C
Christine A.
Traveler
TravelerCoffee Pot Road Dispersed
Unbeatable views
Great dispersed camping site. Not much shade but the views make up for it
Camping near Yampa, CO
223 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
The Yampa River Valley in northwestern Colorado features a diverse range of camping environments from high-elevation forest sites to riverside accommodations. Stagecoach State Park Campground, located near Oak Creek, provides year-round access with full hookup options for RVs, while Bear Lake Campground offers more rustic experiences at approximately 9,700 feet elevation. Within a 30-minute drive of Yampa, several reservoir-adjacent campgrounds including Chapman Reservoir and Crosho Lake Recreation Area provide water-based recreation opportunities. The region includes both established campgrounds with amenities and designated dispersed camping areas like Bear River, where campers can experience more solitude with minimal facilities.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the area, with many campgrounds requiring travel on unpaved forest roads. According to one visitor at Bear Lake Campground, "After seven miles of washboard road down FR900 and CR7 out of Yampa, you arrive at Bear Lake... The sites have good separation between them and most of them are really good sites." Most remote campgrounds operate seasonally from late May through September or early October due to snow conditions at higher elevations. Cell service is limited or non-existent at many backcountry locations, with one camper noting "phone service is minimal, practically non-existent" at Bear Lake. Mosquitoes can be problematic during summer months, particularly near water sources.
Mountain views and water access represent key attractions for campers in the Yampa area. Many sites feature proximity to fishing, hiking trails, and boating opportunities. At Cold Springs Campground, a visitor described "a small lake with a couple of waterfalls feeding it. Only 5 sites. Water and pit toilet." Campground density varies considerably, with state parks like Stagecoach offering more developed facilities but less privacy between sites. For those seeking seclusion, dispersed camping areas like Allen Basin Reservoir provide alternatives, though a camper recommends "driving a 4x4 vehicle to get here, and don't forget the bug spray!" The area's combination of accessible state parks and remote forest service campgrounds accommodates a wide spectrum of camping preferences and equipment needs.
Best Campgrounds near Yampa (223)
1. Bear Lake Campground
"The sites at Bear Lake Campground are not $5. They have been $20 per night ever since 2024. The sites offer plenty of shade, and the camphosts are very nice."
"There are multiple campgrounds in this immediate area that all surround Yamcolo Reservoir, Bear Lake, and Stillwater Reservoir."
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability2. Stagecoach State Park Campground
"Beautiful area with plenty of water activities and fishing near by (Yampa River). Nice views of the reservoir from our site. Sites are a bit close but the views make up for it."
"There were many trails to hike around or bike around the lake and campsites. There were plenty of water activities from swimming to boating and fishing. "
from $18 - $100 / night
Check Availability3. Lynx Pass Campground
"Nice small campground between Kremmling and Yampa. You cannot reserve sites, it is first come first serve sites only and the sites are only $20 per night (Prior to 2024 they were $10 per night)."
"A pond within walking distance was stocked with trout for some fishing. Tons of ohv and mountain bike trails nearby. Tons of wildflowers in July! Great place to get away from road noise."
4. Chapman Reservoir
"pretty private and a reservoir that’s awesome for kayaks, paddle boards, etc. there are also great trails to hike from the campsite. bring plenty of supplies, though, because the closest place to restock"
"We were near the reservoir and saw a few mule deer. Easily accessible vault toilets. No on site water. Will be back!"
5. Cold Springs Campground
"first place I went camping in Colorado and I loved it so much I paid for an extra day. it rained on the last day but it was still wonderful. felt lost in the mountains and loved it"
"Most of the other reviews are for Cold Springs CG near Blackhawk. This CG is actually near Yampa. There is a small lake with a couple of waterfalls feeding it. Only 5 sites. Water and pit toilet."
6. Bear River Designated Dispersed
"There are a lot of people around this area, please do your part to keep the land as natural as possible. The poop fairy does NOT live here- pack it out!"
7. Meadows Campground
"I was wandering from Yellowstone/Tetons en route to Colorado Springs when I reach a necessary point for rest."
