to Sunday 7/26."

    "Great place for a getaway, minutes from multiple hiking trails or streams for some fly fishing.  Stop by and visit the store in nearby Clark.  "

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Recent Camping Photos near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland

203 Photos of 190 Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland

553 Reviews of 190 Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland Campgrounds

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2025

    Meeboer Lake

    Best cell signal

    Of the 3 or 4 spots out here this has by far the best cell over by the boat ramp I get 4 bars of 5g on verizon. This is similar to all the other spots in the area. Gravel area. Some picnic tables and a vault toilet seems to be the standard load out in this area. This one does have a large pull through spot where a guy had a very large pull behind and a truck so if you have a bigger rig check thus one out. Not as many waterfront spots here tho

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2025

    Gelatt Lake Park

    Smallest of the area

    This is the smallest of the lakes in the 5 mile radius. Its also closest to town. It seems like maybe a couple people are staying long term here but seem to keep to themselves. Had a vault toilet like the othet spots and a little better verizon signal 2 -3 bars. The gravel lot and turn around area is alot smaller and not as big rig friendly. Their is a small pier to fish off of and a small picnic area. None of the " spot" seem to have a fire ring or table. Maybe skip this spot and go down the road to one of the bigger spots

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2025

    Lake Hattie Public Access Area

    Not a campground

    On dyrt this is green icon as if it were a campground. It really isnt. There are only a few spots and they are really just random picnic tables in a field. No designated spots or numbers, just kind of a gravel lot with some places thrown around. Their is a vault toilet and 2 bars verizon cell. The little lake has a boat ramp but in october it is currently snowing and the water appears very shallow. This place will work but is not a destination. A few bad apples in close proximity could make this a really annoying place

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2025

    Twin Butte Lake

    Area around lake

    When you first pull in there is a vault toilet and a gravel lot. That is NOT this camp. Take the road down and around the lake. Their is a second vault toilet and many spots right on the waters edge. This is a great spot for fishing as you can camp all along the edge of the lake. The road is okay not great a 4x4 is required for a couple spots but you can access many with a normal car. Cell signal all depends on if you are on a hill or not anywhere from 0-3 verizon bars but you need to face backward to town. Just know its a windy and exposed spot

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2025

    Twin Buttes Reservoir

    Season matters here

    A nice place in the summer but brutal past October. The wind absolutely ravages this place. Your van or RV will rock. There isnt a tree in sight just open land so you feel really exposed. There is a large gravel lot and a couple picnic table and fire pit spots. You can park a big rig in here in the gravel lot. There is also a pit toilet. If you face back to town you can get okay not great verizon signal. If you gave the water the signal is very poor. Overall this is just a 1 night place.

  • Haley B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    Great place for one night, confusing if you show up at night!

    We ended up driving too far and just parking next to the lake for the night to camp. Lots of dirt trails near the lake, maybe not for camping but we showed up after driving 6 hours. The gps takes you past the 2 visible pulloffs that would be great for campers

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2025

    White Rock Canyon Dispersed Site

    Huge site, Alpine woods

    There are sites all along the road left and right all the way back in here, and every one of them is relatively secluded and equally beautiful. Depending on which site you stop at, you may or may not have cell service. There are no other services. I'd come back here in a heartbeat it was so beautiful and restful And pleasant. Beautiful patches of wildflowers, the wooded slopes, and soft green grass. All made for an idyllic stop. Next time I'll stay a week.

  • Shirlee A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Saratoga Lake Campground

    Good stop over

    Beautiful view of the lake

    There is electricity on the sites which is great But no drinking water or dump station anywhere so come prepared.

    Super close to town and to the hot springs about 7 min ride

  • Susan D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    FR-302 Dispersed Camping - Rabbit Ears Pass

    Great spot

    We found a spot about a mile up 302. You hit kind of an intersection. We took the road to the right and went all the way to the end. It ends in a big loop (really big enough space for a few rvs). We pull a 33' fifth wheel and just went slow. The spot at the end was beautiful!

