Dispersed camping opportunities near Slater, Colorado cluster around the Routt National Forest and neighboring state parks. The region sits at 6,600-9,000 feet elevation with high desert conditions in lower areas transitioning to alpine forests at higher elevations. Temperatures typically drop 30-40 degrees from day to night even in summer months, requiring appropriate gear regardless of season.
What to do
Trail access from campsites: Campers at Freeman Reservoir Campground can access multiple hiking routes directly from the grounds. "Multiple trailheads start at the campground or close by it. The reservoir is for non-motorized watercraft only," notes one visitor. Most trails range from easy 1-mile loops to moderate 3-5 mile routes.
Fall foliage viewing: Mid-September through early October offers peak fall colors in the area. "We went up in Mid-sept with our dogs to photograph fall color change and were not disappointed. There is a short trail around the reservoir and we even got pictures of a couple beavers," shares a Freeman Reservoir camper.
Non-motorized water activities: Pearl Lake State Park Campground restricts water activities to preserve tranquility. "It's a quiet lake, surrounded by mountains and forest, perfect for paddle boarders. There is also a nice hike that goes over the dam and then climbs up and away from civilization," reports one visitor. The calm waters make it ideal for beginners.
What campers like
Well-separated campsites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at Sunrise Vista Campground. "Nicely separated sites. Superb view of Hawn's peak. Depending upon chosen site, good views of lake or Hawn's park... Level spots large tent pads," writes one visitor. Sites on outer loops typically offer more privacy than central locations.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Deer and smaller mammals are common visitors at several campgrounds. "The best part is that you are truly alone with awesome Mountain Views... The deer were nightly visitors during our two night stay," notes a Steamboat Lake visitor, while another camper at Freeman Reservoir mentioned beaver sightings along the water.
Campsite facilities: Dry Lake Campground recently updated its amenities. "Many of the sites and one bathroom seem to be recently updated. The pull through sites have very long driveways with nice level spots. The tent areas look great. Tables, fire pits, bear lockers all seem new," reports a 2025 visitor. Most established sites include bear-resistant storage containers.
What you should know
Road conditions and accessibility: Roads to higher elevation sites can be rough and sometimes impassable without appropriate vehicles. Regarding Buffalo Pass Dispersed camping, one visitor notes: "Buff pass gate is open and you can mob over it if you have high clearance, 4wd, and definitely winter tires. It gets sketchy at some points, but you have your pick of camp sites."
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking. For Dry Lake Campground, a visitor found: "We arrived in early afternoon on a Monday and despite the sign out front that said 'campground full' we found that there were 2 or 3 available sites that must have been recently vacated."
Seasonal restrictions: High mountain passes typically close from November through May or June. "Drove a long ways to find out the gate isn't open like prior post of members and will not open until June 15 on the steamboat side as posted at gate," reported a Buffalo Pass visitor during Memorial Day weekend.
Tips for camping with families
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly near water and during early evening. "Mosquitoes were BAD in the evenings so be prepared," cautions a Dry Lake Campground visitor. Bringing appropriate repellent and protective clothing is essential for comfortable family camping.
Playground availability: Yampa River Headquarters Campground offers play areas for children. "Good spot to stop and shower/do laundry in between primitive camping. Each site has a picnic table and a fire pit, the table has cover. Good cell phone coverage. Playground. Showers, laundry," notes one visitor.
Bear safety measures: Most established campgrounds now provide bear-resistant storage. "Tables, fire pits, bear lockers all seem new," reports a Dry Lake Campground visitor. Teach children proper food storage protocols and maintain a clean campsite to avoid wildlife encounters.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability for RV camping near Slater: Hookup options vary significantly across campgrounds. At Yampa River Headquarters Campground, "Sites only have electric but 30 and 50 Amp. Sites have plenty of room between them. Additional $10 entrance fee for non Colorado residents."
Site length limitations: Many campgrounds post vehicle length restrictions that may be outdated. At Dry Lake Campground, a visitor shares: "If you see 20' trailer limit, don't buy it. The host is in a 36' trailer. A couple of the turns getting in and out could be challenging with a longer setup. Our setup is about 55' long (truck and trailer) and it's not problem."
Leveling considerations: Most RV sites require some leveling. At Sunrise Vista, a visitor notes: "Site 94 is a bit steep, but offers a fairly level spot once you travel down into it." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for most RV camping near Slater.