"Convenient forest service campground off highway 40 at rabbit ears pass. First come first serve but there were still a handful of sites open on a Friday afternoon in August. "
from $26 / night
Check Availability8. Dispersed Overlook off Hwy 40
"Showed up fairly early (2:30pm) and other than a few other cars driving through, didn’t see anyone else. It is directly off the HW, so you will hear traffic pass by, but it does calm down at night."
"Quick stop overlooking Lake Catamount. This is actually a pull off from the highway but noticed people had camped here so we did too."
9. Crosho Lake Recreation Area
"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."
"Fishing in the lake was great."
10. Allen Basin Reservoir Dispersed
"Allen Basin Reservoir is roughly 1 mile from Crosho Lake. The only way to access this reservoir is by using trail #1181 and either hiking in, or using an ATV/dirtbike."
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 37 min from Denver, CO
- 2 hrs 46 min from Boulder, CO
- 3 hrs 18 min from Greeley, CO
- 3 hrs 22 min from Fort Collins, CO
Recent Camping Photos near Yampa, CO
254 Photos of 223 Yampa Campgrounds
Spencer B.
Allen Basin Reservoir Dispersed
Anthony P.
Bear River Designated Dispersed
Sarah M.
Stagecoach State Park Campground
Joe B.
Chapman Reservoir
Rebeca H.
Bear Lake Campground
Courtney L.
Lynx Pass Campground
Lydia P.
Horseshoe Campground
Jess T.
Cold Springs Campground
Erika L.
Dispersed Overlook off Hwy 40
Heather S.
Off Highway 40 Dispersed
Carter V.
Red Dirt Reservoir
Jason
FSR-296 - Dispersed Campsite
Recent Reviews near Yampa, CO
764 Reviews of 223 Yampa Campgrounds
shelby B.
GuideHideout Cabins and Campground
Got a tent site
Got a tent site for a van. Nice shaded spots. Bathrooms are nice. Not host on site, all online. Not a big deal but the showers did have lots of bugs. I stepped on an earwig in the shower I was in & my boyfriend said there was three, huge spiders in the shower he was in. So just double check before you shower that you killed all the bugs.
- AAlison L.
ScoutDispersed Overlook off Hwy 40
Views w/ traffic
Showed up fairly early (2:30pm) and other than a few other cars driving through, didn’t see anyone else. It is directly off the HW, so you will hear traffic pass by, but it does calm down at night. Good views, pretty private spots- (3 total, I believe).
Edit to add: while packing up, a stranger drove in off the highway and walked into my site and attempted to “offer me a bible,” and after declining, placed it on the ground in front of my vehicle and left.
**please always be careful and aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone.
- TTyler W.Traveler
Yellowjacket Pass
Pack the Bug Spray
This site was great! Plenty of space between other sites and the road wasn’t bad. No need for 4x4 or high clearance. Saw a black bear on the drive up and lots of deer. The flies and mosquitoes were pretty bad throughout the day.
Adrian C.GuideUpper Colorado River BLM Dispersed
Gravel parking lot, but quiet with good views
This is just a big gravel parking lot but it overlooks the Colorado River and some dry, pretty mountains. It's only 15 minutes to the Vail/Eagle airport and a couple minutes off of the interstate. A train went by earlier but no horn. BTW, there is free RV dump and water station at the rest area in Eagle.
- KKorey Y.Guide
Noname Rest Area - CDOT
Very nice in every way
Easy online and telephone reservations. We even showed up and were able to give us even a better location right on the river. 13 apparently is a little bigger and preferred. Also if you camp here, great time to hit up iron mountain Hot springs. They might have a discount code at The office. The only downside is the price.
Jon G.ScoutHideout Cabins and Campground
Literally a hideout
I've been coming to Glenwood Springs for my whole life. Not once did I know this place existed so it's definitely a Hideout! It's just far enough off the roadway you don't hear cars unless you truly concentrate. Nicely spread out spots and plenty of different kinds to choose from too from cabins, RV, and tents.
