The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest surrounding Oak Creek offers primitive camping options at elevations between 7,000 and 10,000 feet. Sites in this region experience significant temperature variations, with summer nights dropping below 40°F even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Most dispersed sites lack designated boundaries, allowing campers to select their own setup locations within established clearings.
What to do
Fishing access: Several camping areas provide access to productive fishing spots. At Overlook off Hwy 40, campers can enjoy views of Lake Catamount while being just minutes from fishing. One camper noted, "Quick stop overlooking Lake Catamount. This is actually a pull off from the highway but noticed people had camped here so we did too."
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Oak Creek support diverse wildlife populations. In Rabbit's Ear Pass East Summit FR 251, campers regularly spot large mammals. As one visitor mentioned, "We drove about a quarter mile down the road and got a campsite that was lush with a ton of tree coverage. It felt like we were alone in the world, no other campsites in site. We even saw elk walking around the mossy ground."
Exploring forest roads: The network of forest service roads offers opportunities for off-road adventures and hidden camping spots. Along FSR-296, campers find quiet spots despite highway proximity. A recent visitor explained, "Very quiet spot. There were many other campers all around but did not hear any noise other than from highway nearby which wasn't disturbing at all."
What campers like
Mountain views: The elevated terrain provides excellent vantage points. At Pleasant Valley Roadside Camp, one camper shared, "Nice view of the valley and sunset, but its main merit is convenience." Another noted at a different site, "We found a beautiful spot 1.9 miles in on the East (left) side of the road. We had a beautiful view and the weather was perfect."
Seclusion options: Despite being close to Steamboat Springs, many sites offer privacy. One camper at Falls Road Dispersed reported, "In the trees, lots of firewood available, and very pretty. No facilities. Completely dispersed. Pack in and out."
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation camping provides relief from summer heat. A camper at Rabbit's Ear Pass East Summit noted, "Nice that it's at about 9500 elevation too." The higher altitude sites maintain comfortable daytime temperatures even during peak summer months.
What you should know
Road conditions: Most dispersed camping areas require careful driving. At Buffalo Pass Dispersed, a camper warned, "Crazy hard to get to in anything less than 4wd. Very busy on a weekend and hard road." Another mentioned, "The road up got rough and really did a number on my top mounted bike racks."
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be problematic throughout the region, especially in wetter areas. One camper stated, "This place is beautiful, found multiple spots on Monday June 30th that were beautiful and had fire pits. HOWEVER, When you see other reviews that say there are lots of bugs… they were not exaggerating, there are massive swarms of mosquitoes everywhere."
Seasonal access: Many areas close during winter and spring due to snow. A visitor noted, "We drove to the east side from Walden to find out you can't even make it to the gate as the road has way too much snow cover yet even with a 4 wheel drive. That side isn't expected to open until mid July."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose sites that balance accessibility with space for children. Near FR-302, one family recommended: "We went 2.7 miles up from the turn off of 40 and found a great spot on the left. There's room for several vehicles and endless tent spots, some by the parking and fire pit or haul your tent out a little ways."
Wildlife education opportunities: The areas around Oak Creek offer excellent wildlife teaching moments. A camper shared: "Saw evidence of moose elk deer and bear (and horses) but no sightings. We enjoyed walking and exploring and could go quite a ways straight from the site without having to go out to the road."
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require extra planning with children. At Bear River Designated Dispersed, a camper advised: "Bring lots of layers and warm clothes as summer temps at night and in the mornings at this elevation throughout the summer are very chilly around 35 degrees Fahrenheit."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many primitive camping areas near Oak Creek have uneven terrain. One RVer noted: "Place has very good views from the mountain, however, the terrain isn't level. I found it difficult to get a good spot for my camper to be leveled."
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs better than large ones. An RVer advised: "Leaving this review for anyone else pulling trailer. You can get a small TT into the first 4-5 sites. I would not continue after what I think is site 5 on the right that has a fairly large rock fire pit and good loop for when leaving."
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies throughout the area. An RVer reported: "AT&T coverage was poor without a booster, with 0-2 Bars of 3G service, but nearly no data throughput. With our weboost, it got a little better with 1-3 bars of 3G and speeds up to about 0.4 MB/s, but the speed varied considerably."
