Pearl Lake State Park Campground sits approximately 30 miles north of Slater, Colorado at an elevation of 8,200 feet. The lake's peaceful waters don't allow motorized boats, creating a quiet retreat for paddleboarders and anglers. Visitors can access the campground from May through October when temperatures range from 30°F at night to 75°F during summer days.
What to do
Paddleboarding on glass-like waters: Pearl Lake State Park offers exceptional paddleboarding opportunities. "You aren't allowed to take a boat of any kind on Pearl. The lake looks like glass and is so peaceful! You are allowed to fish from the shore and paddle board on lake," explains a visitor to Pearl Lake State Park Campground.
Hike the dam trail: Take the trail from Pearl Lake that crosses over the dam and climbs into the surrounding wilderness. "There is also a nice hike that goes over the dam and then climbs up and away from civilization," notes one camper about the hiking options available directly from the campground.
Soak in natural hot springs: The mineral-rich waters at Strawberry Park Hot Springs provide relaxation after hiking or exploring. "Wow, what a beautiful place and the hot springs is the most natural one I've been too. Area is clean and well kept," reports a visitor. The springs maintain multiple pools of varying temperatures, plus river access when water levels permit.
Bike around Steamboat Lake: Cyclists can enjoy riding around the scenic shoreline. "Visit the Outpost, or Clark Store for lunch, take a bike ride around the lake, fish for dinner, and soak up the sun," shares a visitor to Dutch Hill Campground — Steamboat Lake State Park.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Most glamping options near Slater maintain well-kept bathrooms and common areas. "Clean bathrooms and great views. We visit this campground every year," notes a regular visitor to Pearl Lake State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Evening wildlife sightings enhance the camping experience. "The local deer migrate into the campground. A site on lake's edge is usually available. Fall's morning fog greet you in the morning," explains a camper about Steamboat Lake State Park.
Privacy between sites: Many campsites offer good separation for a more secluded feel. "Half of the upper loop sites have a lake and mountain view. Plenty space between sites for privacy too," reports a visitor to Pearl Lake. Similarly, at Steamboat Springs KOA, "The tent sites are located across the river and is so peaceful."
Covered picnic tables: Campers appreciate sheltered dining areas at Yampa River Headquarters Campground. "Each sight had a covered picnic table where I stashed the bikes from the elements," notes a visitor who appreciated this feature during variable mountain weather.
What you should know
Advance reservations required: Most glamping sites need booking well ahead, especially during peak season. "Had to reserve well ahead but was worth it. Right on the lake, good amount of space between spots, close to Steamboat," advises a camper at Pearl Lake.
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access roads to some glamping sites can become challenging. "Be prepared for muddy rough conditions on the road to the Hot Springs entrance. It can require 4x4 and sometimes is not passable," warns a visitor to Strawberry Park Hot Springs.
Limited services in immediate area: Plan ahead for supplies. "Just down the road there is a little store where you can buy groceries if you have forgotten something at home," notes a Pearl Lake camper, while another advises, "Hayden has minimal services so stop in Craig or Steamboat if you need supplies."
Mosquitoes can be intense: Due to proximity to water, insect repellent is essential. "The disappointing thing is the nice bathroom and showers are closed 10pm-6am, just a vault toilet is available during those closed hours. They have a path you can walk or bike that is a little over a mile but be ready the mosquitos are fierce," reports a visitor to Yampa River Headquarters Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Rent various bikes for kids: Steamboat Springs KOA offers family-friendly amenities. "There is a small pool, updated miniature golf course, trike rentals and the Yampa running through the campground," explains a visitor.
Select sites based on bathroom access: Consider proximity to facilities when choosing a site. "Showers are located in center of KOA so be ready to walk or drive over. Very dog friendly and well maintained tent sites!" notes a camper at Happy Camper RV Park.
Check for grass/weed allergies: Some sites have high grasses that might trigger allergies. "Planned on staying 3 nights but only stayed 2. Both my son's got sick from the high weeds/grass that surrounds the sites," cautions a family about their Steamboat Lake experience.
Utilize campground activities: Many glamping locations offer built-in entertainment. "It has a general store, movie nights and a playground for the kiddos," shares a visitor about the family-friendly activities available at Steamboat Springs KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: RV sites vary significantly in privacy and views. "The sites are on top of each other and the beetle kill of the pines have made this a bit barren looking," notes one RVer about Steamboat Lake, while another advises, "We stayed in the non-electric loop and there were very few people. The sites were spread out with trees and some privacy. The electric loop was full and the sites very close together."
Reserve waterfront sites when possible: Lakefront sites provide the best experience. "We always stay in the same spot which faces the lake," shares a return visitor with a pop-up camper at Pearl Lake, highlighting the value of knowing which specific sites offer the best experience.
Utilize electric sites during extreme weather: Plugging in helps manage temperature extremes. "A loop with 30A service," recommends a visitor to Yampa River Headquarters, noting that electrical hookups help extend stays during variable mountain weather conditions.