- KKaterina G.Guide
Basalt Mountain Dispersed
Beautiful, but BEARS
Got here around 7pm on a Monday night. Saw a couple people parked down below by the trailhead, but no one else along the road (granted I stopped at the first pull-off because I was worried about my 2WD low-clearance vehicle making it all the way). Road was rocky and a bit washboardy at points, but made it alright by taking it slow. Spots seemed pretty spread out, didn't see anyone else up there. Beautiful views and very quiet. Saw TONS of deer, some of which walked right into/past my camp. There was a little firepit at my site, not sure if there are at all of them. No bathrooms/facilities/water, etc. Very middle of nowhere.
HOWEVER, I would not recommend tent camping. I was awake from about 1-4am with bears sniffing around my tent (either one that came back multiple times or just multiple different bears). One of the scariest experiences of my life. I would definitely stick to car-camping here.
Christopher K.TravelerShepherds Rim Campground
Remote, but gorgeous!
Site: #5 is a short drive from the entrance on the right with a short drive thru for RVs. Starting from parking space is path with some steps down accessing the site and is very close to a water spigot and about equal distance to both bathrooms. There is one "mostly" level spot big enough for 2 normal tents or one big tent where we were able to pitch our 10x14 with room around it. Large picnic table and bear vault you can see in pictures and decent fire pit which is on a slight grade which does limit placement of chairs but great amazing view from the North all the way to the South East.
Campgrounds: This is the only reservable loop of 4 other loops in the immediate area set back from Trappers Lake where you can't quite see it but is a short drive/walk away to Scott's Bay Trailhead. 2 Water spigots and 2 pairs of very well maintained vault toilets. The host was welcoming and very knowledgeable about the area. He had firewood for sale.
Area: Numerous of trailheads branching off of the main road and around the main lake.
Trappers Lake Lodge has a tiny convenient store a bar and restaurant. From what the host said was good food and friendly people. Recently graded very smooth dirt road with many aspen groves visible on the drive in. About equal distance to either Meeker or Yampa. Meeker is a much quicker drive vs Yampa due to less dirt roads.
Guide to Yampa
Camping options around Yampa, Colorado range from high-elevation forest settings to riverside accommodations at elevations between 7,800-9,700 feet. The region experiences significant temperature variations with summer nights often dropping to 35°F even during peak season. Mosquitoes are prevalent near water sources throughout the summer months, particularly at higher elevations where insect repellent with high DEET percentages becomes essential.
What to do
Fishing at Bear Lake Campground: Access excellent fishing at Bear Lake Campground where multiple stocked waters provide reliable catches. "The fishing was great from the bank and also from a float tube. We are going back this month," reports Peggy S., who visited in June.
Hiking from Lynx Pass Campground: Explore numerous trails directly accessible from Lynx Pass Campground. "A pond within walking distance was stocked with trout for some fishing. Tons of ohv and mountain bike trails nearby. Tons of wildflowers in July! Great place to get away from road noise," explains Courtney L.
Water activities at reservoir sites: Enjoy paddle boarding, kayaking and swimming at the reservoirs around Yampa. According to Spencer B. at Allen Basin Reservoir, "There are roughly 6-8 dispersed camp spots on the road towards Allen Basin Reservoir. We camped at this spot for 3 days, and 2 nights and loved it!"
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campsites near Yampa provide excellent wildlife watching. At Bear Lake Campground, one camper noted, "The chipmunks were alittle intrusive but my dog was fully entertained by them."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Meadows Campground receives praise for its maintenance. "Each campsite has a place for 2 cars, a picnic table, flat places for 2-3 tents, and a fire ring with an adjustable grill. Plenty of shady trees to hang your hammock from and enough space between campsites to give you some privacy," describes Lis G.
Site separation and privacy: Many campers appreciate the space between sites at the less developed campgrounds. At Cold Springs Campground, Tracy V. shares, "Stayed here for two nights while hiking trails in the area. Small 5 site loop with 2 pull through sites #1&5. Very clean pit toilet. Water between sites 4&5."
