Buffalo Pass Dispersed Camping sits at 10,000 feet elevation northwest of Steamboat Springs, offering primitive camping with no facilities. The area opens seasonally with the east side typically remaining closed until mid-July due to snow cover. Forest Road 302 near Rabbit Ears Pass provides additional dispersed options at lower elevations with sites scattered along meadows and forested areas.
What to do
Fishing at Dumont Lake: Dumont Campground provides access to fly fishing opportunities. "Flyfishing the lake is pretty sweet as well," notes Curtis B. The location sits just off Highway 40 with vault toilets and potable water available during the season.
Mountain biking from basecamp: Buffalo Pass Dispersed serves as an excellent starting point for mountain biking. "Great free spot if you're looking for somewhere not too far from the town. Awesome bike trails not very far," shares Toni K. The road requires high clearance vehicles with 4WD capability, especially after rain.
Wildflower viewing: Late June through July brings extensive wildflower displays at higher elevations. "Surrounding our tent was fields full of brightly colored wildflowers," writes Alyssa E. about Dumont Campground. Many dispersed sites along Rabbit Ears Pass offer similar seasonal displays.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Steamboat Springs KOA features sites along the Yampa River. "We had a tent site right on the river. Miniature golf. Various bikes to rent," reports Frank H. The riverside location allows for watching tubers float by during summer months.
Lake access: Stagecoach State Park Campground provides water recreation options. "Part of the lake is no motor boats so very nice for slick calm kayaking. We launched over in the Keystone day use area for the no motor area," explains B M. The reservoir supports multiple water activities including swimming at a designated beach area.
Free camping with views: Dispersed camping along Forest Road 302 offers cost-free options with scenic vistas. "We found a beautiful view and the weather was perfect," notes Opus 15. Most dispersed sites require self-contained camping with no facilities available.
What you should know
Road conditions matter: Buffalo Pass requires appropriate vehicles. "Very busy on a weekend and hard road. Some nice spots but many are blocked from a view so get there early," advises Nora S. Spring conditions can make access impossible until roads dry completely.
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Pack in all necessities when using free camping areas. "No bathroom or water it is dispersed. Not too hard of a road to get up either got up in a RWD Tacoma no problem," shares Toni K. about Buffalo Pass areas.
Seasonal closures: Summit Lake and other higher elevation campgrounds have shortened seasons. "Road from the east is much better than from Steamboat Springs. Quiet, well maintained, more suited to car/tent camping," notes Ann M. Most high-country sites close by mid-October.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Stagecoach Reservoir provides designated swimming areas for children. "The protected swim beach was a hit during the day with day visitors as well as campers. Lots of the children enjoyed the warm(ish) waters," a visitor observed. Water temperatures remain cool even during summer months.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Meadows Campground offers wildlife viewing potential. "A moose wandered by one evening," reports Sean F. Many campsites throughout the region provide opportunities to spot deer, elk, and smaller mammals at dawn and dusk.
Bug preparedness: Mosquitoes can be prevalent at many sites. "The mosquitoes were outrageous. From talking to the locals in Steamboat Springs the next day it sounds like this season is unusually rainy," notes Ethan P. about Dumont Lake. Insect repellent is essential during summer months, especially near water sources.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most forest service roads restrict larger RVs. "I wouldn't take anything more than a teardrop or Airstream Basecamp up," advises Morgan Y. regarding Buffalo Pass. Many dispersed sites accommodate smaller trailers but require careful navigation.
Leveling challenges: Some established campgrounds require work to set up. "Many of the campsites have a slight slope/grade and require a little imagination to find a level spot," explains Derek S. about Meadows Campground. Bringing leveling blocks is advisable even at developed sites.
Hookup availability: Eagle Soaring RV Park provides full hookups for larger rigs. "Sites are gravel for the RV, very level, and very well maintained. All sites are pull through. Hookups are in very good condition," notes Richard. For dog friendly campgrounds near Steamboat Springs with full hookups, reservations are strongly recommended during peak season.