Guide to Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland

Camping near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning views, outdoor activities, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the many trails in the area. One camper mentioned, "We had six moose, one with a very tiny baby come through our site at night and in the morning," while enjoying the nearby trails at Deep Creek Campground.
  • Fishing: The lakes and rivers are great for fishing. A visitor at Encampment River Campground said, "Small fish but fun to catch and release. I will return."
  • Wildlife Viewing: Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife. One reviewer at Sugarloaf Campground noted, "We saw three big moose pass through the campground."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful scenery. A visitor at Brooklyn Lake Campground said, "Beautiful campground, fills up fast! Rock road up to the campground! Narrow turns, big rigs not recommended."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peaceful environment. One camper at Saratoga Lake Campground shared, "We were surprised how nice and peaceful it was. We definitely love it."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and well-maintained sites are a plus. A reviewer at Steamboat Springs KOA mentioned, "The grounds are pretty and well kept and clean. Showers were spotlessly cleaned."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Buffalo Pass Dispersed, have no water or trash services. A camper noted, "You will not be able to get anything low clearance or anything you're towing that does not have independent suspension + high clearance."
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in the evenings. A visitor at Brooklyn Lake Campground warned, "Bring bug spray as the mosquitos are very bad."
  • First-Come, First-Served: Many sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A camper at Sugarloaf Campground said, "We arrived on Wednesday morning to find all sites occupied."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities like picnic tables and fire rings. A reviewer at Saratoga Lake Campground mentioned, "The spots are clean and there is always a place open when we roll in."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games or outdoor gear for family fun. One camper at Sunrise Vista Campground enjoyed, "Hiking, kayaking, wildlife viewing, fishing."
  • Be Prepared for Weather Changes: Campers noted that temperatures can drop at night. A visitor at Dutch Hill Campground advised, "Bring a change of clothes as the mornings and evenings are chilly."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Accessibility: Make sure your RV can navigate the roads. A reviewer at Deep Creek Campground said, "The road in is good gravel, I had no phone reception 'Thank God.'"
  • Look for Full Hookups: Some campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be a game-changer. A visitor at Steamboat Springs KOA mentioned, "Site 74 was perfectly flat and needed no leveling."
  • Plan for Limited Services: Be aware that some sites may not have water or dump stations. A camper at Sugarloaf Campground noted, "There are definitely reservations for spots. Might wanna check the website for weekends and holidays."

Camping near Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, Colorado, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. Just remember to plan ahead and be prepared for the unique challenges and joys of camping in this beautiful area!

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest campgrounds?

Amenities vary widely across Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest campgrounds. Encampment River Campground offers vault toilets, trash cans, and well water pumps for $10 per night ($5 with senior/interagency passes). Meadows Campground provides easy highway access while maintaining a wilderness feel. Many campgrounds like Hog Park and Seedhouse feature potable water and vault toilets. State Park campgrounds such as Steamboat Lake offer more extensive facilities, with some sites providing electrical hookups, dump stations, and boat rentals. Most developed campgrounds include picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets at minimum. Higher-elevation sites typically have shorter operating seasons with fewer amenities, while lower-elevation campgrounds may offer more facilities and longer seasons.

Where are the best campgrounds in Medicine Bow National Forest?

Freeman Reservoir Campground is highly rated with excellent hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities. Campers describe it as a "10/10" experience, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Hahns Peak Lake Campground impresses visitors with its exceptional layout, generous spacing between sites, and stunning views. Located about an hour north of Steamboat, this gem offers a beautiful lake setting for paddling and relaxation. Other excellent options include North Michigan Campground and Meadows Campground, which provides easy highway access while still offering a secluded feel. For those seeking a unique experience, the State Forest State Park area offers fantastic wildlife viewing with abundant moose sightings.

What are the best seasons for camping in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest?

Summer is the prime season for camping in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, with the most reliable weather from mid-June through August. Big Creek Lakes Campground is only open during these three months due to its 9,000+ foot elevation, and campers should be prepared for potential snow even in summer. Early fall (September) can be magical with fewer crowds and migrating wildlife, as experienced at Dutch Hill Campground — Steamboat Lake State Park. The week after Labor Day offers peaceful camping with amenities still operating but without summer crowds. Late spring (May-June) and early fall bring cooler temperatures and changing colors, though higher elevations may still have snow or close earlier in the season.

Is dispersed camping allowed in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest?

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed throughout Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. Chambers Lake Dispersed Camping offers free sites for those seeking a more primitive experience. The Primitive Sites — State Forest State Park area provides excellent dispersed camping opportunities, particularly along the American Lakes Trail. Standard dispersed camping rules apply: camp at least 100 feet from water sources, use existing fire rings where available, and practice Leave No Trace principles. Most dispersed sites are accessible via forest roads, with stays typically limited to 14 days. No permits are required, but be prepared for no amenities – bring your own water, pack out all waste, and check for seasonal fire restrictions before your trip.

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