What you should know
Limited or no reservations: Many campgrounds near Yampa operate on a first-come, first-served basis. At Cold Springs Campground, Blue B. notes, "There are only 5 sites here, they are $20 per night, no reservations accepted, all first come basis. Has one pit toilet, picnic table and fire grate."
Road conditions and access: Many campgrounds require travel on unpaved, washboard roads. "The road up is very washboard so a very slow drive. Bring warm clothes even in mid July it is very cold at night and in the mornings at this high of elevation!" advises a Cold Springs camper.
Weather and temperature swings: Temperature fluctuations are extreme, even in summer. A Bear River Designated Dispersed camper shares, "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 for camping with families
Easy access activities: Stagecoach State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "There is a general store, putt putt, propane fill, a small dog run, bikes for rent, swimming in season and the city bus comes to take you to town for free," explains Shannon G.
Kid-friendly outdoor exploration: Stagecoach provides numerous child-friendly activities. "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 and my son particularly enjoyed hunting for crawfish or crawdads," shares one visitor.
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer learning experiences for children. "On Saturday the Parks offered fur, skulls, scat, and tracks for guests/visitors to examine and learn about. Some of the skulls and fur were real. However, the scat that they displayed was plastic replicas thankfully," reported a Stagecoach camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at developed campgrounds: For RVs, Steamboat Springs KOA offers varying site types. "We stayed at the Steamboat KOA for 2-1/2 weeks on a business trip and greatly appreciated the solid Wi-Fi. The first half of our stay we were in the original Campground with a center, gravel, pull thru, #71. Then, moved to #31 a back-in site against the fence and away from the road. Although it was smaller, we personally liked #31 better," advises Love4travel T.
Water quality considerations: Some campgrounds have mineral-heavy water. One RVer at Steamboat Springs KOA noted, "We have a great site nice & big with electric hook up and had to fill with water. The water was Iron colored so we used bottled water for making coffee & ice cubes."
Limited services at forest campgrounds: Bring all necessary supplies as services are limited. "There isn't much around so stock up on groceries before you go," recommends one camper at the Steamboat KOA.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to go camping in Yampa, Colorado?
What is the best time of year to go camping in Yampa, Colorado?
The prime camping season in Yampa, Colorado typically runs from late May through September, with July and August offering the most reliable weather. Stagecoach State Park Campground is ideal during summer months when you can take advantage of water activities on the reservoir and nearby Yampa River fishing. Higher elevation campgrounds like Gore Creek Campground may have shorter seasons due to snow and access issues. Early summer brings wildflowers while September offers beautiful fall colors with fewer crowds. Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms during summer months and potentially cold nights even in peak season. Many forest service campgrounds in the area operate seasonally and close during winter months.
Where can I find camping areas near Yampa, Colorado?
Where can I find camping areas near Yampa, Colorado?
The Yampa area offers several camping options within a short drive. Cold Springs Campground near Yampa is a small, secluded spot with only 5 sites ($20/night), featuring a small lake with waterfalls, pit toilets, and tables with fire pits. For those seeking additional options, Bear Lake Campground provides shaded sites for $20/night, though be prepared for a 45-minute drive on washboard roads from Yampa. The area around Yamcolo Reservoir and Stillwater Reservoir also offers Horseshoe Campground and numerous dispersed camping opportunities. If you prefer amenities closer to town, consider exploring Stagecoach State Park or the campgrounds at Yampa River State Park.
What amenities are available at Yampa campgrounds?
What amenities are available at Yampa campgrounds?
Amenities vary significantly across Yampa area campgrounds. Steamboat Springs KOA offers extensive facilities including electric/water hookups, a small pool, miniature golf course, trike rentals, and prime Yampa River access. For a more rustic experience with some conveniences, Yampa River Headquarters Campground provides both powered sites and primitive tent camping options. Most public campgrounds in the national forest like Cold Springs and Bear Lake offer basic amenities such as pit toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. Some locations have potable water available seasonally. Stagecoach State Park features reservoir views and access to water activities. Always check current conditions as amenities may change seasonally.
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