Tent camping options near Steamboat Springs range from 7,000 to 10,500 feet in elevation throughout the surrounding Routt National Forest. Most dispersed camping areas have no cell service, requiring offline maps for navigation. Summer nighttime temperatures can drop into the 30s even during peak season, making proper cold-weather sleeping gear essential.
What to do
Paddleboard at lake sites: Crosho Lake Recreation Area offers approximately 10-14 dispersed sites directly adjacent to the water. "We spent the weekend near Crosho lake and had an awesome time! The trail to the lake is bumpy, and I would recommend a 4x4 vehicle to get to this lake. There are around 10-14 dispersed camp sites right next to Crosho lake where you can wake up, and go paddle boarding right away," notes camper Spencer B.
Fishing from shoreline: Fish for trout at Red Dirt Reservoir where dispersed camping spots provide direct water access. "Spots for dispersed camping around Red Dirt Reservoir are only around the one end of the road and there are a good half dozen or so but they are all pretty good sized. Fishing was okay, me and my friends caught a couple of trout but not many," reports Carter V.
Build forest forts: The wooded areas around Hahns Peak Lake Campground provide natural materials for children to create wilderness play structures. "Our girls had a blast exploring and making their 'fort'. A very clean and peaceful place with an amazing view. The lake itself is beautiful and offers people great photo opportunities," shares Joe W.
What campers like
Secluded sites away from crowds: For campers seeking privacy, Allen Basin Reservoir provides more isolated spots than the main camping areas. As Spencer B. explains about Crosho Lake, "The dispersed camp spots are close to one another, so if you prefer privacy and the sound of silence I recommend going down the road to Allen Basin Reservoir where more dispersed camp spots can be found."
Clean facilities: The vault toilets at Bear River Designated Dispersed camping area are well-maintained despite the remote location. "Bathrooms are a short drive away but are very clean!" notes Blue B. about the Bear River area.
Ease of site availability midweek: Most dispersed camping areas near Steamboat Springs fill by Thursday, making weekday arrival advantageous. "Plan to arrive early afternoon during the week as it typically fills up by Thursday," advises Blue B. about the Bear River camping area.
What you should know
Payment systems vary: Despite being called "dispersed," some sites require payment. "Not free, not dispersed. All sites are first come, first served and have nightly rates from $10-$20 per night. No reservations allowed," explains Blue B. about Bear River Designated Dispersed camping area.
Cold nights year-round: Pack winter-rated sleeping bags even for summer camping trips. "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," advises Blue B.
Mosquito protection: Standard repellents may not suffice in some areas near water. "Bring a canopy as the sites do not have shade, and the mosquitos only respond to high percentage DEET," warns a camper about the Bear River area.
Tips for camping with families
Bring manual watercraft: Low water levels can affect boat launch accessibility at some reservoirs. "Over the past several years, the boat launch has not been usable due to extreme low reservoir water levels. So bring a canoe instead maybe!" suggests Blue B. about Bear River.
Short hiking options: Hahns Peak Lake Campground offers family-friendly exploration opportunities with lake access. "We stayed for 4 days. What a beautiful drive to the campsite. Our girls had a blast exploring and making their 'fort'," shares Joe W.
Pack extra blankets for kids: Children often need additional layers beyond standard sleeping bags due to the dramatic temperature drops. "Summer temps at night and in the mornings at this elevation throughout the summer are very chilly around 35 degrees Fahrenheit," notes a camper.
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Many access roads to the best tent camping near Steamboat Springs require high-clearance vehicles. "The trail to the lake is bumpy, and I would recommend a 4x4 vehicle to get to this lake," advises Spencer B. about reaching Strawberry Park Hot Springs, where walk-in camping is available.
Site reservation process: Some dispersed areas use an unusual reservation system requiring multiple trips. "To reserve on of these spots you must stop at the Forest Service sign towards the beginning of the road to grab a reservation slip, then find a spot and drive back to drop it off," explains Anthony P. about the Bear River area.
Vehicle type considerations: Car campers have limited options at some sites. "I thought this was going to be a real campground with reserved spots as it costs 110$ per night and they say reservations are necessary. However they offered me car park and a spot by the river where I could walk down and cook," shares Emily C. about Strawberry Park Hot Springs.
